Serving up a menu that spans Canadian, Continental, Asian, Spanish, Tex-Mex, and Southwestern flavours, Mrs. Riches Restaurant doesn’t believe in sticking to just one lane, and honestly, we respect that.
What ties it all together? Fresh, quality ingredients and over 30 years of doing things right. With a long-standing reputation for warm, welcoming service and dishes that deliver on flavour, Mrs. Riches has become a go-to for locals who like a little variety on their plate.
Come hungry. Leave happy. It’s kind of their thing.
As part of our Nanaimo Business Feature Series, we’re chatting with local businesses to hear their stories, what keeps them here, and how you can support them.
What inspired you to start your business in Nanaimo?
Our belief in the economy and the growth of the city. We love Nanaimo and are 4 generations strong! Our family first came to Nanaimo in the early 1900s, and we have grown up with Nanaimo and see all the potential it has.
Are there any positive specific customer stories or interactions that stand out to you that have taken place over the years?
We are grateful for the support and loyalty of our many customers over the 40 years we’ve been in business. We definitely have our regulars, many of our staff have been with us for decades as well!
What’s one thing in your store that’s a great gift?
We offer gift cards and also sell our own hot sauce we make in-house!
What are some of your favourite Nanaimo businesses?
We appreciate all of our local businesses! Some of our favourites are Red's Bakery, Flying Fish, and White Sails Brewery!
What would you say to someone considering starting their own business in Nanaimo?
Do thorough research and a 5-year plan. Have a mentor who you can bounce ideas off of! Most business owners in the community love to see others succeed and are willing to offer some advice.
How do you see your business contributing to the community in Nanaimo?
We help support the Wellington School Jazz Academy Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser and the annual Rotary Club Christmas lunch program!
What do you love most about being a part of the Nanaimo business community?
Employing a very talented team of employees and serving wonderful customers. Like I said before, some of our staff have been with us for many years. In fact, some of them even since we opened in 1985! We have some incredibly loyal and hard-working staff.
Four decades in, and Mrs. Riches Restaurant is still doing what it does best - feeding Nanaimo, one plate at a time
With a menu that covers all the cravings and a team that feels like family, it’s no wonder people keep coming back.
