Do you hate to eat alone?
I’m often on my own when I’m on the road, so I’ve gotten used to dining solo. But when I find a restaurant that I consider particularly welcoming to solo women diners, I like to give them a shout-out.
This week, I’m traveling in Victoria, British Columbia’s capital city, and I’d like to give the WanderFood Solo Dining Prize to Vis à Vis Wine + Charcuterie Bar.
So what makes this storefront bistro, with a long, polished-wood bar and exposed brick walls, so solo-friendly?
Like many restaurants these days, Vis à Vis serves “small plates,” rather than traditional appetizer/main/dessert courses. They also offer a selection of charcuterie (including made-in-house choices like smoked pork belly rillettes or duck and foie gras mousse) that are sold by the ounce. With solo-friendly portions like these, I can try at least two dishes without feeling over-stuffed or spending a fortune.
They sell wines in one-, five-, and eight-ounce pours. Not only is it easier to pair different wines with various small plates, but if you’re a lightweight drinker like me (or if you’re driving), you can still enjoy a small glass of wine with your meal. Most of the one-ounce tastes are priced at $2 or $2.50.
The server who looked after me as I sat at the bar took the time to explain the menu, suggest his favorite dishes, and give me realistic advice about how much to order.
And most important, the food is excellent! I loved the grilled octopus and slivers of smoky chorizo served atop squid ink fettuccine and tossed with a crisp herb-and-caper salsa verde. Even the simple salad of mixed greens dressed with tart lemon, fruity olive oil, and crunchy bits of fleur de sel was extremely fresh and well-balanced.
Do you have favorite spots for dining solo? Please leave a comment and share your suggestions with your fellow WanderFoodies!
If you go:
Vis à Vis Wine + Charcuterie Bar is at 2232 Oak Bay Avenue, Victoria, BC, 250-590-7424.
Tasty Travels!
Carolyn
Photo credits:
Solo woman eating photo by Stuart Grout (flickr)
Vis à Vis and Octopus photos © Carolyn B. Heller