Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria

Victoria , Canada

Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria

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(168 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Discover hip and hidden foodie gems in Canada's oldest Chinatown and vibrant Old Town. Eat like a local at our newest restaurants that are off the tourist path including decadent South Indian cuisine, farm-to-table dishes, Thai dumplings, a mind-blowing taco, pastries, craft beer and much more. Perfect for the adventurous traveller looking for an authentic experience.

ON THE MENU: An eclectic mix of multi-cultural cuisine from some of the newest and hippest hidden gems in the city. South Indian, Mexican, Japanese, Filipino and more.

WHY DO THIS TOUR?
*You heard how awesome Chinatown is but want to experience it in a different way. Yes, we go down Fan Tan Alley!
* You love history and want to see historic sights & buildings and hear stories about Victoria's very interesting past
* You have a passion for finding small hard-to-find businesses that aren't tourist driven
* You want a local authentic experience and want to eat food made by locals
* You want discounts at local eateries

Available options

Hip & Hidden Chinatown + Old Town Food Tour Victoria

What's included

Local guide

GST (Goods and Services Tax)

Food tasting

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We do a deep dive in to Canada's oldest Chinatown including visiting heritage sites such as the Chinese Language School, The Gates of Harmonious Interest, and some of the oldest buildings in Western Canada.

Named after the Chinese gambling game Fan-Tan, the alley was originally a gambling district with restaurants, shops, and opium dens. It is the narrowest street in Canada, only 0.9 meters (35 in) wide. It was designated as a heritage property by the local government in 2001 and remains a popular attraction. Let us take you through this bustling alley and show you the best places to get the iconic picture that visitors love to get!

This bustling square used to be home to opium dens, brothels, and bars back in the rough and tumble gold rush days of the 1860s. Now it is home to cute local shops, modern restaurants, and breweries. Here we will stop at our favorite brewery (Whistle Buoy) to sample some of the best craft beer in the city.

What's not included

Gratuities (recommended) for tour guide

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

46 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

122 reviews

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113

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Minimum drinking age is 19 years. We have a non-alcohol sample for youth and for those looking for a non-alcohol experience

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking, we need to know of any dietary issues before the tour starts.

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Meeting point

We meet at our first foodie stop, Maiiz Nixtamal. Please not your guide will meet you in front of the restaurant, they will be holding a clipboard and wearing a nametag. This restaurant opens at 11am.

Important notes

• Please confirm any dietary conditions with us before the tour starts. Please email us at info@offtheeatentracktours.ca at least 24 hours in advance to request any dietary issues or to request the vegetarian option.

About Victoria

Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is renowned for its stunning gardens, historic architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Nestled on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, it offers a charming blend of British heritage and West Coast natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Butchart Gardens

The Butchart Gardens is a stunning collection of floral display gardens, featuring a variety of themed gardens and seasonal blooms.

Nature 2-3 hours $34.95

Royal BC Museum

The Royal BC Museum offers a comprehensive look at the natural and human history of British Columbia through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Museum 2-3 hours $27

Parliament Buildings

The Parliament Buildings are a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and the seat of the British Columbia government.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (tours may require reservations)

Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf is a bustling waterfront area filled with colorful floating homes, fresh seafood, and unique shops.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore

Fisgard Lighthouse

Fisgard Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse marking the entrance to the Victoria Harbour. It is one of the oldest lighthouses on the West Coast of Canada.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (Fort Rodd Hill has an admission fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Spot Prawns

Spot prawns are a local delicacy, often served grilled, poached, or in pasta dishes. They are sweet, tender, and a must-try for seafood lovers.

Main Course Contains shellfish

Saskatoon Berry Pie

Saskatoon berry pie is a sweet and tangy dessert made with local Saskatoon berries, reminiscent of blueberries but with a unique flavor.

Dessert Vegetarian (check for dairy content)

Artisan Craft Beer

Victoria is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering a wide range of local and unique brews.

Drink Contains gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Whale watching Spa treatments Beachcombing Picnicking Museum visits Art gallery tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Victoria, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, French, Chinese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

PST (GMT-8) / PDT (GMT-7) (Daylight Saving Time observed)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Victoria is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or rideshare services.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Victoria International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Victoria Station

By bus

Victoria Coach Station

Getting around

Public transport

BC Transit operates an extensive bus network throughout Victoria, making it easy to get around without a car.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Oak Bay James Bay Fernwood

Day trips

Sidney

20 km from Victoria • Half day

Sidney is a charming seaside village known for its beautiful waterfront, historic buildings, and vibrant arts scene. It's a great place to explore local shops, galleries, and cafes.

Butchart Gardens

25 km from Victoria • Half day

The Butchart Gardens is a stunning collection of floral display gardens, featuring a variety of themed gardens and seasonal blooms. It's one of the most popular attractions near Victoria.

Goldstream Provincial Park

20 km from Victoria • Half day to full day

Goldstream Provincial Park is a beautiful natural area featuring waterfalls, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife. It's a great place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Festivals

Victoria Day Celebration • May (weekend) Victoria Film Festival • February Victoria Fringe Festival • August

Pro tips

Visit the Butchart Gardens in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the gardens at their best.
Take a stroll along the Dallas Road Waterfront Walkway for stunning views of the ocean and Olympic Mountains.
Explore the historic Chinatown and visit the Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest alley in Canada.
Try the famous fish and chips at Red Fish Blue Fish or the local craft beer at a nearby brewery.
Visit the Royal BC Museum to learn about the natural and human history of British Columbia.