As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, there’s no better time to explore the incredible flavours of Vancouver Island. This fall, the Island Taste Trail invites you on a culinary adventure from Campbell River to Cowichan, celebrating the heart and soul of local dining.
Running from Oct. 18 to Nov. 10, the Island Taste Trail is your chance to discover why so many locals and visitors rave about the Island’s food scene. This year, it’s all about one thing – delicious pairings that celebrate our local bounty!
Participating restaurants, cafés, wineries and breweries are crafting unique pairings of food and beverages that highlight local ingredients and products. Here in the Cowichan Valley, more than two dozen options are featured, ranging from delectable treats and lighter lunches to elegant dinners, all crafted with the Island in mind.
For something a little lighter to fuel your adventures, explore options like Gibby’s Café in Duncan or Island Pastry Haus in Lake Cowichan and Chemainus, which has collaborated with Vancouver Island’s own Chai producer, Shanti Chi & Co., to create a special cheesecake for the promotion.
For dinner, Cook & Butcher in Cowichan Bay has created a charcuterie for two, perfectly paired with Island wines, or browse the various options from the Craig Street family: Just Jakes, Craig Street Brew Pub and The Oak Taphouse in Duncan, and Jakes at the Lake in Lake Cowichan.
And that’s just a sampling!
Whether you’re a die-hard foodie or someone who simply enjoys a great meal, the Island Taste Trail has something special for everyone. See the full lineup of Cowichan Valley participants here and check out all the featured pairings on islandtastetrail.ca or follow @vanisletastetrail on Instagram.
More than 100 eateries and tasting experiences are participating from Campbell River in the North to Mill Bay in the South. Each one has something different. You'll find a mix of comfort food combinations like fish & chips paired with local beer to fresh local mussels paired with Cowichan Valley wines to exceptional house-made pastries – perfect with a locally roasted coffee. Wherever your travels take you, you'll find endless opportunities to delight your taste buds.
Produced in partnership with Tourism Cowichan, Nanaimo Hospitality Association, Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism, Destination Campbell River and Experience Comox Valley, the Island Taste Trail is a celebration of what makes Vancouver Island so unique – its community.
Supporting local restaurants isn’t just about enjoying a fantastic meal; it’s about backing the local farmers, brewers, winemakers and producers who are the backbone of the Island’s food ecosystem. When you dine at a local eatery, you’re contributing to the success of local businesses, helping them thrive in a competitive market. It’s a great way to keep your money within the community and promote sustainability while enjoying some of the finest dishes the Island has to offer.
As fall sets in, why not gather your friends and family and explore the flavours of the mid-Island? The Island Taste Trail is more than just a dining experience – it’s a celebration of local culture, creativity and community.
Learn more at islandtastetrail.ca