The Steamship Grill and Taphouse

Tonight we had the opportunity to check out Victoria’s newest restaurant, the Steamship Grill and Taphouse.  General Managers, Steve Baert and Shona Bellows explained the restaurant's impressive philosophy and operating plan.  The Steamship Grill & Taphouse team provides a food style that incorporates international flavours with interesting and eclectic use of the world's spice rack to enhance the fresh west coast seafood and local products that are the mainstay of the menu. Chef Jim Romer's approach emphasizes organic, local and sustainable products — featuring British Columbia, and in particular Vancouver Island ranchers, micro-brewers, vintners and artisanal producers that share his vision and passion.

This is a unique restaurant in a restored heritage building, the former steamship terminal on the Inner Harbor.  When the massive water-front deck is finished, it will be one of the premiere restaurant locations in Victoria.  The patio and deck will have a glass windbreak and high-tech umbrellas with built in radiant heaters and lighting, making the patio usable 10 months of the year. 

The menu is varied with plenty of seafood choices.  The liquor menu is extensive as well with interesting house cocktails, micro-brews and wine.  The staff provided us with a sample of their appetizers, all of which were delicious.  The Monterey Bay Calamari was soft and tender with a delicious batter.  The Old Bay Popcorn Shrimp were served with fresh popcorn… how unique.  The Voodoo Meatballs were to die for and the incredible Mini-donuts were warm and came with a chocolate dipping sauce.  The Flatbreads were full of fresh flavors.  Check out their menu at http://www.steamshipgrill.com/#!menu/c24tf

The staff was very friendly and helpful.  We think that this is the birth of a winner on the restaurant scene in Victoria and we will soon be back for dinner.  Members of the Victoria Guest Services Network who attended the Steamship’s Meet and Greet were truly impressed.  Visit their web site at http://www.steamshipgrill.com/.  The Steamship Grill is participating in Dine Around Victoria with $30 and $39 menus.