FoodRestaurants & BarsRestaurant Closings

6 Victoria restaurants that closed their doors this fall

Ryan Hook
Ryan Hook
|
Nov 25 2024, 10:45 pm
6 Victoria restaurants that closed their doors this fall
@littlejumbobc/Instagram

This past fall was particularly tough for the Victoria hospitality industry, with many renowned and storied restaurants and venues closing.

We love celebrating new restaurant openings, but we recognize the challenges of the industry. Skyrocketing rents, inflation, and the end of COVID-19 relief have pushed many to close their doors.

Here are six closures you may have missed.

Sushi Jiro

Cook Street Village is losing a neighbourhood favourite as Sushi Jiro prepares to close its doors for good. The beloved spot, known for its eclectic mix of Japanese, Korean, and Asian fusion dishes, has announced that its last day of service will be November 27.

Cafe Zanzibar

Cafe Zanzibar, a beloved casual dining spot in Brentwood Bay, is closing its doors on December 31 after 24 years of service. Known for its eclectic international menu, cozy patio seating, and vibrant community atmosphere, Cafe Zanzibar has been a staple in Central Saanich and a go-to for brunch in the community.

Lil’ Ronnies Beachside BBQ

The Tofino restaurant announced its closure after eight awesome seasons of slinging top-notch BBQ and hosting unforgettable live music events. The exact closing date has yet to be announced. Known for its mouth-watering woodfire BBQ, the restaurant was also a vibrant community space, drawing in locals and tourists with its huge backyard patio and regular concerts.

Victoria Event Centre

While not technically a restaurant, the Victoria Event Centre closed on October 27, marking the end of an era after 20 years of operation. Despite financial support from the City of Victoria, the Event Centre cited post-pandemic struggles and a significant rent increase as key factors leading to its closure.

Tombo

 

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Tombo, which opened in 2023, said it’s relocating rather than permanently closing. The bakery from Tom Moore, one of the owners and chefs at Crust Bakery, was best known for its picturesque pastries and delicious sandwiches. After teasing the city as a pop-up in locations around Victoria in 2023, Tombo opened its doors to the Fort Street location this past winter.

Little Jumbo

One of Victoria’s most iconic cocktail bars and restaurants, Little Jumbo, closed its doors for good this past October. Within a decade, it became a local favourite known for its legendary cocktails, casual fine dining, and intimate atmosphere. Despite surviving floods, frozen pipes, and even the COVID-19 pandemic, Little Jumbo’s co-owners shared that an eye-watering 40% rent hike made continuing business impossible.

Did we miss any notable restaurant closures? Let us know in the comments or via email at victoria@dailyhive.com.

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