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I T I N E R A R Y | S H O R T H O P S Can’t Miss Bites at the Victoria Public Market In keeping with the old-world style for which Victoria is so well-known, it should come as no surprise that the city’s foodie central is housed in a historic building. The Victoria Public Market at the Hudson has set up shop in a former HBC department store. Vaulted ceilings and communal tables make this a favorite gathering place. Full-size pies are available, but it’s the smaller personalized pies that shine. Ranging from $7 - $9, these 5-inch beauties are big enough to serve two, if you feel like sharing. lectures, and seminars are frequent- ly held. And while wares from local artisans are sure to catch your fancy, it’s the grassroots food vendors that are the real draw. At Roast, you’ll find tender beef and pork meatballs smothered in a rich arrabbiata. On an entirely different end of the food spectrum, The Very Good Butchers are dishing up plant-based delights even the most carnivorous will enjoy — like a hearty Rybwich sand- wich and a luscious dairy-free poutine. Nearby, the humming ovens at Victoria Pie Co. are constantly being fed a selection of freshly rolled and filled sweet and savory pies, including the exquisite apple-blueberry. Time your visit right and you can even get one fresh out of the oven! And don’t over- look, La Pasta. The newest addition to the market, this little gem’s handmade pasta is as toothsome as it is comfort- ing, like the fusilli pesto topped with generous dollops of fresh ricotta. The slightly spicy red sauce in Roast’s cup of meatballs is tempered by a dol- lop of salsa verde and sprinkling of parmesan. THE FOUR-STORY BUILDING FIRST opened its doors in 1921. But due to its location on the fringe of downtown, the Canadian retailer moved. Today, communal tables have replaced beauty counters. Rotisseries and pie crusts stand where women once ogled hats 24 explore: NW | The Official Magazine for kenmore air | Spring 2019 and new shoes. Because now, the vault- ed ceilings and expansive floor is home to Victoria’s only year-round market. The food-hub showcases a diverse range of farm fresh and locally sourced artisan foods. At its center is a Com- munity Kitchen, where cooking demos, Victoria Public Market #6 1701 Douglas Street Victoria, BC V8W 0C1 Open Mon. – Sat. 10am – 6pm & Sun. 11am – 5pm victoriapublicmarket.com