The Restaurant at Painted Boat

We dined at the restaurant for two nights on it’s opening weekend. The setting is beautiful, the facilities superb (although with a maximum capacity of 35 guests, you would be advised to book ahead) and the service friendly and professional. But we were particularly delighted by the food! The standout was probably the mussels appetizer, where the chef created the most amazing broth that we’ve ever had in a mussels dish. There was just enough heat to keep me (a chilli fan) entertained, but not overpower my wife’s more sensitive tastebuds. He said that it might have been a touch of miso that he added? But really, it was the whole package. In close contention was the Baked Alaska Sorbet dessert… the no-flour brownie base was excellent. Both of these dishes were large enough to be happily shared between the two of us. Our main courses were similarly well-prepared and presented. I think the beef was my favorite, but the Mango Cauliflower Fried Rice and Local Bronzed Sablefish were pretty exceptional, too. If you’re planning to have a couple drinks with dinner, do consider arranging a safe ride home… or perhaps plan ahead and stay at the resort!

This is a lovely restaurant with an excellent view, although it's super noisy, and we were in the back room. We had a very nice server, who knew her wines. And they have a very good wine list. My dinner partner had the lamb, which he said was excellent. I had the Duck Duo--one piece braised, one piece roasted. I ate the latter, although it was way overdone; if I hadn't been so hungry, I would have sent it back. The braised bit was taken home to the dog. I don't recall ever enjoying a piece of cheesecake as much as I did the Key Lime cheesecake. I'd go there again.

Dropped in without a reservation. We happened to get in on a cancellation, too bad for the people that cancelled….great for us! The food was outstanding, the best red snapper I’ve had. The service was friendly and professional. Would recommend. Next time we’d reserve to get a seat on the beautiful deck.

While we didn't know what to expect, we were most pleasantly surprised by this restaurant. It's expensive, but well worth the price. While I haven't checked other reviews, I would be surprised if many complained about the food. Or service. Or setting! If you can, have dinner here.

First time staying at Painted Boat Resort and Dinner at The Lagoons. This was a special occasion and therefore important to us to enjoy the incredible views but also a great dinner. First up for me was an appetizer I’m very familiar with on the West Coast, Salt Spring Island mussels. The chipotle white wine sauce was unreal and the mussels were cooked perfectly. Super impressed. The rest of our mains were equally wonderful and our server Stacy was fun and very attentive. Can’t say enough about how much we enjoyed our dinner and the experience.