For lease

Pablo's is closed the property advertised to lease. Don't know the reason behind the closure. Shortage of winter tourists likely.

A most memorable meal

Hands down, this is one of the 5 best restaurants we've ever dined at! The food was absolutely fabulous, the staff was wonderful, and the atmosphere was charming. Definitely will go back next trip.

What is wrong with some of the reviewers

I have just retured from this wonderful place; happy. We had a beautifull meal with exquisite service, the owner even came out to answer my questions about two of the paintings he has in the restaurant. It was adventurous for me I ordered frog's legs for the very first time and was pleasantly surprised, cajun spice but not too hot,... more

Just Don't Bother

How disappointing can a restaurant be............ Don't know?? Go to Pablo's.
Everything takes forever (ie: 20 minutes for a glass of water and bread that was promised and never came) and no one seems to care, I won't bore you with the details other than to say that I should have read the reviews below and then I wouldn't have... more

Very quaint

What a tremendous surprize.. Food was great but was really impressed by the old home feel of the building

Amazing dinner

Right next door to the Harbour Towers and Suites and great service and food.

Worst restaurant experience ever

We called to ask for a 7:00 PM reservation, but had to wait until 8:00 PM because they were so busy. We were okay with that. We arrived at 8:00, and had to wait for perhaps 10 minutes to be seated. We were all right with that. All waiters disappeared. We sat for 10 minutes before our menus arrived. All... more

1 hour 45 minutes and no food, never ever good back

Is it possible to give this place no stars? Worst dining experience ever, in fact we didn't even get to eat..... let me explain. We went there for "Dine around Victoria." Four people ordering.
SKIP TO THE BOTTOM IF YOU WANT TO READ THE COLES NOTES VERSION but here is the full story.
Made reservations for 8 o'clock. Arrived prior... more

An hour and 45 minutes and not a single dish to show for it

I wish I could comment on the food at Pablo's, but after waiting for an hour and 45 minutes for our appetizers, we decided to leave.... and still got suckered into paying for the one bottle of wine we'd ordered for the table of four.
We arrived just before our 8pm reservation, and the servers seemed frazzled by our arrival.... more

Very Good

As a international chef for more than 30 year I was very happy to find this little cosy restaurant.
Our meal was very good for the value $ 100.00 for two with out the wine To start we had foie gras torchon, follow by Pork tenderloin noisette, and for myself I had Lamb loin cook to perfection with a Demi... more

Cozy Atmosphere

When entering into Pablo's, you are welcomed with a warm smile and friendliness. Pablo's Dining Lounge is a very cozy place that had a great menu. Lots to choose from. Sure the price on menu is pricey but both the food and service is well first class. The food was really delicious and we will return.

A most bizarre experience and way overpriced

Should have read these reviews before buying the Groupon!!! To start with the positive: our friendly young waiter gave us a lovely table and did try to save the evening from being a total disaster. Most of the food that we eventually ended up with was prepared very well. But, it was extremely pricey and pretty much everything went badly.... more

Over priced

We always wanted to try out Pablo's dining room and finally we did go. We made reservations and we were greeted and brought to our table by a nice person. We got a nice table and were handed the menu.
The restaurant advertises a three course steak dinner for a set price in the local paper but we were not... more

I was not impressed!! We had been to Pablo's before the change to Niche and back to Pablo's, it was excellent back then. This time, I found it to be over-priced and poorly served. I had the rabbit ($50 entreé), opting for something different from my norm. The first bite was good but after that, it was tough, chewy and very salty. The waiter came by on the first bite, but barely stopped as he... more

I would recommend it conditionally because I found the prices on the high side. Excellent quality but there should be some more affordable options.

The restaurant was lovely, the food was quite delicious. I think the prices are a little high, but the wine list prices were excessive. We usually go to dinner with friends and order at least one bottle, if not two, of wine. There is no way we would do so at Pablo's. It would be a "one glass each" kind of dinner. For that reason, we won't be returning.

Worst experience of our B.C. trip

While their menu asked for patience since they prepare everything from scratch for each order, this was ridiculous! We chose to order two appetizers each for our meal since there were several items that looked good, we didn't want a huge meal (nor their $35-45 entrees). We shared a dessert. We were there almost 3 hours waiting for these items,... more

sorry, but this place really does suck

I love French food and even after reading the poor reviews I thought I would give this place a chance. Certainly not the smartest thing I ever did.
Walking up to the door you can see the place is tired, broken steps with missing grip pads, poor paint. etc etc.
The decor inside is really old and tired as well.... more

Great service, great ambience, overpriced wines, food not so great, VERY pricey

THe service : great.
THe location: charming old house on the Inner Harbour.
The prices: STEEP. $14 appys, $30 entrees, and truly outrageous wine prices.
Priced like a truly fine dining experience, but ...
The food: my halibut was dry, my partner's beef was also overcooked.
The veggies were OK but the garlic was laid on with a heavy hand.... more

We had the lobster bisque, escargot, and two 6oz. tenderloins (one with foie gras). The steaks were excellent, and the veggies (which came along with) were very nice too...good variety. The only downside was that the food was very expensive - but we knew it would be, before going...French food is typically a bit pricey. Overall, we had a great time.

Best meal I've ever had

Very romantic, extensive wine list (though quite pricey), amazing food, good service. The beef medalions were incredible, and the oysters rockefellar.....can't wait to return again and again!!!

New York, Montreal, Vancouver 5 star in little Victoria. Amazing.

Amazing food

We have never been disappointed in the food or service at Pablos! This last visit we went specifically for their superb Oysters Rockefeller, but found it not available due to red tide. However, their special of Mixed Greens with a delicious Champagne Vinaigrette, Filet with divine Trufffle Mashed and tasty glazed carrots completed with Creme Carmel to be even more... more

I loved the character of this restored heritage home. The atmosphere was romantic and "old world" but the price of most menu items was out of this world! Very expensive. The freshly baked bread and Cherries Jubilee were outstanding. I found the duck confit to be good, but nothing special. I really wanted to love this place but not sure if I would go back.

unreal

I ate here and it was tony the tiger. that mean grrrrrreat. honestly, the best lamb I have ever put in my body. The mint sauce was sooooo gooooood. On a serious note, it was the best lamb I ever ate. I'm sick of reading bad reviews about this place. Clearly, these people who write this tripe, have no frickin... more

Best lamb ever

After a visit to Pablo's for our anniversary that was my wife's summation, best lamb she's ever had. My steak and lobster was maybe not the best I've ever had but it was very good. Waiter was very friendly and helpful. Chef made us a special dessert for our special occasion; fresh chocolate truffles that were the best I've ever... more

One of the worst experiences I ever had

One of the worst experiences I have ever had in an establishment that is supposed to be fine dinning.
IT IS ONE HOUR for the 1st course to come. Salad will turn out to be the best thing of the food items. The frog’s legs are small and over spiced.
After clearing the starters it is another 30 minutes for... more

Amazing fine dining

Hello,
I ate a Pablo's last week and I am compelled to write a review... which says a lot because I really do not write reviews. When it comes to fine dining Pablo's may very well be the best in Victoria. Both the Halibut and the Lamb were exquisite! Top is all off with flourless chocolate cake and you have... more

The Prime Rib melted in my mouth

Well ive eaten here a few times and am always impressed. When we saw the ad for prime rib dinner it was a great excuse to go out for dinner to one of our favorite places. As always the service was prompt. We had bisque, mussels, and risotto to start followed by struffed rabbit, beef tenderloin and of course my... more

Highly Recommended

Always take friends from out of town or buisness associates to Pablos
Staff were very friendly everytime we dine at Pablos Portions are
large and well prepared

a pleasant time at Pablo'sDining Lounge

Pablo restaurant has made a great impression on my friend and me.The atmosphere was warm and cozy.The fire place ad a little je ne sais quoi to the dining lounge ambiance.Our waiter led us to our table and made sure that we were comfortably seated.One could sense attention to details.The menu is French classic cuisine and the wine list is... more

Relaxed and comfortable dining with atmosphere

Each course was served with expertise and it was difficult to decide which one we enjoyed the most. They came out timely and never rushed. I hear some critic gave this restaurant not such a good review. But then some critics should just stay home. Their very presence anywhere would be enough to ruin a beautiful evening. Very much looking... more

How can you get away with it

I love dining out on special occasions and am prepared to drop some coin. When the prices
don't match with the quality or service I feel very cheated.
Well that was the Pablo's experience. The service PAINFULLY slow. No attention to details,
The meals were all lukewarm, overcooked steak, watery avocado and crab salad, potatoes that tasted like they have... more

Absolutely Perfect Evening

As an avid traveller for business I am also dining out frequently. And from the local ingredients to the amazing dishes and ambiance Pablo's is aces. I have eaten there several times and felt the need share. I had local lamb which was cooked to perfection and my adventurous colleague tried the chefs frog legs and stuffed rabbit and couldnt... more

One of the best in Town

Well about the prices they are no more expensive than any other restaurant in this class.
I been comming to Publosa couple of time a year for many years and always found the food excellent. The new mangment that has taken over has exelled with the quality and presentation of the food served, the service is excellent and the owner... more

Don't waste your money or your time

This restaurant is so grossly overpriced for what you get, I found it offensive. They are obviously relying on tourists from downtown hotels who are unaware of the great dining experiences that are available in Victoria for the same or less money (Brasserie, Paprika, Brio, Camille's). I love French food, but the menu at Pablo's is bland and repetitive. The... more

I wish we lived in Victoria

My husband I were celebrating our 38th wedding anniversary and we made reservations at Pablo's. We are from Portland Oregon and did not know any restaurants in Victoria at all. The meal was absolutely fantastic. A gentlemen helped up choose a wine that was perfect for us as my husband like a dry wine and I like a slightly sweeter... more

Not recommended

The serving staff were very nice and attentive and the ambiance was nice. The food however was very bland, tasteless, and really really overpriced. I would not recommend this restaurant.

best restaurant in town

My husband and I have been going several times to Pablos and the food is divine.
The wine list absolutely amazing
The best oysters rockfellers I have ever had
I had also the best filet mignon ever!
Thanks to the manager who has brought me a "free" glass of fine champagne as we were waiting for our meals.
The chef,... more

Fine French Cuisine in Victoria

I took my son to Pablo's the other night as we had spent a year in France together and fell in love with good food. We were both impressed by how Pablo's delivered on taste and beauty. The vegetable flavors were indescribable and the mousse au chocolate for desert was a piece of art. It definitely makes a case for... more

Woderful Place to eat in Victoria

This is my second time here and I again thought it was very good!! our server was the best and very attentive...The food was excellent and very tasty.
I was brought up in a family restaurant business and I know about good food.
I highly recommend this wonderful restaurant.
It's a shame about some of the other reviews, maybe it... more

Best caeser salad ever

I saw a review online , They have a classic at table caeser i have never seen any thing like this, We have been to restaurants all over north america and nothing has came close to the authenticity of this place, We would strongly recommend any one who visits victoria to stop by this gem, Located in James Bay a... more

Table side service back on the map

We have been to Pablo’s 3 times in the last 6 months with 4 different couples. The service has been excellent on all occasions—nicely paced as you would expect from a fine dining restaurant. Two out of three times we splurged for 3 courses: appetizers, entrees and dessert. We have had the perfectly flavoured Caesar Salad prepared table side on... more

Sub-par in everyway

This Restaurant was something that I had heard about for awhile, and was anxious to try, Upon arriving at this venue which was in an older heritage house, looked like it had not been cleaned or updated for quite some time. When I opened the menu to order a glass of wine, I was shocked to find that I would... more

Food takes forever but it's good and service sucks

As we entered, the restaurant was fairly empty so we figured it would be perfect for a nice quiet evening. It took a few minutes to be seated, that should have been our first clue that service would be ridiculously slow. We ordered wine (the wine list was impressive), but they were out of it (not so impressive). We asked... more

Pablo's Shining Through

For those of you who have not been to Pablo's - you certainly are missing out!!!! Great atmosphere and Chef Robert Cassels creations were simply divine. Jim, I would never miss having your Caesar Salad either. Just fantastic!!. Excellent, attentive service made our visits really enjoyable. Keep an eye on Pablo's ~ An exciting dinner concept is set to launch... more

Best Restaruant in Victoria

On a recent trip to Victoria, my wife and I returned to Pablo's Dinning Lounge. We had eaten at the restaurant in the fall and found it to be a fine dinning experience. On our most recent occasion, we were not disappointed. For an appetizer, we started with the Oyster’s Rockefeller. These are made with a wonderful cream sauce and... more

The Best Meal in Victoria

Monday July 25, 2010 - We just had the BEST meal in Victoria BC!! It is our 2nd Anniversary and I have wanted to go to Pablo's for sometime - tonight was the night - which was a surprise that was orchestrated by my sweetheart!! It was the most rewarding, delectable, and inviting evening we have had in our beautiful... more

Canadian Fawlty Towers

This was the worst restaurant meal we have experienced during a 5 week Canadian vacation when we ate out every night:
1. Service was excruciatingly slow - we waited 20 mins for a menu to be presented to us, the waiter had to be reminded to bring the ordered wine & we then waited a further 45 mins from the... more

Very Expensive for Average Food

We dined at Pablo's recently. The menu is huge and this results in average food at a premium price. In my opinion, a smaller menu would result in faster service from the kitchen and hopefully a reduction in the prices. The wine list is extensive but the mark ups are high. The restaurant is located in an heritage house and... more

A nice evening

We went to Pablo's for a special evening and it didn't disappoint. Set in an old charatcter home, there were two other tables of patrons when we arrived. Once our meal had finished, 7 tables were occupied on this Sunday night.
After taking drink orders, we were presented with menus. There was lots of choice of starters, entrees and desserts.... more

An optimum experince for the taste buds

French cooking at it's best.
Do let the Sommelier suggest a wine.

Divine

We decided to go check out what Pablo's new management had to offer.
This beautiful character house offers both first class dining and privacy. Beautifully yet simply decorated, it offers the perfect ambiance as much for business as for romance: the guests set the mood.
The French menu is exquisite and offers a variety of dish not commonly available. The... more

West Coast meets Paris

this was a incredible anniversery dinner for my hubby and I.... the food was great and tasty. wonderful spin on the ceasar salad. Charming century house, with wonderful high ceilings. service was gracious, they let you enjoy the food and were there when you need them.... a great dining experience in Victoria, BC

Food Amazing... Service left to be desired

Finally a fine dining restaurant in Victoria with amazing french food and table sides. Unfortunately the food was served by a waitress that should have been working at the local pub not a fine dining restaurant. Her lack of wine knowledge and the sounds of her footsteps echoing through the dining room seemed to put a damper on the evening.... more

Fantastic

The halibut was absolutely delicious, the best I have ever tasted and I have traveled the world. The atmosphere is elegant and relaxing. The service was exceptional and friendly. I will be bringing friends back to enjoy the wonderful experience. Thank you!!