Two Vancouver Island establishments have earned spots among the top 50 in the newly released 2025 edition of Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list. Pluvio in Ucluelet ranked 36th, while Marilena Café and Raw Bar in Victoria placed 39th.

Both restaurants were selected by a panel of 160 judges from across the country, including food writers, chefs, critics, and culinary professionals. The annual Canada’s 100 Best list is considered a national benchmark of culinary excellence, highlighting restaurants from across the country. Rankings were based on criteria such as food quality, service, wine program, and atmosphere.

Pluvio, which opened in 2019, offers a tasting menu focused on hyper-seasonal ingredients and local sourcing. It is co-owned by chef Warren Barr and Lily Verney-Downey, and is known for its intimate dining experience in Ucluelet’s coastal setting.

Marilena, which opened in 2023, features a seafood-forward menu and contemporary design. Executive chef Kristian Eligh and sushi chef Ilhan Yu lead the kitchen.