A couple weekends ago one of my good friends from Victoria had her family come in to see her. It had me reminiscing on when I was still studying in Vic and feeling the strain of being away from my family and friends in Calgary. I was just so happy for her because I know what it’s like to be reunited with the people you love, even when you’ve only been apart for a few months.
I was invited out for drinks and dinner with them and we decided to hit up Pagliacci’s because it’s her favourite spot in Victoria and I guess she’s been talking it up to them for quite some time now. I’ve only been a couple of times because of the fact that I’m both impatient and claustrophobic, and there’s usually a line to get in.
Unsurprisingly, there was a line-up greeting us when we arrived, but thankfully it wasn’t raining outside (I’ve been in that predicament before and it’s the pits). We waited in line for probably about 35 minutes, and were served wine (thank God; it was much needed) while we waited. I wish that the restaurant was bigger both because it would reduce waiting times and also because, once you actually get inside you would have a bit more room; the interior is rather cramped.
Once you are seated, you’ll probably be starving, but never fear because you will definitely be fed and be fed well at Pagliacci’s. For all that I complain about the wait and the claustrophobia, I always remember exactly why it’s worth it as soon as I begin eating. I tried to treat myself like an eight year old and tell myself not to eat too much of the bread before ordering (it’s hard when you’re so hungry!), and I somewhat succeeded.
We ordered the Somerset Praughns to start and they were delicious, the spice and the citrus really complimented one another. I ordered the Salmon Salad because I remembered the last time I had eaten at Pag’s I had been infinitely full after ordering The Big Easy (which is delicious!) and I didn’t want to make the same mistake twice. The salad was delicious, but all of my companions’ pasta and entree dishes did look more appetizing.
We finished by splitting the Turtle Pie, which was phenomenal. I’ve also had the Marble Cheesecake before which is very rich and very good. If you’re still feeling like dessert after epic amounts of delicious food, order this to share or order it to go because it’s very rich and very filling.
Overall, I do recommend Pagliacci’s, but only if you don’t mind a wait. The food is very good and very filling (order the smaller portion of pasta, believe me), but I personally avoid going to restaurants I have to wait so long to get into. Particularly when there are so many other great places in Victoria you can get into quicker, try to go to Pag’s on a weeknight or at a time when you won’t have such a brutal wait ahead of you.
I will definitely be coming abck to Cibo. It’s very close to my apartment, our food was good, I loved the atmosphere, and the service was phenomenal. Our server was extremely friendly and very knowledgeable about both the drinks list and the menu. Highly recommended.
