A Taste of Salt Spring Island: Savour the Flavours of the Pacific Northwest at Lightwater Cove

No trip to Salt Spring Island is complete without indulging in our culinary offerings. Our island definitely does not disappoint! Whether you are in the mood for traditional Pacific Northwest, European, vegan, cheese focused, or comforting pub favourites, we have you covered. Even though there’s no restaurant at Lightwater Cove, we can’t leave you without recommendations to some of our favourite places for you to nourish yourself while staying with us. In no particular order, here’s our list of recommended Salt Spring Island restaurants for you and your travelling party to visit. All restaurants are under a 15 minute drive from Lightwater Cove.

Before going, we highly recommend making a reservation to avoid disappointment and long waits, especially for dinner, as Salt Spring Island restaurants are in high demand on the island from March to October.  

For the Ultimate Lunch Pick Me Up Between Adventures at Salt Spring Island Restaurants

The Woodshed

Situated adjacent to Lightwater Cove, the Woodshed stands as a beloved neighbourhood eatery, specialising in gourmet cuisine, wholesome ingredients, and delightful baked goods. Fun fact, the Woodshed serves as Lightwater Cove’s caterer for events and weddings. We are so grateful for their support! This family run restaurant embraces the essence of the Saltspring Island community with its cozy café and bakery, and proudly procures a multitude of its ingredients from nearby farms. Indulge in the ever-changing array of freshly baked goods, reflecting the vibrant flavours of each season. Additionally, you can savour the convenience of take-out salads, soups, and a delectable selection of picnic and charcuterie options. 

Salt Spring Island Cheese

For the foodie traveller, visiting this artisanal cheese shop is a must. After nearly 20 years as a family owned and operated business, Salt Spring Island Cheese has perfected the art and skill of making cheese with goat milk, dairy culture, sea salt, and rennet. You can see the process in action by taking a peek through the viewing windows in their production facility. Check out the farm shop and café if you are there anytime from July to Labour Day. While you are outside, feel free to walk around the farm, see the animals, and take in more of the island’s stunning scenery. 

At the End of a Full Day, Come To These Salt Spring Island Restaurants for Dinner

Rocksalt

Featuring both a cafe and restaurant, Rocksalt features local flavours and ingredients. Everything on the menu is made from scratch with the finest attention to taste, and is suitable for a wide range of dietary restrictions. Enjoy the stunning 180 degree ocean view while indulging in dinner of either classic fish & chips, a variety of rice bowls, or other dishes. Rocksalt is open daily and located very close to the BC Ferries Fulford Harbour terminal. 

Auntie Pestos

A family run restaurant located in Ganges, Auntie Pestos has been serving only dinner since 2004. Every dish is meticulously crafted from scratch, using only the finest locally sourced ingredients, ensuring unparalleled freshness and quality in every bite. Offerings include olive poppers, basque fisherman’s stew, a variety of delicious pastas, and so much more. This restaurant is located in bustling Ganges.

The Oystercatcher Seafood Bar & Grill

The Oystercatcher is a favourite among locals and tourists alike with incredible oceanfront views and a menu full of quality Salt Spring Island ingredients. They even raise their own lamb from the North End of the island at Quarrystone B&B (limited availability), and feature wines and beers from local wineries and breweries. Top food recommendations include their world famous west coast clam chowder, a selection of traditional Pacific Northwest seafood entrees, or their lamb burger (if available). Oystercatcher is a casual environment with live music on the weekends and is open 7 days a week until 8pm.

House Piccolo

Situated in a cute heritage building, you’ll find House Piccolo. Since 1992, it has been serving a European style menu with artfully prepared, gourmet dishes. Try out the warm prawn & scallop salad, sablefish meunière, Wiener Schnitzel, or other European favourites. This restaurant has been highly reviewed and is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. House Piccolo is open Monday to Friday from 5pm during the summer months. 

Salt Spring Inn

This is the place to be for a cozy atmosphere and comfort food, just like your favourite neighbourhood pub. Fan favourites include thin crust pizza, a variety of burgers with all the fixings, and delectable mains such as butter chicken, cajun steak salad and more. Take your pick with eating in the dining room or on the expansive outdoor patio. The restaurant at Salt Spring Inn is open 7 days a week from 9am to 9pm. 

Salt Spring Wild Cider

There’s nothing better than eating fresh, organic food from a ciderhouse while overlooking the vibrant orchard, farm, and valley below! We are sure you will agree when you visit the restaurant at Salt Spring Wild Cider. All the food that is prepared is designed to be accompanied with some cider and is best when shared. Enjoy crowd pleasers such as a scrumptious plant based vegan board, satisfying cheese & charcuterie board, and many more. The restaurant is open 7 days a week. 

The Treehouse

One of the cutest restaurants you will find on Salt Spring Island, the Treehouse is located in a heritage cottage in Ganges. Since 1996, it has served delicious, wholesome food made from scratch and offers many vegetarian and vegan options. Satisfy your inner hobbit while enjoying either poached prawns, lamb meatballs, grilled halloumi cheese skewers, chicken satay bowl, or any of the other delicious offerings. Open 7 days a week and they only take reservations at the restaurant, so make sure you stop by in person!