Review Waddling Dog Bar & Grill - Central Saanich

I went here twice while down island for medical. A Wednesday and Friday night. Both times were incredibly busy. It created a nice buzzing atmosphere that catered to my people watching tendencies. There were keno machines and pull tabs for those looking for the traditional pub experience, and about 1,000 tvs. No need to turn your neck to catch up on the game in this joint. Wednesday was packed late for their wing special. These super cheap, delicious wings are popular with the locals. I can see why. We particularly enjoyed the bbq hot flavour. A great sweet - heat balance. That addicting 'burns so good' feeling left us wanting more. Friday was my turn to cook, so naturally we came back for a pint and some steak sandwiches. Perfectly cooked sirloin that was flavourful and not tough, considering the cut, it was well prepared. The house salad also was heads and shoulders above what most restaurants offer. I noticed their prices are very reasonable considering how much food prices have gone up everywhere. So their profitability is definitely getting squeezed, which is certainly appreciated by their dedicated local following. For the steak sandwich, with mushrooms and onions and a side, the total was $21. Their drink prices are also on the lower end. This is before their generous happy hour and daily specials. This volume pricing is drawing the crowds and hope doesn't forego their long term profitability. This place is a respite for many. Looking for a place to unwind after a long day/week/year? Go no further than 'the Dog'.

This is a pub. So expect pub food. The fish & chips are excellent. The tartar sauce is a welcome addition, great taste. The size of the fish pieces make any f&c lover love it. Not huge but not small. Not too much batter (see my pictures). I recommend this place especially if their other food is as good.

We were a party of 10 they had our food out in a reasonable time and everyone enjoyed what they ordered. If you like Ceaser order there's it's amazing.

I love this place. I don’t live on the island but work has brought me to this general location. And I’ve been quite a few times and the food every time is awesome. The waitresses are awesome and on top of things. It’s a highlight every time I come here. A must!

Great pub, great food and service, easy access on the highway, in a cozy pub environment!

I loved this place! Coming from Vancouver, I ordered 2-piece fish and chips. Turns each piece in here is surprisingly a huge piece! The food quality was pretty good, the staff were super friendly, and service was very fast. The beef dip was also very yummy.

Totally stepped up since our last visit. Great service and food. Interior could use a bit of a refresh but as any pub should be, it is warm and comfortable. A good selection for a coffee, beverage, or full meal

Great neighborhood pub! It was my first time checking it out after moving into the area, and hearing a lot about it. Ordered the calamari, and it was absolutely fantastic. Lovely atmosphere, and they also play hockey games and other sports when available.

Absolutely the most pleasant pub experience we have had in many years. Originally from Vancouver, we are use to get in, eat and get you out environment. I wish I had our servers name, she was fantastic and made us feel welcome. We came for the season opener canucks game. It was busy however that did not hinder the service or the food. The food was on our table very quickly. We were so relaxed. You will see us next time we are over there.

It is not because of the very good atmosphere and food, nor the generous and filling portions (all of which are true) that I am writing this review. Rather what has prompted me to leave a review was our server, Mercedes. She was courteous, prompt, helpful and appropriate, but what really made her outstanding is her (likely innate) aptitude for the hospitality industry. This woman made us feel as though we were HER GUESTS! Mercedes was upbeat, smiling, pleasant and attentive. And she was BUSY, I never saw her standing still, except when interacting with us or other clients. She definitely has a well above average aptitude for the hospitality industry, and if I were running an establishment in the area, I would do my utmost to convince her to come work for me.

Went there as a group of six to celebrate a friend's milestone. It was a last minute choice on our way to a local attraction. So glad we made the choice. Service - and patrons! - all friendly and welcoming. Food was regular pub fare, done really, really well. Definitely worth the stop!

Had a wonderful time here today. Rebecca was a great server. She was super fast and on point. She is the patio Queen! Went for the 2 piece cod fish and chips with extra lemon. Fries were crunchy and amazing and the fish was full not just a batter but good sized pieces and delicious. I had a great time and recommend it if you're passing on the highway. Locals already know how dope it is here !! ;) Ignore the paint on my hand in the pic. I just came from painting a house lol

I came at a very busy time but still enjoyed a good meal. Veggie burger with fries and a sleeve of local tap while I waited. It's not a bad start to a well-deserved weekend.

A surprisingly good experience for the out-of-the-way location. Our server was lovely. The food was good and arrived fast. Friends got the beef dip. They thought it was awesome. I tried it and it was tasty. The rhubarb pie was so good that I considered getting a second one.

This place is great to have a beer and watch some sports, food is great and the staff are fun and friendly! i would highly recommend the waddling dog!

Waddling dog usually does right by us in the food department but just ordered 2 Thai shrimp and i swear looks like they just made one order and split it into two. For a 40$ approx meal (17$ each) you would think you would at least get more noodles to at least cover the bottom of the box, very disappointed.

We just had a retirement party here and it was so much fun, great atmosphere, delicious food and wonderful staff. They set up a large table in the back room and took great care of us. I had to change my numbers a few times and asked a lot of questions and they always messaged be right back. I recommend The waddling Dog for any event, its fabulous!!

Great food. Great staff. Always on point! One of my favorite pubs in Victoria.

Food was terrific and the staff was very friendly. I would highly recommend it after my experiences.

Amazing atmosphere. Friendly staff. Love the new updated menu and the unique live events hosted there. Always a good time at the waddling dog.

Love this place for many reasons. Amazing menu and food. Fantastic, fun and attentive Staff, and all sports and every UFC is free to watch on one of their MANY TV's.... Not a seat in the place that you cant see the show!

Great pub, great food and great people! Love the free pool.

Best pub around! Amazing atmosphere and all star staff! They're pros :D

Great Pub. Great food. Great Staff. Been here a couple times and never left disappointed. Wish it was closer to my new house because I would be a regular! The beer is always cold and the sports are always on. What more could you ask for!

Great food great service great place, Jenna makes perfect ceasers ;)

Great atmosphere in there! Lots of tv's to watch all the games and the staff is super friendly.

Awesome people that make you feel at home without any attitude at all ��

Great staff and atmosphere! I always enjoy the special events they put on!

One of my favourite pubs in Victoria. Great food, excellent service, and awesome atmosphere

Great food. Excellent service. Always a good experience at the dog!

Great spot and they sponsor some great local sports teams!

Wonderful staff as i had used to work there for the last year. Loved it.

Have been many times. Fish and chip night. Fish batter varies depending ono cook that night. They have the best chips ever. Fish and chips better mid week. You gets what you pay for.