Joie Grillades

What an exceptional restaurant and dining experience. My family went to this restaurant when we were visiting Victoria. The owner was so friendly and charming. He wanted to set the menu for us, where he presented us with an array of delicious dishes from appetizers, main courses to desserts. The food was fantastic and it was one of the best dining experiences we have had. This is some of the best french food. The terrine, steak, duck, fresh baked bread, beet salad, chicken with lobster and in house smoked salmon was amazing. This is a great restaurant and I would definitely go back. Do not miss this one!

My wife and I just had dinner this evening at Joie Grillades. The owner is warm and friendly and the service was prompt and attentive. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed and it easy to have a quiet dinner conversation and eat at an unhurried pace. The food was well prepared and the portions were generously sized without being excessive, leaving just enough room for the specially prepared for us, sabayon desert. Prices were reasonable, particularly given the quality of the ingredients, skill of preparation and unique menu items. If we were locals, it would definitely be one our special occasions favorites.

Very nice “Basque” style cuisine and upscale atmosphere. Generous sized meals (enough for tomorrow’s lunch) with traditional sauces. Don’t be afraid to order the house wine and the Calvados was such a lovely finale. The waiter (surely the owner!) was attentive and very pleasant sans pretense or affectation. Next time I hope the strawberries are domestic. Don’t hesitate to have an enjoyable meal at Joie Grillades on Cook street!

Having dined at numerous French restaurants in both France and Canada, I am fairly picky when it comes to spending my money on French food. Joie never disappoints me or my family. My wife (who is also familiar with French cuisine) and I have been to Joie multiple times now. We enjoy it so much that we had to make the point of bringing my father in law to Joie; as exploring high French cuisine is a tradition of ours. The overall experience of Joie est absolutment incroyable. Now for the details: The food! The cuisine is not what one might traditionally associate with French cuisine. Joie's food is not heavy in butter and cream. The food is full of flavour. Being more of a southern French palate, the food is fresh, lively, and relatively light in comparison to traditional Parisian cuisine. Now one may think that the food then lacks complexity or refinement. That's where Joie really shines. The several dishes that I have eaten (including the full tasting menu), have all been full of complex flavours without being pretentious. The food is refined, right down to the herbs, without losing flavour notes. The cook on all meats is absolutely spot on. The care and diligence that the chef puts into these creations shows wisdom, creativity, and flair. He has melded Parisian, Basque, and Northern Italian flavours into an experience like no other in Canada. The spice! For the younger audience, wine may not be of importance. Having grown up in French culture, a meal is not fulfilled without the delicate accompaniment of fermented grapes. Wine is just a way of life in French culture. It's not something imbibed for its alcoholic purpose, but more to enhance the flavours of food. The individuals at Joie have absolutely perfected this process. Each time we have visited, I have ordered the flight of wine, which the chef personally pairs with the foods chosen. Having not ordered the same dish twice, I can say without a doubt that the chef understands how wine enhances all the nuances of each dish. On some occasions has actually brought out flavours in the dish that I couldn't otherwise realize were there. The pairings are brilliant. The choices of beverages are outstanding. Does all this mean that the food is lost without wine? Absolutely not. However, it is a demonstration that the chef completely understands flavour profiles. When it comes to high French cuisine, the experience is never inexpensive (unless you cook it yourself). However, for an experience like what Joie can provide, ever dollar spent is absolutely worth it. You won't find another French restaurant in Canada that comes close to what Joie provides. If you enjoy French cuisine and don't want the heavy butters and creams, then Joie will take you on a taste experience that cannot be missed. Bon appetite!

This is hands down one of the finest restaurant experiences we've had in Victoria. A unique Basque restaurant belnding Spanish and French flavours into an unforgettable treat. George was the kindest and most attentive host showing us the very best of the menu and everything from the wine pairings to dessert was spectacular. Try all of the lamb, the terrine, the mushrooms, and the phyllo, and certainly take George's recommendations! We will be frequenting for sure.