Nautical Nellies - Best Seafood Restaurant in Victoria, BC Since 1997
Nautical Nellies: Victoria’s Authority on Fresh Fish, Shellfish, and Seafood
For over 25 years, Nautical Nellies Steak and Seafood House has been the culinary heart of Victoria, British Columbia, transforming the freshest catches from nearby waters into an unforgettable dining experience. Since its establishment in 1997, this landmark restaurant has gained acclaim for its dedication to quality, freshness, and locally sourced seafood, making it a cherished dining destination in a region renowned for its rich marine resources. Nautical Nellies is celebrated not only in Victoria but across Canada, recognized for offering some of the finest seafood on the West Coast, with notable praise from the Toronto Globe and Mail, which hailed it as the best steak and seafood restaurant in the region.


A Deep Connection to the Waters of Vancouver Island
Situated near the bustling harbor of Victoria, Nautical Nellies has access to some of the world’s best seafood, right at its doorstep. This proximity to the Pacific Ocean allows the restaurant to embrace a true “ocean-to-table” philosophy, where local seafood is sourced and served at peak freshness. From the cold, pristine waters of Haida Gwaii, where halibut is sustainably harvested, to Tofino’s wild Coho salmon, Nautical Nellies is deeply committed to partnering with regional fisheries that prioritize quality and responsible practices.
At Nautical Nellies, seafood is more than a menu item; it’s part of a broader commitment to supporting local economies and sustainable fishing. Each day, fresh deliveries bring in an array of seafood, including line-caught sablefish, Bigeye tuna, and Dungeness crab from the waters of Vancouver Island. These partnerships not only keep the menu rich and varied but also reinforce the restaurant’s role in preserving the island’s natural resources and heritage.
An Award-Winning Reputation
Through decades of commitment to quality and consistency, Nautical Nellies has become a staple in Victoria’s dining scene. Locals and visitors alike often recommend the restaurant as the top destination for seafood in the city. This reputation has been further cemented by recognition from The Globe and Mail, which named Nautical Nellies the best steak and seafood restaurant on Canada’s West Coast. Such accolades speak to the restaurant’s success in balancing flavor, freshness, and service to create a remarkable dining experience.
The restaurant’s accolades are a reflection of its dedication to excellence. Behind each dish is a team of skilled chefs and servers who strive to make each guest feel welcome, making dining at Nautical Nellies more than just a meal—it’s an experience. For visitors to Victoria, a trip to Nautical Nellies has become a way to truly savor the region’s culinary identity, making it an essential stop for any food lover.


Signature Dishes: A Celebration of West Coast Flavors
The culinary team at Nautical Nellies has created a menu that’s both a celebration of traditional West Coast flavors and an exploration of new culinary techniques. The restaurant offers a range of seafood dishes that highlight the region’s best offerings, from chilled and hot seafood platters to inventive creations that capture the diversity of the Pacific Northwest.
One of the most popular choices among guests is the seafood platter, a bounty of local and imported shellfish designed for sharing. Offered in both hot and chilled options, these platters feature everything from Alaskan King Crab and Hokkaido scallops to freshly shucked oysters and tender Dungeness crab. Each element is selected for its quality and freshness, creating a harmonious mix of flavors and textures.
The seafood pot pie is another staple at Nautical Nellies, representing a comforting, hearty meal that resonates with the restaurant’s philosophy of using local, premium ingredients. Filled with a creamy blend of shellfish and seafood, the pot pie has become a fan favorite for its rich, satisfying flavor and decadent crust.
In addition to these show-stopping dishes, the restaurant offers a variety of other West Coast classics, such as the lobster roll served with lobster bisque, and Alaskan cod fish and chips, which deliver a crispy, golden-brown exterior and tender, flaky interior. Guests can also enjoy Nautical Nellies’ famous West Coast clam chowder—a thick, savory soup filled with clams, potatoes, and herbs that embodies the soul of Pacific Northwest cuisine.
For those seeking a taste of international flavors, the menu includes selections like Mahi-Mahi and Bigeye tuna, which complement the local offerings with a taste of the world’s best catches. Each dish is thoughtfully curated to offer guests a memorable dining experience that reflects both local heritage and global inspiration.
Uncompromising Freshness and Sourcing
At the heart of every meal served at Nautical Nellies is a promise of freshness. The restaurant’s seafood is sourced daily to ensure that each dish captures the pure flavors of the ocean. This commitment to freshness goes beyond just taste; it reflects a dedication to responsible sourcing and environmental stewardship. By working with local fishermen and choosing sustainable options whenever possible, Nautical Nellies aims to minimize its ecological footprint while delivering premium quality.
This approach has led to strong relationships with regional suppliers, allowing the restaurant to bring in exceptional seafood daily. From wild salmon and halibut to live Atlantic lobsters flown in fresh every morning, Nautical Nellies has built its menu around the best ingredients, ensuring that each dish lives up to its reputation.


A Warm and Welcoming Atmosphere
The dining experience at Nautical Nellies extends far beyond what’s on the plate. The restaurant’s ambiance is crafted to make every guest feel comfortable and welcomed. Whether diners are enjoying a meal with friends at the bar, savoring an intimate dinner in the dining room, or celebrating a special occasion, Nautical Nellies offers a warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects the restaurant’s passion for hospitality.
With its cozy, nautical-inspired decor and views of the bustling Victoria waterfront, Nautical Nellies creates a setting that invites guests to relax and enjoy the flavors of the Pacific Northwest. The staff is dedicated to providing attentive, personalized service that makes every guest feel like family, further enhancing the sense of community that defines the restaurant.
A Proud Member of Victoria’s Community
As a long-standing member of the Victoria community, Nautical Nellies is proud to support local initiatives and engage in activities that benefit the area. The restaurant has maintained a strong presence in the local tourism industry and is a member of Tourism Victoria, furthering its commitment to promoting the region as a top culinary destination.
Beyond its involvement with tourism, Nautical Nellies also takes pride in giving back to the community, participating in various local events, fundraisers, and outreach programs. This sense of community involvement is woven into the restaurant’s identity, reinforcing its position as a trusted, beloved institution in Victoria.


A Legacy of Excellence
Over the years, Nautical Nellies has built a legacy that combines exceptional seafood, a dedication to local sourcing, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. By focusing on sustainability, freshness, and an authentic connection to the region’s waters, the restaurant has become more than just a dining destination—it’s a culinary institution.
For anyone visiting Victoria, a meal at Nautical Nellies offers an authentic taste of the Pacific Northwest, expertly crafted by chefs who understand the importance of quality and flavor. From the award-winning seafood dishes to the warm, welcoming atmosphere, Nautical Nellies provides a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of West Coast living. In a city known for its beautiful scenery and rich cultural history, Nautical Nellies stands out as a beacon of culinary excellence and a proud ambassador of Victoria’s seafood heritage.
Whether guests are drawn in by the promise of fresh Dungeness crab, the rich taste of the famous seafood pot pie, or the restaurant’s signature clam chowder, they’re sure to leave with a deeper appreciation for the flavors of the West Coast and the dedication that goes into each dish. Nautical Nellies remains a shining example of what can be achieved when passion, quality, and community come together—a true authority on fresh fish, shellfish, and seafood in Victoria.