For everyone looking to do something out of the ordinary while in Vancouver Island, I have a recommendation โ go to Butchart Gardens. But donโt experience it like everyone does. Instead, go for the afternoon tea โ especially if youโre a tea lover.
I didnโt think I wanted to too, but I did not realize how delightful the experience could be till I visited the place. The garden is located in Victoria, B.C.,ย and when you enter it, you feel it is like a colourful painting and beautiful scenery โ rolled into one. As I strolled through, I loved the vibrant blooms and lush greeneryโabsolutely a heaven for nature lovers just like me!! My mom and I had been planning to explore Vancouver Island for a long time, so we first decided to visit Butchart Gardens. So, how did it go?
Itโs not that Butchart Gardens is new. It has been there for over a century. From the history written there, I find that Jenny Butchart transformed a former limestone quarry into a floral Eden, which is now a National Historic Site of Canada. Today, at Butchart Gardens, afternoon tea, a concept originally from Britain, is celebrated especially. Itโs not just about sipping tea. Instead, you can call it as a refined break amidst the gardenโs beauty. Now you might think, how do I come to know all these? Thanks to my mom, she did a little research before visiting this place, haha!
So, How Was Our Afternoon Tea Experience Like?
Ah, what can I say about this place?
Once seated, I eagerly waited for the arrival of our afternoon tea service. I have to tell you โ there is a certain elegance and warmth this place carries. Its window frame has some beautiful garden views, while its menu showcases local ingredients and traditional fare.
The afternoon tea menu celebrates local flavours. You can sample things like the Cowichan Valley chicken to freshly caught sockeye salmon. Each dish, I must say, is artfully plated and a visual and gustatory delight.
Tea enthusiasts like me can rejoice in a selection that ranges from classic Earl Grey to the unique Black Hunan. Each tea is steeped to perfection, complementing the array of treats. I also ordered a glass of wine because why not? The weather was just perfect โ an ideal August sunny day. The one thing I love โ and I dare say it at the cost of repetition โ is how Butchart Gardens honours the local vineyards. Like, I saw that they feature the Sea Cider and wines that capture the essence of British Columbia. These beverages are curated to pair beautifully with the afternoon tea offerings.
I will recommend that you try their sandwiches should you go for the afternoon tea. Believe me, guys, it was mouthwateringly delicious. The sandwiches were spread with whipped mascarpone and topped with fresh ingredients. Each bite melds textures and flavours harmoniously.
For chicken lovers, there is Horseradish Cowichan Valley Chicken. I liked the fresh taste of it all. The local chicken, enhanced with zesty horseradish cream, showcases some good regional produce and inventive recipes.
And if you love to eat beef, donโt forget to try out AAA Alberta Beef Striploin. I liked that it was cooked perfectly, and was accompanied by the standard garnishes. Also, donโt worry if you are a vegetarian, just like my mom. Their menu includes some good vegetarian and gluten-free options. For all people who have sweet teeth, I recommend Sponge Cake with Berry Compote. It was just heavenly delicious -that is what I can say for you to try!!
The sponge cake is light and fluffy, and when paired with the tangy berry compote, it creates a refreshing end to the savoury dishes. The combination of sweet and tart flavours is perfectly balanced, making it a delightful conclusion to the meal.
Vanilla Gรขteau is another thing you can try. It is a creamy and dreamy dessert that melts in your mouth. With every bite, youโll experience a sweet symphony of flavours that seems to linger on. My mom just loves strawberries โ and so she ordered strawberry jam and blackberry wine. Homemade strawberry jam and locally produced blackberry wine add a touch of Victoriaโs summer to the tea experience.
What I Really Liked about This Butchart Gardens Experience?
Except for the fact that there was a pretty rainbow right above us? Yes, I got a picture of it.
Rainbow in the sky @Butchart Gardens. Photographer: Soubhik
It does not matter if you book a seat inside the dining room or out on the patio; you will enjoy stunning views of the Italian Garden or the beautiful Rose Garden. The blooming flowers and intricate architecture create a magical atmosphere that will surely make you feel like you are stepping into another world. I also want to say a few words about the private garden areas and the original Butchart family residence. They echo the history and personal touch that make the gardens truly special for all visitors.
It was my first visit to Butchart Garden, and I would go again, for sure. Those wondering how we got there; we took our car. For those driving, donโt worry. If youโre in Vancouver, just take the ferry โ with your car โ and then drive to it. Or, you could just hop on to the ferry, and take the public transit when you get down at Swartz Bay. Free buses run to Butchart Gardens from the ferry terminal there.
What I Will Recommend
The Butchart Gardensโ afternoon tea is an experience that lingers in memory โ and why not? You donโt always get to sit in one of the best gardens Canada has to offer, eat some delightful food, and experience great service for an afternoon tea experience like no other.
Set in the historic Dining Room Restaurant, the experience offers a blend of local flavours and traditional treats. I loved everything from the savoury sandwiches to indulgent desserts; each dish was meticulously prepared and presented, and complemented by teas and local wines. Whether youโre a local seeking a special afternoon or a touristโjust like meโlooking to immerse yourself in the essence of British Columbia, the afternoon tea at Butchart Gardens promises an afternoon to remember.
Last Updated on March 21, 2024 by Pragya Chakrapani
This actually answered my downside, thanks!