One of the things I enjoy about going to the Dunsmuir Lodge is the drive. Once off the Pat Bay Highway well into Saanich, it’s a short jaunt down McTavish Road past small farmsteads. Then, a left turn onto Dunsmuir Lodge lands and a winding road through a thick forest to the lodge. It felt like we were going away for the weekend.
The Dunsmuir’s $25.00 Dine Around menu was offered in the lounge. The $35.00 version was served in the main dining room. We were there for the former. But whether you’re in the lounge, which is more casual with an inviting fireplace, or the more formal dining room one floor below, the views are fantastic. At night, looking north, the lights of the airport, Sidney-by-the-Sea and Saltspring Island set the mood and fill the vista with their magic.
The two of us were able to share one of two appetizers. First, a wonderful Caesar Salad plated in a crisp Parmesan cheese tostada-like shell. Our other choice was a generous bowl of steamed mussels and clams on a bed of julienne vegetables in a coconut curry broth. Pungent but delicate. Loved it. The topping of savory toast was perfect for soaking up some of that clam and mussel elixir.
First choice, a Panko (Japanese) breadcrumb crusted Red Snapper Filet on a bed of julienne vegetables, with a light miso drizzle. On the side, several sticky-rice spring rolls. Very sushi-like, deep fried and placed on an intensely flavoured pineapple reduction.
Second selection was a Pan Seared Rib Steak, a tantalizing presentation. Incredibly tender, it was plated with a rich splash of peppercorn jus and mushroom ragout. And accompanied by an impressive selection of veggies on the side, including young carrots and baby bok choy.
There was only one choice for dessert but when it’s Tiramisu, who cares. And the Dunsmuir obviously has their version of this Italian favourite. Loads of cream, cocoa and chocolate, as expected. On top, a kumquat, strawberry and slice of kiwi. But what we liked was the substitution of thin layers of cake for the traditional ladyfingers. Believe me, it was just too good. We both finished every bit of it.
The Dunsmuir Lodge gets an enthusiastic two thumbs up.
—Secret Diner
Dunsmuir Lodge
1515 McTavish Road,
Sidney, BC
