The Dining Room at Butchart Gardens
Experience an elegant afternoon tea or seasonal Canadian dinner in a historic home, surrounded by breathtaking garden views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
The Dining Room at Butchart Gardens
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience an elegant afternoon tea or seasonal Canadian dinner in a historic home, surrounded by breathtaking garden views.
"One of the highlights of our vacation! A truly romantic and delightful experience."
Book Ahead
Make reservations in advance, especially for weekend or peak season visits, to ensure your preferred time.
Understand Afternoon Tea
Be aware that afternoon tea is a set menu; check the offerings beforehand to avoid confusion.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Canadian, Fine Dining, Tea House
Price
$$$
Phone
+1 250-652-8222
Address
800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1A5, Canada
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Elegant Afternoon Tea Experience
Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea with a signature selection of scones, sandwiches, and pastries, served in a charming setting.
Charming Garden Ambiance
Dine in a historic home with enchanting garden views, offering a truly romantic and picturesque atmosphere.
Impeccable Service
Experience attentive and knowledgeable staff who enhance your dining experience, making it feel special.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead
Make reservations in advance, especially for weekend or peak season visits, to ensure your preferred time.
Understand Afternoon Tea
Be aware that afternoon tea is a set menu; check the offerings beforehand to avoid confusion.
Arrive Early if Unreserved
If you don't have a reservation, arrive early as walk-ins may be accommodated, but seating isn't guaranteed.
Consider a Flight
For those of age, adding a flight of alcohol to your tea can enhance the experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead
Make reservations in advance, especially for weekend or peak season visits, to ensure your preferred time.
Understand Afternoon Tea
Be aware that afternoon tea is a set menu; check the offerings beforehand to avoid confusion.
Arrive Early if Unreserved
If you don't have a reservation, arrive early as walk-ins may be accommodated, but seating isn't guaranteed.
Consider a Flight
For those of age, adding a flight of alcohol to your tea can enhance the experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners rave about the exceptional afternoon tea experience at The Dining Room, praising the delicious food, stunning garden views, and warm, attentive service. Many consider it a highlight of their visit and a romantic, memorable occasion. While overwhelmingly positive, some guests note that it's important to review the menu beforehand as it's a set offering.
"I stopped by for a late lunch before leaving the garden, and luckily I was able to get a table without a reservation. I ordered afternoon tea, and the server explained everything to me in detail, which was impressive. The sandwiches, tea, and cakes were all good. Above all, the scent of the flowers was wonderful, and the beautiful flowers and interior were a delight to the eyes. It was a truly romantic day. I highly recommend you visit."
M Pak
"Phenomenal afternoon tea. Everything was just great— from the tea to the sandwiches to the sweets to the service. Our server was very sweet and helped explain the display and was happy to take pictures of us. We made a reservation but I think they were still seating walk-ins — I’m sure it gets much more crowded on the weekends though. Some customers who came in didn’t quite understand that it was a set menu for afternoon tea, and they left when the server explained this to them, so make sure you look at the menu before coming in. One of the highlights of our vacation!"
GoLAangels
"We booked afternoon tea at The Dining Room in Butchart Gardens just one day ahead — thank goodness they still had availability! What an absolutely incredible experience.
Pascal was our gracious host, with wonderful support from Heather. Both were exceptional and truly made this feel like a special occasion rather than just a meal. A fellow traveler on our flight had recommended tea here over The Empress, and wow — was she ever right!
My partner was a good sport about joining me, though admittedly a bit uncertain about what he'd gotten himself into. I think more men would embrace afternoon tea if they realized it comes with an impressive tower of snacks! By the end, he was thoroughly enjoying himself — partly from seeing my joy, but mostly because of the aforementioned snacks.
Our window table overlooking the Italian Garden felt like a privilege — it was a spectacular bird's eye view of one of the prettiest spaces of the property. The dining room itself was stunning: classic floral wallpaper and elegant grid molding that somehow managed to feel both timeless and refreshingly clean.
I'm not sure when I'll find myself back in Victoria, but when I do, afternoon tea at The Dining Room will absolutely be on my must-do list."
Jamie Holwerda
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for afternoon tea, to secure your preferred seating time. Walk-ins may be accommodated if space is available.
While not explicitly stated, given the upscale nature of the restaurant and the garden setting, smart casual attire is generally recommended.
The afternoon tea is a set menu featuring a selection of English trifle, signature scones with clotted cream, savoury sandwiches, and house-made sweets.
Typically, access to The Dining Room is within the Butchart Gardens. Visitors usually need to purchase garden admission.
Yes, vegetarian options are available for the afternoon tea and other menu items, with guests noting pleasant surprises in flavor and texture.
Yes, you can add a flight of locally sourced alcohol to your afternoon tea for an enhanced experience.
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