Victoria, BC –
Panache at the Westin Bear Mountain Resort

My wife and I and another couple decided to try the new Westin Hotel’s five-star restaurant at Victoria’s Bear Mountain Resort. Panache certainly lives up to its rating.

No pretension here. The hotel’s entrance is warm, cozy and rustic - it felt like we’d just walked into a world-class ski chalet or inn.

In Panache the lodge feel continued and the fireplace accentuated rustic appointments, with rugged slate and hints of copper. This is a small house. Only nine tables surround a glassed-in kitchen, providing a definite Chefs Table ambience. Flowers decorated the crisp white clothed tables. Our server, Jolene, was warm, friendly and knew her wine list and menu in detail.

And what a view – the eighteenth hole and Mount Baker.

The complimentary asparagus, champagne bisque sample, followed by a piece of seared tenderloin and Parisian-style bread was impressive – a classy touch, indeed.

Appetizers were delicious, and like the rest of our meal, in generous portions, including the crab cakes, which I had. The others selected and enjoyed Goat cheese and Arugala salads with bruscetta.

The four of us all selected different entrées and there were no disappointments. My Venison was pure perfection, the Sablefish was delicate and the Procuitto-Wrapped Prawns and Scallops dish was cooked perfectly. The 14-ounce Ribeye Steak was completely satisfying and much to our surprise was too much for our friend to finish.

And speaking of too much, all entrées were accompanied with huge sides of asparagus, spinach and risotto - unusual for a five-star restaurant.

We topped the meal off with dessert and a memorable glass of local port from Cowichan Valley’s Venturi Shultze Winery. Panache? Yes, the Westin’s Panache has plenty of it and great food, too.

Panache is located at the Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa
http://www.bearmountain.ca/