This spot has some potential, simply change your menu completely, offer better hours, and reduce your prices. As others have stated, this is NOT Mexican food. Not in the ingredients or flavors. We got a Caesar salad with what I can only describe as un-seasoned boiled chicken breast and nachos which resembled hamburger helper slopped on top. Again not seasoned. At all. There was a salsa adjacent dip (canned diced tomatoes?) Has the owner been to Mexico? When? Which all-inclusive resort inspired this menu? No salsa and chips either. I will give one star for the $6.50 margarita, but the nachos were almost $30! Honestly this meal almost ruined my trip. Please go somewhere else. read more

Santiago's Cafe - Big slice of raw jalapeño with a side ground beef - Mexican Near Me - Victoria, British Columbia

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This little cafe is quaint and just far enough off the Main Street (less than a block) that lets it boast super relaxing, quiet space with all day happy hour deals. Service was wonderful. We shared a platter of shredded chicken nachos and drinks. Cool little find to take a breath! read more

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Great food and service. Very nice service staff and the portions were large. Great location with large windows with outside patio for dining. Great experience and would recommend as a great place to relax. read more

Before heading out on the Victoria Clipper back to Seattle, I ended up here for dinner after a nice stroll from downtown. It's a neat, subtle-quirky space with a bar stepped up, mid-area with the door and I think a lower-set where all the windows are. Good service from the gal and my naranja chicken had a nice taste - totally new to me. Mix the rice in et voila, tres bon! Some interesting convo's next to me in the bar among both ends but hey, no offense with me, lol. On a nice shower-y evening, it's chill inside. Totally feel free to check this out when near the ferry. read more

Santiago's Cafe - stuff and the neat hanging candle. - Mexican Near Me - Victoria, British Columbia

This is not Mexican food. The staff were wonderful and the vibe was nice, the food was just awful.

Well. Quick review. Lacking. Loved the decor. Service. Drinks. Superb hot sauce in ketchup bottle. The food left me unsatisfied. Taco salad. Black bean nachos. Great place to start your adventures. Especially if you are staying near by. Drinks. Chips. And that hot sauce - win win. read more

For every person who walked up to the door step to read the menu, stop reading and just walk in. Everything on the menu looked delicious and I looked at everyone's food around us. We came in on Sunday evening. The drink special was $3.99 for Sangria! We were seated immediately at the window which is perfect people watching and the servers were very friendly and attentive. The restaurant was relatively quiet and had Spanish music playing softly in the background. The temperature was pleasant and you can smell the seafood coming from the kitchen. The entire restaurant was decorated in bright colors. We were already provided with crayons and a sheet of paper to draw on. When making a decision for food, our server said everything was great. The menu comprised of chicken, beef, mussel, prawn (all between $13-17), and paella ($40). Our server said there were no signature dishes because all of them were great. He did suggest the ceviche but that was more of a summer dish. We ended up ordering salsa and chips followed with the chicken curry and garlic mussel dishes. When our food came out, we ate it so quickly because it was so tasty. I wanted to come back the next day but didn't have the time. They do have a Mussel Madness Monday which is 50% off all mussel dishes. read more

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I wouldn't say the food was amazing but it was good. The eggs benny had a good sauce, the muffin could have been crispier as it was hard to cut. The potatoes were greasy and crunchy. All menu items are $11 period. Probably would go elsewhere for breakfast, like one of the Irish restaurants in town. read more

Santiago's Cafe - Eggs Benny. Sausage, poached egg and chipotle hollandaise sauce - Mexican Near Me - Victoria, British Columbia

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The spicy chili was very good and my vegan friend enjoyed the bean soupa. Of course with delicious rose' sangria, anything tastes great. The new menu emphasizes Americanized Mexican food over the previous S American influenced dishes. Still solidly executed and quickly provided. read more

Santiago's Cafe - Chili and sangria - Mexican Near Me - Victoria, British Columbia

Us: * See's mouse running under table as we wait for food* Us: Hi, i think we'll just pay for the drinks Waitress: What about your food? Did you want to take it to go or something? Us: No, i dont think were very comfortable taking it, we literally just saw a mouse Waitress: *in rude monotone voice* Yeah, mice are a problem in Victoria ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Us: Yeah we'll just pay for the drinks, thank you. Us: *while walking out* Waitress: *in background talking to chef* Yeah they didn't want it, they saw a mouse ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ The fact that she shrugged off the issue of seeing a mouse as completely normal in a RESTAURANT was beyond me. If you want stale nachos topped with crispy mouse tail, come here. read more

We stopped into Santiago's before leaving on the clipper. We went during happy hour and all nachos were half off! There was also a special on beers. Our waitress was very nice, and our nachos came out fast. They were good! They came with a side of guacamole, sour cream, and salsa. The guacamole was not very good, it wasn't fresh, but the nachos and other sides were great! We were bummed to find out there were not complimentary chips and salsa to start with, but still an overall good experience. read more

Santiago's Cafe - Mexican Near Me - Victoria, British Columbia

Santiago's is a no-frills neighborhood place with a vaguely latin touch and a great selection of seafood (particularly their many variations on mussels). The carpeting may be ugly, but the food is flavorful and tasty. I particularly like their homemade bread, which they serve with many entrees. If you ever find yourself near the ferries to the States and need a place to eat, check it out. it's also great if you just don't feel like cooking for the night. it's not terribly expensive, and the fare is a bit more complicated and exciting than what I usually make at home. read more

What a great find! We were staying at a resort just up the street and walked by it twice. What caught our attention was the huge selection of dishes on the menu. We were there for breakfast and again for dinner. It was THAT good. I'm a Travel Agent and I will be recommending Santiago's to all my clients when I send them to Victoria BC. read more

I was amazed how packed Santiago's Cafe was tonight, for a rainy November evening in Victoria (typically a pretty quiet time of the year around the inner harbour). The atmosphere was energetic and warm. Our entrees were tasty, but I should have been more adventurous and tried the Halibut that was on special. It looked great when it was brought to the table next to us. I recommend sharing the desserts. They're extremely large. We'll definitely return to sample the more ambitious sounding dishes. read more

Last month, I came here with my aunt and uncle for dinner, seeing as they both described it as one of their favorite restaurants in the city. We came here on a rainy Tuesday night, and my expectations were high. The interior was bright and lively, with tropical decorations- something that always earns brownie points with me. Our server was very attentive and friendly, as he presented us with the huge menus and informed us of the drink specials. My uncle and I ordered sangria, and my aunt ordered a glass of the house white. I had never tried sangria before- it was sweet and tangy, with apples floating in it! A second glass quickly followed. I ordered the Naranja chicken.I wasn't expecting to finish my meal, whatever it was- but I did. There are about 4 different types of curry on Santiago's menu- my Aunt ordered the red chicken, and was also satisfied. My uncle ordered the quesadilla, which was HUGE! Guess what else was huge- the Santiago sundae. Even the three of us couldn't finish it! I'd recommend it to grips of 4-6, for finishing off a meal. All in all- the ambiance and the sangria are reason enough to go. The food is a bonus. read more

We stopped at this place for breakfast 15 mins before close and yet they didn't hesitate to seat us. The service was top notch. Our coffees and drinks were promptly refilled. The food was wonderful and the ambience fit the restaurant. We ordered eggs benny, French toast, and a breakfast burrito. My kids are picky and they finished their French toast. If we ever return to Victoria we will be coming back for breakfast! read more

- terrific little spot for casual lunch or dinner (perhaps breakfast, too, but I'm not usually out of the house before noon on weekends) - the food is consistently very good - wide selection with vibrant ingredients, ample serving sizes - there's something for everyone here! - the atmosphere is whimsical and cute. No colour was spared! - the service was friendly, up-beat and knowledgeable - the prices were reasonable, decent value for money read more

We were in Victoria for the weekend, and went to Santiago's for breakfast. It was recommended by my sister and brother-in-law, as they went there the day before. The menu is small, and pretty much everything is the same price ($10). I ordered the eggs benny - and it was fantastic. It definitely had a kick to it, which I liked a lot. The coffee was good, and the mugs were large, which was nice and doesn't happen that often. Everyone in our party enjoyed their food. We were served by the owner (or one of them), and while she was friendly enough, she was a bit curt... rather abrupt. It didn't bother me that much, but it did bother my parents and aunt. My husband actually enjoyed her no-nonsense attitude. As someone who works in the service industry however, I do know that most people do not feel the same way he does about that. Especially if they are on vacation, and especially if they are American. All in all, it was great food and a good experience, especially for the price. Victoria is expensive, and this place was comfortably mid-range on the price scale. read more

My partner and I dropped in this afternoon for lunch. I was a bit concerned since at the time of our visit the restaurant only had 3 stars, and it seemed like people either loved it or hated it. I have to say that we are in the first camp. Delicious food. He had the chicken burrito with chips, which were extremely fresh and crispy. I had the naranja (orange) chicken with rice. Amazingly flavourful sauce over chicken and veggies. And the rice was perfectly cooked. Lunch wasn't cheap (price-wise), but it wasn't overpriced either. About $38 for both of us, before tip. They could include the rice with the orange chicken, but instead it's an add-on. We'd definitely go back again. This place deserves at least 4 stars. read more

As great as usual. The sangria is to die for. The veggie soupa wonderful. Thank you Santiagos. read more

Santiago's Cafe - Mexican Near Me - Victoria, British Columbia

Heard microwave door open and buttons pushed ...beep beep beep... and microwave door slammed . Wanted a Burrito got a buriDo.

This place is totally staying in business due to Ferry traffic coming or going off the ferries. Avoid at all costs as the food sucks. I ordered the polenta dish with an extra polenta wedge. They served it frozen cold in the middle of the first wedge so I returned it. The waitress said they woudl fix it and so I told her I only wanted one poletna wedge as they are rather large. Shouldn't a waiter/waitress inform the client that the portion is larger than normal? I received a "new" dish" that I knew imediately all they did was remove the toppings and place it in the microwave oven. The beans were exploded due to microwave and the rice was flavorless. This place is not worth the steps it took to get there nor the time spent waiting for the Ferry to depart/ Avoid at all costs! read more

Our hotel was right by this place, and when the hotel breakfast had a line out the door, we decided to check Santiago's out instead. I'm so glad we did! I wasn't really sure what to expect from a Mexican-ish restaurant's brunch, but there were quite a few things on the menu I wanted. I ended up going for French toast, because I never have it and it sounded delicious. It was really, really good. The bread was just soft enough and the taste was fantastic. I also ordered a side of the breakfast potatoes, which was HUGE (my fiance ate quite a few of them). They were really good as well, and REALLY hot when they arrived. Basically everything on the menu was $10 - the French toast, the breakfast burrito, the egg & bacon breakfast. We ordered coffee as well, which was good. This was also the only place in Victoria that brought water to our table without us having to ask - it felt like we were back in the States! ;) This is also the kind of place where you can draw on your "tablecloth" with crayons. We had fun with that. It's kind of cute and quirky inside, too, which is always entertaining. read more

Giving 1 star because yelp makes you.. We were excited to eat there place was full all week. We went the day we left Canada, and SERVICE was horrid, the curly haired host was rude, we are in Canada yes, but not Quebec! All food labeled 10.00 for a meal and she even attempted to convert Canada bill 40.00 into 55.00 USD ummmm NO!! Food was bland and totally mediocre. This is for their breakfast never went to dinner there, but if you can stay away, save yourself frustration. Btw small glass of apple juice 5.00 come on stop, I'm not cheap by any means I just don't like being robbed. On a good note if you're in the mood just for home fries they were good. read more

We were staying at Harbour towers and stopped in for breakfast before heading off to Butchart! Wonderful speedy service and the food was amazing!!! Definitely recommend the breakfast burrito and the eggs Benedict! Both were perfect! Also, get a side of hollandaise sauce to dip the side of potatoes in, it's absolutely amazing. It's actually an orange chipotle hollandaise and wow it was good! Only side note, we thought there was going to be huevos rancheros but they no longer have it on the menu! Everything else is awesome though! read more

Fantastic close to inner harbour location! Friendly and professional servers and owners. This gem has been in Victoria for many years serving loyal locals and visitors. Great Mexican specials of nachos and cocktails too! Reasonable, fun and relaxing with great food! read more

Santiago's Cafe - Santiago's Nachos - Mexican Near Me - Victoria, British Columbia

We ended up eating here last night as the restaurant next door had an hour wait for the table. Food was ok, not too many mild options, but enough choices on the menu. Both waitresses were nice but service was slow. They were pretty busy when we first got there and almost empty when we were leaving but service was not any faster. We waited about 10 minutes for someone to even bother taking our order. We dined with 2 small kids so I'd not recommend it as everyone knows successful dining with kids is mostly about the speed of service. After all crayons and sheet of paper will keep kids occupied for only a few minutes. read more

We stayed in the James Bay neighborhood where this restaurant is, and were able to walk to dinner. It was "Mussel Madness Monday" and Hubby had the chipotle mussels. He commented that they were unique, incredibly fresh, and delicious. "I wanted to stick my head in the broth it was so good" (he didn't:-). Salsa was super fresh and made on site. Wow. Drinks: We had Pisco Sour margaritas, an interesting twist on a Latin standard. Good, but not as good as a straight up Pisco Sour, which they did not make...reason given: no simple syrup... I asked for a 'top shelf' margarita and was told they only had 'one shelf', serving silver Herradura. Not bad. Price was a great value. Portions were very generous. We'd go back! read more

Having been in Canada for a few days, my kids and I were craving good old Mexican food. This is not the place you're going to get it. For starters, there is no complimentary chips and salsa, so I ordered some, along with guacamole. The guacamole was tasteless and seemed packaged. The chips were greasy. The "salsa" was glorified tomato chunks with some sweetness added. I felt like I was eating my grandma's can of stewed tomatoes. At least that's how it looked (and tasted). I ordered a taco salad. I mean, how can you go wrong? Somehow they seemed to manage a very bland salad, which is a feat in itself, as they overspiced the meat in an obvious attempt to add flavor. My son's "plain chicken sandwich" on the children's menu was dry and just came with chips on the side. My kids and I voted this "The worst meal we've had all vacation." read more

The staff and service is great. The food is really fresh and tasty and the price is great. We loved the bright colors and made us want to go back to Mexico. We have already decided this will be one of our regular stops. read more

I stopped in for a plate of nachos and a Margarita. After months of being on a very strict meal plan the first thing I wanted was nachos. They didn't have exactly what I wanted but they let me mix and match a bit to come up the plate of nachos that I was looking forward to. I have to say it was just okay. I could have made a better plate of nachos at home. The chips were super greasy for some reason and didn't taste all that fresh. I am very picky with margaritas. They must be made with fresh squeezed limes and have enough tequila that you can actually taste it. I didn't ask but I believe it was fresh limes and not lime juice from a bottle. The tequila was certainly enough. So very pleased with the drink. The service was fine. All in all a good experience but those nachos could have been better. read more

Great Mexican with a hand crafted flavour. I love the salsa, sweet with a little spice. Authentic and delicious. The margeritas are outstanding, they don't skimp on the lime a tequila. Food has good flavour and generous portions. Limited menu but I have never had a problem different things each time. Really cool atmosphere with a festive feel. Great summer getaway off the braten path. If you are craving a Mexican flavour, you won't be disappointed here. read more

Not the best. Avoid the guacamole. It's like a bad store bought version. Friendly service.

Used to be my favourite restaurant in Victoria. But they recently changed their menu (and management?) Gone are the mussels, prawns, cashew squash and delicious delicious potatoes. Replaced by bland, uninspired, North American style Mexican food. Might as well go to taco time. They should change the name. Because this is definitely no longer Santiago's read more

I have been in Victoria for 3 nights on business. I am staying down the street at the Oswego Hotel and have for 3 nights in a row returned to this restaurant for the following reasons: -Great service: Amy has been my server/waitress/suggestion master all my visits and the whole staff has been kind and already know me by name & beer. -Great food: I eat vegetarian and fresh seafood. This place has the freshest food I have had in a long time. Handmade to order with a kind touch. Very good, these other reviews serve this place no justice. I have been to Central America and around the world and this place has very good food, it is quite unassuming from your first impression but do not be fooled. Mussels to die for. Fresh fish. The papas tapa size was amazing. Ceviche that melts in your mouth. Casual / Friendly attitude: They knew my name here within 5 minutes of my first visit. I have returned every night despite the fact that I am in Victoria solely based on the service: bar none! In short, this place has it all. Friendly casual dining experience with incredible dishes served fresh and with a human element. Do not overlook. I will be back every time I travel to Victoria to make sure to indulge in such a refreshing experience! read more

Just returned to Victoria after 4 years away, and happy to say that Santiagos is still serving excellent, fresh food! I had the ceviche, which is still one of my favorites there, it is so fresh and tangy. I'm so glad that they haven't altered their main menu too much, as many of their dishes have been so good. The Bananas Rama dessert is AMAZING, if you like caramel you must try it! read more

Dinner here was so disappointing. Both of our dinners were so bland, no flavour at all. And to top it off the waiter never once asked us how anything was. He brought our food and then brought our bill. A good waitress/waiter always comes by and asks how everything is at least once. I will never go back here. read more

The service was great but the food wasn't very good. Had the burrito and it was filled with tiny pieces of chicken that tasted like they were taken from the freezer. Then it was filled with corn... not what I was expecting. read more

A bit pricey for the food you get. The food was pretty good. I got a full ceviche. It was really delicious. I would give it higher points, but there was a man working there (the owner? manager?), he just seemed to make a lot of snarky remarks about customers. There were kids fussing and crying in the restaurant and he was making commentary about them. I would imagine that would make the customers with kids uncomfortable. I was there without kids and I felt a bit uncomfortable. Would I go back? Not sure. It was good, but kind of a weird vibe. Maybe it was all the kids crying. read more

Okay, not a Mexican restaurant! The owner is Scottish and has visited Mexico. With that said, the nachos were pretty good. Do not expect free chips and salsa. Do not even expect any tacos or queso. The margaritas came in a bourbon glass with very little alcohol. I can't speak for the rest of the items as we were there for the happy hour and half price nachos. The owner was extremely nice and very attentive. Just do the mistake this place for Mexican! read more