• Banner 1
  • Banner 2
  • Banner 3

Welcome to The Masthead Restaurant

At The Masthead Restaurant, we embrace the art of fine dining through a harmonious blend of fresh, local ingredients and a captivating maritime ambiance. Nestled in scenic Cowichan Bay, our establishment showcases an ever-evolving menu featuring delectable dishes like Wild Pacific Salmon and Spice Rubbed Alberta Filet Mignon. Guests can savor delectable desserts such as the renowned Quince Crème Brûlée. The intimate setting is enhanced by live jazz music, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Our commitment to exceptional service ensures a memorable experience, making every visit not just a meal, but a celebration of culinary artistry and coastal charm.

LOCATIONS

Welcome to The Masthead Restaurant, where culinary artistry meets breathtaking coastal views in the heart of Cowichan Bay, British Columbia. Nestled at 1701 Cowichan Bay Rd, this charming establishment offers an extraordinary dining experience that emphasizes local flavors and seasonal ingredients.

As you step through the doors, you are enveloped in a warm ambiance characterized by rich wood walls and maritime decor. Many patrons have noted the inviting atmosphere, enhanced by live jazz music, making it perfect for special occasions or a cozy dinner out. The attentive staff ensures every guest feels welcome, further elevating the experience.

Highlights from the Menu

The Masthead Restaurant’s menu is a symphony of innovative dishes that showcase the best of regional produce and seafood:

  • Entrées: Try the House Made Pappardelle with Red Tiger Prawns or indulge in the Jack Daniels Barbeque Sauced Roasted Baby Back Ribs. There’s also the Spice Rubbed Alberta Filet Mignon, which has wowed diners with its exquisite flavors.
  • Seafood options: From the Wild Pacific Salmon to the Aromatic Sablefish Croquettes, seafood lovers will delight in the freshness and craftsmanship of each dish.
  • Desserts: End your meal on a sweet note with the Sticky Toffee Pudding or the rich Dark Chocolate Ganache. Guests rave about the Quince Crème Brûlée, making it a must-try!

Many reviews speak to the quality and flavor of the offerings; David Mintz fondly remembers the Steelhead Alfredo as "a revelation," while Alison Wightman praised the unforgettable Duck Confit. Each dish is crafted with a high level of care and attention, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to excellence.

Customer Experiences

Guests frequently mention the exceptional service—the friendly staff eagerly attend to every need while maintaining a comfortable distance. Reviews highlight how the restaurant caters to special occasions, as evidenced by Izmet Barranco’s birthday celebration, complete with personalized dessert service.

For those looking for a remarkable dining experience, The Masthead Restaurant is a gem worth discovering. Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a birthday celebration, or a cozy brunch, the salt-of-the-earth charm paired with outstanding cuisine makes it a local favorite.

Make your reservation today by calling +1 250-748-3714. Experience the culinary delights and scenic views that await you at The Masthead. For unforgettable meals set against the stunning backdrop of Cowichan Bay, look no further.

START YOUR REVIEW OF The Masthead Restaurant
David Ainsbury
David Ainsbury

My wife and I dined here last night, what a treat! Like most restaurants in January, it was quiet, but the atmosphere was still worthy of 5 stars, because the staff were so lovely to us. Soup, humboldt squid, chicken supreme and the pork sausage all looked and tasted amazing. I can't wait to have an excuse to return. Thank you for everything.

David Mintz
David Mintz

The Masthead has a really charming well decorated atmosphere. It's rich wood walls and maritime decor is classy and comfortable at the same time. The 'This ain't my last word' cocktail was delicious, if a bit small. The sablefish croquettes were delicate and flavourful. The Tuna Tartare pops with citrus and spice, very well done! But the steelhead alfredo was a 10/10. Just one of the best dishes I've had in a while. The decadent and creamy sauce with perfectly done trout is a revelation. I will be back.

Alison Wightman
Alison Wightman

The live jazz music and vocals made our evening unforgettable. Every course was delicious. I especially enjoyed the duck confit. As always the service was exceptional. See you again soon

Gayle Wigmore
Gayle Wigmore

We had an excellent dinner here with excellent service as well. The view looking out over the bay was beautiful. We had the Humboldt Squid and Smoked Steehead croquettes to start. Then for our main course the Seafood Pasta and the Pork Cheeks with Scallops. For dessert the Chocolate cake. The menu here is quite interesting with lots of dishes you don't always see. We will be back!

Wade H
Wade H

Absolutely brilliant. It's been hard to go out for a meal for a long while, everything always feels like you're getting robbed, and the quality and quantity gets less and less. Not the case here. The atmosphere was cozy and comfy, the live music was a great touch. It was a very special evening out, and the food was a perfect accompaniment to a great evening. Ample portions and superior quality. Service was attentive, but by no means overbearing. Would not hesitate to recommend, or to return in the future.

Izmet Barranco
Izmet Barranco

Celebrated my birthday on this restaurant. It is very small so you better make reservations to get in but it is worthy. Drinks were served pretty much as soon as we sit down. They have a pairing option but it is only available from Sunday to Thursday. Our waitress was amazing. Super helpful in any request we would had. The menu changes per season, so it is not like you will have the same thing over and over again (unless you go within the season). We had figs cover on bacon for snacks, squids and fish balls for starters and fish and beef for main course. All were delicious. For dessert we had creme brulee and chocolate mouse … which they brought to me with a sparkling lit and they sing happy birthday to me (discretely by the way). This is an excellent option for celebration. And it js well worthy.

Angelina Cooper
Angelina Cooper

Great brunch eggs Benedict was amazing. The homemade Hollandaise sauce was on point. The service was delightful.

Joanna Sofield
Joanna Sofield

Celebrated our wedding anniversary at this charming, absolutely wonderful restaurant last night. We can’t say enough good things about this place. Service was exceptional- personable, professional and enthusiastic! Our well paced drinks and three course meal gave us the most wonderful two hours sitting on the covered patio overlooking the marina and watching the sun set. The food was as good as any high end hotel or restaurant in a large city, beautifully presented, expertly cooked with fabulous flavour combinations. Everything is made from scratch in-house, and the care and attention are evident. Thanks so much for making this a special evening for us. We will be back!