Worth checking out is the Oyster Bar at 614 Humboldt Street in Victoria. An offshoot of their next door neighbour, Pescatores and newly opened this Fall, the deep red room has high-ceilings, a large central bar, booths around the perimeter, and room for a larger gathering by the front window. They offer an impressive selection of fresh oysters by the half shell as well as various cooked versions along with other delights: Pescatores Anti Pasti Platter, Local Albacore Tataki, Crab and Cambazola Stuffed Artichoke Hearts and Apple BBQ Baby Back Ribs. Their cocktail menu is more exciting than most and all of their beers are local. Check out the decent daily deals:

Every Day! • $1
Buck-a-Shuck Until 6pm

Sundays • $6
Glasses of Prosecco

Mondays • $5
Enjoy a $5 cheese plate with the purchase of any wine

Tuesdays • $6
Martini Night

Wednesday • $8
Buck-a-Shuck All Night, Double Super Caesers $8

Thursdays • $5
All Draft Beer $5

A great spot to stop in at the bar or sit by the window and watch the action in the harbour is Aura Waterfront Restaurant at the Laural Point Inn. I haven’t had dinner here (yet), but return for the great local wine selection and the Sesame Calamari described as “crispy lightly spiced calamari, fresh orange segments, baby tatsoi greens, tobiko, cucumber ginger yoghurt.” Light and slightly sweet, and great for sharing along with another “small plate” or two from the menu like the “oceanwise” crusted wonton prawns with togorashi mayonnaise, warm edamame and lime salt. You’ll be treated to a brioche popover just for stopping in. Until November, take the Harbour Ferry from the Inner Harbour to Fisherman’s Wharf for a short walk along the water to the restaurant.