Cactus Club Cafe - Nanaimo

This has become a regular lunch spot for us, driving down from a nearby town. Their menu differentiates vegetarian dishes that can be vegan and vegan friendly choices. The vegan entrée selections include a variety of rice bowls, two plant based (though commercial) burgers, as well as salads of course. I usually order one of the vegan bowls and find it hard to select only one as a favourite. All their food is tasty, never one note or bland, and the quality is right at the top. Flavours and textures are well balanced. As often as we've been, not once have we had a dish that was of lesser quality than the time before quality control is obviously something they strive for. They also have a terrific selection on their drink menu that also includes seasonal choices. A great place to meet friends for their happy hour.

Cactus Club is an upscale casual chain restaurant with locations primarily in British Columbia. The Nanaimo location interior is welcoming with dark wood throughout and a large rock fireplace in the middle. Seating is available in a large dining area, a lounge with high top tables and clamshell booths, and an outdoor patio that 's a bit too close to the highway. In addition to non-vegan dishes, the menu differentiates vegetarian dishes that can be vegan and vegan-friendly choices. The vegan entrée selections include a variety of rice bowls and an Impossible burger. My go to dish at Cactus Club is the Med Bowl. It has a great balance of textures and flavors from crunchy falafel and greens, mild beet hummus and turmeric rice, the acid of pickled red cabbage, the saltiness of black olives and the creaminess of a vegan donair sauce. Most entrees are around $20 each, but the food quality and presentation is high.

If you enjoy chicken and have never experienced the Blackened Creole Chicken, you are really missing out. The chicken is tender with a hint of cajun spice, and the buttery mashed potatoes are simply divine. The asparagus had a satisfying crunch to it, adding some much-needed texture. Overall, it was a delightful meal. Definitely worth a try.

Cheddar bacon burger was excellent. Truffle fries and sauce also very good. No hesitation recommending.

RAINCOAST GREENS is always spot on with their fresh ingredients, delicious vinaigrette, and spicy pecans. The salmon add-in is a great choice, and don't forget to top off your meal with some delectable Key Lime Pie.