5th Street Bar & Grill
1028 Hillside Ave.
Victoria, BC
(250) 380-4600

Ever since Connoisseur Catering’s storefront operation was forced into closure (the building’s space wasn’t up to code), I had to wonder where could I get my bison fix. Sadly, I don’t think much of where Pink Bicycle gets their bovinae (it’s from Vancouver Island Bison), and when I was last at 5th Street Bar and Grill, I asked where they get their meat. They gave me the answer that nearly made me go Hallelujah. It’s Albertan.

Yes, those lovely herds have to roam from the Prairies and swim across the strait to get my attention. And in what I ate, maybe they should settle down for a spell in the flame pit.

I had a fire-grilled buffalo burger ($10) that can include either a salad or fries. As for what I bit into first, the burger was a no-brainer. The patty was a touch pink and the texture in what I fondly love from this meat brought back fond memories. There was a soft and grainy chew that matched exactly what I ate at Conor Fleck’s storefront operation many months back. However, the toppings were not all that perfect. I wondered why little button mushrooms are used over crimini and perhaps over time, they will change the type of fungi choice.

One appetizer dish that did taste perfect was their crispy fried oysters ($5.50). They were plump and juicy, and I can’t even squabble at the fact they’re small bite-sized pieces. I had thought about a pho’ boy with these, but alas, one sandwich was all I needed that night.

I should add that I support Connoisseur Catering. It was them that gave me a greater appreciation for super-sized food at decent prices. I’ve had their soups and they were the tastiest lunches I’ve ever had. I’m hoping Connor’s operation is still going. They still cater, but for them to find another storefront won’t happen anytime soon. I’ll be drooling over a good bison burger, if such an item exists on this island, more than Rosie Bitts. At least her show, The Fabulous Miss Rosie Bitts, made my time at Quadra Village worth the visit.

Yes, I like food more than burlesque. But when the climax is right, that opinion will change.

3½ Blokes out of 5