Fish and … what?

Red Fish, Blue Fish
1006 Wharf St.
Victoria, BC
(250) 298-6877

J: I would like you to meet one of the newest fish in the ocean, Red Fish, Blue Fish. It’s a small shack down near the Inner Harbour and across from the seaplane airport. The location is prime; there’s a lovely view of the Inner Harbour, and plenty of space to sit and enjoy your meal.

They offer seafood with a flair and is an Ocean Wise partner. After you giggle at the obviously inspired Dr. Seuss name, you can stop long enough to sink your teeth into a BBQ Fanny Bay oyster tacone.

E: I can think of better oysters to eat, James. Fanny Bay is good, but there are other varieties. I’ve been to Nautical Nellie’s and Ferris’ to sample a lot of oysters (usually raw). There are juicier and tastier options; they vary in texture and sweetness. And for me, Red Fish Blue Fish is a shack for other kinds of seafood to enjoy.

Continue reading

Sushi Plus or Minus?

Sushi Plus Restaurant
766 Yates Street

Victoria, BC
(250) 386-3116

J: Sushi Plus is a cozy little Japanese restaurant conveniently located in the vicinity of the Odeon Theatre. My initial experience was a pleasant one. Here was this Japanese restaurant actually run by a Japanese family.

E: James expounded strange wonders and the thrill of going to this place for the first time and all I did was pull a Mr.Spock. And I can’t say I was too thrilled at the presentation. The meal was mildly tasty, but it was more reminiscent of what a street vendor would do. And I had the authentic experience too while in Japan.

Continue reading

Fujiya’s Take-Out Sushi Hits

Fujiya
3624 Shelbourne St.
Saanich, BC
(250) 598-3711

Depending on the time of day that one visits Fujiya, the quality of the raw fish always varies. If you show up early enough, like ’round 11am, the fish is great, if not spectacular. As the day progresses, the quality might drop. But timing is everything here, including finding a few hidden specials, like uni in the refrigerator section.

I’ve been a regular there ever since they started selling sushi, and sadly, I miss seeing octopus, surf clam and scallop as part of their regular take-out menu offerings. You have to ask or order those particular platters in advance.

Continue reading

Chinese cuisine, Redneck Style

By James Robert Shaw

Fu Wah Express Cafe
746 Goldstream Ave.

Langford Centre
Langford, BC
(250) 474-7693

Fu Wah Express Cafe is a mom and pop Asian cuisine establishment located in the heart of Langford. For the past 10 years with at least three ownerships that I’ve known, I remained a regular patron. The current owners are very nice and hospitable. The food served under their proprietorship is, in my humble opinion, the best of my patronage.

The menu is extensive and the food can be made fresh. You can either dine in or do take-out. In addition, a small buffet is topped-up through business hours. I ordered a four item buffet for $6.50. I took my usual seat in front of the window where the old Asia Express sign still remains. My meal of fried rice, chicken chow mein, sweet & sour pork and cooked vegetables with beef (you can also have vegetables without beef) were heaped in good portions on my plate. I must admit, sometimes I can not finish my meal. But this time I tempted fate by ordering 2 tempura-style prawns.

Continue reading