After visiting Hornby Island twice now, we've been surprised by how good the food is for such a small island.
There aren't dozens of restaurants to choose from, but the ones that are there do a great job of showcasing fresh local ingredients and seasonal produce.
What makes Hornby's food scene stand out is the island's creative spirit.
From wood-fired pizza and local seafood to smoothie bowls and tacos made with fresh produce, there's a real focus on quality and making things from scratch.
We list 7 Hornby Island restaurants you don't want to miss.
Planning a trip to the island? Don't miss our list of 23 Fun Things to Do on Hornby Island.
Overview: 7 Hornby Island restaurants you have to try |
7 Unique Restaurants on Hornby Island BC
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only recommend products or services we have used or that we believe will add value to our readers. Thank you for supporting us!1. Best for the atmosphere: Thatch Waterfront Pub
If you're visiting Hornby on a summer weekend, Thatch Waterfront Pub is the place to be.
Perched above Ford Cove Marina, it's one of the island's most popular gathering spots for both locals and visitors, especially on live music nights.
Not only do you get beautiful harbour and sunset views, but the food and drinks are excellent too.
Ari ordered the pork schnitzel while I went for the prawn fettuccine alfredo. A couple of drinks later, we were up dancing with the locals.
Check out their Facebook page for events.
2. Best for comfort food: Hornby Island Bakery & Pizzeria
The Betty Special from Hornby Island Bakery & Pizzeria
We pulled up to Hornby Island Bakery & Pizzeria hoping we could get our hands on a pie before they closed. Although they were closing up, Jon, the gregarious owner, happily fired up the oven to make sure we didn't head to our campsite hungry.
As he pointed to old photos on the wall, we learned that the family-owned pizza joint has been around since the 1970s.
It all started when his parents and their friends purchased 80 acres of land collectively on Hornby Island. To help pay the property taxes, his parents took their travelling pizza cart around BC to music festivals and craft fairs.
The family recipe has been a Hornby Island staple throughout the decades, and in fact, it was Jon's daughter who made us our pizza.
The pizzas themselves are just as special as their history, with the dough and sauce made from scratch.
We ordered the Betty Special, with thinly sliced pepperoni, mushrooms, onions and banana peppers. The banana peppers were cleverly placed underneath the cheese to add the perfect "zing" on your tongue.
While you wait for your pizza at the picnic tables, the jazz and Bossa Nova music is a delight.
We took our pizza back to our fire pit at Fossil Beach Farm to watch the sunset. It was a magical evening!
🍕 Top Tip: In peak season, they can sell out of dough for the day, so make your order in advance.
3. Best for fresh juices and smoothies: Hornby Island Juice Bar & Fruit Stand
This is the smoothie and juice stand of my dreams. I wish we had one on Salt Spring Island.
Their smoothie bowls are perfectly thick because they're made in a hand-crank press without any added liquid. It was a refreshing post-beach snack.
My smoothie bowl was made with bananas and blueberries and topped with granola, hemp hearts, chia seeds, coconut, goji berries, and fresh fruit.
They also make smoothies with homemade oat or coconut milk, along with fresh juices made from fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
There's also a fruit stand right beside it if you want to pick up something fresh for the beach.
Check out their Instagram page for hours.
4. Best for a proper sit-down dinner: The Breeze Restaurant
Most of the island's food scene revolves around cafes, food trucks, and casual eateries, so The Breeze is a great option when you're in the mood for a longer dinner and a cocktail.
The menu features fresh West Coast ingredients, and the handcrafted cocktails are delicious.
You can choose between the spacious dining room and the wrap-around patio, which has lovely views of the water.
During summer season (July & August), the restaurant is open daily and requires reservations.
They offer Happy Hour (3-5 pm) for à la carte and refreshing cocktails, a breakfast buffet, lunch buffet and a dinner buffet with themed nights.
Outside of their summertime season, it can be tough getting a reservation since they host many weddings and events. Reserve online in advance to avoid disappointment.
5. Best for brunch: Forage Farm & Kitchen
Forage Farm & Kitchen at Ringside Market
Fuel up with a fresh brunch at Forage as you feel the summer breeze flow in from the open windows.
The farm-to-table restaurant uses fresh ingredients daily from its family-run farm and creates its menu based on what's in season.
Hours vary throughout the year. Check their Instagram for updates.
6. Best for a quick bite: Vorizo Cafe
If you're in the mood for Mexican-inspired food, make a stop at Vorizo Cafe in the heart of Ringside Market.
Their tacos and burritos were so good I felt like I could eat them every day. The house-made sauces and fresh toppings really make them stand out.
My favourite was the breakfast taco on a flour tortilla with egg, cheese, homemade organic beans, pickled cabbage, pico de gallo, avocado crema, and chipotle aioli.
The burritos are big and great for sharing if you have them cut in half. They also serve quesadillas and other casual Mexican-inspired dishes.
7. Best for baked goods: Hummingbird Bread Co.
Humming Bread Company at Ringside Market
If you're looking for a quick breakfast on Hornby, make a stop at Hummingbird Bread Co. We were greeted with a big smile and a rundown of the day's creations.
Located in Ringside Market, this cute food trailer serves sweet and savoury pastries along with a three-day wild fermented sourdough.
We loved the ham and Swiss cheese brioche, but with the menu changing regularly, there's a good chance you'll find something completely different calling your name.
Grab a coffee from Lix next door, and you've got yourself an easy Hornby breakfast.
Hours vary, so check their Instagram for updates.
We hope you enjoyed these 7 Hornby Island restaurants!
Don't miss our other Hornby Island guides:
Start planning your trip to Hornby Island
- 🌃 Accommodation: HornbyIsland.com is the best place to browse different stays.
- ⛴️ Book your ferry: BC Ferries
- 🚗 Car rental: compare prices across different companies with DiscoverCars.
Want to explore more of the Gulf Islands? See our restaurant guides for Galiano Island, Salt Spring Island and Pender Island.
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