 Willow Street Cafe, Kelcey Bernasky photo The main stretch of shops along Willow Street is dotted with restaurants, cafes and java joints. Another cluster of establishments can be found at the junction of Oak and Croft streets in the Old Town area. Pick up the yellow "Where to Eat in Chemainus" pamphlet at the Visitor Centre. Willow Street Eats The Garden Eatery is set back off main street in a pleasantly landscaped courtyard that's perfect for summertime al fresco dining. Daily soups (borscht included), homestyle sandwiches, and fresh-made falafel, souvlaki, and spanakopita. Willow Street Café has generous inside and outside seating areas along with a blackboard menu highlighted by pizzas, wraps and quesadillas. Utopia European Bakery Cafe serves all-day breakfasts, unique grilled sandwiches, and fresh-made sausage rolls. The bakery's display cases are filled with Dutch-style goodies such as hazelnut, almond, and mocha-flavored cookies (the latter are known as javantjes in Dutch).
Coffee and More  Mona Kennedy and Larry Kossey's Dancing Bean Coffee Co. specializes in fresh, bistro-style meals morning, noon, and night. This local favorite is also known for its fresh-roasted coffee, baked goods, and regular schedule of live music. Caffe Caravaggio, best known for Michael Fliask's superb fudge and chocolates, also serves coffee roasted on the premises.
Old Town Chemainus Kudo's Japanese Restaurant is a quiet spot with a nice, tree-shaded deck. Sushi, donburi, and generous bento boxes are on the menu. Twisted Sisters Tea Room carries dozens of varieties of loose tea, which can be served by the pot along with afternoon high teas and light meals. The two affable sisters who run the place also periodically screen movies and present live music. The Book Nook combines a barista bar with a used bookshop packed with interesting titles.
Near Town The Saltair Pub, off the Chemainus Road north of town towards Ladysmith, has the look and feel of a classic English pub. Summer evenings are best enjoyed while seated in the landscaped garden patio. Darts, sandbag games, billiards, good beer, and a full-service menu. Lito's Café & Gallery is a 30-second walk from the Crofton ferry dock. Passengers heading for the Salt Spring Island line up here for breakfast and lunch specials, baked goods and barista drinks. The takeaway meat pies are a signature item here. Drop by the Chemainus Visitor Centre for a complete list of dining options.
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