Family Road Trip Food Finds

West Coast Bound? Discover these Family Friendly Eateries

Whether you are Alberni Valley bound our just passing through on your way to Tofino or Ucluelet, we have put together a list of great dining options for road trip food that are delicious and family friendly. Even if the Alberni Valley is not your final destination, you will want to make sure to set aside some time to explore this Vancouver Island town, check out the sights and try out some new eats. Maybe stock up on groceries or rent some surf gear. Stay tuned for more highlights on visiting the Alberni Valley and beyond, as we share favourite services, travel tips, and activities to keep your travel fun!

Family Friendly Favourites

Harbour Quay

Location: 5440 Argyle St, Port Alberni, BC V9Y 1T6 (Map)

Plan a few hours to explore the scenic Harbour Quay, featuring a colourful collection of waterfront shops, galleries, and eateries, and is also where you’ll find the clock tower, which grants panoramic views of the Alberni Inlet. The Spirit Square Farmer’s Market on Saturday mornings is always busy. You will also find the boarding area for the MV Frances Barkley, a passenger and freight vessel that offers scenic journeys to Bamfield and Ucluelet on the west coast. Take a stroll to view the commercial fishing fleet, large shipping vessels and pleasure craft marinas. There’s also a children’s park for families to spend the afternoons. (Source: City of Port Alberni)

 

Lunch Spots

If you are like us, one of our favourite things about a road trip is discovering new places to eat. Port Alberni has no shortage of tasty lunch options. Many of them family run businesses, each offering their own unique flavour! Family friendly and convenient for hungry travellers wanting something different than a drive thru.

View of Pescadores Restaurant

Source: Trip Advisor

Pescadores Bistro

A unique menu that boasts a wide range of dishes sure to satisfy the most simplistic or adventurous tastes. We do our best to utilize fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally from the Alberni Valley.

Location: 5093 Johnston Rd, Port Alberni
Contact:  1-250-736-1100 | Menu | Website
Hours: 8:00am to 2:00pm Daily

 

View of Boomerangs Cafe from the street

Source: Trip Advisor

Boomerangs Cafe

A locally owned, family run restaurant. They offer a little taste of Australia, along with some of your regular favourites.

Location: 4833 Johnston Rd, Port Alberni
Contact:   1-250-724-5794 | Menu | Website
Hours: 6:00am-8:00pm Sun-Thurs | 6:00am-9:00pm Fri-Sat

 

View of Bare Bones Fish and Chips from the parking lot

Source: Trip Adviso

Bare Bones Fish and Chips

Bare Bones Fish & Chips offers Cod, Halibut, Salmon & Prawns to be done in your choice of either Traditional English Style Batter, Crispy Panko Breadcrumbs, or Open Fire Grilled.

Location: 4824 Johnston Road, Port Alberni
Contact:   1-250-720-0900 | Menu | Website
Hours: 11:30am – 9:00pm Mon – Fri | Closed Saturday – Sunday

 

And for the Sweet Tooth

Need a little sugar to keep you going? How about some fresh, handmade chocolatey treats? We have just what you need. Port Alberni is lucky enough to have not 1 but 2 delightful specialty candy shops!

Source: Trip Advisor

Coombs Country Candy

Coombs Country Candy is Vancouver Island’s Sweetest Secret. Come inside and see how we craft some of the finest chocolates, candies, frozen treats and more. All our products contain natural ingredients and we carefully make our products by hand in-store, all for you!

Location: 2101 Old Nanaimo Highway Rd, Port Alberni
Contact:   1-250-724-0033 | Menu | Website
Hours: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm Daily

 

View of the Sugar Shak storefront

The Sugar Shak

Handmade chocolate and all kinds of amazing sweets! Amazing ice cream and frozen yogurts… you will have no problem to find something for everyone.

Location: 4-5440 Argyle St, Port Alberni
Contact:  1-250-731-5587 | Facebook
Hours: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm Daily

SEE ALL RESTAURANTS + PUBS IN THE BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Keep Exploring!!!

In the coming weeks we will be bringing more Essential Port Alberni Stops to help you plan your journey to the West Coast.