As you know, I love discovering and writing about restaurants, especially new ones. This time it’s not new but a joint in Victoria that is celebrating 45 years in business. Yes, I finally made it to Pagliacci’s.
In 1979 a guy from New York via Los Angeles, arrived in Victoria and in partnership with his brother and another guy pooled their cash and opened this joint on Broad Street. Howie Siegel , apparently quite a character, found the first success of his life and the customers are still lined up down the street 45 years later. Not many restaurants survive that long. Even fewer have lineups.
What a joint! It’s small, crowded, noisy and serves up some really great food. Many of the menu items are named after celebrities.
The Pete Rose Slider
Bill Murray Meatballs
The Sid Caesar
I’ll have what she’s having
The Hemingway
Forest Gump
Reading the menu is such fun.
https://www.pagliaccis.ca/#dinner-menu
We arrived before six and had a 20 minute wait outside. The place was packed! Finally we were shown to a table for two. The tables are very close together New York or Paris Bistro style. Service is prompt. We ordered drinks. Wine for Sheila, a NEGRONI for me. The NEGRONI’s are ON TAP. REALLY. Who does that! But it was so good I had two.
A basket of delicious warm salty bread arrived at once. Then the entrees. Sheila chose the “The 40 Year Old Vegan”, Gnocchi with Tomato Braised Eggplant. Very substantial bowl full. Delicious.
For me it was the
“Hemingway Short Story” . Tortellini stuffed with Beef, Romano, Ricotta, & Parmesan cheese in a creamy bacon sauce.
The menu says it’s the best seller. I understand why. It was fabulous, maybe the best I’ve had and I’ve had a lot. The sauce was amazing.
What an experience. What a vibe! It really is a dining experience. And Sunday to Thursday there is live music, mostly jazz. Pag’s is a hopping place. The noise is a cacophony of sounds. If you want quiet, stay away. By the way there is also covered outdoor seating for about 20. Would be nice in the summer and quieter.
But if you plan a visit to Victoria you must go to Pagliacci’s. You must!
Great food, service, ambiance.
For more about Howie.. https://www.douglasmagazine.com/howie-siegel/
https://thebastion.ca/howie-siegel-a-flavourful-life
Just saying…
MURPH..Just Saying. 
Always enjoy your comments about your visits to certain hot spots. I have no doubt you are spot on , if I may say. I am a tad too far away.
B D
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I think that I read just about every book that Hemingway wrote so along with your recommendation, a Hemingway would be a no brainer for me if we get there.
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Hello Terry…great review for Pagliacci’s….my experience there was not so pleasant…cacophony is a great word to use…my seafood pasta dish was full of shells…clams, prawns….hard ones that had to be removed before I could enjoy the pasta..it was strange! Never the less it is like you said…popular, most often worth waiting for and a New York atmosphere!
Norm’s friend Doug plays music there on alternate Sunday evenings!
I enjoy Il terrazzo….for food and atmosphere…have you dined there!
It is our favourite Italian restaurant!
Next time you come to town….we should connect and all go to Il Terrazo!
Big hug, Carol
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Love going to Pag’s but haven’t been there for a while so this is a good reminder. The sideshow is an extra bonus with their amazing food and drinks.
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