On a whim today, Sheila suggested lunch at the WHITE ELEPHANT THAI RESTAURANT in PARKSVILLE.  Had been once before years ago. Don’t know why I had not been back. Definitely a mistake. WHITE ELEPHANT is a delightful little place owned and operated by actual Thai folks.

We weren’t too hungry so settled on two appetizers, Chicken Satay for Sheila and Shrimp Salad Rolls for me. And they were delicious. Both served with a tasty Peanut sauce and the Satay also had a Thai version of Salsa. The salsa was so good we took some home.. We paired  the food with a white wine and a SINGHA BEER, the latter from Bangkok. Last time I had a SINGHA was in that crazy city way back in 1990. It’s good beer. 

White Elephant features traditional Thai items including Pad Thai, Noodles in Peanut Sauce, an assortment of Curries, some Stir Fries and great sounding soups and salads. Their Hot & Sour soup sounds wonderful. 

We thoroughly enjoyed today’s lunch and agreed that a dinner there will be in our near future. 

If you’ve not been to White Elephant  you are missing out. Friendly and prompt service. Soothing background music.  Plus the place is spotless. Wasn’t too busy for late lunch but probably prudent to reserve if you are going for dinner. 

Full menu is here https://www.thewhiteelephant.ca

Located in PARKSVILLE at 144 Weld Street just off 19A.  250-586-6611

Just saying…

Here is another pub for your consideration. The FOX AND HOUNDS is family run pub owned by folks who came from the UK in 2006.

We joined a gang of Oak Bay High Class of 58 grads for a mini reunion. Being a group. We made  a reservation and they put us in a separate room. Very nice, too, so we could  stand around and visit before and after noshing. We even had a cake for the occasion.

The menu includes the traditional pub fare including an array of Pot Pies, Fish & Chips, Sausages, etc.There was a special on this day that several chose. An open faced Beef & Cheese sandwich with a choice of soup, salad or fries. Looked good too.

The Beef Dip was good but I’m not crazy about Ciabatta buns. A bit too chewy. Great fries though. Two lads at our Table chose the Seafood Chowder which was large and apparently delicious. 

The pub is decorated, as one expects , with lots of English photos and bric-a-brac. Quite charming. Service was excellent and the staff both friendly and efficient. 

Heading up it down the island and feeling peckish? Try the Fox & Hounds. You won’t be disappointed.

Check it out here.  

https://foxandhoundsladysmith.co

Look for the big red building.

Just saying…

Finally we made it to the FERN & CEDAR PUB in Qualicum Beach.Its been open for at least two years but for some unknown reason this was our first visit. FERN & Cedar is a brew pub with a long list of their own beer brewed right in the pub. Not surprisingly, they have 5 of their own craft beers as these are the same folks that own Arrowsmith Brewery in PARKSVILLE.  You can order a flight of beer if you are in a tasting mode. We  had heard good things about their food too so here we go. 

The pub is not very big except for its large patio, enclosed when we visited. There are about 6 seats at the bar. It’s a busy joint but we we were quickly seated at a table for two. Drinks were ordered, a delicious looking and tasting Margarita for Sheila, a n/a beer for me.

The menu here is really interesting with some great sounding dishes like Sechuan Shrimp & Lobster Lettuce Wraps, a Citrus avocado bowl, Short Ribs, and much more. We ordered Cod and chips to share.  A good choice. Perfectly cooked fish in a very light and crispy batter, wonderful skinny fries served on a wooden platter with Tartar sauce and a small bit of Mint and Peas. 

Here is the full menu. https://fernandcedar.ca/menu/

We really liked Fern & Cedar and will go again. Good food,  efficient and friendly service. It’s in Qualicum Beach at 680 Berwick next door to Meat Craft.

Here is the full website. https://fernandcedar.ca

Just saying…