Those that have made the trek out to Tofino on the western tip of Vancouver Island will likely agree that it's one of the most magical locales in all of Canada. With a thriving surf scene and no shortage of quality restaurants and bars, it's a place that can be hard to tear oneself away from when a vacation comes to a close.
Tofino Resort + Marina's on-site eatery 1909 Kitchen opened back in 2017 and over the years, it has grown to become one the town's most popular haunts for locals and tourists alike. Chef duo Terry Somerville (executive chef) and Kristine Morrow (pastry chef) pay homage to the unique flavours of the Pacific Northwest by creating seasonal menus brimming sustainable seafood, locally foraged ingredients and more.
At first look, some may assume that the restaurant's name is tied to a building address or something of the sort, but in fact, it is a reference to a major historical moment for the coastal town.
"A couple [of other name suggestions] were circulated, but the vision for 1909 Kitchen was pretty clear from the get go," explains Tofino Resort + Marina marketing manager, Kristina Lee. "Honouring the history of our coastal locale, our restaurant was named after the year Tofino got its name with the opening of the Tofino Post Office."
1909 Kitchen is currently closed for indoor sit-down service (due to provincial COVID-19-related restrictions), but is still offering patio service as well as takeout.
