Although Ajay Friese is arguably best known for accumulating an array of memorable acting credits over the years–including roles on Lost In Space, Riverdale, and Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency–the multi-talented artist has also been making waves in the music industry after releasing a successful stream of singles in 2021.
The Victoria-based artist’s recently-released six-track debut was co-produced by Grammy nominee Everett Bradley, and thanks to a captivating combination of powerful emotion, soothing sounds, and relatable lyrics, has already garnered more than 175,000 total streams on Spotify alone.
We recently had a chance to catch up with Friese, who took some time to fill us in on all of his favourite places to eat and drink in his home base of Victoria, B.C.
Breakfast
When going out for breakfast, Shirley Delicious is a bit of a drive, but well worth it! Located on the outskirts of Victoria, this restaurant has the most incredible breakfast and lunch food–their “Living The Life” salad says it all. And while you’re in the area, do yourself a favour and stop at one of the many stunning beaches!
Lunch
[Tacofino is] trendy, but has a well-earned following. My favorites are the Super Veg Burrito and especially the Yam Tempura Taco–it's a great combo of crunchy, sweet, spicy, warm, cold, yum!
Dinner
Love the music, love the wide selection of food at Tapa Bar. [My] favorites are the Coconut Milk Kale (yup, I'm on the West Coast), and the Papas Bravas (but get half roasted aioli and half chili tomato because they are both delicious and balance each other out so well).
The Tapas Bar also has a good selection of wines, not that I'm an aficionado but I appreciate one that tastes good! It's also a great place to go with a group and share food, it has an outdoor patio, and bonus points, that great music can be heard clearly in washrooms!
Drinks
Best curly fries ever, good gin martinis, and a great atmosphere. Wind Cries Mary has a cool layout with a patio and series of passageways to more intimate spaces. It's a nice mix of formal and fun.
