Hello, fellow water wanderers! It’s me, Bob, ready to splash into the delightful tales of one of the most charming stopovers on Vancouver Island— the legendary 17 Mile House Pub in Sooke, BC!
Imagine the year is 1894, and I’m navigating the rugged roads like a buoyant explorer. As the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the countryside, the enchanting lanterns of the 17 Mile House twinkle like beacons for weary travellers! Fast forward over 130 years, and this historic pub continues to welcome newcomers and locals alike with its lively spirit and rustic charm.
Nestled alongside the picturesque route to Sooke, this place is more than just a pub—it’s a cozy retreat where history breathes! Can you believe that the 17 Mile House has been a haven for old and new friends to gather since its opening? With a genuine hitching post out front, you can still find the occasional horse and rider pulling in for some good company and hearty grub.
As I approached 17 Mile House, the first thing that caught my eye was a bold sign that proclaimed, “HOT BEER, LOUSY FOOD, BAD SERVICE.” My expectations plummeted—but little did I know, I was in for a delightful surprise!
The team there quickly turned those ominous words on their head. Even amidst the lunchtime rush, their service was nothing short of stellar. The beer? Ice cold and refreshing. And as for the food? Let’s say it earned a flawless score of five out of five quacks from this duck!
Now, let’s waddle over to the menu—oh boy, are you in for a treat! The culinary team at 17 Mile House serves up a delightful array of West Coast fare that makes my rubbery self quack with joy!
Picture a rich, creamy seafood chowder, served in a toasted sourdough bowl that seems to hug the warm chowder like a cozy blanket. Each spoonful is like a tidal wave of flavour, with tender morsels of fresh seafood swimming joyfully in a velvety broth.
You can also dive into their delectable corn chowder—sweet, hearty, and just the right amount of buttery goodness, all nestled within the comforting embrace of that crunchy sourdough. And don’t forget to eat your bowl!
And for the adventurous foodies, don’t miss out on the Mexi-vegi burger! It’s a symphony of perfectly constructed mixed veggie patty paired with crisp greens, drizzled with a delightful sauce that’ll have your taste buds diving in for another bite!
But wait, there’s more! The souvlaki salad tossed with juicy grilled chicken is as vibrant and refreshing as a summer’s day, accompanied by pillowy naan bread perfect for scooping up all that zesty goodness. My human devoured every bite!
Imagine enjoying all this deliciousness while seated in the airy bay window, overlooking a blooming garden, or nestled beside a crackling fire, soaking in the warm ambiance. With games of chess, crib, and darts to keep you entertained, there’s never a dull moment at the 17 Mile House.
So, whether you’re a local stopping by for a pint or a traveller making your way to Sooke, remember to pause and soak in the hospitality lavished here for over a century. After all, even if the road no longer leads to gold, it certainly leads you to the treasure trove of flavours, friendships, and fun at the enchanting 17 Mile House Pub!
NEVER MISS A
