The story
Callisto sits within the Westin Bear Mountain Resort & Spa, perched high enough that the dining room looks out over the lush landscape of Vancouver Island all the way to Mt. Baker on a clear day. The open, contemporary space is elegant without being stiff — the kind of room that works equally well for a quiet dinner for two or a celebratory gathering in Orso, the adjacent private dining room designed for special occasions, winemaker's dinners, and guest chef events.
The kitchen's approach is rooted in the chef's direct relationships with local farmers, which shapes a menu built around premium Pacific Northwest ingredients. The cooking lands in elevated bistro territory: share plates, antipasto platters, salads, and soups lead into a selection of pastas, substantial sides, and proteins from both land and sea. Executive Chef Dylan Casimiro has demonstrated what that means in practice through events like a five-course winemaker's dinner featuring Haida Gwaii Halibut with pumpkin seed beurre blanc and Birch Glazed Short Rib — the kind of sourcing and technique that defines the restaurant's American cuisine sensibility with a distinctly West Coast accent.
Wine Spectator awarded Callisto its Best of Award of Excellence, a distinction that reflects the depth and curation behind the list. Selections span British Columbia's own wine regions alongside international producers, and the team pairs them thoughtfully across the menu. The adjacent SERIP Bar & Lounge extends the experience more casually, with signature cocktails, creative bartenders, and a daily happy hour featuring rotating feature wines, beers, and cocktails.
When the weather cooperates, the seasonal patio opens directly onto the natural surroundings of Bear Mountain — a genuinely striking setting for lunch or a leisurely dinner. Throughout the year, Callisto hosts events that draw the community in: winemaker's dinners with figures from the Okanagan Valley, festive seasonal brunches, and private celebrations in Orso. The resort is located just twenty minutes from downtown Victoria, making it an accessible destination rather than a remote retreat.
Recognition
Ambience
Location