Marilena Cafe & Raw Bar

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

Where Vancouver Island's Best Lands on the Plate

Marilena Cafe & Raw Bar is the first Victoria outpost from Toptable Group, the team behind some of Canada's most celebrated restaurants — Blue Water Cafe, CinCin, Araxi, and others across Vancouver, Whistler, and New York City. Bringing that depth of experience to the heart of British Columbia's capital, Marilena opened with a clear purpose: an approachable yet refined dining experience rooted in the very best of Vancouver Island.

Executive Chef Kristian Eligh

After more than a decade away refining his skills, Executive Chef Kristian Eligh returned to his hometown of Victoria with a shared vision of timeless simplicity. His menu leans into the Pacific Northwestern seafood tradition — global and local catches paired with farm-fresh, sustainable ingredients held to the highest standards. The raw bar is a centrepiece of the room, offering nigiri, sashimi, and sushi rolls that bring a Japanese sensibility to the island's exceptional seafood.

The Room and the List

The dining room, designed with natural wood and marble, strikes a balance between warmth and contemporary elegance. Service is led by Restaurant Director Jeff Pauls, whose team is committed to hospitality that matches the quality on the plate. The wine program is equally serious: Marilena's expansive list honours both internationally reputable regions and the Island's own premier wineries — recognition that earned the restaurant Wine Spectator's Best of Award of Excellence in 2024.

Recognition That Speaks for Itself

The accolades have followed quickly. Tripadvisor named Marilena the No. 1 Fine Dining restaurant in Canada in its 2025 Best of the Best Awards. Canada's 100 Best placed it at No. 39 nationally, while Vancouver Magazine named it Best Restaurant in Victoria for 2025–2026. YAM Magazine's 2025 awards added Restaurant of the Year, Best Big Night Out, Outstanding Service, and Best Sommelier to the list — a sweep that reflects the consistency of what Marilena delivers across every dimension of Pacific Northwestern dining.