Shelter Restaurant

Shelter is a nice restaurant tucked away by the water. We went on January 25th around 4:00pm and were seated immediately. It was during happy hour so we got the oysters and two sparkling rosés. The mignonette was genuinely the best I’ve ever had, which means a lot coming from someone who lives in the Pacific Northwest. The fish and chips were delicious; I especially enjoyed the tempura batter and tartar sauce! They were able to give us truffle fries instead of regular fries for a few dollars more, and I’m glad I did it because they were amazing! The aioli was perfect with the truffle fries. The “taste of the sound” had a sample of many different kinds of seafood and it was prepared and served beautifully. The chocolate trio was so rich and a great way to finish off an amazing meal.

We were in Tofino for the day and decided to pop into this area favourite for lunch. The last time we ate at Shelter was at its old location. This new location is a nice upgrade on the harbour. Contemporary west coast vibe with cozy fireplace classy casual atmosphere and food. I had an amazing chowder with salmon mussels and clams. My husband had the lingcod fish and chips. A lovely lunch and great service. Highly recommend.

Great restaurant and its right on the water front. Had a chicken burger, local beer and some calamari. All were very tastey and fresh. We got happy hour prices which were great, the menu prices however are a bit on the higher side. Our server was very pleasant and friendly. We love the atmosphere and the skate board wall.

It was a great ambience, the lounger chairs and chimineas were such a touch! It creates a bougie vibe 😌 ✨️ treat yourself to a great meal with a superb view. We shared the calamari which was ok, but I wish we didn't share the TUNA TATATKI ! Cuz i could have eaten 10 of them. They're take on it was incredible with with crispy rice beneath... add the extra one guys, I messed up! Meg was our server and she was very sweet! She tried to tell me about the tuna too haha Also really enjoyed the crispy tofu bowl. But next time id ask for less spice in my Cesar! Thanks for a wonderful meal! Great place to catch up with a friend 🧡

After some research, we went to this waterfront restaurant and was seated at the bar so we could watch the World Series. The menu offered a good variety of seafood and meat dishes as shown The popular venue was quite busy. Service was very good. We had mussels, halibut, calamari and sockeye salmon all which were very savoury and flavourful. The Pilsner beer was served in proper frosted mugs. Lighting was quite dim so it was a challenge to see our food particularly the mussels in the bowl. Our server brought us a table light to accommodate. Great dinner experience in a beautiful setting

Our family will forever be grateful to Shelter Restaurant for giving us such a meaningful and beautiful evening with my aunt Elaine, who is currently in palliative care. The four of us came in hoping simply to share a nice dinner together. What we experienced was so much more. From the moment we arrived, there was a warmth and gentleness that wrapped around us. The atmosphere … the soft, intimate lighting, the cozy energy of the room… created the perfect space to slow down, connect, and truly be present with one another during such tender times. Dana, our host, welcomed us with such kindness and sincerity. Right away, we felt cared for. Roslyn, our lovely server, was extraordinary. She guided us through the food with such thoughtfulness and helped us choose the most perfect main courses. Her warmth felt genuine, never rushed, and deeply compassionate. At one point, we even shared a tear together… a moment of real human connection that we will never forget. Paula, the wine specialist, brought not only amazing wine to our table but also incredible heart. She took the time to talk with us, to listen, to share a hug, and to offer warmth in a way that went far beyond service. That kind of compassion cannot be taught….it is simply who she is. And she has so much fun and wit to her as well! Jay Archer, the manager, ensured everything flowed seamlessly. We felt quietly supported the entire evening, and that leadership presence made all the difference. And though we never met Steph, the General Manager, it’s clear she played a huge role in making this evening possible. The care woven into every detail speaks to thoughtful leadership behind the scenes. A special thank you to Chef Matheus… and the rest of the kitchen staff working… the entire meal itself was exceptional. We started with burrata that was fresh and creamy, followed by the tuna tartare on rice, which was beautifully balanced and delicate. The scallops were cooked perfectly, paired so well with the crispy Brussels sprouts. The salmon risotto was rich and comforting, the mussel linguine full of flavour and depth. And the chocolate cream balls to finish were pure joy …. the sweetest ending to a deeply meaningful evening! Every bite, every pour of wine, every interaction felt intentional. We came in as a family of four during one of life’s most fragile chapters. We left feeling held, nourished, and profoundly thankful. Shelter gave us more than dinner … you gave us a memory we will carry forever. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

Once again, we were very lucky with our server in Tofino. Although I don’t remember her name to thank her here, I want to say that a great server can turn a five-star experience into a ten-star one! Everything here — from the food to the service to the atmosphere — made my vacation in Tofino absolutely amazing.

Our best meal in Tofino. Lovely halibut but the Brussels sprouts stole the show! Beautiful views from our table. Good service throughout the night. I’d love to come back again and definitely recommend Shelter if you’re in town.

If you haven't been to Tofino in a couple of years, Shelter is now a huge waterfront restaurant. We stayed at the hotel just up the hill so we ended up eating here twice this stay. It was just too convenient and too delish to bother going anywhere else. We thought maybe we were out of luck since we couldn't get a reservation but it turns out they only book about 30% of the restaurant. Both evenings we were able to walk right in and get a spot. Even on Saturday, the host told us the wait is never longer than 30-45 minutes. Over two evenings we tried the olives, tofu and salmon surf bowls, (locally caught) Ling Cod & Chips, pot de creme, and crumble. We loved every bite. The pot de creme was a slight edge over the crumble, but you can't go wrong. As a vegetarian I love coming to a place that put some thought into their veggie entree and not just a consolation dish of mac and cheese or a veggie burger. They also have a decent selection of mocktails or will make any cocktail alcohol free.

Views are great and service was awesome, however... the food is insanely over priced for the quality. Tonight I had their "steak special" it was sold to me as "the same one off the menu but with a different quality meat" ... the steak dinner on the menu was $38 After receiving the bill and having not been told the price of the special I came to realize I was charged $69. For a fatty, overcooked steak. I was not impressed. My sister ordered the Tuna Stack and got 3 bite size little tuna cakes on her plate for $20... outrageous! Won't be going back. Not worth it. Just go see the dock/ marina and skip the criminal billing.

Nice people, cool vibes, yummy food. Had Brussels sprouts to start good. Warm olives were spicy and I liked them. Steak was decent and fries good

Food was delicious! This was our first restaurant we chose to go to in Tofino and it hit the spot! Fish and chips were cooked perfectly, had great batter/crispiness with a tasty cabbage slaw to go with it. The seafood chowder was also great. It came with a clam and mussel with bites of salmon throughout. It was all incredibly flavorful. The restaurant itself with the waterfront view was beautiful, despite the rain. There's nice lighting with unique art on the walls. I loved how the seating areas were organized and comfortable. There was a very cool floating fire place that was awesome to see. There was even outdoor seating, although we couldn't use it due to the rain. Our server, Ian, was very attentive and our food came out quickly. We are so lucky we got to enjoy Shelter!

Nice restaurant. Friendly attentive service. Beer on tap was good. Food was fine although a bit pricey - of course it is everywhere now. Had the olives and calamari for appetizers and the fish and chips for the mains. Calamari was top notch. Also liked the light panko batter on the fish.

Nice views. In town doing touristy stuff. Beer on tap is good. The food was good but wasn't fan of the risotto ...

I was disappointed with the lack/delay in service. I took my food to-go given that the restaurant is not pet friendly (including outdoor seating). I simply asked for some hot sauce for my fish&chips to the first hostess. She proceeded to move about the restaurant and have a full conversation with someone. Surely she would be done soon. NOPE! I stood there for 10 minutes before a different hostess asked me if I needed help. I expressed that I had asked for some sauce. The second hostess then leaves (all while I'm watching the first one converse, still). After another 5 minutes, I gave up. Otherwise, the food was good. I did enjoy the fish&chips and the calamari. 4/5 on cuisine.

All the food was very basic and tasted like it was made by seasonal employees. No effort was put in to season the food at all. The tuna tataki was pretty good, the chowder extremely bland, the salmon acceptable but nothing more, the calamari was cloying and only came with aioli but nothing acidic to break up the flavors.

Absolutely loved everything about our experience here. The ambiance is spectacular as we got to sit next to the huge roaring fireplace on a chilly night. The drinks were delicious as was the food served. Our waitress was very attentive and super friendly. I would recommend the burger! No extra ketchup needed!!

This is probably a great place in the summer when the roll-up doors are open to the patio. We had 8:15 dinner reservations and there were lots of table options. It was clear we wanted a nice view and comfort. First seated at a high top table in the bar. Asked for somewhere that didn't have the sun blinding one person and low chairs. Moved us to the next bar over. Better tables were in the area that is more like the dining room which had windows on two sides and fabulous views of the islands and the eagle tree. Billed at 'waterfront'. Let's call it 'harbor front'. All you see is boats and the fish processing plant - a working harbor. All of that blocked the sunset. And Tofino in town is on the inlet and harbor which is quieter water. If you want Pacific Ocean views, go to Long Beach Lodge, Wickaninnish Inn or Black Rock in Ucluelet. Food is OK+. Crispy Brussels sprouts were room temp and the cheese not melted. Tuna tataki was ok. Seafood chowder was quite good. Kale and salmon salad good-same as Shed (many menu overlap). Mussels and frites pretty good. Service was average-she was on her second day there so a bit rocky. Liked Wolf in the Fog better.

We had a very nice dinner tonight. I had both of the tuna appetizers as a meal and I found both of them to be outstanding. Perfectly assembled with excellent texture and flavour. My wife had the seafood fettuccine which was good rather than outstanding. Hers had plenty plenty of quality ingredients and nice presentation but 8/10 flavour. The table shared the Brussel sprout appy which was delicious. Our son who is 3, had the kids mac n cheese which we both personally liked but he found to be a little too strong and adult tasting. It was good, no issues with it, he's sometimes a picky toddler. This was our first trip to the new location after probably 10 or so trips over the years to the previous location. They've done a nice job with the space. We will return someday.

We are here tonight for our last dinner in town; it was fabulous! We started with Caesar salads, which were outstanding. We followed with steak (very good), muscles (great), and the halibut special with a mushroom sauce (outstanding)! Our server was excellent and the view was so lovely, especially on a rainy and foggy night.

Servers great Food great Good prices Ambiance excellent Go early because it's a busy place!!!

Best restaurant experience In Tofino. Sam our server was fantastic making our evening there spectacular. Oh and the Chowder and Salmon were excellent!

Reservation was for 7pm January 14. We got at 6:47, saying they would text us when the table was ready. With a toddler in tow, we arrived at 7:10, having not yet received a text that our table was ready. After waiting several minutes for someone to greet us, the lady at the check in said that our table would be ready in "2 minutes, they're just settling up". Five minutes later, she said "1 minute, they are just clearing it". 5 minutes on, l saw there was a party of 4 sitting and chatting at the table that l believed was ours. I asked the same staff whether that was in fact our table, which she confirmed. I then asked why she'd said it would be ready in 2 minutes ten minutes ago, then stating (lying) that it was being cleared when, in fact, the customers were still sitting and chatting? She acknowledged nothing, barking that l was 10 minutes late! It was now 7:22. First, arriving within 15 minutes of a reservation is not considered "late", as there are many contingencies outside our control commuting. Second, had we arrived promptly at 7, we'd simply have been standing/waiting longer. How was her rude and unprofessional response even relevant to my question, which was basically, "why are you repeatedly lying to us?" Had she been truthful--perhaps inviting us to sit at the bar (or whatever), the experience would have been different. How about simply telling the truth, and not spewing venom when a customer points out your dishonesty? We left and will never return.

After a little snafu that led to our reservation getting cancelled on the restaurant's end, they got us in in about 20 minutes, the food was delicious and they made it right. Highly recommend!

Shelter has amazing views, tasty food, and a good drink/beer selection. The salmon salad is delicious, as was the chowder and dessert. You can walk in fairly easy at non prime times. Highly recommended.

You have to try the mussels here... they were just amazing! Definitely one of the best restaurants in Tofino. We were amazed by the freshness of all the seafood. We also tried the clam chowder and calamari and they were equally good. The chowder is very vegetable heavy so if that's not how you like your chowder I would stay away from ordering this-- we really enjoyed it though. We were also very pleasantly surprised by how great the cocktails were. I ordered an Old Fashioned and it was delicious. High recommend Shelter if you're looking for a great quality food!

Had a great meal in Tofino at Shelter Restaurant. Tried the calamari and Chevre which were great. Also had the Shrlter fries and Tuna Stack which are very popular on the menu with locals. Both were very good. Finished the meal with Apple pie and an IPA. We sat on the deck outside and enjoyed the weather and the food. Highly recommend.

Food options may be limited in Tofino but don't let Shelter's high ratings fool you. This place seems to serve cafeteria food masked as fine dining - I'd look elsewhere. Their patio is cold in the evenings - make sure to get a spot surrounded by heaters and brace for passive attitude from the hostess when you request such a spot. Our server was very pleasant, though. Even the basic food options like the chicken sandwich (a hefty $14 - served with NO sides) were overcooked and the chicken bowl primarily consisted of plain rice and beans sprouts. If you do find yourself here, go for the fish and chips. They're not bad.

I visit Tofino a couple times a year. Always do a "special" dinner out on my last night there. I was keen to check out the new Shelter location because I had been to the previous restaurants many times and always enjoyed sitting out in the arm that extends out into the water. When I checked in, they asked me if I would be ok sitting at the bar. It was 4:30, the entire place wasn't even at 25% occupancy. I asked if I could sit out on the dock part that extends over the water. They said that was the dining room and that it was closed. They sat me at a table next to the bar, and while I ate, I saw them seat 3 other parties in the dining room that was "closed". The place still wasn't at capacity. It's not like they opened it because they were full. They just didn't want a single person sitting over there. Single diners also have money to spend and deserve to receive the same level of service as couple and families. The server and bussers were great, the food was oversauced but ok. Disappointed with this experience and hope they learn from it.

Glad I made a reservation for this restaurant as the line up was super long when I arrived. I got a table immediately and was very happy with that. Food was delicious as expected ! I personally did not think the clam chowder was worth the price as it tasted more of a chicken noodle and did not contain lots of the actual soup. Definitely not the traditional seafood clam chowder you'd probably be expecting so just a heads up! I ordered two different muscles the red Thai curry and the chimichurri. Although they were both good, the chimichurri was a lot more flavourful than the red Thai curry. Shelter restaurant is worth the visit and will not disappoint

Such good food and service. The best salmon I have ever had. We also had the chowder and the tuna stack. Both were amazing!!!

I LOVED this place. When you walk in, you kind of get the feeling it's gonna be a bar food kind of place, you know, average food, great liquor. However... My first meal here was the LingCod Fish and Chips. Light & airy batter, fried to perfection, super fresh LingCod that tasted like it was caught 1/2 an hour before I ordered it. All the right details, excellent service and a table by the fireplace? Oh! and their own handcrafted beer (I think I ordered the blonde Ale...several times). I've eaten here one other time (not a local, on vacation from New York), and had a great meal as well. I think what I love about this place is that I'm getting bar food favorites, BUT elevated to a whole new level. Eat here, these guys can cook.

I have eaten at Shelter during both of my trips to Tofino and both meals have been absolutely spectacular.

Great restaurant with a really nice patio area. The food we had was quite good and the service was excellent. The view from the patio was quite nice as well. I wasn't super hungry but they had a good diverse menu that I'm sure would appeal to many hungry bellies. The Cesar's were quite good as well. It's like a 4.5/5 in my books but since in can't nothing was wowed so it ended up getting a 4/5. I would definitely go back to this restaurant and recommend to many.

These people know how to get things done. After 8 weeks after a fire that destroyed their old place, they reopened in a previously unoccupied space they remodeled beautifully and the ambiance was stellar overlooking the marina. This was only the second day of re opening , the food and service was exceptional. It was elegant upscale bar food and everything was fresh and delicious. We were glad we got a chance to sample their food while visiting Tofino , a popular place for the locals to hang out.

Amazing food - wife got the salmon, I got the surf bowl, kiddo got the Mac and cheese. We all thought we ordered the best meal at the table. View was amazing, too - sea lions, bald eagles, coastal views - 10/10! On top of it all, our server (Joe) was top notch - friendly, good reco's, nice but not overly talkative. Best meal we've had out in Tofino, and we've been here for 5 nights.

We really enjoyed our visit to Shelter. We came mid/end of September when the weather was starting to get chilly, so we were thrilled to find a heated outdoor patio. All the tables outside were socially distanced from one another. Shelter provided a QR code at each table for menu viewing. We felt very safe and comfortable to be dining here. All the food we ordered was delicious - our favourites for the night were the crispy brussel sprouts and mussels with the grilled baguette. There mussels' broth was so delicious that we had ordered an extra baguette, despite the fact that we were so full from the other dishes. Our server was attentive and showed up many times throughout the night to make sure we had everything we needed. I would definitely recommend this place and return if I were to visit the island again.

I've visited Shelter about six times now on various trips to Tofino over the years and never been disappointed. Consistently good food and service with a lively atmosphere. The patio is great in the summer, and the inside is cozy during storm season. There are TV's indoors that show team sports or ski/surf movies. Noise level is LOUD. I've had salads, bowls, burgers, and soups here. All good quality. This is pub fare with a west-coast flare. Moderately upscale, along the lines of Cactus Club or Milestones in terms of food quality/quantity/price. Shelter is a reliable, quality restaurant for a meal in Tofino.

The new location - following a fire last year- is a wonderful waterfront location with balcony and patio seating. The staff is friendly and professional. The food is outstanding; we had the fettuccine with shrimp and mussels and it was exquisite. We liked it so much went back the next night!

Been to Shelter a few times over the last couple years, including most recently just this past week. It's always had consistent, reliable, decent food with good service. Reminds me very much of what you would expect at a cactus club. A number of the dishes are very similar to cactus club's as well. Sadly on my most recent trip to Tofino, it was INSANELY BUSY EVERYWHERE. Trying to find somewhere to eat dinner if you didn't have reservations, was near impossible. Shelter however was very accommodating, they were still offering takeout over the phone and were moving through their wait list very quickly and contacted you as soon as a table was ready. Not many restaurants we're doing this. One night we sat on the patio, because the timing worked out perfectly and another, we just got takeout. Both were good. I was disappointed to see that the menu had been downsized to accommodate the busy season and Tofino being so short staffed, but I guess sacrifices had to be made, and they really were handling the extra craziness very well. So kudos to them!

We went to Shelter on a Wednesday night, 8/16, after we'd just arrived in Tofino, wanting to try out a new place to eat. Very shrill, fast talking, condescending receptionist. Gratefully we got past that and were seated eventually & had a good dinner. We went again on Friday, 8/18, because the food was good on Wednesday (mussels are amazing) and we were treated even more poorly by the same hostess. She wasn't busy, not a wait line, she's just rude. This time, not answering our question directly if we'd be texted when a table available, but repeating over and over instead with a glare " I will take down your contact information and let you know when a table becomes available" Ok. ? We were told 45 minute wait for a table inside. We were seated in the bar. Next thing we know the "sommelier" comes to us and says we can't get a table. I asked if she was the manager she said "No, we don't need a manager here" .....I think that they might.. they've got a pretty rude hostess, 1st impression, both visits. In any case, if you can get past the first impression, the hostess, & not that let that affect your experience, the food is good and the wait staff is great... but who wants to start their evening off with a bad first impression. 3rd trip to Tofino, we've never been treated like this before.

Had a great meal at Shelter! The wait was 45mins on a Tuesday, however we were seating in only 15. Great cocktails and food - big portions!

I went here for dinner and the service was amazing! I had their paella (about an 8 in cast iron pan, 1-1.5in deep) and it's really good. Although extremely hot in temperature, it was full of rich seafood. I wish they put out larger prawns, but that's nothing when you have like cod, salmon, mussels, clams, squid, etc. I also had their chestnut ale and it has a nice caramel/toffee taste in the beginning! The wait is worth it. Make sure to get a reservation! In addition, I tried their buffalo wings and fried chicken and it was not bad at all!

All good for our visit. Food, service and venue were great. This is our 2nd visit. First one was 20 years ago during our last visit to town!

I was very happy with my food and service at Shelter Restaurant. I ordered the seafood chowder, which was served with warm toasted and buttered sour dough bread. The combination of the soup and warm crusty bread was heaven. The chowder was packed with smoked salmon, potatoes, clams and an outrageous amount of fresh dill. Exactly how I like it. The Fish Tacos were crispy and tangy, but still was light. The beans, apple slaw and avocado brought all the ingredients together. I ate every last bite and even forked up any bits that fell out of the taco.

Came for the fish and got the chicken burg. It was excellent. Wasn't dry, sauce was good, bun was toasted perfectly. Beers were very good. Might have been the best side Caesar salad I've ever had. Friendly service. 4/5 only because lack of menu selection. But let's call it a 4.5/5.

While I am yet to enjoy the new location Shelter is on our must visit restaurant list when we vacation in Tofino. Often it is a Twice visit. The food is great and the service better.

Mussels and fries is a must have in any seaside town, so I decided to come here after seeing it on the menu! They had a regular white wine sauce option or a Thai coconut curry one, which the server recommended. I liked how they offered a unique flavour! However, the fries were much smaller than I expected, and I noticed the burger with fries has twice the serving size. Otherwise, they have a beautiful patio that you definitely need to check out. Service was quick and we didn't have to wait for a table at peak lunch hour (12:30 on a Monday).

Beautiful restaurant over looking Main Street. Very approachable staff. The fresh oysters were outstanding. The kids devoured the salmon and fish sticks! I appreciate other options for kids than pizza and burgers. I had the pasta with mussels and my wife had the baked salmon and corn risotto. Both are excellent and would order again.

Came here on a Sat eve with some friends. Just finished surfing so we were starving. The waitress was very friendly and recommended local places to visit and things to do. We shared the tuna tartare appetizer (mango, guac, cilantro with wonton chips) I was really impressed-- the wontons were so THIN and crispy! not oily at all, and the mango, guac, tuna combo is very refreshing. delicious! I ordered the Lingcod burger (coleslaw, lettuce, mayo, tomato, small onion ring) on a light brioche like bun. This was the BEST fish burger i've ever had. I'm not sure whether the fact I was starving had an impact on my taste test, but the fish was incredibly succulent and fresh, grilled and flavourful. Fluffy toasted bun and the onion ring crispy. Big burger but worth every bite! So delicious. Total of my burger and split appetizer (between 5 people) came to $18 after tips. I would definitely come back here. Such friendly staff, and AMAZING food-- good quality ingredients, nice presentation and flavourful dishes-- I highly recommend eating here!

We had 2 dinner here during our stay in Tofino. The food was extremly good and fresh. The place is really cosy the ambient is faboulos. Fireplace makes it warm.

Accueil et service très professionnel et souriant, endroit très agréable, plats et desserts très bon, de qualité et copieux .. ne pas hésiter à y aller !

Better than great take out - in fact best we have had anywhere in 2 dismal Covid years....and we are picky! Loved that calamari was uncovered and thus remained crisp. Difficult to make take out look good but u did it!

Ambiance ambiance ambiance, oh and the food is great. Great seat on the covered patio (fire side) Super neat way to meet new people, everyone's happy!!! How could they not be, great food and a great spot. Our server was energetic, happy and attentive. Love it here. Apple pie is likely the best on the island. PS There is SPARKLE and happy couples abound.

This place was awesome! They were very busy with a wait for the restaurant so we opted to sit at the bar. It was hopping, and the service was still great. We had the tuna on rice cakes for an appetizer. Awesome. Hubby had the tacos, loved them. I had the salmon surf bowl, also great. Cocktails were very good. Best place I've eaten in a long time.

This is one of my top 5 restaurants that I have visited in my lifetime. My boyfriend and I have made it a tradition to visit Tofino each year, or every two years. The service that we receive at Shelter is always consistent and phenomenal. The servers will have a one on one conversation with you, and they are extremely polite in sharing and enforcing the COVID protocols. The food and presentation is extremely creative and always amazes us each time we visit. I would highly highly recommend this restaurant to anyone visiting Tofino.

Super popular little place with tasty food. Lots of beer. Good warm vibes. Wifi. Whaaat. For food: Sourdough bread- This puppy came out screaming hot. That great toothsomeness of sourdough combined with salted butter? The stuff my dreams are made of. Winter root salad with salmon- how can you possibly go wrong with roasted veggies and candied pecans on a salad? That's right, you can't. Might I add that the Australian guy in the bar was just awesome? Seriously good vibes with so much genuineness and kindness. Y'all make sure to keep him around, Shelter.