From the highway, the city of Duncan seems like nothing but a sprawl of big box stores. But venture down its side streets and you’ll find charming heritage houses like this rambling old Victorian. An even better surprise is that you’ll find a Top Chef Canada alum in the kitchen cooking up some of the best food on the Island. Dan Hudson is a young, British-born chef with a passion for classic flavors and fresh, local ingredients. Think slow-cooked pork belly, mushroom-and-stilton risotto, or his popular fish and chips with apple-fennel slaw. Brunch is especially popular thanks to dishes like the house-made brioche French toast. And even if the food weren’t so good, it would be worth a visit just to enjoy the beautiful dining room and lounge area, with their original fireplaces, ornate tin ceiling, tongue-and-groove paneling, and dark wooden trim, paired with comfy contemporary leather chairs and elegant white linens. Like Hudson’s cooking, it’s a perfect blend of old, new, and immaculate attention to detail.
Cowichan Valley
Travel Guide
Cowichan Valley› Restaurant
Hudson’s on First
163 1st St, Duncan
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Around Town
Hours
Tues–Fri 11am–2pm, Sat–Sun 10am–2pm, Wed–Sat 5pm–close; Closed Mon; no dinner service Tues or Sun.
Phone
250/597-0066
Prices
Main courses C$15–C$30
Cuisine Type
West Coast/English
Web site
Hudson’s on First
Map
163 1st St, Duncan Cowichan ValleyNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.