Shelter takes up its new residence on Tofino’s waterfront
In May, Shelter took up its new residence in its oceanfront space at Tofino Resort and Marina (TRM). Replacing the resort’s 1909 Kitchen and Bar, Shelter visitors get to soak up coveted views of the inlet and surrounding peaks as they dine. Kayakers and boaters paddle by and, if you’re lucky, you’ll spot a host of wildlife too: from bald eagles soaring low to seals and even the occasional transient pod of orcas.
After twenty years at its spot further down Campbell Street, the restaurant, an institution on the Tofino foodie circuit for returning visitors and locals alike, was destroyed by a kitchen fire on December 22, 2022. A swift scramble to find a new home led to permanent leasing of the TRM space, and what a beautiful new home it is. If anything, it has only become even more so a spot that encapsulates the atmosphere, ingredients, and location emblematic of Tofino.
The joy found in Shelter previously was its ability to curate a space that welcomed you in casual attire but also felt a little bit special for a date night or family occasion. That concept has held steady, transcending the move into the new space. Low lighting, candles, and date-worthy high bar top wood tables for two are intermixed with Waves of the World and other surf-centric shows playing on the big screens, while classic songs by the likes of the Chilli Peppers play through the speakers; a sense of laid-back fun that only adds to the warm and welcoming ambience. Decor comes in the form of surfboards and two outboard motors hung on the wall—an homage to the town’s life spent on, or in, the water. Then there are the huge floor-to-ceiling windows with that sea-to-sky view—the ocean with the lush forested mountains providing their backdrop. A welcome sight for city-living folk who’ve come to the coast for respite, or just those locals looking to take a deep sigh of appreciation for their home. Fittingly touted on the embossed leather menu are the words Seek Shelter; a place to weather life’s storms, and the literal ones found on the wet west coast.
For those who make the pilgrimage to Tofino for the food and have Shelter firmly on their favourites list, it’s welcome news that their approach to their menu and libations have also held fast. There is their hyperlocal seafood, especially noticeable in their Local Waters section—a mix of fishy appetizers featuring the likes of Meares Island Seafood Chowder (mussels, clams, lingcod and house-smoked salmon), Tuna Tataki, and other delights. Then there is the sourcing of other ingredients like Tofino Farms organic greens in the salads, and a whole cocktail section dedicated to features created with Tofino Distilling Co spirits.
Popular favourites like their fish tacos have also remained. And to further lean into that feeling of ‘whatever you’re in the mood for’ — date, gathering, or post-surf brew — there is the choice to pick from their sharing plates, burgers, and bowls, alongside elevated fare like their Seared Wild Sockeye Salmon risotto, Slow Roasted Beef Chuck Flat, or Side-Stripe Shrimp and Mussel Fettucine. Even plates that could be considered hearty mains have been expertly balanced between rich flavours and humble portions of the heavier elements, ensuring there’s still room for that second cocktail or dessert. One thing to notice is their use of herbs: from rosemary in the Seaside Smash cocktail, to dill on the calamari, fennel on the risotto, and parsley on the pasta; they know the impact a sprinkling of fresh herbs can have in drawing out and balancing flavours. And while some spots skimp on their portions of fresh seafood, Shelter is generous—celebrating their access to the coast and local suppliers.
If you’re ready to move on from the cocktails, their wine list further features almost solely BC-based suppliers. And if you’re new to BC wines, the food menu helpfully suggests a wine pairing for each main dish.
To round out your dining experience, the desserts are pretty delectable too. If you’re feeling a little full, or just want a mouthful of something tasty to top off your evening, the truffle is the way to go. A single chocolate truffle made in-house, rotating in flavours (at the time of writing it was an orangey, salty bite). There is usually also their Tugg Crumble with vanilla bean gelato and one or two other options. Once finished, take a moment to soak in those final details—the warm ambience found in the wooden beams, flickering candles, and bustle of other tables—and head out into the evening, soaking in the setting sun and folks mooring their boats. Shelter and its new home is a real testament to Tofino: life on the water, and the flavours that are found within it.
Photos by Kyler Vos, Shelter
