Victoria’s best new restaurant takes traditional tapas to a whole new level. Led by chef Tod Bosence, the sophisticated, urban Veneto Tapa Lounge would be equally at home in Toronto or New York as in the beautifully restored Hotel Rialto in historic downtown Victoria. Dressed in exotic wood, leather and Italian marble, Veneto offers both a hip bar area and quieter dining room, ideal for enjoying Bosence’s creative dinner menu. Each entree is presented tapas style – those in the mood for beef, for example, will enjoy it three ways: veal ravioli with portabella mushroom ragout and roasted garlic cream sauce; marinated short rib with parmesan polenta cake; and New York strip roulade with spicy lobster stuffing and bordelaise sauce. Lamb, chicken, pork, seafood and vegetarian trios are also available. Can’t choose? Chef’s Choice lets diners select three items from a selection of favourites. Veneto’s Sliders are also a highlight – not your typical pub-style mini-burgers, but delicious! Extensive dessert and beverage menus round out the experience. 1450 Douglas St., Victoria, 250-383-7310, www.venetodining.com