Christina's on the Lake - Nanaimo

If it was our first visit to this restaurant, we might have given it a 5-star rating. However, since it was our second time and the first was with the previous chef, who was a cut above, we can only give it a lower score.

We visited this restaurant for Dine About and tried the set menus, which included chicken crepes and steak.

I went to this restaurant with a friend for lunch and was extremely disappointed. The food tasted good, but the portions were so small that we left feeling unsatisfied.

My husband & I were on a walk along the shore of Westwood Lake. My husband suggested that we go & try lunch a Christina's. I declined as I had our lunch prepared at home. But, I took him up on his offer, a couple days later. I made reservation & selected a table where we would like to be seated. When, we arrived, our table was ready for us on the patio. The setting was simply lovely. A keyhole view of the lake was perfectly framed by trees. Bright & cheerful flowers around the patio added to the charm. The servers (2 young women & an older man) all were friendly, welcoming, & helpful. The waiter recommended an organic cider which we enjoyed immensely.I ordered the Fish Taco - Shaved Cabbage, Pineapple Salsa and Chipotle Mayonnaise $15. I had the choice of soup or salad to start. The tomato basil soup was one of the best soups that I have ever had in a restaurant. The depth of flavour & the texture was perfection! The two rock fish tacos were nicely plated on a holder. The fish was perfectly cooked. But, the flavour of Mexico was missing. They were gringo tacos. :)My husband ordered the Local Dungeness Crab Cake, Greens, Pickled Carrot, Lemon Caper Aioli $16. It was very tasty. The ambience, setting, service, food & beverages were all very good. The prices were fair for both the meal & the beverages. The bathroom was a treat with fresh flower and quality of soap & hand lotion. We both look forward to future lunches at Christina's this summer.

A week of Vancouver island dining with friends was highlighted by a fabulous evening on the lake. we were welcomed by Cristina's father Nigel, who made us feel more than welcome. Appys of clam dip and spot prawns. The spectacular wine list offered a marvelous choice of BC products. Nigel confirmed our choice with his worldly knowledge. We had pork tenderloin, chicken, and 2 orders of ling cod. Simply perfect. Grand desserts. We enjoyed a great evening of dining. My wife and I are foodies, and we have enjoyed great (and sometimes not so great) dining experiences over the last 35 years. We believe that Cristina's On the Lake is perhaps the best dining experience in Nanaimo. We seldom write reviews, however this review was a must.Great Job!RegardsJoel and Carmel Pierce