Raking in Flavour
Driving through Nanoose Bay, you might spot a tiny rustic style brewery, but don’t be fooled; this spot is much bigger than it looks and packed with charm, flavour, and all the cozy vibes you didn’t know you needed.
Rusted Rake Brewing has this quaint, inviting atmosphere that makes you want to linger. The indoor-outdoor patio is especially dreamy: string lights twinkle overhead, heaters keep things cozy when the West Coast chill sets in, and the whole place has a laid-back farmhouse vibe that’s both stylish and unpretentious.
It’s a popular lunch stop, and for good reason. Their menu has something for everyone, including several gluten-free options. I went for the cheeseburger, which was massive, juicy, and flat-out delicious (not to mention topped with their homemade BBQ chips!). The fries that came with it were light, crispy, and salty in the best way—but heads-up, they share a fryer, so there’s a cross-contamination risk if you’re super sensitive. Luckily, they also offer their house-made BBQ chips that are crunchy, seasoned, and completely addictive.
If you’re not in the mood for a burger (or you just want an excuse to come back again), try the jerk chicken tacos. They’re gluten-free, pack just the right amount of heat, and are full of bold, satisfying flavours that hit all the right notes.
As for drinks, there’s plenty to choose from even if you’re avoiding gluten. Their featured ciders, wine, and cocktail selections are solid and pair beautifully with the food and chill vibe. Whether you’re sipping something refreshing on the sunny patio or cozied up inside on a rainy day, it just works.
It’s on the pricier side, but it really feels like an experience rather than just a quick bite. The food is high quality, the service is friendly, and the entire place is just plain lovely. Bonus: they’ve got some seriously good merch. Their branding is on point, and the gear is actually cute—think hats, tees, and other goodies that you’ll actually want to wear (speaking from personal experience here).
All in all, Rusted Rake is a little slice of charm on the Island that’s absolutely worth pulling over for. Just don’t let the modest exterior fool you, there’s a lot to love tucked inside.
Summary
Safety: 3/5 | Taste: 5/5 | Experience: 5/5
Total: 13/15
See the summary score breakdown here
