Helping companies, families and you save more
The White Whale is a renowned restaurant that opened its doors on Canada Day in 2014, providing a sanctuary for great beer and fresh, locally-sourced food. Although the White Whale has recently announced its closure, we are grateful for the support received from our guests over the years. We encourage you to explore the other wonderful dining options available in the area. Some of our top recommendations include Delicado's Courtenay, Mudsharks Coffee Bar, High Tide Public House, and Nikkei Ramen-ya.
Honouring Local First Nations Legend
Our name, "White Whale, " is derived from a local First Nations legend, specifically the Comox Glacier, known as "Queneesh" in the Indigenous language. The legend tells the story of a great flood that threatened the Indigenous people's livelihood in the region. As the waters approached, the community came together, working tirelessly to prepare for the disaster. When all hope seemed lost, the Comox Glacier released from the land, providing a floating surface for the people to gather on for safety. The legend of the Great White Whale was born when the glacier settled back into its place, and the rains and flooding subsided.
At the White Whale, we strive to honour this legend by offering a gathering place for our community to enjoy local flavours and foster social connections. Our founder and owner, Robin McKamey, grew up in the Comox Valley and has a deep appreciation for the area's bountiful local farms and fisheries. After spending eight years working as a plumber and gasfitter in Alberta, Robin decided to return to his roots and open a business that highlights the best of the Comox Valley.
Partnerships with Local Producers
The White Whale is proud to partner with a variety of local producers, including:
- Natural Pastures Cheese / Little Qualicum Cheeseworks / Village Cheeseworks
- Tannadice Farms / Mountain View Farm / Island Bison / Island Farmhouse Poultry
- Freedom Farm / Seaview Game Farm
- Bates Beach Farm / Berrybest Farm / Seal Bay Farm / Eatmore Sprouts & Greens
- Clever Crow Sea Salt / Holliewood Oysters / Komo Gway Oysters / Kusshi Oysters / Fanny Bay Oysters
- Mac's Oysters / Outlandish Shellfish Guild / Effingham Oysters / Salish Seafoods / Two Rivers Meats
- Organic Ocean / Cowichan Pasta Company / Ponderosa Mushrooms / Misty Mountain
- Estevan Tuna / Canadian Kelp Resources / Gunter Brothers / Ceylon Spices / Sip Sodas
- Prontissima Pasta / Oyama Sausage / Yarrow Meadows / Baji Naan / Birds and the Beans Farm
- Mount Royal Bagels / Kaslo Pasta / World Community Coffee / Hornby Island Teas / Milano Coffee
- Big Dee's Honey / Harmonic Arts Botanical Dispensary / Beaufort Winery / Averill Creek Winery
- Coastal Black Winery / Blue Moon Winery / 40 Knots Winery / Arbutus Distillery
- Cumberland Brewing Company / Vancouver Island Brewing Company / Phillips Brewing Company
- Forbidden Brewing Company / Merridale Cidery / Ace Brewing / Land & Sea Brewing / New Tradition
- Wayward Distillation House / Sheeringham Distillery / Gladstone Brewing Company
Our chef and team have dedicated countless hours to forging relationships with local farms, fisheries, and food producers to create a unique, ever-changing menu that highlights the best the Comox Valley has to offer. From fresh oysters to a rotating selection of 15 BC craft beers and Prosecco on tap, the White Whale has something for everyone.
A Warm and Inviting Atmosphere
The White Whale's welcoming interior, friendly staff, and huge waterfront patio and boat-accessible dock have made it a favourite among both locals and visitors
Food and Service
The majority of reviewers had positive experiences with the food at this restaurant, describing it as "unique", "delicious", and "enjoyable". Some standout dishes mentioned include the pizzas, oysters, and fusion dishes. However, some reviewers noted that the portions are small and the prices are high.
Atmosphere and Ambiance
The patio area is a major highlight, with many reviewers praising the beautiful views and pleasant atmosphere. The restaurant also has a good selection of craft beers and a rustic, industrial-chic decor.
Ambiguity and Consistency
Some reviewers mentioned that the quality of the food has decreased over time, and that the prices have increased. A few reviewers also mentioned that the service can be inconsistent, with some servers being excellent and others being mediocre.
Value
A few reviewers felt that the prices were too high for the portion sizes, and that the quality of the food didn't quite match the cost. However, many reviewers were willing to overlook this due to the unique menu offerings and pleasant atmosphere.
Be the first to review The White Whale Restaurant.
Write a Review
