Peach Pyramid is the project of Calgary-raised, Victoria-based singer-songwriter Jen Severtson, who juxtaposes sweet, graceful melodies with a journey toward healing from abuse. Her most recent album, Repeating Myself, was released last fall on fellow Victorian Kathryn Calder's Oscar St. Records label. Severtson shared her favourite Victoria spots. Location photos by Lindsey Blane.
Vinyl Envy (1717 Quadra St.)
I have a small record collection that has been slowly increasing thanks to my favourite vinyl stop in Victoria. Vinyl Envy is one of our newest record shops, and they have quickly become a sanctuary for the community to enjoy all-ages shows that range from punk rock to jazz.
Cold Comfort (1115 N. Park St.)
Ice cream is my favourite thing in the world. Cold Comfort takes that love to the next level. Every pint and ice cream sandwich is handcrafted with love and organic ingredients. Favourites include the Phillips root beer flavour and, of course, the peach bourbon ice cream sammies.
Logan's (1821 Cook St.)
A dive well known for their Tuesday night combo karaoke/wing night. But what a lot of people don't know is that Logan's is actually an unreal hangover brunch spot — my favourite is "The Fernwoodian" Eggs Benedict. I think it's on par with some of Victoria's best brunch spots without the hour-long wait to get in. The secret is out!
Dallas Road Beach (100 Cook St.)
On the foot of Beacon Hill Park is a rocky beach where dogs enthusiastically play in the ocean. On a clear day, you have a gorgeous view of the Georgia Strait and the Olympic Mountains. On a grey and stormy day, you can watch the waves pound against the rocky beach. One of my favourite summer spots to bring some pals, a blanket and a very large but incognito bottle of cider.
KH Silver Nails (783 Fort St.)
Something that I found out about myself this year is I really enjoy getting my nails done. Shellac gel makes them rock hard, which is actually awesome for playing guitar and bass. KH Silver has some colourful characters that won't let you leave without multiple glasses of white wine (big emphasis on multiple) and pockets full of candy. And they finish off their mani-pedis with hot stone calf massages. Nuff said.
Tacofino (787 Fort St.)
I have a serious addiction to tacos. Victoria is actually home to multiple awesome taco bars, but for me, Tacofino will always be champion. The "Superveg" burrito is heavenly, their fish tacos are crispy and seriously bomb. The staff is hilarious, and their playlist is always on point!
Fan Tan Alley
This narrow street in Victoria's Chinatown is home to over a dozen local shops, restaurants and artist lofts. A must-see if you enjoy selfies with red lanterns and twinkly lights. And most of the addresses in the alley are something out of a Harry Potter book.
Moss St.
Character Craftsman-style houses are framed by white and pink cherry blossom trees that lead all the way down to the ocean. A couple of houses have big Sitka spruces that are probably close to 400 years old. Every Saturday, the street is occupied by local organic farmers selling their fresh produce. If you ever need to daydream about not being a broke musician, look no further.
Vinyl Envy (1717 Quadra St.)
I have a small record collection that has been slowly increasing thanks to my favourite vinyl stop in Victoria. Vinyl Envy is one of our newest record shops, and they have quickly become a sanctuary for the community to enjoy all-ages shows that range from punk rock to jazz.
Cold Comfort (1115 N. Park St.)
Ice cream is my favourite thing in the world. Cold Comfort takes that love to the next level. Every pint and ice cream sandwich is handcrafted with love and organic ingredients. Favourites include the Phillips root beer flavour and, of course, the peach bourbon ice cream sammies.
Logan's (1821 Cook St.)
A dive well known for their Tuesday night combo karaoke/wing night. But what a lot of people don't know is that Logan's is actually an unreal hangover brunch spot — my favourite is "The Fernwoodian" Eggs Benedict. I think it's on par with some of Victoria's best brunch spots without the hour-long wait to get in. The secret is out!
Dallas Road Beach (100 Cook St.)
On the foot of Beacon Hill Park is a rocky beach where dogs enthusiastically play in the ocean. On a clear day, you have a gorgeous view of the Georgia Strait and the Olympic Mountains. On a grey and stormy day, you can watch the waves pound against the rocky beach. One of my favourite summer spots to bring some pals, a blanket and a very large but incognito bottle of cider.
KH Silver Nails (783 Fort St.)
Something that I found out about myself this year is I really enjoy getting my nails done. Shellac gel makes them rock hard, which is actually awesome for playing guitar and bass. KH Silver has some colourful characters that won't let you leave without multiple glasses of white wine (big emphasis on multiple) and pockets full of candy. And they finish off their mani-pedis with hot stone calf massages. Nuff said.
Tacofino (787 Fort St.)
I have a serious addiction to tacos. Victoria is actually home to multiple awesome taco bars, but for me, Tacofino will always be champion. The "Superveg" burrito is heavenly, their fish tacos are crispy and seriously bomb. The staff is hilarious, and their playlist is always on point!
Fan Tan Alley
This narrow street in Victoria's Chinatown is home to over a dozen local shops, restaurants and artist lofts. A must-see if you enjoy selfies with red lanterns and twinkly lights. And most of the addresses in the alley are something out of a Harry Potter book.
Moss St.
Character Craftsman-style houses are framed by white and pink cherry blossom trees that lead all the way down to the ocean. A couple of houses have big Sitka spruces that are probably close to 400 years old. Every Saturday, the street is occupied by local organic farmers selling their fresh produce. If you ever need to daydream about not being a broke musician, look no further.
