Halibut is a new summer feature at the Mahle House, served as delicious fish and chips or pan-seared with succulent, freshly grown vegetables. (Spencer Sterritt/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

seafood feast

Signature Dish: Mahle House’s halibut, both pan-seared and fish & chips

Jun 18, 2021 | 11:00 AM

NANAIMO — You can’t get a more authentic farm-to-table experience than at the Mahle House in Cedar.

A small farm was originally on the property providing some fresh vegetables and greens but the current owners have expanded the options by moving the farm off the property to their rural lot also in Cedar.

Head chef Luke Griffin says it’s a difference customers can taste, especially the many regulars who’ve fallen in love with Mahle House in the last 40 years.

“We’re picking our vegetables that day and using them on a plate that evening. It speaks a lot when we’re able to provide that for our customers. They know they’re not only supporting a local restaurant but a local family at the same time.”

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The local touch is highlighted in their halibut offerings this summer.

First is a hearty piece of halibut pan-seared and served with vegetables grown on the Mahle House farm. The radishes add a dazzling slice of spice and sweetness throughout the dish, tempered by the succulent arugula, cucumbers and mushrooms.

Second is halibut fish and chips, a pub favourite turned into a savoury high-end dish. The pieces of fish are thick and the batter is crispy without being greasy. It’s both a hefty and light dish at the same time, complemented by a homemade coleslaw and homecut fries.

Either options is a perfect dish for a warm summer meal at the Mahle House. The homemade feel of the dishes, but better than anything you could make in your own kitchen, perfectly complement the atmosphere and allure of the restaurant.

It started 40 years ago when customers were welcomed into the home by the Mahle family.

“It’s an old house, laid out like an old house, but that lends to the experience,” Griffin said.

Inside you’ll find an uncluttered but cozy dining room with soft light from outside and gentle features highlighting the history of the home. There’s ample seating across two main eating areas and a bar.

It’s perfectly sized to hum along with the entertaining energy of a full restaurant without sacrificing intimacy and charm at your table.

You could be seated beside your neighbour or a tourist enjoying the beautiful Vancouver Island views.

“Everyone’s very close out here in Cedar, it’s a very tight-knit community,” Griffin said. “But it also creates that destination restaurant experience people are looking for that offers sustainability and self-growth.”

Mahle House offers both indoor and outdoor seating at 2104 Hemer Rd. in Cedar. Take out is also available.

They’re open for dinner from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. from Wednesday to Sunday.

More information can be found online.

Signature Dish is brought to you by Island Savings – A Division of First West Credit Union, learn more at https://www.islandsavings.ca/.

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