The story behind Auntie Pesto's

Shawn Walton and Elisabeth Bell both grew up in Ontario but met on Salt Spring Island at the Mrs. Clean Laundromat. Shawn was a waiter at a popular local restaurant and Lis was doing an apprenticeship on an organic farm. It was very nearly love at first sight and two years later they were married by a J.P. on their property on Salt Spring. Another two years and they had a beautiful baby boy, a thriving business, a dog, two cats and a constantly renovating house. Who knew??!!

As both had many years experience in the hospitality industry, when an opportunity to own their own place came up they jumped at the chance and Bouzouki Greek Café became Auntie Pesto’s Café and Deli, a place o get a great sandwich and a hearty bowl of soup without breaking the bank. Lis and Shawn both felt strongly that fresh ingredients, made from scratch were important and so they concentrated on creating a menu with a broad range of flavors and taste while incorporating those ideals. A menu that reflects seasonal produce and quality local goods, something for everyone; and they insisted on large portions so no one leaves hungry. Fresh grilled sandwiches, pasta a-la-minute, fresh made soups daily and daily baked goods have made Auntie Pesto’s a well known spot for a good consistent meal. Soon they expanded to include breakfast and dinners as well as event catering.

Like all good restaurants, Auntie Pesto’s has a life of it’s own, it changes and grows all the time but ultimately Auntie Pesto’s is an extension of Shawn and Lis and their belief in quality and consistency. It’s roots lie in Mediterranean influences from their childhoods as well as their own personal choices about food, it is simply put a nice place to sit and watch the tide change while you bite into a great sandwich, a good spot to meet a friend for coffee, and an even better spot for a glass of wine on the deck while the sun goes down where the view is constantly inspiring and ever changing. Whatever your mode Shawn and Lis and everyone at Auntie Pesto’s hope you enjoy our little restaurant.