Where to Eat Out in Nova Scotia

May 27, 2024

Aimee

A list of my favourite restaurants in Halifax, and around the province, for those wondering where to eat out in Nova Scotia.

“What is your favourite restaurant in Halifax?” This is the number one question I’m asked as a local foodie. Having lived here over six years now, I am happy to say that I have sampled a sizeable amount of the local cuisine.

My first full year here – 2019 – I was a judge for a local food publication. My final tally of culinary experiences by December was over eighty establishments. Now that included take-out, pop-ups, cafes and restaurants, but still, it was a glorious pre-pandemic year.

The best restaurants in Nova Scotia have heart and soul, usually boast a killer view and the freshest seafood. Service is friendly and professional. Read on for my recommendations on where to eat in Nova Scotia.

The Restaurant Critic

My professional opinion goes far beyond food writer. For those curious, here are my credentials as a taste tester.

Firstly, I have a restaurant background, and am well versed in both the front and back of the establishment. I worked as chef du parti at the world-famous Toque! for three years, as well as many other restaurants in Montreal.

When I dine out, I am paying close attention to every detail of both the service and the cuisine from start to finish. It’s mixed blessing, believe me! Sometimes I wish I could tune out the critic.

Secondly, as a chef turned recipe developer, I know how a dish should work, how it should be seasoned and the ideal temperature it should be enjoyed. I know the cost and effort that goes into a dish.

Thirdly, I closely follow food trends and am an eco-conscious eater. I want to see restaurants promoting local ingredients and embracing the zero waste movement.

For example, Chef Renée of The Canteen starts her weekend at the famers market and serves up some of the best seafood dishes in the province. The Canteen delivers a creative twist on traditional local fare, with an eye on the future of food systems, and still manage to be a pillar in the community.

Lastly, I pay attention to the joy of an establishment; I don’t care for stuffy or pretentious.

Now onto the list! PS: I’ll do Nova Scotia cafes and bakeries in separate post…much like Montreal.

Here’s Where to Eat in Halifax

These are my favourite spots to grab a bite in Halifax. I also have a list equally as long of places to try. I acknowledge that I have not tried every restaurant….yet.

The Canteen on Portland: Best Nova Scotian Food

As mentioned above, this spot is a beloved institution. Get the famous Crobster Roll and try the chowder, too.

The Narrows Public House: Best Maritime Pub Vibe

Looking for craft beer and great food in a cozy, eclectic pub? There’s no better spot than The Narrows.

Side Hustle Snack Bar: Image by Jessica Emin

Side Hustle Snack Bar: Best Family Casual

Kathy and the team here have nailed upscale fast casual fare (yes it’s a thing!). Bring the family along and be sure to try the famous ‘Smashie’ as well as those dumplings.

The Orient: Best Asian

Our favourite spot for a big family celebration dinner. Chef Ivan Chan is a master chef and a force in the local hospitality industry. Every dish on the menu is a winner; it’s impossible to pick a favourite.

Highwayman: Best Cocktails & Tapas

Go for the chilled & cured seafood tapas menu; stay for the world class (literally) cocktail menu. Behind the bar is local hero Keegan McGregor, who is the newly crowned Diageo World Class Canada National Winner.

Bar Kismet: Best Pasta

Award-winning for a reason, this cozy spot it ideal for a romantic date or girl dinner. It features some of the best cocktails in town and a sophisticated menu that it executed to a T.

Drift: Best Patio Brunch

My preferred spot for a lazy weekend brunch, Drift is the best Halifax has to offer. Relax into the elegance and comfort of the waterfront patio and feast on beautifully prepared dishes that highlight local ingredients and cuisine. Get the fishcakes!

The Ostrich Club: Best Small Plates

Feeling snacky? Grab friends who love to share and prepare to be wowed by the flavours of the entire Ostrich Club menu. Be sure to try the shrimp dumplings and the beef short ribs.

Cafe Lunette: Best Bistro

The former Montrealer in me is always going to adore a French-inspired establishment. This menu has all my bistro favourites, from a decadent Boeuf Bourguignon dinner to a flawless Crème brûlée finish. Santé!

Dear Friend: Best Happy Hour Oysters

If you find yourself in Dartmouth in the afternoon, there is no better place to be then enjoying the oyster happy hour on the Dear Friend patio. Get comfortable, because they boast a rocking snacks menu (and one of the most epic seafood platters in the province).

Fawn: Best Afternoon Tea

Fawn is one of the few spots in Halifax that offers a proper English afternoon tea. Every bite is bliss (although a bit heartier than London fare) and the dazzlingly beautiful dining room is the perfect setting.

Best Restaurants Around Nova Scotia

My family and I love to road trip around NS, eating our way from top to bottom. I’ve already shared our Top 10 Things to Do in Nova Scotia, so here’s a closer look at the best restaurants around the ocean playground province.

L’Abri Café: Best Overall

Magical views, elevated menu, charming dining room and expertly executed food. What more could you want? Nothing. L’Abri is the best restaurant in Cape Breton and well worth the road trip.

Juniper Food & Wine: Best Date Night

Prepared to be wowed by this tiny establishment on the main street of darling Wolfville. Local ingredients are given the respect and care they deserve on this ever-changing, world class menu. Juniper is a hidden gem; book an intimate table for your next date night.

Junction Sixteen: Best Pizza

I found the best pizza in the province. Yes I said it. An old remodelled train station in Bridgetown, NS. is cranking out some dang delicious wood-fired pies – and serving up excellent pasta, too. A fantastic spot to bring the whole family or book for a big group celebration.

Wild Caraway: Best Patio with a view

Travel to the end of the earth (or a distant corner of Nova Scotia called Advocate Harbour) and you’ll be rewarded for your efforts by an intimate, family run restaurant that champions local ingredients. What a spot! Wild Caraway just might be our best kept secret.

Selkie’s: Best Brunch (takeaway too)

As a frequent traveler with a pack of hungry teens, I make it my business to know the best spots for a huge brunch that can fuel a day of waterfall hikes and beach combing. No other brunch left us as satiated (and a tad emotional) as Selkie’s Neighbourhood Diner in Sydney, Cape Breton. Here’s more Cape Breton recommendations.

Lightfoot & Wolfville Patio: Best Winery

Good for the sparkling wine tasting, stay for the wood-fired pizza and sexy charcuterie boards. L&W is my number one destination in the Annapolis Valley wine region; do not miss!

Le Caveau: Best Fine Dining

If you’re looking to book a relaxed dinner in a extraordinary setting, reserve a table on the patio of Le Caveau. The menu is upscale and well executed; this team knows their stuff!

The Half Shell Oyster Bar: Best Seafood Experience

Here’s an establishment where you can enjoy as much Nova Scotia seafood as your heart desires — all with a stunning view of historical Lunenburg waterfront. This open air patio is truly transporting!

LaHave Bakery: Best Picnic Lunch Stop

Casual comfort food, here’s where to stop and gather provisions for your road trips, camping excursions and cottage weekends. Ahhh. I’m so ready to hit the road!

Bessie North House: Sweetest Escape

In the gorgeous Annapolis Valley sits the darling Bessie House, and in it, an intimate, exclusive 12- seat restaurant. Tasting menus are thoughtfully curated by Chef David Smart and showcase the bounty of the lush valley. If you can book a table, I guarantee this will be a feast to remember.

To be continued… These restaurants below are recommended by friends and are on my wish list. The quest for where to eat out in Nova Scotia is ever ongoing!