A Taste of Halifax - A Guide to Dining in Halifax, Nova Scotia

How good is the food in Halifax? This post could easily been titled how to gain 10 lbs in four days in Halifax. The food is that good. Luckily for my waistline, I was traveling with a foodie companion who doesn't mind sharing, which allowed me to consume everything you see below. If you are a regular reader of our site you've probably already read about my recent trip to Halifax in my five "Must Do" Experiences article. If not, take a couple minutes to get caught up, we'll wait here for you. Now that we're all caught us here is my guide to dining in Halifax.

WARNING: WHAT YOU ARE ABOUT TO SEE WILL MAKE YOU HUNGRY

Breakfast: 

We all know it's the most important meal of the day. Getting your day, or vacation, off to a good start with a delicious meal fit for a king always sets the tone for what lies ahead. So where better to start a dining guide?

Bluenose II - Just a few blocks from the waterfront this small restaurant serves up huge pancakes and classic breakfast food. It's no exaggeration that a pancake here is the size of a dinner plate. Check it out for a casual breakfast while you map out the rest of your day.

The Coastal Cafe - While technically a brunch hot spot, The Coastal Cafe gets the nod for breakfast too. with generous portions of unusual, yet delectable food combinations (including my personal favourite, the Elvis – which includes a waffle adorned with peanut butter, banana and bacon) you will soon realize that the food is worth the wait to get in!

The Elvis!

The McCoastal breakfast sandwich

Lunch: 

All over Halifax there's amazing food waiting to be enjoyed mid day, a good many with views of the ocean. Here's a rundown of the places we enjoyed

Salty's - With a picturesque view of the harbourfront and a comprehensive menu offering many fresh seafood options, I quickly understood why this was a harbourside hotspot amongst locals and tourists alike.

Delicious crab cakes from Salty's

Brooklyn Warehouse - Offering a simple, yet appealing menu including Nova Scotia beef, fish and pork options. Located just outside of the downtown Halifax core, Brooklyn Warehouse provides a relaxing atmosphere for a casual lunch or dinner with friends.

The Brooklyn burger - N.S beef, P.E.I cheddar and beer infused mustard/mayo. So manly, so good.

Rhubarb - Take my advice from the last article and drive out to Peggy's Cove, but do yourself a favour and avoid the tourist trap lunch spots there. Instead, drive five minutes west on the Route 333 coastal highway to this quaint spot with an ocean view. Rhubarb is a great place to enjoy a casual meal after taking in Peggy's Cove. Menu options include gluten-free battered fish, a Propeller soda marinated beef brisket sandwich, and a variety of thin crust pizzas made with Canada Dry Ginger Ale dough.

Dinner:

The Real Man Travels vacation dinner philosophy is simple. Go big or go home. As the trip diva of the group I may take that a little further than others, however, I found a few absolutely amazing restaurants in Halifax that you just have to try for yourself.

McKelvies - A Halifax landmark, this former fire station (how cool is that?) is located right near the harbour. One of their most popular menu items, the lobster thermidor, is sure to send your tastebuds on vacation. With a romantic yet casual atmosphere, McKelvies is a great spot for a date or to enjoy a nice dinner with family.

Lobster poutine! How much more East Coast Canadian can you get?

McKelvies signature seafood platter is a home run for any seafood lover

Surf and turf with lobster thermidor

Bistro Le Coq - For some incredible and decadent French cuisine, Bistro Le Coq is sure to impress even the most meticulous critic. With sharable cheese and charcuterie platters, a variety of French classics (including croque monsieur, quiche and crepes) and foodie favourites, along with understated yet sophisticated atmosphere, Bistro Le Coq is a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or dinner. Located in the heart of Halifax's lively Argyle Street, its also a great place to dine before taking in a show at the nearby Neptune Theatre. NOTE: Not pictured is an absolutely amazing mussels appetizer that I highly recommend.

Large cheese plate that is to die for

Classic french onion soup

Scallops with ratatouille 

Prime striploin with fingerling potatoes

Chive Canadian Bistro - If locally sourced food is up your alley, Chives Canadian Bistro is a definite must-see. Offering a chic interior that contains beautiful wood, rock and water features, and providing a number of meat, vegetarian and gluten-free options to patrons, guests leave feeling satisfied and attended to. Consistently ranking among the best restaurants in Canada, it will not disappoint any hungry traveler.

Cape Breton snow crab spring roll with braised pork belly

Lobster gnudi "A La King"

The fish dish - Always local, always fresh

Steak 2 Ways

Dessert- There's a clear cut run away winner for where to get dessert in Halifax. As I type this I can't help but drool all over my keyboard.

The Middle Spoon - The Middle Spoon is the place to go. Period. End of story. The convenient location right off Barrington Street, combined with a romantic atmosphere (decorated with lots of white, black and red fabrics) and desserts that are big enough to share, make this the perfect spot for a late night treat with that special someone. The molten lava chocolate cake is out of this world, and you can build your own sundae with unique and delicious topping choices.

Unreal molten lavacake

Sundae with cookie dough, chocolate sauce and peanut butter drizzle

Night Cap - Here's a fun little tidbit you aren't likely to find elsewhere. There's this speakeasy in Halifax called The Noble. If you know the secret phrase you can enjoy unique twists on classic cocktails in a secret bar located right near one of the places mentioned in the article. I really shouldn't even be telling you this. This place is like Fight Club. The first rule of The Noble, is don't talk about The Noble. Even the staff plays dumb when you mention it without the password. Just go to their twitter account and click around. Put your email in, and Thursday morning they will send you the pass phrase. You didn't hear it from me, capeesh?


Well there it is, my guide to dining in Halifax. Whether you enjoy seafood, meat or vegetarian options; have a moderate or exquisite budget; are looking for a large meal or a quick bite, Halifax has something delicious and amazing for you to discover. Bon appetit!

Have a favourite place we didn't mention? Let us know in the comment section below

Sam

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Five Things to Do in St. John’s, Newfoundland

A post by Scott F

St. John’s is the epitome of a little-big town. A city that, despite its size and majesty, still retains a feeling of coziness that makes visitors feel instantly welcome. While not the easiest thing to do, I managed to (sort of) narrow our experience down to a few key themes, all of which led to our exceptional experience in the heart of the Rock.

George Street

George Street holds the coveted distinction of hosting the “most bars and pubs per square foot of any street in North America.” That’s enough to cause any man to fall on their knees and exalt in Wayne’s World-type fashion, “we are not worthy!” But what really stands out about George Street is that is isn’t as touristy as one might expect. Instead you get a great mix of enthusiastic islanders and dumbstruck mainlanders all out for a good time. We found our way to O’Reilly’s Irish Newfoundland Pub where we were fortunate enough to catch a show by the outstanding Irish Descendants. Naturally, George Street is also the destination for those needing to be “screeched in” as official Newfoundlanders (Christian’s Bar does a fantastic job). Don’t look it up - just pucker up and do it.

REALLY see the Sights

Take in the incredible walk up to and around Signal Hill. There is a fantastic trail that takes you around the hill with stunning views of the city and the ocean. Take the quick drive to Cape Spear, Canada’s most easterly point, and walk the East Coast Trail that winds along the massive cliff overlooking the ocean.

Drink the Beers

Ya’ll knew I wouldn’t forget the beer. We found our way to two breweries during our time in St. John’s, and neither disappointed. Most highly recommended is the Quidi Vidi Brewing Company located on the breathtaking Quidi Vidi harbour. Don’t miss their feature brew, Iceberg, which boasts being made with 25,000 year old iceberg water. A truly refreshing lager, worth its more expensive price tag on warm summer nights. Their Eric’s Cream Ale and 1892 Traditional Ale are also solid selections.

  

YellowBelly Brewery and Public House is a great spot for some good food washed down with fresh beer made on site. St. John’s Stout is the beer to try. Delicious with hints of dark chocolate, coffee and tobacco; definitely worth a session.

Take a Drive just out of Town

The sights don’t end at the edge of town. Bell Island is a short drive a ferry crossing away. Home to a now defunct iron-ore mine, Bell Island feels a world away. Take in the mine tour; our guide was a third generation miner from Bell Island who explained the genuine hardships of life in the mine. Very humbling. Take a drive out to the lighthouse on the Island, as not to miss this:

Petty Harbour was equally worth the short drive. If you're looking for a bite to eat, try Chafe’s Landing of You Gotta Eat Here fame.

Walk

Do yourself a favour and just walk (starting at the top of the hill of course, if you know what’s good for you). The jellybean houses and views of the bay are breathtaking and need to be seen from the vast variety of vantages the city has to offer.

Travelers tip: download the Newfoundland and Labrador tourism app – it’s an valuable resource for attractions, inns, hiking routes, restaurants and a whole lot more.

Long may your jib draw. Avancez!

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