Our Favourite Restaurants in Halifax
Oh, Halifax! Juxtaposed between the endless Atlantic Ocean and the rugged Canadian landscape, this vibrant city has a charm of its own that extends far beyond its picturesque scenery. Here, the whispers of the sea intermingle with the laughter and chatter from the bustling piers, creating an infectious medley of sounds, sights, and smells.
But wait! What’s that mouthwatering aroma wafting through the salty air?
It’s the soulful heart of Halifax – it’s enduring, ever-evolving culinary scene.
Halifax has a rich and diverse food culture with a unique blend of the old and the new, the traditional and the innovative. You’re in for a gastronomic adventure—from the comfort of a classic seafood chowder to the modern twist of fusion cuisine. Yes, indeed, foodies rejoice! We’re diving forks first into Halifax’s culinary delights.
Here’s our round-up of 12 must-try restaurants in Halifax that encapsulate its culinary identity, painting a vibrant picture of the city’s evolving food scene.
Header Image Source: The Bicycle Thief Facebook Page
Bar Kismet
Bar Kismet rises above the ordinary, serving up an enchanting experience that tantalises the senses and soothes the soul. As its patrons often rave, this is no ordinary venue—class and charm converge, rendering it a culinary gem. A recent ranking as a top 15 restaurant in Canada affirms its standing, yet this is not a tale of complacency; instead, it’s a relentless quest for perfection.
At the heart of Bar Kismet lies its riveting selection of cocktails that gracefully dance on the palate. Unique, imaginative, and as reviewers gush, ‘wacky’, these cocktails are crafted using a curated spirit list ranked among the best in the country. Whether you seek the unusual ‘For Whom The Bell Sotols’ or a classic with a twist, prepare for a taste sensation that will leave you spellbound.
Yet, the real centrepiece of Bar Kismet is its awe-inspiring menu. Shining stars in its culinary constellation, dishes like the Charred Carrots with Crab and Bearnaise, Ahi Tuna Tartare & Allumettes Fries, and the unforgettable Cod, cast a tantalising spell. Seafood lovers will find solace here, as offerings like Raw Scallops, Oysters, and Halibut vie for attention alongside the unique Vitello Tonnato. Even the humble Carrot is elevated to an art form, featuring regularly in reviews. Those seeking a hint of indulgence can find solace in the Gorgonzola Gnocchi & Burnt Walnut, promising a texture and flavour medley that borders on the sublime.
Address: 2733 Agricola St, Halifax, NS B3K 4E2
Phone: (902) 487-4319
Social: Instagram
The Bicycle Thief
Every dish at the Bicycle Thief is crafted with love and a deep appreciation for the rich, diverse bounty of the sea. The lobster thermidor has been celebrated by patrons while the butterscotch cake’s layered decadence leaves dessert lovers swooning.
This veritable gastronomic heaven is more than just a restaurant. It is a journey of flavours, a community of food enthusiasts, a home away from home. Isn’t it time you took a seat at one of their tables and experienced it all for yourself?
The Bicycle Thief, where culinary dreams meet reality – Come for the food, stay for the experience.
Address: 1475 Lower Water St, Halifax, NS B3J 3Z2
Phone: (902) 425-7993
Café Lunette
Awaken your senses and allow your palate to embark on a culinary journey at Café Lunette. Ranked 74th in Canada’s Top 100 Restaurants 2023 edition, this quintessential French café in Halifax is more than just a dining spot; it’s an experience.
Seasoned enthusiasts rave about our brunch menu, a symphony of flavour and freshness that caters to all taste buds. From our hearty eggs benedict to the delectably filling crossaintwich, every bite is a testament to the skill that goes into our creations. Do not be disheartened if you miss brunch; the avocado toast garnished with salted ricotta and an irresistible fig compôte has received endless accolades from our guests.
As the sun dips, Café Lunette transforms into a classic French bistro, the air buzzing with fervour and passion. Their dinner offerings, such as the delectable boeuf bourguignon and exquisite duck confit, will transport you straight to the rustic lanes of France. Options are not limited to meat-lovers alone; there are also vegetarian options on the menu.
Address: 1741 Lower Water St #160, Halifax, NS B3J 0J2
Phone: (902) 334-1300
Fawn
Hidden within the hustle and bustle of Halifax, nestled on South Park Street, lays a culinary gem simply known as Fawn. A place where not only the food but the atmosphere and service work in harmony to deliver an unforgettable dining experience that gets under your skin and stays there, stirring your senses and calling you back.
Prepare yourself for a culinary journey, dancing from the crispy perfection of their renowned French fries, to the tender and succulent burst of flavour that is the perfectly cooked steak. The richness of the crab dip, the elegance of the salmon blini, the simple yet exquisite beauty of a burger done right – each plate at Fawn is a testament to the joy of fine dining.
Address: 1589 South Park St, Halifax, NS B3H 2W7
Phone: (902) 422-5524
Social: Instagram
Peacock Wine Bar
Exult in the meticulously curated selection in our impressive wine list, a testament to our dedication to bringing joy to the palates of our discerning patrons. Our wines are not just beverages. They are the lingering whispers of sun-soaked vineyards, the echoes of artisanship, and the promise of a shared memory etched into the heart of your glass.
Boasting a diverse and tantalising menu, Peacock Wine Bar has expertly cultivated a dining experience as vivid and varied as its namesake. Dishes like ravioli, cavatelli pasta, focaccia bread, bufala mozzarella and squash agrodolce have all been lavished with praise, garnering it a reputation as a culinary gem in the city.
The drinks menu shines a spotlight on their extensive wine list. Curated with precision and passion, it takes guests on a vibrant journey through enchanting vineyards while expert James offers his detailed knowledge to guide your selection. Complement your wine with their praised oysters topped with Prosecco foam, a treat that has left customers coming back for more.
Address: 1715 Lower Water St #134, Halifax, NS B3J 0J4
Phone: (902) 334-4869
Dear Friend
Expect a dazzling menagerie of sumptuous cocktails, leaving your tastebuds tantalisingly intrigued. Be captivated by the varied, handcrafted cocktail menu that showcases the establishment’s undying dedication to the art of mixology.
But it’s not just about drinks. The menu is a cornucopia of gastronomic adventures. Indulge in the seafood bounty of Nova Scotia with succulent oysters, local lobster, and the freshest catches from local fisheries. And if your taste buds crave for more, a plethora of savoury snacks promises to satisfy the most discerning palate.
Don’t let your taste buds miss out on this euphoric blend of food, drinks, laughter, and memories. Make a reservation, gather your dear friends, and prepare for a night to remember at Dear Friend Bar. Your culinary journey, laced with emotion, joy, and unforgettable flavours, starts here.
Address: 67 Portland St, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 1H1
Email: reservedearfriend@gmail.com
The Narrows Public House
Prepare to be mesmerised, as you step into an atmosphere characterised by an eclectic mix of antiques and books. Each table houses its own cribbage board, adding a unique touch to the ambience. The scent of wood burning in the fireplace fills the air, old country music reverberates softly, and friendly servers cater to your every whim, encapsulating the essence of genuine hospitality.
But what is a pub without its food? At The Narrows Public House, the culinary offerings go beyond the ordinary. From the quintessential fish and chips to the surprisingly delightful bologna sandwich, the menu at Narrows excites many a palate. The unique dishes, such as deviled eggs and potted smoked mackerel, prompt guests to try something different, eliciting an eruption of unexpected flavours.
Address: 2720 Gottingen St, Halifax, NS B3K 3C7
Stillwell
In the beating heart of Nova Scotia’s Halifax, an oasis of craft brewing excellence has emerged, a sanctuary that answers the call for the perfect pint — Stillwell Brewing Company. This veritable cathedral of brews has swiftly grown a reputation that resonates across the world, a testament to the creative spirit of those who dare to venture forth into the uncharted areas of brewing.
From their Freehouse to their Beergarden, Stillwell is more than just a brewery; it’s a cultured community that appreciates fine tastes and vibrant vibes. Their venues burst with vivid life, acting as a magnet for beer enthusiasts who thirst for refreshingly innovative and delectably distinctive local brews.
But Stillwell doesn’t just quench Halifax’s thirst for quality ales: it satisfies the city’s hunger for gastronomic delights as well. Beyond the beer kegs and brewing vats, the brewery delights locals and tourists alike with a menu that sings with unique local flavours. From the decadent Tokyo fries to the divine fish sandwiches, every bite is a testament to the culinary prowess that complements their brewing brilliance.
Address: 1672 Barrington St, Halifax, NS B3J 2A2
Phone: (902) 421-1672
Gio
Gio is the culinary pearl of Halifax that too many have yet to uncover.
Let’s begin with the food. Gio’s ever-evolving, seasonal menu is a gastronomic delight. The star of many reviews, the scallops, are a must-try. Enveloped in a sweet, creamy, savoury sauce, it’s a dish that will haunt your dreams. Their take on the traditional ceviche, using the freshest of fish and a tangy lime-salt seasoning, is another entrant in the hall of fame.
And then there are the surprises! The parsnip dessert, hailed as a ‘cute’ twist on the more traditional spice cake, promises to keep your taste buds guessing. If that’s not enough, just mention the short ribs or octopus, the aromatic Chana Masala, or the heavenly homemade mango chutney, and your mouth will undoubtedly start watering.
Address: 1725 Market St, Halifax, NS B3J 3N9
Phone: (902) 425-1987
EDNA Restaurant
Edna has become the heartbeat of Halifax’s culinary scene, evoking strong emotions and unforgettable dining experiences that tug at the heartstrings of both locals and tourists alike.
At Edna, each dish is a testament to culinary craftsmanship. The menu, a symphony of flavours, has bewitched food connoisseurs with signature dishes such as the Seared Scallops, a mosaic of taste described as “utterly amazing” by guests. The Beef Tartare is another masterpiece that tantalises the palate, having garnered rave reviews for its rich and robust flavours.
What’s equally impressive is Edna’s inventive pairing of food and cocktails. Adventurous patrons are often caught marvelling at the unique and eclectic cocktail offerings, providing an added layer of intrigue and enjoyment to the dining experience.
Address: 2053 Gottingen St, Halifax, NS B3K 3B2
Phone: (902) 429-2550
The Five Fishermen
Transcend an ordinary night out and immerse yourself into an ocean of culinary wonders at The Five Fishermen. Located at the heart of Halifax, this captivating spot is far more than just a restaurant. It’s a symphony of gastronomy that engulfs your senses, enticing locals and travellers alike with its alluring charm.
However, The Five Fishermen’s culinary prowess doesn’t stop at the sea’s edge. Their surf and turf combination of steak and lobster is an outstanding choice that many recommend, the peppercorn gravy being a delightful companion.
The Five Fishermen’s diverse menu is crafted with careful precision and an inherent passion for quality. The Nova Scotia crab cakes, the mussel’s marinière, and the shrimp and sausage tagliatelle are all dishes that earn glowing reviews for their freshness and delectable flavours.
Address: 1740 Argyle St, Halifax, NS B3J 2B6
Phone: (902) 422-4421
Final Thoughts
Your gastronomic journey doesn’t stop there—Halifax is continually evolving, promising newer, more exciting food destinations. The city’s chefs are not only preserving tradition but also embracing change, weaving creativity into the culinary fabric of Halifax, and creating food that’s as expressive as it is delicious.
Fusion cuisines, sustainable practices, and a renewed focus on authentic, locally-sourced ingredients are representing the changing palate of Halifax’s food landscape. So, the next time you’re in Halifax, be sure to check out the city’s exciting culinary offerings.
