Are you looking for the best restaurants in Halifax? Then you’ve come to the right place!
From breakfast joints handing out heaping helpings on the Halifax waterfront to cozy restaurants housed in historic buildings, this city certainly caters to every taste – although we must admit that the local seafood rules the menu here.
Think lobster tails smothered in butter, mussels simmered in garlic sauce, pillowy lobster rolls, fresh mussels washed down with craft beer… Halifax is no stranger to good food!
But enough talking. Here are the best restaurants in Halifax!
Le Bistro By Liz
Known as one of the best restaurants in Halifax by locals, Le Bistro By Liz is a charming French Bistro that features lots of Parisian Cafe favourites, cooked in an open-style kitchen. We loved this restaurant and we loved meeting Liz and learning about her story of rising from a server at the same place (different restaurant but same location) to becoming the owner. Does it get any better?
The French-inspired décor features tables topped with red and white checkered tablecloths and a glassed-in atrium with lots of greenery, making it a lovely place for a casual dinner or a date. They even have a nice patio for those wanting to sit outdoors on a warm summer day. They offer quick lunches, great brunches and delicious dinners, complete with live entertainment on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.
While we weren’t able to try everything, we can certainly recommend the French Onion Soup, Beef Bourguignon, the Seafood Risotto, and the Creme Brulee. The restaurant is also quite close to the waterfront and the Halifax Public Gardens.
- Address: 1333 South Park St
- Opening hours: Noon to 8 p.m. (Mon-Thur), Noon to 10 p.m. (Friday), 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Saturdays), 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Sundays)
- Phone number: 1-902-423-8428
Casablanca Authentic Moroccan Cuisine
Although this is the only Moroccan restaurant in Nova Scotia, Cassablanca didn’t cut corners. Not only is it one of the best restaurants in Halifax, it has glowing reviews on Google and has won multiple awards. After all, the owners moved here from Morocco, bringing their skills for Moroccan cuisine to Canada’s biggest east coast city.
We loved everything about this place. Located in a cute little colourful rowhouse on popular Queen Street, just steps away from the Halifax Citadel, the owners have created a truly authentic Moroccan experience through both the food and the beautiful decor. We had no idea what to order so we just asked them what they recommended, which ended up being delicious. We tried a variety of dishes, such as the traditional Kefta tajine with warm bread and homemade tomato sauce, lamb tagine, and traditional pastilla, which is chicken flavoured with cinnamon, saffron, almond crisp and orange blossom.
Highly recommended!
- Address: 1532 Queen Street
- Opening hours: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Tues-Fri), Noon to 10 p.m. (Saturday), Noon to 8 p.m. (Sunday), Closed Monday.
- Phone number: 1-902-444-2272
Darya
If you’re looking for Middle Eastern cuisine in a fancy atmosphere right on the waterfront, this is the place. Darya, which means “sea” in Persian, represents cuisine from Turkey, Greece, Iran, and Lebanon. The interior is beautifully decorated in gold and teal, with a cozy and luxurious feel to it. However, they also offer a beautiful patio with views of the Halifax Harbour.
During our visit, we enjoyed a variety of dishes, including bread and olives (a delicious appetizer) Darya lamb tagine (a mouth-watering dish with apricot, almonds, raisins, roasted garlic, and lentils), and spanakopita pie. We also enjoyed their warm vanilla cheesecake with pistachio kataifi, passion fruit, and apricot preserve. Even their drinks are tasty and I can totally recommend both their Parfumerie (tequila with mango guava tea syrup, lemon, and orange blossom water) and All That Glitters is Gold (gin, triple sec, honey, sage, and turmeric syrup).
- Address: 1709 Lower Water St #110
- Opening hours: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Mon-Thurs), 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. (Saturdays), 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. (Sundays)
- Phone number: 1-902 334-4874
Field Guide
Located in the North End of Halifax, Field Guide is dedicated to bridging the gap between diners and their food through an open-concept kitchen and passionate service. Placing a big focus on supporting local farmers and producers, this small restaurant serves up an ever-changing menu of seasonally-inspired dishes intended for sharing. Some of our favourites was the pork carnitas taco, the beef tartare, and the scallop crudo, which features a mango & coconut sauce, lime aioli, green chili relish, and cilantro.
This local favourite is also known for its cocktails. Some of our favourites include the Apple Jack Rabbit (apple brandy, maple syrup, orange, lemon, and a cinnamon sugar rim) and the Romesco Margarita (tequila, ancho chile liqueur, oloroso sherry, red pepper, tomato water, supasawa, and an onion ash rim). Those into beer can also rejoice as they feature beer from Nova Scotian breweries.
- Address: 2076 Gottingen St
- Opening hours: 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. (Tues to Sun)
- Phone number: 1-902-405-4506
Café Lunette
It may be a small restaurant, but Café Lunette is easily among the most popular restaurants in Halifax, and it won’t take you long to see why.
Not only did this Parisian-inspired eatery feature on Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants list in 2023 but it was also named gold winner of Best New Restaurant 2022 by The Coast – so you’re definitely in for a treat!
In true Parisian fashion, Café Lunette is especially known for its moreish breakfasts, complete with gloriously flaky, homemade croissants and pain au chocolat.
For lunch and dinner, you can expect traditional bistro fare like steak frites, escargots, and steak tartare.
- Address: 1741 Lower Water St
- Opening hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Weekdays), 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Saturdays), 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Sundays)
- Phone number: 1-902-334-1300
The Narrows Public House
With a diverse culinary scene and live music on Thursdays and Sundays, The Narrows Public House is all set to deliver an exceptional evening!
Housed in a registered Heritage Property, the restaurant features classic Nova Scotia offerings, complete with Tempura Lobster Tail, Baked Oysters Rockefeller, and Fillet Mignon.
One of my favourite things to order is the Cioppino plate, which consists of angel hair pasta, lobster, shrimp, mussels, calamari, spinach, peppers, and fresh fish galore.
Oh, and if you’re looking for a place to crash, The Narrows also has an inn on the first floor. Now you can enjoy one of the best restaurants in Halifax and spend the night!
- Address: 2720 Gottingen St
- Opening hours: 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. (Weekdays), 11 a.m. to 12.30 a.m. (Fridays and Saturdays), closed on Tuesdays
- Phone number: N/A
The Press Gang Restaurant & Oyster Bar
For fresh oysters, there’s truly no better destination than The Press Gang Restaurant & Oyster Bar, located in Downtown Halifax.
Another restaurant that featured on the 2023 list of Top Restaurants in Canada, The Press Gang is largely inspired by Halifax’s seafaring history. A dear friend of mine told me about this place and as a massive seafood fan, this place is on my bucket list.
Located in one of the oldest buildings in the city, the restaurant has a formal but diverse food scene, with heaps of local seafood on the menu.
Be sure to try the creamy seafood risotto, which is positively packed with Nova Scotia lobster, jumbo shrimps, seared Atlantic scallops, and more.
If you’re not really into seafood, rest assured that the restaurant does offer juicy cuts of meat as well.
- Address: 5218 Prince St, Halifax
- Opening hours: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Tuesday & Wednesday), 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. (Thursday to Saturday), closed on Monday and Sunday
- Phone number: 1-902-423-8816
Gio
Found in The Prince George Hotel (downtown Halifax), Gio may be a fine dining restaurant, but its innovative chef is known for putting some interesting twists on classic dishes. The vibe is pretty relaxed and fun, with an exciting menu made from seasonal ingredients.
Think sauteed Clams with green curry sauce, Arctic Char Almondine, or even Nduja Tagliatelle with house-made Nduja sausage, kalamata olives, sherry-marinated cherry tomatoes, and artichoke.
If you’re a wine aficionado like me, you’ll be glad to learn that the restaurant is also known for its extensive wine list. While this restaurant isn’t exactly budget-friendly, it’s perfect for those willing to splurge for a special occasion.
- Address: The Prince George Hotel, 1725 Market St
- Opening hours: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. (closed on Sundays)
- Phone number: 1-902-425-1987
EDNA
Amazing food and signature cocktails beckoned at EDNA, which easily cracked our list of the best restaurants in Halifax.
A great spot for enjoying a quiet lunch, EDNA specializes in local favourites like Nova Scotia oysters, salads, charcuterie, and meats sourced from Canadian farms. Because it only uses seasonal ingredients, the menu is often updated.
If you head there for Sunday Brunch, be sure to try their Sucré-Salé which, true to its name, offers both sweet and savoury goodies.
We should also mention that EDNA’s got one of the best bars in the city as well. You can’t miss it since it’s found right in the middle of the restaurant!
- Address: 2053 Gottingen St
- Opening hours: 11.30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Tuesday to Friday), 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Weekends), closed on Mondays
- Phone number: 1-902-429-2550
The Bicycle Thief
Offering North American classics with an Italian twist, The Bicycle Thief is especially known for its extensive menu in addition to its perfect location.
You’ll find just about everything there, from beef short ribs with ragu, summer herb salad and of course, plenty of that local seafood. The menu also features several types of pasta but I’m quite partial to their Gnocchi di Patate, sauteed with wild mushrooms, Parmigiano cheese, lashings of crema, and oodles of black truffle. Yum!
During those warmer summer months, you can always grab a seat on the patio overlooking that gorgeous Halifax waterfront. This is a truly iconic restaurant in Halifax.
- Address: 1475 Lower Water St
- Opening hours: 11.30 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Tuesday to Sunday), 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. (Sunday)
- Phone number: 1-902-425-7993
The Five Fishermen
Commanding a great location in downtown Halifax, The Five Fishermen is housed in a building that dates back to 1750, but we can assure you there’s nothing old about their menu. Quite to the contrary, this restaurant offers a super modern and trendy vibe.
If you’re not quite sure what to order, I recommend the Five Fish Experience, consisting of maritime gourmet mushroom risotto, seared shrimp, local scallops, halibut, half lobster tail, salmon, nori cracker, and kabayaki. Talk about a seafood lover’s dream, right?
Other popular menu items include the 5 Fishermen AAA Canadian Beef Burger, Chicken Ballotine, Nova Scotia Crab Cakes, and their insanely hearty Acadian Lobster Bisque.
- Address: 1740 Argyle St
- Opening hours: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
- Phone number: 1-902-422-4421
King of Donair
At first glance, this eatery doesn’t look like much, but believe me when I say this is one heck of a great place for enjoying scrumptious chicken wings, doner kebabs, pizzas, or even classic Canadian poutines!
One of the first Donair shops to open in Halifax, King of Donair dates back to nearly 50 years ago. The owner is said to be the one who invented the Halifax Donair which, unlike classic Donair, is doused in sweet garlic sauce. It also consists of beef meat instead of lamb.
In addition to the usual wraps, you’ll find Donair Pizza and Donair Egg Rolls. I can also vouch for the Donair Poutine which is bursting with meaty, cheesy goodness.
- Address: 6420 Quinpool Road
- Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 1 a.m. (Sunday to Thursday), 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. (Friday and Saturday)
- Phone number: 1-902-421-0000
Elle’s Bistro
One of the top restaurants in Halifax for brunch, Elle’s Bistro offers a charming, old-school diner vibe, something that’s reflected in its extensive menu!
With generously sized portions, this bistro can get quite busy on the weekends, so be sure to reserve your table in advance. We heard great things about Elle’s Bistro Eggs Halifax before and after trying it for ourselves, we can say it’s worth the hype.
It consists of poached eggs served on homemade tea biscuits and smothered in their signature seafood chowder.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, then their giant Banana Foster Pancakes with butter and maple syrup will certainly hit the spot. For something unique, you can also try their Poutine Burger, topped with prime rib drippings and poutine.
- Address: 1678 Barrington St
- Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Sundays and Mondays), 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Tuesdays and Wednesdays), 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Thursday to Saturday)
- Phone number: 1-902-446-3775
Studio East
Last up on our list of the best restaurants in Halifax is Studio East, which offers a pretty unique concept where Nova Scotia’s farm-to-table scene meets Asian-global cuisine.
Found near the Halifax Commons, Studio East offers live music on Sunday and Wednesday evenings. You’ll find heaps of unique offerings on their menu, like the fermented short ribs. These are so sought-after that they’re only served on Tuesdays!
In addition to the short ribs, Studio East is also known for its Studio Ribs, which features baby back ribs marinated in five spice and hoisin sauce, apple slaw, sesame, peanuts and lime.
Craving a hearty Indian dish? Then you can always try the Punjabi Butter Chicken served alongside basmati rice.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Nova Scotia menu without some local seafood, so the menu also boasts fresh oysters with kimchi relish, shrimp and lobster dumplings, and Tiger King Prawn Baos.
Oh, and did we mention that Studio East’s got a pretty bangin’ selection of craft beer as well?
- Address: 6021 Cunard St
- Opening hours: 4.30 p.m. to 9 p.m. (closed on Mondays)
- Phone number: 1-902-422-8096
Want more things to do in Halifax?
We hope our list of the best restaurants in Halifax gives you plenty of options for your next visit.
There’s a smorgasbord of waterfront patios around to tantalize you with lobster and ocean-fresh specials, old-school brunch hotspots, and even upscale restaurants where creative chefs will win you over with their unique twists.
After you’ve gotten your fill of local seafood, be sure to check out our travel guides for more things to do nearby, such as:
I’m a senior who plans to make several short trips to revisit streets and places where I taught eg. Bloomfield school. Also, I am so excited to experience some of the excellent coffee shops and restaurants on a street that we used to joke if we could run from one end to the other and live to tell about it ie. Gottingen street. Your reviews were extremely helpful. Thanks muchly. Barry.