header image via Breakhouse Inc.
DISCLAIMER: If you’re not hungry now, you certainly will be by the end of this post.
Halifax has been blessed with a constantly expanding roster of exceptional places to eat. These top-tier establishments focus on sourcing local ingredients, providing exceptional service and creating an atmosphere that makes guests want to linger at their tables for hours.
We could be here all day if I shared all of the places that fall under the category of ‘must eat’! Instead, I’ll share these five award-winners to help get you started on your foodie tour of Halifax.
1 – EDNA
2053 Gottingen Street, Halifax
An acronym for Eat Drink Nourish Always, EDNA has been in the hearts (and bellies) of Haligonians ever since it opened. Locals aren’t the only people raving – EDNA was listed as one of the Top Restaurants in Canada in 2015.
Everything about EDNA is great, but if you really want the full experience, head over for a weekend brunch. Be prepared to get there early, or to experience a bit of a wait – the doors open at 10 am, and you can bet that there will be a line a few people deep by at least 9:50am. Don’t worry though, but it’s worth the wait – it has been voted Best Brunch in the city multiple times.
Breakhouse Inc.
2 – Highwayman
1673 Barrington Street, Halifax
Highwayman serves up “Spanish-inspired dishes and the highest quality spirits, wine and beer,” so it’s not surprising that it has quickly become a favourite with locals and visitors alike. The cozy setting of the restaurant is inspired by The Highwayman, the iconic poem by Alfred Noyes. If you’re into sharable plates, delectable cocktails, and intimate vibes, Highwayman should be at the top of your can’t-miss foodie list.
It’s also no surprise that it made the TOP TEN of enRoute’s list of Canada’s Best New Restaurants of 2016.
Highwayman
3 – Ristorante a Mano
1477 Lower Water Street, Halifax
If you’re in the mood for Italian food, head over to Ristorante a Mano. A Mano is known for being “a truly authentic Italian trattoria” on the Halifax waterfront, and both the food and the atmosphere do not disappoint.
Routinely featured in the Coast’s Best of Halifax Readers’ Choice Awards, Ristorante a Mano took gold in 2021 for Best Italian Restaurant and Best Pasta.
Ristorante a Mano
4 – Bar Kismet
Refined food in a relaxed atmosphere is the name of the game at Bar Kismet. This family-owned restaurant is known for its seafood and handmade pasta showcased through fine local ingredients. Be sure to try one of their state-of-the-art handcrafted cocktails – you will not be disappointed. With food, wine, and cocktail menus updated weekly, you can always expect a fresh experience here that will leave you wanting more.
It’s no surprise that Bar Kismet is featured as 2021’s Best Fine Dining Restaurant in Best of Halifax Readers’ Choice Awards. In 2020, Bar Kismet was also named Canada’s Best Restaurant Bar, while also earning 15th place in Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants.
Bar Kismet
5 – The Canteen
Just across the Halifax Harbour is The Canteen, a locally-loved neighbourhood restaurant serving up chef-inspired fare for lunch, dinner, and Saturday brunch. Here is where you’ll find crowd-pleasing dishes made with fresh local ingredients that will wow all palettes. You’ll feel right at home in the bright, casual atmosphere with warm hospitality.
Being the 2021 winner of Best Restaurant and Best Brunch in Best of Halifax Readers’ Choice Awards, it’s no question that The Canteen is a dining experience that can’t be skipped.
The Canteen
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