Eat the Atlantic

Fish and chips may be the most widely found dish in the province, and there are plenty of contenders in the Halifax region when it comes to who serves the best version. The dish can be traced back to 19th-century London. It arrived in Nova Scotia with British immigrants, aided by the region’s abundance of fresh fish.

The Nova Scotian version of fish and chips typically features battered, deep-fried local haddock served with fries (home-cut are best), tartar sauce, and coleslaw. The batter is often made with beer, as the carbonation helps create an airy, crispy exterior that encases tender, flaky fish. Traditional fish and chip shops offer the dish in one-, two-, or even three-piece version.

Where to find fish and chips in Halifax: The Narrows Public House, North Brewing Company, The Henley House, Willman’s Fish & Chips, Evan’s Fresh Seafoods, Rudy & Olive’s Fish and Chips, Tuna Blue Restaurant.

Although harvested year-round, Digby scallops are among the most sought after in the world, and your best chance to find them on menus in Halifax restaurants is from spring through late fall.

From the Bay of Fundy, Digby scallops are famously sweet and tender. One of the most common ways to serve them is wrapped in bacon, skewered with a toothpick, and piled onto platters at holiday gatherings and house parties.

Nova Scotia chefs, however, have found countless ways to showcase this exceptional seafood. Served raw on the half shell, tossed in bright citrus as a ceviche, folded into creamy seafood pastas, or seared and set atop risotto, Digby scallops shine in any preparation.

Where to find Digby scallops in Halifax: Gio, Sea Smoke, McKelvie’s, Sou’Wester in the City, The Cable Wharf, Asia Restaurant & Bar.

Fish cakes are a humble dish that originated from necessity in the 1800s. Salt cod (preserved by salting) and leftover potatoes were seasoned, formed into patties, and fried until crispy. Today, fish cakes are often made with haddock instead of salt cod. Fresh herbs are commonly added, and the patties are dipped in egg and breadcrumbs before being pan-fried, or sometimes, deep-fried.

Fish cakes can be enjoyed at any time of the day in Halifax restaurants. For an appetizer, they’re often served with tartar sauce. As an entrée, they typically come with baked beans and tangy green tomato chow. At breakfast or brunch, they’re excellent topped with softly poached eggs.

Where to find fish cakes in Halifax: Mic Mac Bar & Grill, The Armview Restaurant and Lounge, Evan’s Fresh Seafoods, Drift, EDNA.

Not to be confused with clam chowder or fish chowder, Nova Scotia seafood chowder follows one main rule: the more seafood, the better. This chowder is packed with a mix of fish and shellfish. While each recipe differs, the usual ingredients include haddock, scallops, lobster, shrimp, clams, mussels, and salmon. Potatoes are typically included. The rich base is made with cream and stock, thickened with a roux.

Every chef in Halifax has their own take on seafood chowder. You’ll often find a smoky element, such as oysters or bacon. Garnished with fresh parsley, dill, or chives, you’d be hard pressed to find a version that isn’t absolutely delicious. Whatever style you try, Nova Scotia seafood chowder is best served with a homemade tea biscuit or soft white roll.

Where to find seafood chowder in Halifax: Durty Nelly’s Irish Pub, The Canteen, The Henry House, Stubborn Goat Gastropub, Black Sheep, Harbourstone.

Nova Scotians associate lobster rolls with long summer days, the sun on our faces, and the smell and sound of the ocean in the background. Lobster rolls originated in New England, where summer is peak lobster season, and became a seasonal staple that eventually spread to our region. Many restaurants in Halifax now serve them year-round. Local chefs love to riff on the lobster roll, so you’ll find them everywhere from high-end restaurants to seaside canteens. Lobster rolls are often served with fries, but when ordered from a food truck or kiosk, potato chips are a typical side.

A cold lobster roll consists of a split-top white bun, buttered on both sides and grilled until lightly toasted. The bun is lined with leaf lettuce, then filled with lobster salad. A well-made lobster salad is simple: plenty of chopped lobster meat mixed with mayonnaise and diced celery, seasoned with salt and pepper and finished with a spritz of lemon. Sometimes fresh dill or chives appear, but that’s not traditional.

Where to find lobster rolls in Halifax: The Canteen, Sou’Wester Gift & Restaurant Company, Evan’s Fresh Seafoods, Tom’s Lobster Shack, Esquire Restaurant, Harbourstone.

A traditional Nova Scotia lobster supper features a whole steamed Atlantic lobster, drawn butter, coleslaw, potato salad, and soft white rolls. Sometimes chowder or steamed mussels are served to start. Lobster crackers, utensils, and bibs are provided, as it can become a messy, but always delicious, affair. Across the province, you’ll find classic lobster dinners alongside creative twists on the tradition at community halls and restaurants.

Lobster suppers in Nova Scotia are closely tied to the seaside community of Hubbards, just outside Halifax on the South Shore. The first organized lobster supper on Hubbards Beach was held as a catered event in 1936. After a decade of serving dinners outdoors, the owners expanded the business with the construction of a hall in 1946, now known as the Shore Club. Suppers and dances with live music are still held to this day. The Shore Club’s 90th season begins on May 10, 2026.

Where to experience a lobster supper in Halifax: The Shore Club, Bluenose II Restaurant, 5 Fishermen, Sea Smoke, Water Polo Restaurant.