20 Pre-Race Carb-Loading Restaurants in Halifax

Au Liban specializes in Lebanese cuisine, with flavour-packed options focusing on protein-rich and vegetable-based meals. From seafood to grilled meats and creative vegetable dishes, the menu offers a balanced experience ideal for a nourishing pre-race feast. 

The Brown Hound Public House dishes up rich, comforting British-style favourites designed to give your soul—and your stride—the push it needs to go for the win. With three Halifax locations, it’s an easy go-to for a hearty, satisfying pre-race meal. 

Gahan House has a bold selection of crowd-pleasing favourites, from loaded nachos to creamy mac and cheese to stacked hand-helds. With generous portions and vibrant energy, it’s a great spot whether you’re flying solo and grabbing a seat at the bar or gathering with your running pals at one of their large tables. 

Located in a building designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1969, Henry House serves classic pub fare known for its generous portions and hearty options. With plenty of carbs and protein on the menu, it’s a dependable choice for runners seeking a no-fuss, satisfying meal before taking on the distance. 

A beloved local pub since 2000, The Old Triangle serves hearty comfort food and classic pub favourites in a warm, welcoming space. It’s where classic flavours, friendly service, and good times come together, making it a great spot to settle in and prepare your legs for a marathon. 

Housed in a beautifully restored heritage building on Barrington Street, Pazzo Ristorante & Enoteca offers an authentic Italian dining experience. With a focus on fresh handmade pasta, house-cured meats, and cheeses, it’s an ideal spot to indulge in rich, satisfying flavours before race day. 

This well-established Italian trattoria on the Halifax Waterfront at Bishop’s Landing is a go-to for both locals and visitors. The menu highlights traditional Italian home cooking, with handmade pasta and time-honoured recipes—perfect for runners staying near the water in Halifax. 

Sketti & Ball Co. brings a lighthearted take on pasta night with build-your-own bowls featuring fresh-made pasta, house-made meatballs, and delicious sauces. Whether custom or chef-designed, it’s a fun, filling way to prep for the miles ahead.  

Sushi Jet offers an all-you-can-eat menu packed with a wide variety of sushi options. With so much to choose from, it’s easy to find the right mix of carbs and protein to fuel your stride on race day. 

Trattoria Vesso is an authentic European-style Italian pizzeria serving comfort food in a relaxing setting. From wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas to hand-stretched pasta made fresh daily, every dish delivers rich, satisfying flavour—an ideal way to get inspired for a winning race day. 

Dishes made with local, organic ingredients shine here—wholesome, flavourful, and tailored to all types of eaters. With options for meat lovers, vegetarians, and gluten-free diners, it’s a cozy, sustainability-focused spot to charge up before race day.  

La Piazza Ristorante serves authentic Italian fare, with scrumptious pizzas and pasta made from traditional recipes. Family-owned and full of heart, it’s a warm, homegrown spot where traditional flavours and genuine hospitality come together for a feel-good pre-race experience. 

For an easygoing spot where pizza and pasta meet pre-race preparation, Morris East is a casual favourite for runners looking to carb-load with a creative twist. Known for its gourmet pizzas and inventive comfort food, this spot is perfect whether you’re sharing a pie or digging into a flavourful entrée. 

Rinaldo’s brings Italian-American comfort to the plate with handmade pasta, hero sandwiches, and their family’s original thin-crust pizza. Made the old-fashioned way, it’s a great spot to fuel up with satisfying flavours before race day. 

A local favourite, this New York–style slice shop serves some of the most mouthwatering pizza in Halifax. If you’re into bold toppings, thin crust with a crisp bite on the bottom, and a chewy, soft interior, this place will hit the spot. It’s the ideal restaurant to get your crew pumped before a race—or to grab a couple of slices if you’re dining solo. 

Lou Pécou Pizzeria serves European-style artisanal pizza crafted with fresh, local ingredients and a proprietary blend of organic flours. Their slow-fermented dough is easier to digest, offering a satisfying, feel-good meal that’s perfect for carb-loading without guilt. 

Salvatore’s is a local favourite known for its old-school Italian charm. Stick with classic Italian staples or get adventurous with their famous clam pie marinato—a thin-crust pizza topped with baby clams—or the Vegan Original, a dairy-free creation made with vegan ricotta and parmesan. It’s a perfect place to relax and recharge before a big race. 

Led by award-winning chef Renée Lavallée, The Canteen offers a seasonal menu inspired by French, Italian, and East Coast traditions, perfect for those interested in protein-rich and vegetable-based indulgences. From grain bowls to squash pasta, every dish highlights local ingredients with care, creativity, and a welcoming sense of refined comfort. 

If you’re after something light yet filling, Doraku offers world-class, mouthwatering sushi—ideal for those looking to avoid heavy meals while still packing energy for race day. “Doraku” means “something one enjoys,” making it the perfect place to fuel up and celebrate your passion for running and racing. 

Sushi Nami Royale serves fresh, high-quality sushi and Japanese fusion dishes in a modern, welcoming setting—perfect for a light, energizing meal. Sushi party trays are also available, making it a great choice for groups of runners to fuel up and chat through pre-race nerves.