header image via The Canteen
If you ask anyone to name a famous Nova Scotian delicacy, they'll likely say lobster. Lobsters are as ubiquitous here as lighthouses and fishing boats. This treat can be enjoyed in many forms, but the humble lobster roll is a favourite. The best part is you don’t have to break apart the body - cutting your hands and getting lobster juice in your eye in the process – this is already done for you, leaving you with only the responsibility of eating it. Perfect. Lucky for us, there are PLENTY of delicious lobster rolls around Halifax – here are a few of our top picks:
1 - Dave’s Lobster
1549 Lower Water St. - Downtown Halifax Region You can’t get any closer to the ocean than Dave’s Lobster, a red-and-white kiosk on the Halifax waterfront. Dave’s originated in PEI, but expanded here, bringing their well-loved crustacean with them. They offer a few variations on the classic roll, including “Some Fancy”, which features warm, garlicky meat topped with chives, and the “Lobster Taco”, which is exactly what it sounds like. Bonus: They offer gluten-free rolls
2 - Evan’s Fresh Seafoods & Restaurant
Alderney Landing, 2 Ochterloney St - Dartmouth-Cole Harbour Region Evan’s is a local favourite for all seafood, but you don’t want to miss their roll served the Acadian Shore way with a warm, creamy sauce rather than cold mayo. Just like Dave’s, they are located right on the harbour but on the opposite side in Dartmouth. I would recommend eating on the scenic patio and letting the smooth swaying of the ferry and the creaminess of the lobster roll lull you into a state of complete relaxation.
3 - The Esquire
772 Bedford Hwy - Bedford-Sackville Region A Bedford institution for decades, the Esquire is truly famous for their seafood chowder. But their yummy seafood can also be found inside a roll, with a mountain of fries on the side (you may want to share this one with a friend). It has some of the largest pieces of covetable claw meat I’ve ever seen on a lobster roll anywhere! This classic diner provides a side of mid-century nostalgia as well as tasty food.
4 - The Canteen
22 Portland St - Dartmouth-Cole Harbour Region The roll at this downtown Dartmouth bistro is not just a lobster roll, it’s a “Crobster”! It contains a positively huge portion of finely shredded lobster and snow crab meat. I had savoury truffle fries with mine but sometimes it is offered with classic potato salad and pickles. This is one of the more expensive rolls around town, but totally worth it for the high quality, bold flavoured ingredients. Their menu changes regularly, so don’t wait to “roll” in and order one!
5 - Sou’wester Restaurant and Gift Shop
178 Peggy's Point Rd - Peggy's Cove Coastal Region If you think lobster is quintessentially Nova Scotian, wait until you see the lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove! After taking your selfies on the rocks, hop into the quaint building next door and sit down at this homey eatery for a meal. They have been serving visitors to the area since 1967, so you know they’re doing something right. The super friendly staff will make sure to prepare and serve your lobster roll right.
