The 12 best restaurants in Halifax

What is it: The Five Fisherman offers first class dining with a seafood-focused menu that includes fresh oysters, daily ceviche and the most succulent scallops you will ever eat. Stay upstairs and be pampered or, for a more casual approach, try the downstairs oyster and cocktail bar, Little Fish.

Why go: This downtown dining institution is also one of the most haunted buildings in Halifax. Crashing plates, taps on the shoulder and cold pockets of air are par for the course at this former funeral home—the last port of call for many of the Titanic victims.

Price: Pricey

What is it: Tucked behind Ratinaud’s Charcuterie in Halifax’s hip North End, The Kitchen Table is an 8-course set-price dining experience for an intimate group of 14 guests. The menu, which changes daily, is delicate and adventurous, with a strong French influence.

Why go: This is probably the most interesting and exquisite food you’ll ever try in the city.

Price: Pricey

What is it: This popular waterfront restaurant offers Italian-inspired fine dining with a menu of tasty fresh pasta, risotto and seafood, and an impressive selection of champagnes and fine wines.

Why go: Although “the thief” is known for its pasta, locals can’t stop raving about the roasted beef short ribs “al Barolo.” Reserve a table with a harbor view or, even better, grab a seat on the patio and watch the world go by as you dine.

Price: Pricey

What is it: Little Oak is an intimate wine and snack bar located in Bishop’s Landing on the Halifax waterfront where upscale locally sourced snack dishes and shared plates are paired with rare wines and incredible craft cocktails, served by knowledgeable servers and sommeliers.

What is it: Dining at Little Oak feels like you’ve discovered a special secret, especially when the lights go down and the candles are lit. If you’re going all out, indulge in the offered option to enjoy the entire menu, including wine pairings, for a set price.

Price: Pricey

What is it: This popular local restaurant, located in residential West End Halifax, is a member of Taste Nova Scotia and the slow food movement and is considered by locals as one of the best food experiences in the city.

Why go: With a chef-driven menu that rotates based on the availability of fresh local ingredients, this is one place where you’ll taste the real Nova Scotia.

Price: Average

What is it: Fusion at its finest, expect new and exciting flavor combinations at this trendy West End restaurant that combines Asian flavors with Nova Scotia taste. Think oysters, sushi, ramen, burgers, curries and charcuterie—but none as you’ve ever experienced before.

Why go: Studio East’s Asian-inspired fermented ribs are so popular that they only serve them on Tuesdays. Come back on Wednesdays for tiki night and then again on Sunday evening for live jazz. Yes, you’re going to have fun here.

Price: Average

What is it: Take the ferry to The Watch That Ends the Night, a new Dartmouth restaurant and cocktail bar with cool mid-century vibe.

Why go: There’s something happening every single night at The Watch, from beer and burger night on a Tuesday to live jazz on a Wednesday. But the spot offers more than just elevated comfort food. Try the oysters, tuna tartare or Grand Preserves board for a taste of Dartmouth you won’t forget.

Price: Average

What is it: One of the first restaurants to break ground in this hip and trendy North End hotspot, Agricola Street Brasserie bakes its own bread, makes its own pasta and has an impressive menu of fresh, local seafood.

Why go: Don’t be fooled by the unassuming entrance, the space inside the restaurant is awesome—sit at the bar and watch the kitchen crew at work or choose a private dining space. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has eaten here. It’s that hip.

Price: Pricey

What is it: The best Indian restaurant in Halifax offers a selection of North Indian cuisine served with style in an opulent, comfortable dining room near the Shopping district of Spring Garden Road.

Why go: Hot towels, carefully chosen tableware and excellently trained servers are the details that set Rasa apart from the rest. After savoring your favorite curry or tandoori dish, finish with a palate-cleansing fresh ginger ale, made with fresh ginger. True to the Hindi saying, “Atithi Devo Bhava,” you will be treated like a god at Rasa.

Price: Average

What is it: Edna is a popular bistro at the end of Gottingen Street in Halifax’s up and coming North End, serving dinner and weekend brunch.

Why go: Edna is a busy spot and, although they don’t take reservations, you can go ahead and put your name down upon entry—the staff will text you when your table is ready. While you wait, grab a quick cocktail at nearby Field Guide or a beer at the Seahorse Tavern.

Price: Average to pricey

What is it: King of Donair, fondly known as “K.O.D.,” is a small takeout shop on Quinpool Road, where you can taste the original Halifax donair.

Why go: In 2015, the mayor of Halifax brought this late-night takeout indulgence from cult status to mainstream fame when he declared the donair Halifax’s official food. The secret is in the sweet sauce, a Halifax-only recipe created in 1973.

Price: Bargain

What is it: Jim’s is a long-established, no-frills family restaurant on the Bedford Highway serving simple food that won’t break the bank.

Why go: Locals love Jim’s for its big breakfasts, fishcakes and pan-fried haddock. You can even get old favorites like liver and onions or corned beef and cabbage. Choose a table at the back of the restaurant (in the summer, there’s a great patio) for a superb view of the Bedford basin.  

Price: Bargain