5 of the Best Restaurants in Halifax, Nova Scotia

At first glance, the menu at this restaurant comes across as ordinary: pork chops and burgers may seem like nothing to write home about. However, do yourself a favor and give them a try. The house-ground smokehouse burger made with chuck, brisket and short rib is wonderfully flavorful, as are the blissfully tender smoked pork chop with apple chutney and sinful deep-fried macaroni and cheese. Some dishes are a little pricey, but considering the novel and tempting takes on everyday standards, it’s worth it.

Your first clue that there’s something different about this AAA Three Diamond bistro lies on its front steps: a fork, knife and spoon embedded in the cement. The cuisine is something different, too, including ingredients like fennel puree and house-cured pork belly in its remarkable entrées that contain unexpected combinations. Desserts are something to behold: Burnt honey cake with panna cotta and white chocolate sprinkled with fragrant crimson strawberries and edible flowers is to die for. Modern and rustic décor combine to create a cozy space in which to enjoy your meal.

EDNA’s name is an acronym for Eat Drink Nourish Always, and that’s exactly what you’ll want to do here. Having opened in 2013, this delightful AAA Three Diamond restaurant in the North End is a fairly new addition to the Halifax restaurant scene. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients lay the foundation for dishes like scallops with green pea and mint purée or a succulent pork chop with brown butter and apple jam. This softly lighted bistro is a charming date night spot.

When you’re looking for fun things to do with friends while you’re on vacation, this restaurant will fill the bill. The tavernlike atmosphere of this converted fire station sets the perfect scene for a great time, especially when you add to the mix shareable small plates (roasted Brussels sprouts and the deep-fried short rib are local favorites), mouthwatering wood-fired pizzas and four variations of mac and cheese. Throw in a huge selection of beer, wine and mixed drinks, and a closing time of 2 a.m., and you’ve got a no-fail recipe for an amazing night out.

If you enjoy peering out a window and people-watching while eating top-notch pub grub, grab a seat by a window or on the patio at this eatery that’s a short walk from the waterfront. The restaurant prides itself on its options for those on special diets; for example, a wheat-free rice bun is available if you can only eat gluten-free food. Vegans will be pleased with the restaurant’s plentiful meat-free options, including chickpea and beet salads, vegan tacos, veggie pizzas and lentil burgers.