Atlantic Canada’s Hottest Foodie Spots for 2019
While Atlantic Canada’s spectacular landscapes, rich musical history and incredible wildlife tempts many a traveller to its east coast provinces, the region is emerging as a destination for the most discerning of foodies. From culinary festivals, craft distilleries, family owned vineyards, and a commitment to farm to table cuisine, the four provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island are some of the best in the world for sampling fresh local food and drink in a magnificent setting.
NEW BRUNSWICK
Fredericton, New Brunswick’s capital city is fast becoming a key craft beer destination for the East Coast. The scene is constantly changing, with new brewers popping up, styles becoming embedded and events becoming local traditions meaning there are tastes for everyone to try whilst wandering the micro-breweries behind every corner.
If these two don’t satisfy cravings, then why not visit Canada’s oldest Farmers’ Market. From fresh produce, baked goods and ready-to-eat goodies to nutrition lessons, children’s activities and taste tests, the Saint John City Market has something on offer for everyone. The market supports the development of a sustainable community by bringing local businesses and families together. https://www.tourismnewbrunswick.ca/Products/S/Saint-John-City-Market.aspx
Why not try the Rossmount Inn which is just a stone’s throw from downtown Saint Andrews. The Inn offers 18 luxury guest rooms, but the real focal point is the restaurant, which has made Rossmount Inn a true culinary destination. The much-talked about restaurant is known for the fresh fish, local and largely organic dishes and the eclectic selection of fine wines to choose from. Adjacent sits the cosy lounge bar which is home to an elite selection of malt whiskies which prove extremely popular with guests. https://www.rossmountinn.com/
NOVA SCOTIA
Everyone knows that Nova Scotia is famous for its lobster, and rightly so! From traditional lobster dinners to lobster rolls, lobster poutine and even lobster beer, you certainly won’t be left with any lobster cravings after a visit to this province. Any good lobster dish is accompanied by a glass of wine, and the local Nova Scotia vineyards produce some of the best! The regions soil and microclimates produce some of the most distinctive premium-quality grapes in North America. The wineries have achieved international acclaim over the years, demonstrating their clear passion for the product. Tidal Bay is one of the province’s most famed wines, pairs perfectly with seafood and ocean views and contains crisp, fresh and bright undertones. Visitors can hop aboard the one-of-a-kind Magic Winery Bus. This hop-on, hop-off excursion visits five of the most storied and beautiful local wineries. Guests will experience first-hand some of the most memorable wines in the world; learn a little about the region’s history and rooted connection with food; and best of all, get a taste for why this region has a reputation as the centre of wine country in Atlantic Canada. https://www.novascotia.com/see-do/tours/wolfville-magic-winery-bus/6266
Why not try Little Oak Bar, nestled on the Halifax waterfront. With room for just 27 guests, this boutique wine and tapas bar provides visitors with a unique and cosy experience. The bar boasts an impressive wine and cocktail menu which is accompanied by a daily-changing food menu, so there’s always something new to discover. Little Oak Bar also offers an ‘Eat the menu’ option which allows guests to try all the dishes on offer alongside wine pairings for each course, if they can’t choose just one! http://littleoakbar.ca/
NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR
Traditionally known for their traditional seafood and wild game dishes, Newfoundland & Labrador has seen a cuisine explosion in recent years, with the development of culinary experiences by world-renowned chefs. Visitors can dine in one of Canada’s best restaurants Raymond’s, or opt for something more traditional by visiting Quidi Vidi, a traditional fishing village for the freshest locally sourced seafood.
For something a little adventurous, travellers can try their hand at cod or mackerel fishing; the traditional way. From learning to row a dory and knitting a net to catching, cleaning and cooking your own produce, a day on the waters in Newfoundland & Labrador is like no other. If lucky, visitors can come eye to eye with whales who feed in the waters every year. https://www.newfoundlandlabrador.com/things-to-do/fishing
Why not try the Mallard Cottage, located in Quidi Vidi Village; a quaint fishing hamlet of St. John’s. The Cottage is an 18th century Irish-Newfoundland vernacular style building which has been recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada for being one of the oldest wooden buildings in North America and for that reason alone it is worth a visit! After opening in 2013, the owners have carefully restored and rejuvenated the site and offer visitors a carefully selected menu which showcases the local seafood and game in an elegant manner. http://www.mallardcottage.ca/index.html
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
Deemed as ‘Canada’s Food Island’, Prince Edward Island isn’t short of tasty dining options. Visitors to the island can gaze the rolling farmlands and coastline fishing harbours that make the food industry the largest contributor to the local economy.
Growing potatoes in Prince Edward Island isn’t just a business, it is a way of life! The island provides the majority of Canada with their potatoes, all grown with care and attention to make them some of the best in the world. Visitors to the island can even visit The Canadian Potato Museum and admire the world’s largest exhibits of potato-related farm machinery, agricultural artefacts and the world’s largest potato sculpture! https://www.canadianpotatomuseum.info/
Mussels and oysters are another firm favourite on Prince Edward Island. The Blue Mussels are farmed in the waters year-round, so visitors can taste the fresh produce whenever they visit.
For those visiting the island in September, a trip to the Fall Flavours Festival is a must. This annual festival showcases the island’s authentic tastes and traditions and hosts celebrity chef personalities, delicious food tastings and an array of intimate food experiences for everyone to enjoy. http://fallflavours.ca/
Why not try The Inn at Bay Fortune. The restaurant, named ‘FireWorks’ after a 25-foot brick-lined wood burning stove in the kitchen, offers visitors a unique feast format that highlights the myriad of local produce which is all delicately prepared on site. The kitchen hosts every form of fire-cooking, from a smokehouse and grill to a rotisserie, wood ovens and an open hearth. The feast begins with a tour of the herb gardens, greenhouses and vegetable beds before delving into a selection of locally sourced oysters whilst enjoying a masterfully created cocktail. The main feast follows with a multi-course menu which is served communally on butcher-block tables allowing guests to enjoy views over the beautiful Bay Fortune. http://innatbayfortune.com/