Nova Scotia’s coastal capital, Halifax, is a seafood lover’s dream. With its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, the city offers some of the freshest and most flavorful seafood in Canada. Whether you’re searching for budget-friendly fish and chips or an upscale waterfront dining experience, Halifax has something to satisfy every craving.
Here’s our carefully curated list of the 10 best seafood restaurants in Halifax, featuring everything from casual eateries to fine dining gems.
1. Fredie’s Fantastic Fishhouse
A beloved local spot, Fredie’s serves up crispy, golden fish and chips at wallet-friendly prices. If you’re looking for great seafood without the high cost, this is the place to go.
2. The Five Fishermen
Steeped in history, this downtown Halifax restaurant offers an elegant seafood dining experience. Their butter-poached lobster and fresh oysters are must-tries.
3. McKelvie’s Restaurant
A staple in the Halifax seafood scene, McKelvie’s is known for its hearty seafood chowder and sustainably sourced dishes.
4. Bishop’s Landing
Overlooking the harbor, this waterfront restaurant combines stunning views with a menu full of locally caught seafood, including scallops and haddock.
5. The Press Gang Restaurant & Oyster Bar
One of the city’s top spots for oyster lovers, The Press Gang offers an extensive raw bar and refined seafood dishes in a historic setting.
6. Sea Smoke Restaurant & Bar
Specializing in wood-fired seafood, Sea Smoke delivers bold flavors with dishes like smoked salmon and grilled lobster tails.
7. Bluenose II Restaurant
If you love all-you-can-eat seafood, Bluenose II’s generous seafood platters will leave you satisfied. Their lobster feast is a local favorite.
8. Black Sheep Restaurant
While not exclusively a seafood spot, Black Sheep’s creative seafood dishes, like their seared halibut, make it one of the best restaurants in Halifax.
9. Water Polo Restaurant
A hidden gem, Water Polo serves fresh, locally sourced seafood in a cozy atmosphere. Their lobster roll is a standout.
10. Shuck Seafood & Raw Bar
A modern hotspot for oysters and crudo, Shuck offers a sleek dining experience with some of the freshest seafood in Halifax.
Also Read : 10 Best Restaurants in Seabrook, wa – Best Dining, Breakfast Spots & Oceanfront Eateries
Halifax Seafood Restaurants Comparison Table
| Restaurant | Specialties | Location | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fredie’s Fantastic Fishhouse | Crispy fish & chips, seafood baskets | Urban core | Wallet-friendly local favorite |
| The Five Fishermen | Premium lobster dishes, elegant seafood presentations | City center | Historic upscale seafood venue |
| McKelvie’s | Hearty seafood chowder, daily fresh catches | Downtown district | Classic maritime flavors |
| Bishop’s Landing | Seasonal local seafood, harbor vistas | Waterfront area | Scenic oceanfront dining |
| The Press Gang | Premium oyster selection, refined seafood cuisine | Downtown | Sophisticated raw bar experience |
| Sea Smoke | Artisanal smoked seafood, innovative preparations | Harborfront | Modern waterfront eatery |
| Bluenose II | Unlimited seafood feasts, generous platters | Central Halifax | Bottomless seafood option |
| Black Sheep | Contemporary seafood creations | Downtown | Innovative culinary approach |
| Water Polo Cafe | Fresh lobster rolls, casual seafood fare | City center | Relaxed maritime bistro |
| Shuck | Expertly curated oysters, seafood bar | Downtown Halifax | Specialized raw seafood bar |
Key Highlights
Most Affordable: Fredie’s Fantastic Fishhouse
Best Waterfront Views: Bishop’s Landing and Sea Smoke
Lobster Specialists: The Five Fishermen
Oyster Excellence: The Press Gang and Shuck
Endless Seafood: Bluenose II
Gourmet Experience: The Five Fishermen and The Press Gang
Quick FAQ Summary
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Halifax’s iconic dishes? | Lobster, Digby scallops, haddock plates |
| Lobster capital status? | Yes – fresh daily from Nova Scotia waters |
| Popular seafood orders? | Lobster rolls, fried clams, oyster shooters |
| World’s biggest seafood venue? | The Big Crab in China (5,000+ seats) |
FAQ’s Halifax Seafood
What food is Halifax famous for?
Halifax is best known for lobster, Digby scallops, oysters, and fish & chips. The city’s iconic donair is also a must-try.
Is Halifax a good place for lobster?
Absolutely! Nova Scotia is famous for its sweet, succulent lobster, served boiled, in rolls, or as part of a seafood platter.
What’s the most popular dish at Halifax seafood restaurants?
Fish & chips, lobster rolls, and oysters are among the top orders. Many restaurants also feature seafood chowder as a local favorite.
Where is the world’s largest seafood restaurant?
While Halifax has incredible seafood spots, the largest seafood restaurant globally is The Big Crab in China, seating over 5,000 diners!