Five Local Gems in Dartmouth For Every Taste & Budget
When you think about culinary destinations, you might immediately think of places like New York, Louisiana or Tuscany. What if I told you that Dartmouth is making its case for why it should be on that list? Would you believe me? You should.
Dartmouth has some of the best local culinary gems in the region. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood or a vegan treat – our city is filled with quality restaurants and diners for all walks of life.
We compiled a list of our top five local spots that would please all taste buds and budgets. These locations are spots that will definitely make an impression on guests and make you a repeat customer. The bonus is that many of these spots are within walking or driving distance from The Killick at King’s Wharf!
Let’s dive in:
1) John’s Lunch
This local favorite has been around since Neil Armstrong took the first walk on the moon. Yes, that was the year 1969! Locals and tourists flock to John’s Lunch to savour its infamous fish and chips. With fresh local ingredients and consistent homemade recipe, it earned the Canadian Living magazine’s recognition as ‘Best Fish and Chips in Canada.’ It also offers other dishes from calamari, pizza to shrimp and chips. The owner is known to be a diehard fan of the Classic Volkswagen Beetle, so he has photos of his visits to classic car shows hung all over the diner’s walls. Could this place get any more classic?
2) The Canteen
Chef Renée Lavallée, owner of The Canteen, proves that innovative thinking can spill over to the food scene in small towns like downtown Dartmouth. This ‘sandwich shop’ offers chef-inspired sandwiches, salads and soups from a menu that changes daily. From The Veggie to the Eggie, the quirky creations will sure satisfy your hungry belly. So, head over to 66 Ochterloney Street – just a 10-minute walk from The Killick to sample the latest savoury sandwiches.
3) Nectar Restaurant and Wine Bar
Combining an upscale setting with delicious food and drinks, it is no wonder that Nectar has been included in the Coast Magazine’s Best in Food for five years running. Whether it’s brunch, dinner or desserts, Nectar is the perfect spot for those looking to host a business lunch or have an intimate night-out. We also love that they host The Darkside Sunday Sessions, with jazz vocalists performing while you take in the restaurant’s ambience and mouth-watering culinary creations.
4) The Wooden Monkey
Not only is The Wooden Monkey conveniently located at Alderney Drive with stunning views of Halifax Harbour, but it also offers a healthy and environmentally conscious menu. Its delicious culinary flavours cater to all sorts of diets from vegan to gluten-free. Starters, burgers to desserts, you name it as the menu offers extensive options that appeal to different taste buds. A favorite is the Vegetable Curry that has vegetables, mushrooms, toasted quinoa, raisins, curry coconut, macadamia nut paste topped with sweet potato sticks and cilantro. Yum! And you can add chicken or shrimp if you happen to be a meat lover.
5) Piez Bistro
Pizza lovers, rejoice! Piez Bistro specializes in gourmet Italian fare. You gotta love it when a restaurant names a pizza that has pulled pork, double smoked bacon, cheese curds, mozzarella, jalapeno salsa and nacho crisps ‘No Name Yet.’ They also offer meals-to-go for busy working professionals looking for healthy yet quick food as they go about their hectic schedules. Plus it’s just a 10-minute drive from The Killick!
Whether you’re a fish and chips lover or a pizza eater, Dartmouth is home to award-winning restaurants offering scrumptious food varieties that would please any foodie. While Dartmouth may not have the Gondolas and Vineyards of Italy, the cuisine options are just as endless and delicious.
Since King’s Wharf is in the heart of downtown, all these local gems are within reach. If you’re interested in being part of the King’s Wharf community, check out the condos at the Killick or download The Ultimate Condo Guide to Living Life At the Killick. In the meantime, Happy Munching!
Do you have a favourite place in Dartmouth? Let us know in the comments or on Twitter – we’d love to hear about your favourite spots.
