http://www.chow.com/boards/24 Thu, 31 May 2007 12:30:56 GMT Keep track of the lastest threads on Chowhound http://www.chow.com/topics/665598#5167945 There is a booth at the Farmers' Market in both Halifax and Dartmouth where their speciality is pasties. They are also in the $7.00 range, and I'm wondering if the ones at Perk's are from this booth. They are really good! Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:32:32 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/665598#5167945 http://www.chow.com/topics/563843#5165264 I know what you mean about dining alone. One of the best I find is Taj Mahal. They have circular booths with rather high edges so you can hide a little. The food is also amazing there. I don't know why people are recommending chives for this. It is very uncomfortable for eating alone. You can only really sit at awkward little tables surrounded in plain view by groups and couples. Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:06:37 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/563843#5165264 http://www.chow.com/topics/665601#5165256 End of an era in Halifax. Sun, 08 Nov 2009 19:59:46 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/665601#5165256 http://www.chow.com/topics/441094#5152676 I know that this was an old post but I feel that this is worth digging up. I feel surprised that no one has brought up what I consider to be the best restaurant in Fredericton, Racines. Racines has had the honor of being a Where to Eat in Canada restaurant for the last three years, as well as being awarded a star of excellence this year. Michelin has also selected Racines among a select few other Atlantic Canadian restaurants to be in its Michelin Green Guide. They have good, local, fresh food prepared by a great chef. You can read a review here: http://ourwordofmouth.wordpress.com/2009/10/23/racines-racines-filet-mignon/ Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:20:04 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/441094#5152676 http://www.chow.com/topics/645126#5147778 I can finally add my review of this fantastic little gem in Advocate. Ditto on the location of the Lighthouse, however even though it appears to be closed now (not sure if this is indefinitely or just for the season), it is SO worth the drive down there and the subsequent walk to enjoy the scenery. I was just there this weekend and it is an amazing spot. Myself and friends were in Advocate for a little getaway ( I will also highly recommend the Driftwood Park chalets on the beach for so many reasons-and the area in general is beautiful even this time of year). I had heard about the Lighthouse as well as more recently the Wild Caraway and was really interested in checking it out for myself. My expectations were exceeded. What a wonderful find ! The cafe itself is in an older home , but there is nothing dated about the place. The decor was lively and the music that played throughout dinner fit so well. It is situated across the harbour with gorgeous views. At the point we visited, the cafe was only opening on the weekends (evidently they will also close down during Feb and March, to reopen in April), and closes at 7pm. I think their menu might also change a little (?) in the off seasons , not sure on this. They do brunch on Sundays but we didn't make it there for that. Now for the food ! The special that night was the halibut, served on a bed of lentils with broccoli and almonds. I knew what I was getting !! We ordered a bottle of Rioja (evidently purchased regularly through Crystal and Luckett in Bedford / Halifax and btw all wines on the list are available by the glass), and while we waited for our salads, we were brought a wonderful little treat which was a shot of mushroom soup along with one of the best rolls I have ever tasted; a dulse and fennel bun that had it been a huge loaf of bread I would have eaten the entire thing !! Oh so good. Had a caesar with local scallops that was very good, the scallops were a little over cooked, but the tastes were perfect. I would order again . It also came with the option of house-smoked chicken instead of the scallops. My main was a beautiful thick piece of halibut cooked to perfection, sitting atop a bed of french lentils which were very flavorful. The broccoli with almonds were lovely. The fish was "roll your eyes up into your head" good. Those were some mighty bare plates when we finished. Now, we were pretty content with the meal at this point and also very full..... but there was dessert. As soon as our waitress said sticky date cake with caramel sauce I was a goner. We three shared this huge piece of cake and it was equally fantastic. I will also note that our waitress was fantastic, absolutely no complaints there (no complaints anywhere at this point !) My bill came to the high $30's for this wonderful meal (two of us shared a salad, all three shared the wine, and I took the dessert. Loved this restaurant !!! Mon, 02 Nov 2009 01:03:24 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/645126#5147778 http://www.chow.com/topics/654645#5136733 We've also recently lost Merchant's Seafood and Chop House (which was actually pretty good) and well as "gastropub" Minstrel's. I agree with your assessment of Fid, best food in town and now best value as well. There are still plenty of excellent dinning choices in Halifax. I do not believe the new chef at twelvefortyone has worked for Ray Bear, though I could be wrong. Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:27:34 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/654645#5136733 http://www.chow.com/topics/661433#5131280 I tried the Fid brunch recently, too, and I totally agree. I had the smoked haddock with potatoes and poached egg, and it was delicious. The fresh crumpets are a bonus: tender and griddle-warm. The full breakfast looked good, too, with homemade sausage and artisan bacon. I had the same thought about Cora's--the brunch at Fid is barely more expensive, but it's miles ahead. Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:34:36 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/661433#5131280 http://www.chow.com/topics/661062#5122295 Personally I find the Dresden Row Pete's to have the freshest fish downtown. I've had fish from Barrington Superstore and the Queen st. Sobey's that was rather questionable at times. I believe that Clearwater out on the Bedford Highway is supposed to be quite good but I have no car so no way to get out there. Pete's doesn't always have the largest selection but what's there is reliably fresh. They do have some smoked fish but not a huge selection. Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:57:59 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/661062#5122295 http://www.chow.com/topics/649747#5114352 Charlottetown... I love The Pilot House (such good fish and chips..., amongst other things), and Sims (oysters, steak... and a really nice wine list) Halifax... FID is amazing for high end... and The Five Fisherman has a wicked unlimited mussel bar... Enjoy!!! Mon, 19 Oct 2009 16:39:10 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/649747#5114352 http://www.chow.com/topics/659075#5112881 I buy at Sambro Fisheries in Sambro. They supply a lot of the restaurants in Halifax, and from what I've heard, Mike's also sources some of their fish from Sambro. Prices are extremely reasonable, you are strongly recommended to call in advance as a lot of their stock is sold before it's gutted, filleted and packed. Sun, 18 Oct 2009 22:39:58 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/659075#5112881 http://www.chow.com/topics/637015#5109616 Outback is good for breakfast and low $ "Four Way Stop" local resturant in shopping center and liked by locals Lobster, go to the pound buy lobster by the lb. about $6 cooked or buy their lobster dinner, (not as good deal) Shore Club is a must, especially the night scene with bands Campground Gallants, very good fish and chips. enough chips for three. Trelis is good but $$ Do not miss Saturday market 8-12 a must, cheese, vegies, baked goods, and meats, also empanadas. Shelias chip wagon, in center of town is good. Sat, 17 Oct 2009 03:11:24 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/637015#5109616 http://www.chow.com/topics/636866#5106144 Incredible!! Are they still living there or did they move out? I wonder if those records are of any use to the trustees in bankruptcy. Seems like they're trying to avoid responsibility. What part of the city? Thu, 15 Oct 2009 20:53:16 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/636866#5106144 http://www.chow.com/topics/658454#5094664 Their food is generally pretty good. I used to like the place a lot, but I no longer will go there because the attitude of the owners/managers is pretty horrible. The customer is never right. Sun, 11 Oct 2009 12:54:41 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/658454#5094664 http://www.chow.com/topics/658126#5089578 Went to Little Louis' Oyster Bar last week, and I cannot say enough good about it. It was my third visit, and the best so far. I went for both of their specials - the starter a squash and pumpkin soup with mussels, which was just beautiful. They have a very good wine list. I found out later they apparently have an experienced sommelier, next time I'll ask his advice, but the viognier I tried was good. My main was a citrus butter poached halibut with crispy veal sweetbreads, a rillette of smoked pork belly, and red and yellow pepper sauces, on top of israeli couscous and pine nuts. Amazing, harmonious dish. The dessert was not a great finish though, a frangelico creme caramel with pumpkinseeds I think. It came off slightly bland, which was disappointing because my last visit's dessert was great. Despite that the rest of the meal stands out as the best by far I had in NB and NS. Thu, 08 Oct 2009 23:36:33 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/658126#5089578 http://www.chow.com/topics/650368#5089507 I ate at Baccalao this evening, I'm afraid it was extremely disappointing. Had the calamari fried with onion and garlic and the caribou main. The calamari was tough and a touch greasy, and the caribou, while a beautiful piece of meat, was absolutely murdered by the partridgeberry sauce. The vinegar overpowered everything else. There were also some amateur gnocchi and fall veggies. I hope you have a better experience! Thu, 08 Oct 2009 23:08:02 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/650368#5089507 http://www.chow.com/topics/338094#5078432 Yes, nonsense. I've had three very good seafood meals in NS in three days: Little Fish in Halifax, Lighthouse at Cape D'Or, Waterfront Warehouse in Halifax. The comparison to Toronto is totally unfair. Sun, 04 Oct 2009 20:11:15 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/338094#5078432 http://www.chow.com/topics/656566#5074777 We spent the last five days in PEI, and were so pleased to find that it is a real "foodie" heaven. First, there was the "Fall Flavours Festival" going on, which featured dozens of different venues all showcasing local products and the farming/harvesting/preparation/consumption of them. Turns out they have many of these festivals all season long. We also ate at several really great restaurants, and were only sorry to have to leave before having a chance to try more; there were so many to choose from. (And this is after some of the notables had already closed for the season.) Here's a short list: Lot 30 (sophisticated, urban, fresh local ingredients prepared in imaginative ways by Gordon Bailey, chef/owner) www.lot30restaurant.ca; Sirinella Ristorante (truly authentic northern Italian cuisine, fresh, home-made pasta dishes featuring local seafood, meats and vegetables, chef/owner Italo Marzari) www.sirenella.ca; Sims Corner Steakhouse & Oyster Bar (another hip spot with wonderful seafood and excellent steaks, owned by the Murphy Group, who also do a great job with Off Broadway and the Gahan House) http://www.murphygroupofrestaurants.com/sims_corner.php. PEI is a bit of a challenge to get to unless you fly, but given our recent culinary experiences, we'd recommend making the effort. Fri, 02 Oct 2009 17:40:15 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/656566#5074777 http://www.chow.com/topics/643336#5072249 Fid sharpens knives. It may take a few days to get them back but I've found they do a very good job- just call ahead. Cheers. Thu, 01 Oct 2009 16:34:26 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/643336#5072249 http://www.chow.com/topics/628226#5067936 Had the Jamaican style and curried mussels at Flex and they were enjoyable. Thanks for all your great advice. Tue, 29 Sep 2009 23:57:57 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/628226#5067936 http://www.chow.com/topics/655626#5065333 Not much info on places to dine on the west side of Newfoundland. Visitors will find that most things cost more than on the mainland. For example main courses around $30 are not unusual for ‘finer dining’ (which would probably be considered a bistro elsewhere). In Corner Brook, our research suggested 13 West as the destination – but it had gone; replaced by the Bay Of Islands Bistro. I can’t speak about the food, as the $30 mains were unexciting, so we looked elsewhere. Anne Hardy gives a nod (but no stars) to the Thistledown Florist Café (yes, inside a florist in the Milbrook Mall), so we looked in – and found another restaurant in the back, called Gitanos’. You can enter either through the flower shop, or by another entrance outside the Mall. This advertised a “Tapas” menu, or realistically, appetizer sized servings of multiple dishes. The menu is eclectic. Some Asian dishes; some Greek; lots of seafood; and even some Spanish influenced dishes. Normally I’d be wary of this wide selection in a small place – but the food turned out to be very good, with several hits and no real misses. A very pleasant meal for a fair price. Gros Morne Park was expected to be a challenge for food – essentially a tourist trap. However, there was one great surprise. Neddies Harbour Inn (in Norris Point) is fairly new but definitely deserves a star (or two) for food. My starter was a seafood chowder – and was probably the best I’ve ever had! The ingredients were all fresh and perfectly cooked – it was obvious the dish had been assembled just before serving (e.g. crunchy vegetables; no overcooked fish) and was a delight of textures and flavours and was smoky and piping hot. I commented on this being my best ever to the server, who responded simply with “I could have told you that”. Other dishes didn’t fall into a ‘best ever’ category, but my beef tenderloin with bread pudding and roasted parsnips was perfectly cooked and presented. And different veggies were served with each main (the other being the daily special of salmon) – something I was pleasantly impressed with (even more so when I found out that they only get a grocery delivery once weekly, although local fish is acquired daily from the fisherman). Desserts were acceptable and wine prices were fair (most under $50). We had planned the second night at Java Jack’s (in Rocky Harbour), but the Neddies meal was so good we returned for a second meal the following night, and took in Java Jack’s for lunch. This was competent, but a bit pricy for what we got. And the server bore an astonishing resemblance to the one at Neddies. Yes, indeed – she did double duty. And even triple – we stayed at Neddies and she also served breakfast.[Aside: I began thinking we’d stepped into a Newfie version of Local Hero]. Indeed we had another superb meal at Neddies the next night – I had to repeat the Seafood Chowder (that night was only the second-best I’ve ever had). But the table next to us asked to speak to the chef – they’d tried the chowder and told the chef it was the best they’d ever had!!! And the chef, Amy Scott, is only 24 (although the menu was apparently designed by Jason Lynch, who is the executive chef and works at the Grand Pré winery restaurant in Nova Scotia). And upon returning to Toronto and Googling the destination it transpired that the National Post had also written up the Chowder at Neddies! Oh, the rest of the meal was totally up to standard too. Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:40:25 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/655626#5065333 http://www.chow.com/topics/652553#5057607 I had the "man salad" at Durty Nelly's and found it overwhelmingly oily, next time I'd ask for dressing on the side and that might solve the problem. My favourite is also the Henry House; the oatmeal stout is fantastic and the food is all pretty solid, if not spectacular. Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:18:57 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/652553#5057607 http://www.chow.com/topics/654388#5053516 You can find this at any major chain grocery store in the Maritime Provinces, and probably at most convenience stores, gas stations, etc. Wed, 23 Sep 2009 23:34:47 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/654388#5053516 http://www.chow.com/topics/653225#5048304 Like Gastropunk, I'm eagerly awaiting the opening of Two If By Sea. Which is a joint venture between a former manager at Steve-o-renos and the woman who sells home made croissants at the Dartmouth Market. In the meantime, the only place I know of (other than Starbucks at Chapters) is Our Thyme Cafe, located in a building with no store front, on Portland Street. (It's bizarre because it looks like you are going into someone's apartment and how it got be built that way on a commercial street like Portland in the first place I still wonder) lI haven't been but I have heard from others that it is a cozy spot: http://www.thecoast.ca/Shoptalk/archives/2009/01/29/now-with-parsley-sage-and-rosemary Tue, 22 Sep 2009 11:26:28 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/653225#5048304 http://www.chow.com/topics/653824#5045735 Hi, I'm James Careless, a freelance writer writing for Canadian Pizza magazine. I am researching the best takeout/delivery pizza restaurants in Canada. I am looking for those that excel in providing really excellent customer service in both regards. Your suggestions as to what restaurants to contact and why their service is so good would be much appreciated! thanks, jc Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:12:12 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/653824#5045735 http://www.chow.com/topics/653581#5043400 My husband and I were in Lunenberg last weekend, our last stop on a New Brunswick/Nova Scotia vacation. I had heard great things about Fleur de Sel and was excited to give it a try. My guidebook said it was open for lunch, but when I arrived , it was closed but a nice employee suggested I give the Salt Shaker Deli a try (owned by the same people that operate Fleur de Sel). My first reaction was that I did not want to have lunch at a "deli" after having my heart set on Fleur de Sel. We walked by to check it out and ended up having lunch there. We shared a Stinky Charlie's garlic pizza and the Vegetarian pizza. They were excellent - the best pizza I have had in a long time. We were so impressed that we returned for dinner. We had hummus and pita, Indian Point mussels served in the Provencial style, and a Greek salad. Again, it was a great meal. The food is simple, but they put an interesting twist on everything they prepare. If I was in town a few days more, I would have continued to work my way down the menu. Sun, 20 Sep 2009 13:02:27 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/653581#5043400 http://www.chow.com/topics/652987#5036752 Just came back from a few days vacation in St John's. I scourged this board and other resources before heading down and was surprised at the lack of enthusiasm regarding the restaurant scene. Here's my update on where we ate. (We stuck to the Avalon coast and mainly around downtown St John's) Ice Cream: The only dairy bar that we ran into was Moo Moo's on King's road. I think $10 for a double scoop and a single scoop is a bit pricey, but I'll admit that the ice cream was really good. They have interesting flavours that you don't normally see in an ice cream parlour. Our favourites were strawberry with brownies and strawberry with cookies. There are some tables inside, and picnic tables outside to sit and enjoy your ice cream/milkshake/soft serve/slushie. There was a lineup even on a cold rainy weekday afternoon, so you know Moo Moo's has a wining recipe. Fish & Chips: We only ate fish and chips once and that was at Ches's - the location on Freshwater Road. Nice place to try fries and dressing for those that haven't had it before. Fish was good, fries were tasty. My only complaint is that I would expect a fish and chips place to make their own tartar sauce, but they only offered the little packets of blandness. Auntie Crae's Specialty Foods: One of our first stops in town was Auntie Crae's Specialty Foods. The staff was very knowledgeable about the local foods, and provided us samples of the various jams. The store offers a sandwich counter, small cafe in the back for coffee and teas, whole coffee beans from around the world, newfoundland specialties such as dark rum fruit cake, local berry jams, cheeses, cookies, canned and packaged goods and more. The cookies were much too sweet for me. But the partridge berry jam was excellent. (Unfortunately it got confiscated at security because apparently a jam/jelly is considered a liquid! Boo.) The store really is a mish-mash of offerings - certainly a place to pop into if you want to try some local specialties. Coffee: On a quest to find the best coffee in the city, we tried Coffee Matters, Coffee Matters Too, Jumping Beans, Sappho Cafe and Hava Java. Jumping told us that they supply the beans to CM, CM2 and HJ so....no one place stood out. Jumping was the most accessible in regards to sniffing the various teas, and the barista was very helpful in providing us details about the various caffeinated concoctions. The cafe is located on Harvey Street - not right in the downtown core. Coffee Matters/2 has the most extensive menu of all the coffee houses, and the prices of their desserts range from $1-$8. Breakfast was decent, and the desserts are average. It's what you'd expect from a run-of-the-mill coffee house - nothing more, nothing less. Sappho is the only cafe that had character, and the only place where all the food is made in-house. The banana chocolate chip bundt cake with dark chocolate ganache icing was excellent! They only offer two coffee roasts - one dark and one medium. I thought the baristas at Sappho were the most friendly, and the atmosphere is the most inviting right from the picturesque red front door to the cozy bar table looking out through the big windows. Baked Goods: We visited Georgetown Bakery on the recommendation of other chowhounders. Delicious! They offer a rotating special of daily breads, as well as olive boules, baguettes, croissants, belgians, etc. No pastries per se, but they do have some date squares, lemon squares, etc. The cranberry spice loaf that we tried was stupendously delicious - crusty on the outside and warm and chewy on the inside jam packed with cranberries, currants, and other goodies. The quarter belgians were a home run with some butter and partridgeberry jam. And the croissants were also good. Get there early if you want croissants as the place is busy all the time and the yummies run out fast. We tried Michel's Bakery on Water street after Jumping mentioned that they source some of their baked goods there. Along with whole tortes, cakes, and muffins, they also offer a rotating selection of hot foods such as Jigg's dinner, macaroni and beef, pot pies, etc. The croissants were hard and inedible, and the carrot muffin was so sweet that we couldn't eat more than one bite. As it turned out, we never got around to trying the takeout hot food that we purchased so I can't comment on the quality of those. We ran into Manna's bakery on our way to Avalon Mall. It sounded promising but turned out to be a disappointment. I didn't find the staff very helpful, and the apple pie we bought just did not sit right with any of us. So I'm still not sure where to go in town to find some good pies and tarts? On our way down from Signal Hill, we stopped at the Bookery which is just at the bottom of the hill tucked away in a corner. It's actually a bookstore but they offer a few treats and drinks inside. There was nowhere to sit and enjoy the food/drinks - it is primarily a bookstore after all. We tried the zucchini walnut orange loaf and a chocolate chip cookie. Both were fine, however since all treats are made offsite I wouldn't go back again unless I was in search of a book. Irish Loop Coffee House: On the drive down the Avalon coast towards Witless Bay we popped into the Irish Loop Coffee House in Mobile. It's a cute little local cafe with a small menu of staples like pancakes, bacon and eggs, tuna sandwich, etc. There are about 7 little tables with plastic tableclothes, and a selection of cards and games that you can play. Perched right on the water, you have an incredible view of the Bay. We tried the day's special pea soup, a crab sandwich and some cinnamon raisin bread pudding. Pea soup was thick and full of chunks of ham and carrots. The waitress had told us that the crab sandwich was made from "fresh crab", rather than imitation crab. Turns out that "fresh crab" means tinned crab, and the sandwich was basically tinned crab with some mayo between two slices of bread. The bread pudding was the major hit...warm, and gooey with the perfect amount of raisins. I would try the restaurant again simply because it was so charming, but I'd try a different sandwich next time. Basho: Seems odd to find a Nobu disciple in St John's, but of course we had to try Basho. One of only two sushi joints in town, Basho is located in an unassuming building in an unassuming portion of Duckworth Street. The restaurant has two floors - a dining room on the main floor and a lounge upstairs. The lounge has same menu as the dining room as well as additional bar menu items such as yakitori chicken wings, crab croquettes, and sweet potato fries. We were there on a saturday night, and the place had a decent crowd throughout the evening. Unfortunately they were out of tuna that night. We had lobster cantonese style, spicy salmon inside out roll, super roll, softshell crab roll, as well as two items that were gifted to owner Tak by celebrity chef Nobu - new style salmon sashimi and asparagus with scallops. The lobster seasoned with black bean, chillies, sake and garlic was finger-licking good...literally, we were licking every inch of the shell and the serving dish. The servers were knowledgeable but not extensively - for example, our waitress didn't know where the scallops were from...seems a bit odd when your signature dish contains scallops. Tak did up all of the sushi orders for the house, and he had other staff working in the kitchen. The lounge is nice for a group of 2-4 people - casual and relaxed, but still the same great food you'd enjoy downstairs. There is also a bar for you to sit and eat/drink at. The main dining room is decorated in a more muted palette, while the lounge is stark red, black and greys. Along with the bar, bar tables, and a few regular tables, there is also some sofas to lounge on. All in all, we had a great time and the food was excellent. Baccalao: I could write an entire post on Baccalao alone and rave, rave rave. Hands-down this was the best meal we had during our entire trip. The restaurant is housed in a former house. Their shtick is "nouvelle Newfoundland cuisine". The staff were all very friendly and extremely well-informed about the menu. Because we couldn't decide between all the delicious dishes, we ended up ordering 5 appetizers and three desserts. The calamari was light and not laden down with batter (perhaps a bit oversalted though), mussels with Quidi Vidi beer (local) were perfectly done and a very large portion for an appetizer, Jiggs dinner salt cod wrapped in cabbage with pease pudding was well presented with the pease pudding in a shot glass and I enjoyed the new spin with the cabbage roll, snow crab spring rolls were good, and the baccalao (salt cod) fritters with lemon aioli were crispy on the outside and bursting with fish without skewing towards the heavy side. The wait staff also presented us with a sample of the moose bourginon (large enough to be another appetizer) when we enquired about how gamey the meat was. All of the desserts are made in-house, and the dessert list is very long...I think there were about 12 items when we were there. Creme brulee, raspberry strudel, and partridgeberry pie were all well made. In addition, the restaurant also offers some martinis made with local berries such as partidgeberry, wild blueberry, etc. 5 appetizers, 1 martini, 3 desserts and coffee all for $100!!! Best food of the trip, most friendly staff, warm and cozy atmosphere, and a well-priced menu. If you live in town and you haven't been here, then you're definitely missing out. Blue on Water: Our first and last meals were both at Blue on Water. First let me say that the bathrooms in there are supercool - the doors in the stalls are somewhat translucent so you can somewhat see your reflection and somewhat see out to the sink area. Blue is a hotel, bar/lounge and restaurant in one building. Service was professional during both meals and the staff was well versed with the menu. During our first meal, we tried the seafood chowder and the seafood bouillabaise. Both came out laden down with chunks of seafood. The food was so good that we decided to go back again at the end of our trip. It was our last chance to try any Newfie specialities before heading home. Blue turned out to be one of the few places open at 9am since I was starving and ready for brunch. Once again it did not disappoint. Fish and brewis, toutons, scrunchions, seafood chowder, salt fish cakes and much more are available on the brunch menu. We tried the toutons (pronounced "taut - ONs" rather than "tootons") which traditionally is deepfried dough served with molasses. Our toutons weren't deepfried though - they must have been baked because the buns were still light and chewy. Blue provides syrup along with molasses with their toutons. The "special hash browns" which Ontarions would call homefries was well seasoned and the chopped peppers and onions added a nice touch. Sausages, pancakes, smoked salmon bennys were all well executed. Blue is the place you could go to for a work meeting, date, or a small group of friends gathering. Overall, we were very pleasantly surprised by the culinary delights that we enjoyed during our stay. For a metro area of under 200,000 people, St John's offers a solid number of interesting dining options. Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:46:12 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/652987#5036752 http://www.chow.com/topics/649404#5035380 I made reservations at Chives. Now on to the drinks afterwards. I think I'll take him to Lower Deck for the local flair. What other good spots are there? Thanks! Wed, 16 Sep 2009 23:55:50 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/649404#5035380 http://www.chow.com/topics/650880#5031703 This place is/was (?) part of Bonne Cuisine, right? They used to make a nice pecan pie, but I haven't seen it there lately. They have a good steak-and-kidney pie, which I pick up when I have a craving. Of course, it doesn't live up to my nan's, but it does the trick. Tue, 15 Sep 2009 17:59:31 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/650880#5031703 http://www.chow.com/topics/649079#5029504 Yes, for a while. The building is being redeveloped -- essentially being torn down and the existing facade replicated in a new structure -- and then O'Carroll's is scheduled to return. Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:25:22 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/649079#5029504 http://www.chow.com/topics/652111#5027155 While having the tasting menu at Rouge around a year ago, we had foie gras 3-ways with this delicious drizzle of sauce. They said the sauce was made from scrapings of a sherry cask. There was a name for the sauce, but I can't seem to recall it. Anyone else happen to know what the name is? Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:31:48 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/652111#5027155 http://www.chow.com/topics/591688#5026143 Just once, and the place was pretty cleaned out by the time we got there. Snagged a mighty good loaf of olive bread though. So good. Sun, 13 Sep 2009 14:56:00 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/591688#5026143 http://www.chow.com/topics/651275#5026060 Check at Brighton Grocery- just off of Brighton Rd. They would have the vinegar for sure. For the creme fraiche you might have luck at the Farmers market....(Or mix equal parts whipping cream and sour cream) Sun, 13 Sep 2009 14:00:33 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/651275#5026060 http://www.chow.com/topics/602778#5021095 foodiesnorth, your experience at the Blue Door reflects my own many visits there: " I kept expecting to taste something, but never did." I am a local and have been forced to go there a few times a year either to be polite to friends or to attend a business meal. I have very often sent dishes back and so have my fellow diners. I have also had similar experiences with the service. Brewbakers is a more reliable kitchen (which is not saying much). Fri, 11 Sep 2009 03:33:43 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/602778#5021095 http://www.chow.com/topics/650875#5013548 tried elephant and castle today, so I will admit to only having the one item, but I'll tell you it was so disappointing. Their chicken pot pie, I would not recommend. It is like 80 % sauce or gravy, you will need a spoon. again I am not recommending it, found it was blah, flavorless, nothing special, and I am not even sure I would say, adequate. Tue, 08 Sep 2009 17:15:40 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/650875#5013548 http://www.chow.com/topics/507487#5009068 I used to live in Charlottetown, and would make the drive back JUST to eat at The Pilot House (downtown Charlottetown), and also if you want awesome fish & chips go to the Gahan House Brewery (also downtown). Enjoy your trip - PEI is awesome, you will have a great time :) Sun, 06 Sep 2009 16:47:52 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/507487#5009068 http://www.chow.com/topics/648961#5004683 Found this on Epicurious in response to the same question (maybe it was also you!) - perhaps worth a shot? http://food.chatelaine.com/Recipes/View/Jane_Wright_s_Deluxe_Gingerbread_Cake Fri, 04 Sep 2009 15:23:35 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/648961#5004683 http://www.chow.com/topics/647043#4985874 Thank you all! Fri, 28 Aug 2009 16:54:05 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/647043#4985874 http://www.chow.com/topics/632401#4975440 I have to admit, we walked across to take a look at the Lick A Treat ice cream selections but were so stuffed that we had to pass on it. Tue, 25 Aug 2009 14:15:41 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/632401#4975440 http://www.chow.com/topics/642497#4973330 You were absolutely correct in saying that it would be well worth the visit and completely enjoyable!! The food in terms of presentation, originality and taste was exquisite. The service was incredible and Chef Bear himself was absolutely personable and a pleasure to speak with. It is fantastic to see a chef so passionate about his food and so doting toward his customers. Living in Toronto I have eaten at many fine restaurants but I would hold Bear above all of them! I cannot wait for my next trip to Halifax! Thanks for your input!! Mon, 24 Aug 2009 19:26:55 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/642497#4973330 http://www.chow.com/topics/564777#4972613 We were there on Saturday and were quite impressed. I'm with quof, never been overly happy with Tempest but the food at the Port Pub was very good. I had the "Local Braised Beef" on yummy garlic mashed potatoes. Others in my group has the "Nachos" and the "Fish and Chips" and both really enjoyed. The beers were excellent as well. The service was very friendly and professional. I'll be heading to the Valley again this coming weekend and look forward to going back. I only wish it was closer to my home. EXCELLENT job overall. Mon, 24 Aug 2009 16:26:55 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/564777#4972613 http://www.chow.com/topics/645015#4967206 I've been to both too and have been meaning to respond to this. They are really very different restaurants, both with their merits. I agree with boynamedsous' positive comments on FDS. I've had a few wonderful meals there. I would disagree on the assessment of Bear, however. While I wouldn't give it across the board glowing reviews, I think "all sizzle and no steak" doesn't represent my experience. My meal and Bear had highs and lows - the highs were very high, and the lows were more just places where things weren't as good as I had hoped. Bear is ambitious and I think that when a restaurant is ambitious, it can fall short of what it sets up. I think it just depends on what you are looking for in a meal. FDS is more consistent, but it's probably less adventurous. Sometimes I'm willing to take a few mis-steps for the sake of adventure. I definitely plan to return to Bear, and I've already been back to FDS. Outside of the food, one thing that I think is important to note in comparison of these two places is how different they are atmospherically. FDS is set up in an historic house - the restaurant occupies the front rooms of the ground floor. It is open, and bright compared to Bear, which has more of a modern feel (on the ground floor of a recently built condo building), with dimmed lighting and more clubby music. Both have excellent service in my recollection: FDS more personal, but Bear very professional. Sat, 22 Aug 2009 01:59:52 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/645015#4967206 http://www.chow.com/topics/312066#4966570 I've been to the Lobster Galley a couple of times. Its location is amazing, but the food seemed pretty ordinary. Instead, I recommend planning ahead and making dinner reservations at nearby Chanterelle instead--a nice "slow food" establishment with a reasonable prix fixe menu. Fri, 21 Aug 2009 21:39:44 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/312066#4966570 http://www.chow.com/topics/646204#4963435 Have you tried Planet Organic? I don't know for sure, but it seems like a possilbility. Thu, 20 Aug 2009 20:56:19 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/646204#4963435 http://www.chow.com/topics/644950#4962722 We'll be heading to NS in a couple of weeks. Your posts have been so helpful. Thank you. Thu, 20 Aug 2009 17:52:40 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/644950#4962722 http://www.chow.com/topics/645676#4957274 Wondering if anyone else has been? I had lunch there recently and was very pleasantly surprised. We had beer (I had the irish red) , split a pizza and salad (the watermelon feta's dressing was one of the best things i've ever tasted), and the wood-fired pizza was also very good. I snuck a peek at some of the nearby meals being served, which also looked very very good. Needless to say there were a few intriguing menu items that i'd love to go back and try, as well as the other offerings on tap ! Tue, 18 Aug 2009 23:03:50 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/645676#4957274 http://www.chow.com/topics/637094#4951084 Janes on the Common is my favourite resto in Halifax! The blackened chicken with brie is delicious. Sun, 16 Aug 2009 21:33:55 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/637094#4951084 http://www.chow.com/topics/642450#4927291 No, you're thinking of the former Sebastien's, which has been reborn as Estia (sp?). I also must correct myself in that I just learned today that Piccolo Mondo is no more. I walked past there tonight and it is being reconstructed. During the same walk I discovered that the former Bondi, which then became Fizz, is now yet another incarnation, a Scottish bar called the Loose Cannon. Sat, 08 Aug 2009 00:04:36 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/642450#4927291 http://www.chow.com/topics/613556#4922573 We just returned from Halifax and while there we a scrumptious indian meal that needs to be trumpeted! It was at the Taj Mahal on South Street. The service was slow because the place was short-staffed, but they served us a dish of pappadum while we waited for our meal. That was nice of them. The pappadum were light and crispy, a great way to get the juices flowing. The vegetable samosas were light and tasty as well and the onion Bhajia was brilliantly light and crispy, just the way I like it and for a change, you could actually taste the chickpeas in the batter. They served it with a runny liquid tamarind chutney that was quite nice and very tamarind although, I prefer my chutney a little chunkier. The Vindaloo was not just hot but flavourful and Greg remarked that Sam knows how to cook lamb. He ordered it hot, and although it wasn't as hot as Greg had hoped, he was sweating up a storm by the end of the meal. The prawns weren't, they were actually jumbo shrimp, but I've come to expect that anywhere east of Vancouver. The curry was delectable but not very hot, although I didn't ask for it hot. I've heard some negative reviews from locals about this particular restaurant, but have never in the last two years had a bad experience. I highly recommend getting a dish of the Kheera Raitha, it is made with their homemade youghurt and is absolutely delish, perfect side for the curry and the vindaloo, especially if you order them hot. The naan was light and fluffy and perfectly buttered and certainly among the best naan I've had. The sticker damage wasn't bad at all considering the high class air of the place. I will go again the next time I am in Halifax. http://www.tajmahal7wonders.com/tajmahal.html Thu, 06 Aug 2009 16:00:33 GMT http://www.chow.com/topics/613556#4922573