James MartinIf you’re a true Haligonian, you already know the magic of a Donair. But for the uninitiated, you might be wondering: what in the world is it and where can I find the best Donair in Halifax?
First, imagine this: a pita wrapped around juicy, shaved beef (traditionally spit-roasted), topped with tomato, onions, and a sauce that’s a sweet and tangy mix of vinegar, condensed milk, and garlic powder. Sounds mouthwatering, right?
It’s the ultimate late-night snack and a Nova Scotian staple that’s practically a local rite of passage. Whether you’re a born-and-bred Haligonian or just a curious foodie looking for local haunts, I’ve got the spots where you need to try these delicious Donairs!
1. Mezza Lebanese Kitchen
Media credit: halifaxandbeyond
Website: https://www.ordermezza.com/
Address: 1558 Barrington St
Phone: +1 902-425-8882
Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 11 AM–12 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 11 AM–4 AM
Mezza Lebanese Kitchen is the cool older cousin of Donair joints, bringing a touch of Lebanese flair to the East Coast favorite. Their Donair Plate isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience!
It has tender Donair meat lounging on a bed of rice or fries, cozying up next to a fresh Greek salad that’s as crunchy as it is refreshing.
The whole thing is topped off with their legendary Donair sauce, which is basically the glue holding this flavor-packed masterpiece together!
But Mezza doesn’t stop at plates. Their Donair DEEP Bowl is a layered wonder of Donair meat, lemony potato wedges, crisp iceberg lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and a generous dollop of hummus.
For those who like their Donair in a more portable form, the Donair Wrap delivers all the goodness in a convenient, handheld package.
| Pro Tip: Pair your meal with a refreshing glass of ayran (a traditional yogurt drink) or go for something sweet like baklava to end on a high note. |
2. Tony’s Famous Donairs
Media credit: tonysDonair
Website: http://www.tonysDonair.com/
Address: 2390 Robie St
Phone: +1 902-404-8669
Hours:
- Sunday to Tuesday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Wednesday to Thursday: 11 AM–3 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 11 AM–4 AM
Tony’s Famous Donairs & Pizza is basically a Halifax legend. Serving up their famous Donairs since 1976, Tony’s is the place to hit when you’re craving a serious flavor bomb.
The Donair meat is perfectly seasoned and shaved just right, wrapped up in a soft pita with sweet Donair sauce, onions, and tomatoes.
Their regular, medium, and large sizes mean you can go big or go home. Or somewhere in between if you’re feeling indecisive!
For those days when a Donair isn’t enough (or you just want to take it to the next level), Tony’s has options like Donair Egg Rolls, Donair Plates, and even a Donair Pizza.
The Donair Poutine is where the magic happens, though. Picture this: crispy fries, melty mozzarella, that legendary Donair meat, and a rich gravy that pulls it all together.
| Pro Tip: Gobble down your Donair with some garlic fingers, or wash it down with a cold soda. If you’ve got room for more, a classic Canadian dessert like a butter tart wouldn’t be a bad idea either. |
3. King of Donair
Media credit: kingofDonair
Website: https://www.kingofDonair.ca/
Address: 6420 Quinpool Rd
Phone: +1 902-421-0000
Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 10 AM–1 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 10 AM–2 AM
King of Donair is where it all started—literally. The OG of Donair joints in Halifax, this spot is where Peter Gamoulakos introduced Canada to its first Donair back in 1973.
What started as a Greek gyro experiment turned into the iconic East Coast Donair we know and love today. Their recipe is a simple yet irresistible mix of spiced ground beef, sweet Donair sauce, onions, and tomatoes all wrapped up in a warm, pillowy pita.
For those who like a little extra kick, the Hot Blonde Donair is a must-try. This spicy twist on the classic comes loaded with pineapple, cheese, hot peppers, and a splash of Dave’s Hot Sauce.
Or, if you’re craving something different, the Donair Panzerotti takes all the classic Donair goodness and stuffs it into a crispy, golden pocket of dough. And don’t even get me started on the Donair Pizza—it’s a full-on flavor explosion with every bite.
| Pro Tip: Pair your Donair with a side of their Donair Poutine (because why not double down on the Donair goodness?), and wash it down with an ice-cold pop. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, grab a slice of baklava to finish things off right. |
4. Robert’s Pizza & Donair
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Website: https://web.facebook.com/p/Roberts-Pizza-Donair-100063660877431/
Address: 364 Windmill Rd
Phone: +1 902-463-8444
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:30 AM–1:30 PM, 4 PM–12:30 AM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–1:30 PM, 4 PM–1:30 AM
- Saturday: 4 PM–1:30 AM
- Sunday: 4 PM–12 AM
Ask any Canadian sailor who’s docked in Halifax and they’ll likely point you toward Robert’s Pizza & Donair! For 40 years, this iconic spot has been the go-to destination for a hearty meal before heading to CFB Stadacona.
When you walk into Robert’s, chunky Donair meat greets you instead of the typical processed stuff. Each bite delivers a satisfying chew, thanks to the perfectly crispy bottom and robust crust.
Robert’s serves up a variety of subs and pizzas too. Their pizza version of the Donair is a must-try for those who like their Donair with a cheesy twist.
| Pro Tip: Go for a double Donair: classic Donair with a slice of their Donair pizza for the ultimate experience. For extra crunch, grab a side of their crispy fries! |
5. Snappy Tomato
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Website: https://snappytomato.ca/
Address: 1283 Barrington St
Phone: +1 902-457-5005
Hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday: 10 AM–2 AM
- Thursday to Saturday: 10 AM–4 AM
Snappy Tomato might have taken over from Papa Mario’s, but their Donair game is all their own. If you’re in the mood for a classic, their Donair on pita is exactly what you need.
We’re talking tender, juicy Donair meat wrapped in a warm pita, topped with fresh onions and tomatoes, and smothered in that legendary sweet Donair sauce.
It’s a simple, no-fuss masterpiece that hits all the right notes and is perfect for when you’re craving something hearty and flavorful.
But if you’re someone who likes to snack, Snappy Tomato has you covered with their Donair Fingers. They’re perfect for dipping in extra Donair sauce, or if you’re feeling wild, pair them with a side of fries or even a poutine to really make your taste buds soar.
| Pro Tip: If you want to try a bit of everything, get their Appetizer Platter. You get 4 Donair egg rolls,4 wings, 4 zucchini fingers, 4 mozzarella sticks, onion rings, medium fries, and all served with sour cream and their signature Donair sauce. |
6. Rush Hour Pizza
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Website: http://rushhourpizza.ca/
Address: 2278 Gottingen St
Phone: +1 902-405-2984
Hours:
- Closed on Monday
- Tuesday to Thursday: 10 AM–7 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 10 AM–9 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–6 PM
Ever thought you’d find a great donair in a spot that feels like a quick snack stop? Rush Hour Pizza proves that you can by blending the convenience of fast food with the satisfaction of a well-made Donair.
The prices are wallet-friendly, and the staff makes sure you’re not just fed but well-fed.
Don’t miss their Super Donair, a pita-packed delight that’s overflowing with pepperoni, cheese, tomatoes, onions, and sauce.
The large and extra-large options are perfect for anyone with a big appetite or those who believe in sharing (but let’s be real, it’s probably just for yourself).
| Pro Tip: If you’re craving a full meal, their Donair Plate is a solid choice, with oven-baked fries and cheese adding an extra crunch. And don’t skimp on the extra sauce; it’s a game-changer! |
7. Real Fake Meats
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Website: http://realfakemeats.com/
Address: 2278 Gottingen St
Phone: +1 902-405-2984
Hours:
- Closed on Monday
- Tuesday to Thursday: 10 AM–7 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 10 AM–9 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–6 PM
Real Fake Meats is the true unicorn of Donair shops in Halifax: completely unique and surprisingly magical! Specializing in plant-based meats, they’re not just catering to vegans; they’re converting even the most dedicated carnivores.
Their Veggie Donair is proof that you don’t need animal meat to enjoy the deliciousness of Halifax’s favorite late-night snack.
Made from a mix of vital wheat gluten, chickpeas, soy sauce, and a secret blend of spices, this Donair is wrapped in a soft pita and topped with fresh veggies like tomatoes and onions, all drizzled with a sweet and savory sauce!
You can pair this Donair with some of their house-made sides for the full experience. For those craving something green, a side of their fresh Caesar or house salad is a great way to balance out the indulgence.
| Pro Tip: A personal favorite is the vegan poutine, which combines crispy fries, plant-based gravy, and gooey vegan cheese! |
8. Alexandra’s Pizza
Media credit: alexandraspizza.ns
Website: https://alexandraspizza.com/
Address: 1735 Grafton St
Phone: +1 902-425-1900
Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 11 AM–2 AM
- Thursday: 11 AM–3 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 11 AM–4 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM–2:30 AM
Craving a donair that’s so good it’s practically legendary? Alexandra’s Pizza, established by Dimitri Neonakis in 1991, serves up donairs that only true connoisseurs can dream of.
What started as a hotspot for poutine and a pizza variety that could satisfy even the most late-night cravings, quickly turned into a destination for donair enthusiasts.
Their classic Donair features juicy, spiced meat wrapped in a pita, topped with fresh onions, tomatoes, and their coveted homemade tomato sauce.
For those who believe more is more, the Donair with Cheese adds an extra layer of gooey, melty goodness.
If you’re looking to go all out, try their Donair Plate! It’s oven-baked with fries, mozzarella, and donair sauce for a cheesy, saucy twist that doesn’t include pita but is all the better for it.
| Pro Tip: Grab a dozen Donair Egg Rolls if you’re hosting a party or just want a snack that will make you the hero of your own kitchen. |
9. Leo’s Donair
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Website: https://leosDonair.com/
Address: 1920 St Margarets Bay Rd
Phone: +1 902-876-8777
Hours:
- Closed from Saturday to Sunday
- Monday to Friday: 9 AM–5 PM
Leo’s Donair is the ultimate DIY destination for snack lovers who want to create their own masterpiece at home. Leo Toulany started out in 1981, not as a Donair maker but as a humble supplier of ground beef.
From loaves to burgers, Leo’s got everything you need to build your Donair dreams.
Sausages and Smoked Pepperettes add variety to your spread, while their signature sauce and bottled spice are your secret weapons for authentic flavor right in your kitchen.
For an epic meal right at home, try mixing and matching the loaf with some of their sausages and finish it off with a splash of Donair Sauce. It’s like bringing the shop experience to your own kitchen!
| Pro Tip: Stock up on Donair Spice and Sauce. They’re perfect for adding a Donair twist to any dish, even your popcorn. |
