Matthew TremblayOne of my favorite things to do in Halifax in the summer is lounge on a rooftop bar. Instead of hitting up the beer gardens and waterfront restaurants, which are always packed with tourists and locals alike, I enjoy sipping cocktails in the sky.
I can soak up some sun with a drink in my hand while enjoying stunning views of the city stretching out below.
If that sounds like something you want to experience, you’ve got several options in Halifax. From chic lounges to casual hangouts, each one offers a unique vibe and cuisine, so there’s a little bit of something for every mood and occasion.
Your Father’s Moustache
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Website: http://yourfathersmoustache.ca/
Location: 5686 Spring Garden Road
Phone: +19024236766
Opening hours:
Mon-Wed, 11:30 AM–10 PM
Thu-Fri, 11:30 AM–11 PM
Sat, 11 AM–11 PM
Sun, 11 AM–10 PM
Your Father’s Moustache has been a Halifax staple since 1989. Many establishments have come and gone, but its fun, laid-back atmosphere, and incredible rooftop patio will always make it a local favorite.
No matter the time of day, the rooftop has stunning views of the city below and the entrance to the Halifax Gardens. It’s the perfect place to people-watch while sipping craft beer.
Whether you get burgers, sandwiches, or pasta, a hefty meal and a drink should cost at least $30. Steak and eggs, the most expensive items on the menu, are available for brunch on the weekends for $38.
| Pro Tip: The dress code here is casual: jeans and a nice shirt will do. The vibe is relaxed enough that you’ll feel comfortable in whatever you’re wearing. |
LevelBar
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Website: http://www.princegeorgehotel.com/dining/levelbar.php
Location: 1725 Market Street
Phone: +19024640764
Opening hours: Open daily for
Lunch, 12 PM–4 PM
Dinner, 4 PM–11 PM
Nestled atop The Prince George Hotel, LevelBar is a garden in the sky, where you can sip mixed cocktails and watch sunsets with friends. Luckily, you don’t need to be guests at the hotel to enjoy this chic rooftop bar.
The menu features an array of light gourmet dishes and expertly crafted cocktails that complement every bite. They serve seasonal menus focused on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
As the evening progresses, the bar becomes a vibrant spot for socializing, with a sophisticated crowd. Wear a smart casual fit so you can be more relaxed yet still elegant.
| Pro Tip: Summers at LevelBar can get packed. It’s best to book a table in advance, especially if you’re traveling with a large group. |
Black Sheep
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Website: http://www.blacksheephalifax.com/
Location: 1496 Lower Water Street BH-204
Phone: +19024296491
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri, 10 AM–10 PM
Sat-Sun, 9 AM–10 PM
Located in the Brewery Market, Black Sheep is a stone’s throw away from the Halifax Citadel(guide to citadel hill halifax), the waterfront, and other popular attractions. Open 7 days a week, it’s a great stop after a day out in the town.
The rooftop bar provides an intimate setting for a relaxing evening, where you can indulge in their globally inspired cuisine along with creative cocktails. Their large plates cost upward of $20, while their small plates cost two or three dollars less.
Although they don’t impose a dress code, the cozy, contemporary setting of Black Sheep calls for a smart casual fit. You’ll feel comfortable, but you’ll still fit right in with the bar’s stylish vibe.
| Pro Tip: They don’t accept reservations for their rooftop patio as they follow a first-come, first-serve policy. Keep that in mind if you plan on visiting with a large group. |
The Decks
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Website: https://www.graftonconnor.com/the-decks/
Location: 1732 Argyle Street
Phone: +17824147286
Opening hours:
Wed-Thu, 3 PM until late
Fri-Sat, 12 PM until late
Sat-Sun, 12 PM–3 PM
The Decks on Argyle is a sprawling, multi-level rooftop bar with breathtaking views of Halifax harbor and the rest of downtown. Since the vibe is hip and social, it welcomes a diverse crowd, all looking to unwind.
What I like the most about it is that they’ve got a DJ every night so you can listen to good music and dance around. It’s perfect for a fun night out with friends.
Just like the vibe and the music, the menu is refreshing and tasteful. From watermelon salad to tuna tartare, their vibrant, seasonal flavors are crafted to pair well with summer cocktails.
| Pro Tip: The Decks on Argyle is weather-dependent, so they only open whenever it’s warm and sunny out. Check their socials for the latest updates on their opening hours. |
Buck Ugly’s
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Website: http://buckuglys.ca/
Location: 5287 Prince Street
Phone: +19024462825
Opening hours: Daily 6 PM–2 PM
Buck Ugly’s is a lively and energetic bar with rooftop seating—only when the weather is nice. It’s within walking distance from the most popular attractions like the Citadel and the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, making it a great place to refuel after some sightseeing.
My favorite thing about it is that the food doesn’t cost an arm and a leg yet it comes in huge portions, which you can share with others.
If the rooftop is closed, you can enjoy the stunning views of the bustling city around you from inside the bar. With large windows wrapped around this spot, you can still people-watch but that would be the last thing on your mind at this fun, dynamic hangout.
| Pro Tip: You can dress casually with just a shirt and pants—or even shorts during the summer. But for more special events, which they occasionally host here, opt for smart casual attire. |
The Pint Public House
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Website: https://thepinthfx.com/
Location: 1575 Argyle Street
Phone: +19024057468
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri, 11:30 AM–12 AM
Sat 10 AM–2 AM
Sun 10 AM–12 AM
The Pint Public House, Halifax’s go-to sports bar, has one of the best rooftop patios in the entire city. It’s a spot where sports fans, after-work crowds, and weekend revelers come together to unwind and socialize.
Known for its extensive drink menu, you can get everything from craft beers and cocktails to wine and seltzers. Prices are reasonable, with most drinks ranging from $8 to $14, making it accessible for most budgets.
You’ll find this sports bar on Argyle Street, where all the cool nightclubs(best night clubs halifax) are located. Before heading out for a night of drinking, grab a well-balanced meal here so you don’t get too intoxicated.
| Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a spot on the rooftop, especially if you’re visiting on a Friday or Saturday night. The rooftop fills up quickly, and the earlier you arrive, the better your chances of snagging a great view! |
Salt Yard Social
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Website: https://saltyardsocial.ca/
Location: 1599 Lower Water St
Opening hours: Daily 12 PM–11 PM
Salt Yard Social is a chic, industrial bar where you can dine al fresco right by the waterfront. It has the best views of Halifax Harbor, but you have to compete with Haligonians and tourists for a seat, especially in the summer.
It’s worth experiencing at least once. With live music, unique brews, and comfort foods, it’s the perfect setting for casual get-togethers with friends or family.
They serve fresh, local seafood, handmade pizza, and other shareables that change with the seasons. I also like that they have an extensive liquor menu to go with their food, ranging from local and international wines to craft beers.
| Pro Tip: The best time to visit Salt Yard Social is during the summer because of the pleasant weather and endless festivities. |
Celtic Corner
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Website: http://www.celticcorner.ca/
Location: 69 Alderney Drive
Phone: +19024640764
Opening hours: Daily 11 AM–12 AM
Technically still part of the Halifax Regional Municipality, Celtic Corner, an Irish pub in Dartmouth, is on this list because it offers some of the best rooftop views. It’s only a 15 to 30-minute ferry ride from downtown Halifax, depending on the weather.
They offer hearty, affordable pub classics, ranging from pasta and burgers to savory pies. As you can expect from a traditional Irish pub, their steak and Guinness pies are delicious and filling, which explains why it’s a local favorite.
If you plan your visit, you can catch live music performances from local artists. Some will even have free admission.
| Pro Tip: The ferry from Halifax to Dartmouth only costs $2.75 for a one-way ticket for adults and $2 for seniors. Bring the exact amount when you’re buying tickets. |
