Matthew TremblayLast winter, my friend and I got a bit fancy and decided to celebrate our friendship anniversary at this amazing French restaurant we kept hearing about.
The place was alive with chatter and laughter, and the smell of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs was just out of this world.
We ordered a bottle of Bordeaux and treated ourselves to the most delicious duck a l’orange I’ve ever had. By the time we got to dessert—a heavenly tarte Tatin—I knew I had found my happy place.
Having experienced these little slices of French paradise myself, I’ve put together a list of the top French restaurants in Halifax. Each place has its charm and will make you feel like you’ve spent an evening in a cozy bistro in Montmartre.
Le Bistro By Liz
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Website: https://www.lebistrohalifax.com/
Address: 1333 South Park St
Contact details: +1 902-423-8428
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Friday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday – 11:00 Am to 10:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Plat au Fromage
Le Bistro By Liz is this charming spot that brings a bit of an old-world French vibe to the heart of the city. We recently had the pleasure of dining here, and let me tell you, the food was fantastic.
Their menu is a must-try. The quiche was rich and flavorful, and the boeuf bourguignon was melt-in-your-mouth tender.
And seriously, make sure you save some room for dessert! The creme brulee had that perfect crackly top and creamy inside—truly unforgettable. Pairing it with a glass from their impressive wine list just rounded out the whole meal beautifully.
| Pro tip: Ask for a seat by the window. These spots offer a charming view of South Park Street, adding an extra layer of ambiance to your meal. Plus, the natural light makes your dining experience even more delightful. |
Café Lunette
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Website: https://www.cafelunette.com/
Address: 1741 Lower Water St #160
Contact details: +1 902-334-1300
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Boulevardier
Café Lunette is a cozy cafe that transforms into a sophisticated French bistro by night.
Their menu takes you through some tasty French classics. We began our dining experience with the French Onion Soup, a revelation of rich and savory flavors. The broth had a deep, caramelized onion flavor that lingered.
For the main dish, the seared salmon with frites was cooked just right and tasted incredibly fresh. Every dish is made with such care and love that you can feel it in every bite.
Their pastries, crafted by the talented Executive Pastry Chef Cori Osborne, are buttery and just melt in your mouth—truly a treat!
| Pro tip: Swing by for their daily Apero Hour from 3-6 PM for drinks specials and bar bites—it’s the ideal kick back after a long day. |
Agricola Street Brasserie
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Website: https://www.rcr.ca/restaurants/
Address: 2540 Agricola St
Contact details: +65 6980 5977
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Thursday to Friday – 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Saturday – 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM & 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday – 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM & 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Fried Brussels Sprout Caesar
Agricola Street Brasserie feels like a warm hug from a friend you haven’t seen in ages. This spot meshes cozy charm with a dash of sophistication, making you feel right at home the minute you step through the door.
Now, let us zero in on a couple of standout dishes. The Steak Frites? Absolute perfection. The Atlantic Beef is not just tender; it’s a symphony in your mouth with lush pastures, mixed with sauteed mushrooms and onions.
The staff here makes you feel not only welcome but also part of the Brasserie family. From sharing insider tips on which dish to try based on your mood to the occasional joke, their genuine friendliness rounds out what’s definitely more than just a meal.
| Pro tip: Ask the staff about their wine pairings. The restaurant showcases its carefully curated wine list, featuring selections that complement their French-inspired dishes. |
Ratinaud
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Website: https://ratinaud.ca/
Address: 2157 Gottingen St
Contact details: +1 902-446-8222
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday – Closed
- Wednesday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Hercule de Charlevoix
The charm of Ratinaud lies in its authentic and handmade charcuterie right in its North End shop. They use as many Nova Scotian ingredients as possible, ensuring everything you taste is fresh and local.
When you walk through their doors, get ready for a mouthwatering array of pates, savory sausages, and downright incredible cheeses.
We particularly loved the smokiness and subtle seasoning of the sausages which were well-balanced. We also tried a few cheeses, ranging from tangy and crumbly to smooth and velvety.
Before you leave, don’t forget to check out their special products to take home. Ratinaud’s goodies make the perfect gift for a foodie friend or just to spoil yourself later.
| Pro tip: Chat with the staff about their favorite pairings. They have an incredible depth of knowledge about which cheeses go best with their charcuterie and wines. |
La Vie Bistro
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Website: https://experienceparkland.com/en/la-vie/
Address: 5732 College St
Contact details: +1 902-406-8900
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday – Closed
- Wednesday to Sunday – 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Croque Monsieur
La Vie Bistro’s menu is packed with delicious options that stand out. It’s the kind of place you’ll rave about to your friends.
The Lemony Lentil & Chickpea Salad is a must-try. It’s light, and refreshing, and has this great mix of spiced lentils, chickpeas, and fresh herbs that make every bite interesting.
Now, if you’re up for a main course, the Croque Monsieur is pure comfort food. We’re talking grilled ham and Swiss cheese on sourdough, topped with creamy bechamel sauce and crispy Parmesan.
This hidden gem also has a relaxed vibe that’s great for any occasion–whether you’re out for a casual dinner or celebrating something special.
| Pro tip: Ask about their Chef’s Table experience. Occasionally, the chef offers an off-menu tasking where you can sample innovative dishes not listed in the main menu. |
Le Rouge – Bold Grill & Cocktails
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Website: https://www.rougehfx.com/
Address: 15 Lakelands Blvd
Contact details: +65 6980 5977
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
- Friday – 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Beef Pappardelle
Situated within the Halifax Tower, Le Rouge – Bold Grill & Cocktails provides an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere. The chic vibe makes you feel at home, whether you’re in casual clothes or dressed up for something special.
Their menu is full of bold flavors and refined French cuisine. One of the standout dishes we tried was their Signature Steak Frites. The steak is juicy and cooked to perfection, paired with crispy, golden fries that have the ideal balance of crunch and seasoning.
And let’s not overlook their cocktail menu, which is worth exploring too. Their house specials are not only bursting with flavor but are artistically presented, making them a feast for both the eyes and palate.
| Pro tip: Ask your server about pairing suggestions from the bartenders. The bartenders are incredibly knowledgeable and can craft personalized cocktails that perfectly complement your meal. |
Lou Pécou Pizzeria
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Website: https://www.lou-pecou.ca/
Address: 5567 Cunard St
Contact details: +1 902-423-0300
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Friday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Schicciata Aglio Olio
Lou Pécou Pizzeria is all about warm vibes and the irresistible aroma of wood-fired pizza. It’s like a little piece of France right in the heart of the city.
Their menu is a fantastic mix of French flair and classic pizzas. We couldn’t resist the Provencale pizza. The crust was thin and crispy, topped with juicy tomatoes, fresh herbs, and bubbling mozzarella.
The flavors were perfectly balanced, making each bite an absolute joy. Don’t miss out on their unique appetizers, and make sure to save room for dessert—their Tarte Tatin is legendary.
Plus, the staff are incredibly friendly and attentive, adding to the wonderful dining experience.
| Pro tip: Grab a seat near their wood-fired oven. Not only will you get to enjoy the mesmerizing sight of your pizza being prepared, but you’ll also get to enjoy the delightful warmth and aroma that the oven brings to the dining area. |
Black Sheep Restaurant
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Website: https://blacksheephalifax.com/
Address: 1496 Lower Water St BH-204
Contact details: +1 902-429-6491
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday – 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday – 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Cevapi
Black Sheep Restaurant combines cozy vibes with fabulous food. They focus on locally sourced ingredients with a global twist, and you can truly taste the difference in their handmade dishes.
Their menu is really something special. I went with a couple of friends, and we decided to sample their Duck Confif. It had this crispy skin with tender, juicy meat inside. Each bite was rich and flavorful, without being overpowering.
It’s one of those dishes that lingers in your memory, making you want to come back for more. But it’s not just the food that makes this place special. The service is on point—friendly and attentive without being overbearing.
The relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for any occasion, be it a casual brunch or a relaxed dinner.
| Pro tip: If you’re a fan of cocktails, don’t overlook their custom cocktail menu. Their bartenders are incredibly talented and love crafting unique drinks tailored to your preferences. |
Bâton Rouge Grillhouse & Bar
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Website: https://www.batonrouge.ca/baton-rouge-halifax/
Address: 1877 Hollis St
Contact details: +1 902-407-0007
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday & Sunday – 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Pappardelles Aux Fruits De Mer Et Boeuf Braisé
When we visited Bâton Rouge Grillhouse & Bar, we were blown away by the experience. The place feels both cozy and classy, striking the perfect balance for any occasion.
Now, let’s talk about the food. The highlight of our meal was undoubtedly the Ribs. These ribs are marinated for 24 hours and then slow-cooked to perfection.
The meat was fall-off-the-bone tender, and the caramelized glazed added a perfect mix of smoky and sweet flavors. Pairing them with their garlic mashed potatoes was a game-changer.
We also noticed that they have a great range of seafood options and fresh salads, perfect for those looking for something lighter.
| Pro tip: Don’t skip the dessert menu, especially the Warm Chocolate Cake. It’s a rich, decadent treat with a gooey center that pairs perfectly with their homemade vanilla ice cream. |
