Matthew TremblayIt’s time to ditch those leftovers and get a taste of something fresh. The city’s food scene has been on fire lately, with fresh spots popping up fast!
I’ve taken it upon myself (tough job, right?) to explore the latest culinary gems that have everyone buzzing. Now, you can be the friend who discovers that spot before anyone else does.
From cozy hideaways serving mouth-watering comfort food to trendy bistros with dishes so good they might make you never want to leave, these places have something for every craving.
So, grab your wallet and dive into the top new restaurants in Halifax as we let the feasting begin!
1. The Kohinoor Resto-Bar
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekohinoor_halifax/
Website: https://thekohinoor.ca/
Address: 2103 Gottingen St
Phone: +1 902-492-4617
Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 4 – 10 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
If you’re in the mood for something warm, spicy, and comforting, Kohinoor is where it’s at. This new restaurant brings a contemporary twist to classic Indian cuisine.
The space is elegant and modern, with a hint of traditional Indian decor — perfect for a cozy dinner date or a family feast. While it leans towards the upscale side, the portion sizes make it worth every penny.
They offer a little bit of everything, from rich, creamy butter chicken to fragrant biryanis and fiery vindaloos. You can’t go wrong with their lamb korma — it’s the perfect balance of spice and creaminess!
And if you’re vegan or want to skip the gluten, you’re in luck! Kohinoor has a whole section of plant-based options and gluten-free bread.
| Pro Tip: Don’t skip the garlic naan — it’s the perfect compliment to any of their curry dishes. |
2. The Empanada Shop
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.empanada.shop/
Website: https://theempanadashop.com/
Address: Brewery Market, 1532 Granville St
Phone: +1 902-429-4858
Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 11 AM – 6 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 11 AM – 7 PM
Craving a little taste of Latin America? The Empanada Shop is a recent gem in Halifax’s food scene, serving up some of the best treats you’ll ever have.
It’s a cozy, no-fuss spot that specializes in (you guessed it) empanadas, and they’ve got all the flavors to transport your taste buds right to the streets of Buenos Aires.
Their menu is simple but packed with variety. Among the classics, you’ll find meat empanadas filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, and green olives.
Not a meat-eater? No worries! Their veggie empanada is stuffed with a delicious mix of spinach, cheese, and spices that’s just as savory.
They even have unique flavors like spicy chicken and chorizo, which will keep you coming back to try each one. Add in some sides like chimichurri sauce or plantain chips, and you’ve got a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.
| Pro Tip: Try out their pear empanada! It’s a sweet treat with pear filling and is topped with cinnamon and sugar. |
3. Chaii Samosa
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chaisamosa.ca/
Website: https://najichaiisamosa.com/
Address: 6430 Quinpool Rd
Phone: +1 902-858-2454
Hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 9 AM – 12 AM
For snacks that pack a punch of flavor, Chaii Samosa is your new best friend. This cozy spot serves up authentic Indian street food, with their samosas stealing the spotlight — they’re crispy, golden, and packed with all kinds of tasty fillings.
The menu might be small, but it nails every craving. I love the Dark Chocolate Karak chai that has a perfect blend of spice and warmth — the kind that makes any chilly Halifax day instantly better.
Pair this with a fresh Paneer Samosa with Masala chips on the side and you’ve got the ultimate comfort meal. It’s super affordable too so you can easily treat yourself without breaking the bank!
| Pro Tip: Get a box of assorted samosas for your next house party — they’re a crowd-pleaser! |
4. Water Polo Restaurant
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/waterpolohfx/
Website: https://waterpolohfx.ca/
Address: 1325 Lower Water St
Phone: +1 902-474-7269
Hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
If you love seafood (and honestly, who doesn’t in Halifax?), Waterpolo is a must-visit. This spot has a laid-back vibe, and its menu celebrates everything fresh from the ocean.
The nautical-themed interior feels both trendy and comforting, while also making it a cool spot for cute pictures!
As for the food itself, their lobster rolls are the talk of the town — perfectly buttered brioche buns filled with chunky lobster meat, lightly dressed in a zesty mayo.
The fish tacos are another must-try, featuring a crispy batter and a punchy slaw. And they’ve also got a great selection of local beers to pair with your meal.
| Pro Tip: Head there during happy hour for great deals on appetizers and drinks! |
5. Toridori
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toridori.hfx/
Website: https://toridorihalifax.com
Address: Queen’s Marque, 1741 Lower Water St Unit 168
Phone: +1 902-474-3005
Hours:
- Sunday to Monday: 11:30 AM – 3 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday: 11:30 AM – 3 PM, 5 – 10 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 11:30 AM – 3 PM, 5 PM – 12 AM
Toridori is the latest hot spot in Halifax for those who adore Japanese cuisine. With its minimalistic decor, light wood accents, and cozy seating, they provide a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere perfect for both quick lunches and relaxed dinners.
They specialize in Japanese comfort food with a focus on karaage (Japanese fried chicken). Their signature karaage is a must-try — crispy on the outside but tender on the inside and served with a variety of dipping sauces.
They also offer tasty rice bowls like the Chicken Katsu Don, topped with egg and onions in a savory soy-based sauce. If you’re in the mood for a lighter option, go for the seaweed salad or one of their miso soups.
| Pro Tip: Pair your meal with one of their wild cocktails like the Sakura-Dori with Yuzu, Cherry Blossom Syrup, and Roku Gin. |
6. Au Liban
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aulibanlebanesecuisine/
Website: https://www.auliban.online/
Address: 1460 Lower Water St
Phone: +1 902-425-2888
Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Thursday to Friday: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 11 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM
Bringing Lebanese cuisine to Halifax, Au Liban is a chic new restaurant offering a mix of traditional and modern Middle Eastern dishes.
The sleek interior and welcoming atmosphere make it great for a casual dinner or a special night out. It’s on the pricier end but their portions and flavors make it a memorable experience.
Their menu is full of flavorful options, from mezze plates to grilled kebabs. Their falafel has just the right amount of crisp and is served with a delicious tahini dip.
Meanwhile, meat lovers will appreciate the mixed grill platter, which comes with perfectly seasoned chicken, beef, and lamb.
| Pro Tip: Order the baklava for dessert — it’s the perfect sweet ending to a savory meal. |
7. Asia Restaurant and Bar
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asiahalifax/
Website: https://asiahalifax.com/
Address: 1341 Lower Water St Unit 122
Phone: +1 902-932-9900
Hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 11 AM – 11 PM
For a culinary journey without leaving Halifax, Asia Restaurant and Bar is your new destination. They combine flavors from across the Asian continent, offering a mix of Thai, Chinese, Japanese, and Indian-inspired dishes.
One of their best-sellers is the Wagyu Striploin — cooked to perfection with wasabi pickle, miso mustard, and creamy truffle koji.
If you’re in the mood for a little heat, their spicy chicken curry is sure to warm you up with its aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk base.
| Pro Tip: To get the most out of your visit, order smaller portions of each dish. It’s a great way to get a bite of everything without filling up too fast! |
8. Mystic
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mystichalifax/
Website: https://mysticnovascotia.ca/
Address: 1723 Lower Water St,
Phone: +1 902-474-3007
Hours:
- Wednesday to Saturday: 5 – 11 PM
Nestled right on the waterfront, Mystic offers floor-to-ceiling windows that frame views of the ocean while you enjoy an elegant meal. Their open kitchen adds a layer of theater too, allowing you to watch the skilled chefs at work.
Their menu features two distinct tasting experiences: Flora and Fauna.
Flora highlights vibrant, plant-forward dishes using the freshest produce and foraged herbs from Nova Scotia. Fauna, on the other hand, emphasizes expertly crafted meat and game dishes.
Both menus change with the seasons, blending global culinary techniques with a nod to local heritage. Every dish tells its own little story, turning your meal into an experience you won’t forget.
| Pro Tip: Seating is limited so reserve your spot in advance to enjoy the full tasting menu experience — the views are best during sunset! |
9. Sketti & Ball Co.
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skettiandballco/
Website: https://skettiandballco.ca
Address: 1584 Argyle St
Phone: +1 902-444-0277
Hours:
- Tuesday to Friday: 4:30 – 10 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
For those days when all you want is a comforting bowl of pasta, Sketti and Ball Co. has got you covered.
This new spot brings an Italian-American classic to Halifax with a focus on spaghetti and meatballs. It’s a casual, family-friendly place that puts a fun twist on the usual pasta experience with its bright, colorful decor and welcoming atmosphere.
Their menu is simple but well-executed. We recommend kicking things off with their signature spaghetti, tossed in homemade tomato sauce and topped with perfectly seasoned, juicy meatballs.
For something a bit more indulgent, try the garlic and herb spaghetti tossed in a rich alfredo sauce and topped with crispy pancetta. And let’s not forget the sides — garlic bread with a cheesy twist is an absolute must!
| Pro Tip: Finish off your meal with something sweet and try out their warm banana split with coconut macaroon, rum and caramel bananas, and sweet basil ice cream. |
10. Magnolia
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Website: https://www.magnoliahfx.com
Address: 5189 Prince St
Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 5 PM – 1 AM
Got a fancy friend or a cute date you want to impress? Magnolia is a cool and cozy spot that’s perfect for a delightful meal and a sweet nightcap.
The meals at Magnolia are thoughtfully curated to highlight a mix of flavors and techniques. For starters, indulge in dishes like the Beef Tartare, prepared with dijon, capers, and pickled onion, served with grilled sourdough.
As for their main courses, their Braised Lamb Shank is a showstopper — slow-cooked to tender perfection and accompanied by roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes.
If you’re craving pasta, the Pappardelle Bolognese, with house-made noodles and a rich meat sauce, is a must-try. Vegetarians will also love options like the Roasted Cauliflower dish, which features a vibrant mix of seasonal veggies and spices.
| Pro Tip: Pair your meal with a selection from their curated wine list for a perfect culinary journey. |
