Nova Scotia Restaurant and Dining Guide
Welcome, gastronomes, to the maritime treasure trove of Canada - Nova Scotia. A province rich in history, art, and most importantly, a thriving food scene. This guide is more than just a tour of the most delectable eateries; it's a passport to Nova Scotia's soul, served up one city at a time. Brace yourselves as we set sail on this delicious voyage from Halifax to Dartmouth, Sydney, Truro, and New Glasgow. We'll savor the local delights, understand their origins, and revel in the must-see attractions of these fantastic cities. Trust me, you'll feel like you've joined a grand potluck where every city brings a different dish to the table. But remember, this isn't just about tasting; it's about experiencing. So, let’s dig into the gastronomic realm of Nova Scotia.
Halifax: The Culinary Capital
Halifax, a city where the past meets the present, and flavors meet fantasy! An urban hub steeped in history, Halifax has seen it all - from the arrivals of immigrant ships to the transformation into a vibrant cityscape. In the heart of it lies the true essence of Nova Scotian cuisine, a delightful mix of the old and new.
If you're in Halifax, stopping by at Tony’s Famous Donairs & Pizza should be a no-brainer. This joint has been spinning out succulent donairs and delectable pizzas like a gastronomic beacon since the 70s. Tony’s world-famous Donair Burger is the stuff of legends. Imagine this - Tony’s signature Donair meat, fresh veggies, and melty mozzarella, all on a toasted bun drizzled with their famous sauce. Talk about burger royalty! For a gourmet experience, step into Drift. Their Fresh Pappardelle & Beef Ragoût, a medley of Annapolis Valley pork, tomatoes, and forest mushrooms, is food poetry in motion. Seafood aficionados, their Nova Scotia Seafood Hodge Podge is like the province's coastal beauty served on a platter.
Fancy vegan delights? enVie A Vegan Kitchen is the place to be. Try their Chickpea Peanut Bowl, a mix of spicy chickpeas and creamy peanut sauce that can give any meat dish a run for its money. Their Roasted Eggplant Sandwich is a love letter to veggies and hummus, as delightful as it sounds. Lastly, pay homage to the age-old Five Fishermen. Known for its seafood (and haunted stories), their Shrimp & Sausage Tagliatelle and Chicken & Corn are must-haves. Their dishes are as intriguing as the restaurant's history itself, which has stood the test of time since 1817.
When your tummy's happy, explore the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, a star-shaped fort offering stunning views. Don't miss out on Pier 21 National Historic Site, Canada's Ellis Island, and take a stroll in Point Pleasant Park. A trip to Halifax is not just about food; it's a history lesson served with a side of Nova Scotia's charm.
Dartmouth: The City of Lakes…and Luscious Bites
Cross over to Dartmouth, affectionately known as the 'City of Lakes', but in our case, let's call it the 'City of Tastes'. Its rich history, scenic beauty, and vibrant food scene are like secret ingredients in Dartmouth’s delightful recipe.
Craving some international cuisine? Moxies Dartmouth Crossing Restaurant is a food lover's paradise. Their Lemon Basil Salmon, pan-seared and served on a bed of ancient grains, is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. And their Lemon & Asparagus Spaghettini, a hearty tangle of pasta with a garlicky, creamy sauce, leaves you wanting more. For a local dining experience, head to Celtic Corner Public House. Their Broccoli & Chicken Fettucine Alfredo, topped with a generous sprinkle of parmesan, will warm your belly and heart. Their Trio Burger, a half-pound certified Angus with bacon & cheddar, is an ode to Dartmouth's love for the grill.
Get your Asian fix at Fan's Chinese Restaurant. From their tantalizing Szechuan Duck to the zingy Ginger Fried Beef and the savoury Ma Po Tofu with Meat, it's a culinary trip to the Far East. Millstone Public House Dartmouth is another gem. Don't miss their Classic Haddock Filet, a pan-fried perfection served with rice and vegetables. Their Chicken Curry Vindaloo, a spicy sautéed chicken in a creamy vindaloo sauce, is an Indian delicacy that's as rich as the cultural diversity of Nova Scotia.
While your senses bask in Dartmouth's flavors, make sure to visit the artistic hub of Alderney Landing, take a peaceful stroll at Leighton Dillman Park, or dive into the past at Dartmouth Heritage Museum.
Sydney: Culinary Symphony on Cape Breton Island
Sydney, once an industrial hub, is now a city in harmony with nature and a remarkable culinary scene. The music doesn't stop on the streets of Sydney; it continues into the city's kitchens.
Start your day at The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse with their Lobster & Scallop Linguine, a creamy Sambuca-infused dish that brings Atlantic Canada's finest seafood to your plate. Their Smoked Salmon Board, an array of cold smoked salmon with condiments and bread, is a symphony of flavors.
Your next stop should be Flavor on the Water, a testament to Nova Scotia’s maritime roots. Their Maple Spinach Salad and Atlantic Lobster Club are seafood marvels. And don't leave without trying their “Cub House” Grilled Chicken Club, a flavor-packed sandwich you wouldn't want to share! Pizza aficionados should head to Napoli Pizzeria. Their Chicken Delight Pizza and Hero Pizza are delightful symphonies of taste and texture, making every bite an encore.
While feasting, don't forget Sydney's rich history. Visit the Big Fiddle, an ode to the city's musical heritage. The Sydney Mines Heritage Museum and the Cossit House Museum offer fascinating peeks into the city’s past. Sydney is where melodies meet the menu, and history meets the hearty eater.
Truro: Culinary Treasures in the Hub of Nova Scotia
Welcome to Truro, the 'Hub of Nova Scotia', a charming town whose culinary scene is as vibrant as the murals adorning its streets. Here, you'll uncover a tantalizing spectrum of tastes that promise to delight.
Start your journey at The Nook and Cranny, a warm and rustic establishment that brings heart and soul to dining. Try their Scallop Au Gratin - perfectly seared scallops and sautéed mushrooms bathed in a creamy white wine sauce and blanketed by gruyere cheese. Their Halibut Steak, pan-fried and accompanied by a butternut squash purée and fresh asparagus, sings of the sea and is worth every bite. Add a dash of Thai to your itinerary with Sahla Thai's offerings. The Basil Squid with Chili Paste promises a fiery burst of flavor, while the Spicy Seafood Noodle is a comforting bowl filled with seafood and aromatic spices that will transport you to Thailand's bustling food markets.
Smokehouse enthusiasts should hit the road to Roadside Willies Smokehouse & Bar. Here, the Signature Fish & Chips are simply divine, and the Rack O’ Baby Backs - succulent ribs dry marinated and smoked over hickory wood - are sure to make you lick your fingers clean. Lastly, make a beeline to One 50 On Willow for their Roasted turkey dinner and Shrimp Penne. Here, classic dishes are made contemporary with an innovative twist, adding an extra spice to your Truro visit.
Balancing your gastronomic exploits, take in Truro's beauty at Victoria Park, delve into the Indigenous heritage at Millbrook Cultural & Heritage Centre, or catch a show at the Marigold Cultural Centre. This truly is a hub of delight.
New Glasgow: Harmonious Blend of Heritage and Culinary Magic
Crossing over into New Glasgow, you’ll find a town steeped in Scottish heritage with a matching flavor profile that takes you from coast to kitchen. This is where the old meets the new, in both architecture and appetites.
Kick-off your culinary tour at East Avenue, where your tastebuds can embark on a gastronomic journey with their Scallop Shrimps and Risotto - a medley of pan-seared seafood served atop a decadent, buttery parmesan mushroom risotto. If you’re in the mood for a taste of the Atlantic, their Blackened Haddock won’t disappoint.
Then, indulge in comforting, down-to-earth dishes at Tilly's Kitchen. Try their Poached Pear Salad, a vibrant and zesty plate that balances the sweetness of pear and the tangy port vinaigrette perfectly. Don’t forget to taste Tilly's Farmhouse Burger, a celebration of all things savory and satisfying. Finally, let Maple Cedar Syrian Kitchen transport you to the Middle East. The Kafta Platter is a grilled delicacy, and the Falafel Wrap, with its mix of textures and flavors, is truly a vegetarian delight.
As you feast, don’t forget to enrich your experience with a slice of history at the Museum of Industry, the Carmichael-Stewart House Museum, or enjoy a performance at the Glasgow Square Theatre.
A Toast to Nova Scotia’s Culinary Cornucopia
And so, our whirlwind tour across Nova Scotia’s gourmet landscape comes to an end. From Halifax's coastal culinary delights to Dartmouth’s comforting classics, Sydney's maritime masterpieces, Truro's hub of flavors, and New Glasgow’s harmonious heritage cuisines - there’s truly something for every palate. In each city, the local chefs carry with them a piece of Nova Scotia's heart, carefully plating it up for both locals and visitors to savor.
While this guide has sampled only a fraction of the culinary canvas Nova Scotia offers, it is my sincerest hope that you'll venture beyond, tasting, exploring, and experiencing all that our incredible province serves up. This is not just a food journey; it's an intimate dance with Nova Scotia's culture and heritage, a celebration of its past, and an invitation to its future. So, until the next food adventure, remember - when in Nova Scotia, eat as the Nova Scotians do!
Must-Try Restaurants in Nova Scotia
One 50 On Willow
150 Willow St, Truro, NS B2N 4Z6I read all the previous reviews and I find some of them hard to believe. First off the Seafood chowder was outstanding and Connie my server was amazing !...
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Good31 Reviews3.3
Drift
1709 Lower Water St #102, Halifax, NS B3J 0J4Absolutely deceiving!I would not recommend this place. First, tables of two are squeezed perpendicularly to the back of tables of four. You end up eating...
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Good434 Reviews4
Millstone Public House King's Wharf
67 Kings Wharf Pl Suite 102, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 0C6When we first moved into the neighbourhood, I admit I wasn’t super excited by what seemed to be a sports bar. But it was open when we were hungry, so off...
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Good59 Reviews4.2
Roadside Willies Smokehouse & Bar
27 Jennifer Dr, Truro, NS B2N 6M5Food, fantastic... A bit pricey though for such a small establishment. The staff were great, courteous, and polite. Great atmosphere all in all!
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Superb54 Reviews4.4
Maple Cedar Syrian Kitchen
980 E River Rd Unit 3, New Glasgow, NS B2H 3S8I'm guilty of getting the same thing every time. The kafta wrap. I keep telling myself to try something new, but I just love it so much. Always fres...
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Superb66 Reviews4.9
Sahla Thai
793 Prince St, Truro, NS B2N 1G7Food on point good Pad Thai. Large portions and fast service. Exactly what you would expect at the price point. Service was great quick efficient and ple...
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Superb60 Reviews4.6
The Nook and Cranny
627 Prince St, Truro, NS B2N 1G5Food was good the one time I was able to dine on the patio. Inside is filled with grubby old car seats that are like sitting on the floor with the above...
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Good112 Reviews4.1
East Avenue
200 Provost St, New Glasgow, NS B2H 5L6The food and staff are great but it was so loud I literally had to yell to have a conversation.
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Superb49 Reviews4.4
Celtic Corner Public House
69 Alderney Dr, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 2N7My friend & I had lunch here. I had the Dine Around menu & it tasted ok but the spicy shrimp were very sweet, not spicy & it was deep fried s...
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Good69 Reviews3.8
Moxies Dartmouth Crossing Restaurant
9 Countryview Dr, Dartmouth, NS B3B 0G4Very professional staff. Food was delicious and quick from kitchen. Reasonably priced. Would eat there again.
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Good91 Reviews4.1
The Five Fishermen
1740 Argyle St, Halifax, NS B3J 2B6What a great place/ 100% oriented on service. Laura was the best ? I usually don't like eating alone but this actually felt like I wasn't alone...
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Good574 Reviews4.2
Fan's Chinese Restaurant
451 Windmill Rd, Dartmouth, NS B3A 1J9Really impressive food spot for dim sum. It tastes like you are in Guangzhou Province. Some of food portions are a little bit smaller than I expected. Bu...
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Good51 Reviews3.6
enVie A Vegan Kitchen
5775 Charles St, Halifax, NS B3K 1K7Stopped in for a late lunch while visiting Halifax.We made a reservation online, but there was plenty of seating available. However, it isn't a big ...
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Superb77 Reviews4.7
Flavor on the Water
60 Esplanade, Sydney, NS B1P 1A1We didn't like the food at all. The fish and chips were below average. The pasta wasn't pleasant. It was a miss.
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Good64 Reviews4
The Old Triangle Irish Alehouse
5136 Prince St, Halifax, NS B3J 1L4If you're looking for Fish'N'Chips in Halifax, you'll find the classic at Irish Alehouse. In a rustic atmosphere, air-conditioned, wi...
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Superb184 Reviews4.3
Napoli Pizzeria
465 Charlotte St, Sydney, NS B1P 1E5FOODCrust was hard and ingredients were completely dry.SERVICEAbrupt demeanor from person taking my order, definitely lacking adequate customer service s...
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Good48 Reviews3.3
Tony's Famous Donair EST. 1976
2390 Robie St, Halifax, NS B3K 4M7Good portions. Nice meat, good sauce. I miss the old white strips from subs shops back in the day.
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Good107 Reviews4
Recently Opened Restaurants
Canada Bread Atlantic-Bakery Outlet
NS-362, Middleton, NS B0S 1P0-
Poor0 Reviews0
She Bombs Dessert Shop
316 Westwood Blvd, Upper Tantallon, NS B3Z 4K1The cupcakes and cakesicles are delicious, and Stephanie went above and beyond to create a custom order for me. I very highly recommend!
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Superb19 Reviews5
Mill Road Social Enterprises
20 Mill Rd, Inverness, NS B0E 1N0Excellent food. Like supporting this business because they help the disadvantaged work in a safe environment and guide them with appropriate direction.
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Superb2 Reviews5
Sourdough Country Bakery and Windmill Cafe
5673 Nova Scotia Trunk 1, Cambridge, NS B0P 1G0A fantastic little bakery with very friendly service. We got a lot of muffins and some sandwiches, all of which were lovely. I especially loved the cocon...
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Superb17 Reviews4.3
The Canning Cider House
9848 Main St, Canning, NS B0P 1H0We tried an assortment of food from The Canning Cider House tonight and we became regulars!We also tried the grapefruit and watermelon lime cider which a...
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Superb7 Reviews5
Planters Ridge Winery
1441 Church St, Port Williams, NS B0P 1T0They have done a fabulous job expanding the outside seating area.Wines were good. Dessert was yummy.Need to try some of the food menu items next time as ...
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Superb21 Reviews4.7
Barrelling Tide Distillery
1164 Parkway Dr, Port Williams, NS B0P 1T0I purchased a bottle of 5 Fathoms Rum for my neighbours 50th year anniversary.. unfortunately he passed a way 3 days before .. he was a Navy man spent hi...
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Superb4 Reviews5
Blueberry Acres U-Pick
1225 Middle Dyke Rd, Centreville, NS B0P 1J0Had an amazing time spent with family while picking our own blueberries. It was so much fun! If you go at right time, the berries are very sweet. Must ex...
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Good22 Reviews3.7
Caldera Distilling Inc. - Tasting Room
65 River John Rd, River John, NS B0K 1N0Great place to stop in for a drink. Jennifer is the best. We hope to visit again soon.
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Superb7 Reviews5
Moosehead Cold Beer Store
656 Windmill Rd, Dartmouth, NS B3B 1B8Heaven!!!I was first introduced to Moosehead in a little bar in Woodstock, IL of all places.I live in Seattle now and it’s impossible to find Moosehead i...
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Superb13 Reviews4.7
Wheelhouse Coffee Co.
2 Webster St, Kentville, NS B4N 1H7I had the apple cinnamon loaf last Saturday and had to come back for more, what a delicious treat!
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Superb33 Reviews5
Steinhart Distillery / 9zero2 Brewing Company
5963 NS-245, Antigonish, NS B2G 2L1We stopped in for a drink on an afternoon drive. Great host, beautiful view and kickin’ Caesar.
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Good16 Reviews4.2
Horton Ridge Malt & Grain
2504 Ridge Rd, Wolfville, NS B4P 2R3I love Horton Ridge! The bartenders are kind, the views are stunning, there is often live music/events, and the beer is delicious. I look forward to visi...
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Superb29 Reviews4.9
WILD
2 Crocker Rd, Kingston, NS B0P 1R0By far my favourite Nova Scotia cider. Love the farmhouse style of some of the ciders, certainly not overwhelming, but more layered and complex than many...
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Superb2 Reviews5
Fancy Lebanese Bakery
2573 Agricola St, Halifax, NS B3K 4C6The worst service in the world. Staffs are horrible . They are not humans. The delivery driver is the worst driver in the city. No common sense at all.
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Good6 Reviews3.3
Recent Reviews
Classic Pizza
590 Portland St, Dartmouth, NS B2W 6B7We have only ever ordered for delivery. Food arrives hot, drivers are friendly and courteous. We have tried nachos, pizza, garlic fingers and fried pick...
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Good41 Reviews4
ORSO Pub & Grill
1859 Brunswick St, Halifax, NS B3J 2G8Had nachos, guacamole stuffed onion rings, club house and bacon cheese burger. Guacamole stuffed onion rings could have used more flavor as they were ...
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Good83 Reviews3.8
Luigi's Pizza Palace
159 Commercial St, Berwick, NS B0P 1E0Litterally best pizza in all of Nova Scotia. Haven't had a single other restaurant produce pizza this tasty!! Try it if u get the chance, been eatin...
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Good13 Reviews4
District 5 Bar & Grill
65 King St, Dartmouth, NS B2Y 4C2I had a fantastic lunch here yesterday around 1 pm (03/20). My server was friendly and efficient, and the kitchen was incredibly quick. I couldn't i...
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Good45 Reviews4.2
Locally Baked
622 Sackville Dr, Lower Sackville, NS B4C 2S3Hard time finding the locations. Went out further than I had to. I bought Keto eruptions loved them, but the Keto Black Forest Cheesecakes I didn’t care ...
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Superb67 Reviews4.7
HK Wong's Palace Restaurant Inc
644 Portland St, Dartmouth, NS B2W 6C4We had takeout last night, suggested by our daughter. Omg the dishes and appetizers were the best. We are retired and have had our fair share Asian cuisi...
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Good34 Reviews3.6
Main & Mersey Dining Room & Coffee Bar
267 Main St, Liverpool, NS B0T 1K0What a gem! Great vibes & friendly staff. I had the Liverpool Fog and it was very good.
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Superb31 Reviews5
The Anvil Beverage Room
10 Harbourside Dr, Wolfville, NS B4P 2B8The place looks like it would be a decent pub but there's literally 2 stools at the bar and no other furniture I don't know why they waste thei...
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Good14 Reviews3.3
Izzy's Bagel Co.
1180 Bedford Hwy, Bedford, NS B4A 1C1Always know I’m in for a treat when I go to Izzy’s. Turkey club on an everything bagel with scream cheese is my go to!
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Superb83 Reviews4.6
A&W Canada
Shell Gas Station, 975 Wilkinson Ave, Dartmouth, NS B3B 0M9Fries okay, root beer greatest. Service great. Burgers no way.Vegetarian options: They have a plant based burger.
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Good53 Reviews3.9
Tim Hortons
7001 Mumford Rd, Halifax, NS B3L 4R3Order the salad. Food is dry and stale. Usually get lunch from here. But today they give me half of the usual quantity paid 10$ for this.So disappointing...
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Poor32 Reviews2.1
The Jib Coffee House and Bistro
43 Queen St, Chester, NS B0J 1J0Love coming here before the Sensea spa. The tuna melt was the best I’ve ever had. The desserts alllllll looked amazing and the brownie and lemon square w...
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Superb62 Reviews4.4
Pizza 67
130 Commercial St, Glace Bay, NS B1A 3C1Just ordered a regular donair....... by far the best one ive had very filling ..... and really good price..... will definitely support this place ag...
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Superb106 Reviews4.4
Julia's Lounge
165 Willow St, Truro, NS B2N 4Z9This place is awful.It is very dirty. The Staff is rude and offer poor customer service.T a l a is a poor manager.
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Good19 Reviews3.9
Dayan Sushi
381 Main St, Kentville, NS B4N 1K7Absolutely amazing owner, awesome food, good portion sizes, all around a great experience.
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Superb57 Reviews4.9
Recently Updated Menus
Deb's Hidden Cafe
4149 Scotsburn Rd, Scotsburn, NS B0K 1R0Lovely place to have breakfast! Totally recommend it (specially after finishing the trail)
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Superb24 Reviews5
Yum yum Chinese restaurant
32 Albro Lake Rd, Dartmouth, NS B3A 1N5Don’t do it. Ordered take out and can’t say I’ve had worse food in my life. Paid over $50 for two plates, what a scam. 100% do not recommend, not authent...
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Good28 Reviews3.5
The Gold Bean Cafe
21 Beech Hill Rd, Gold River, NS B0J 1K0My mom and I stopped in here for the first time today, and we are both extremely glad we did. The atmosphere was very welcoming, and the surroundings wer...
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Good42 Reviews4
Ko's Chinese Restaurant
434 King St, Bridgewater, NS B4V 1A9Ko's Restaurant is honestly the best Chinese food on the South Shore. I was recently dining there and the table across from us had even mentioned th...
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Good39 Reviews3.8
Ho Ho Wok Chinese Restaurant
23 Inglis Pl, Truro, NS B2N 4B5We did take out the restaurant was very busy and orders coming in steady. We really enjoyed our order very tasty and really flavorful 2 thumbs up ? ?Vege...
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Good43 Reviews3.6