A cherished cash only time capsule! This cozy and warm restaurant feels like stepping into another world where you knew your neighbours. The tight tables, walls filled with memories, and beautiful original ceiling tiles are so special. Your eyes always have something to look at.The all day breakfast was what we had, which was absolutely fantastic. Simple traditional food immaculately executed. The lox, challah, and latke were just phenomenal and the proportions were generous. The coffee was good, and my cup never was never fully empty.The server was great! Funny and not overbearing, and the service itself was quick especially considering it was just the one person. I really love the window into the little kitchen seeing the staff hustle away.I was already in love with the Hali Deli and its warm and welcoming atmosphere when one of the staff brought everyone’s attention to a woman celebrating her 95th birthday. The whole restaurant cheered, and though I couldn’t see her face from where I was sitting I could see her cheeks rise into the biggest smile even from behind. The love was absolutely palpable.Vegetarian options: Quite limited, but not impossible. Varieties of potato, eggs, soup, toast, bagels, and grilled cheese.Parking: Free two or one hour side street parking on the blocks around, and I believe paid parking on Agricola. Read the neighborhood street signs carefully though!Wheelchair accessibility: Unfortunately this venue isn’t wheelchair accessible. 2-3 small steps to get in and very tight quarters making for limited mobility.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Challah, Lox
Lisa Church
Great little spot! Food was really good.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Steak and Eggs with Hashbrowns and Toast
Jody Gervais
BEST smoked meat and fries EVER.Always a pleasure. Staff were
This place is such a gem. Like stepping back in time. Absolutely bumping and lined up. Sat at the bar and worth the wait. Service was no nonsense but somehow perfectly suited the place. Decor looks like it's hardly changed since the 50s and I hope it never does or it will lose its charm. Food was better than expected and I had high expectations from my last time stopping.
Love to walk in to the familiar faces here, server is always smiling and helpful. Food is good diner and hits the spot! Kids love the huge milkshakes. A go to for soup as well. It’s our sick soup to help cure anything!!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 5
sagar suneja
They only take cash. I was charged 4 bucks to take out 20 bucks from the ATM machine. The server/owner was at my head telling me to finish up as he had to close the shop. I ordered a simple breakfast and it was mediocre at best. I came from Ottawa here after listening about this place and it was disappointing. Skip it.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 1
Service: 1
Hannah w
Such great food but the waiter acts like you wanting to dine there is a personal attack on him. No water, no coffee, shooting you dirty looks if you ask a second time. This place is often busy and can obviously afford to hire a 2nd waiter but for some reason refuses to.
Rob Hughes
Fantastic waitress great food new favorite spot. Bought 2lbs of smoked meat for home amazing flavour
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Rachelle Boutilier
I'd actually give here a 4.5. I've become a regular here over the last several years, whether it be for lunch with the same friend, or the odd weekend for breakfast. Consistently delicious, where sometimes I can finish my plates and other times need a doggie bag.The corned beef hash (9.99 with pan fried potato, caramelized onions, topped with an egg served with rye or challah), is DELICIOUS.The challah toast is buttery and toasted lightly (perfection for me), the meat falls apart amongst the potato. Very filling.Their Hali Benny comes with your choice of meat, and I've tried with the smoked turkey. And instead of an English muffin, they are served on potato latkes. My Mom visiting from Cape Breton has said this is her favorite Benny of all time.The friend I come most often with, loves their any-time-of-day breakfast as well. On a visit today for lunch (Aug 2023) he was practically moaning at the Special Deli sandwich (corned beef & Montreal meat on rye with spicy mustard added at the table), noting the meat was more lean than fatty, and just one of the best sandwiches he's had in a long time.The root beer float comes with a bottle of Dad's Root Beer and overflows a bit, but yummy.The grilled cheese deluxe (9.99 with salami and tomato) is quite gooey but flavorful.One day I tried these Cabbage balls? which were four good-sized meatballs in a sweet tomatoey cabbage sauce, served with semi-dry mashed potatoes and a small dish of sweet sliced carrots. This was satisfying and I had to take a doggie bag again.Our overall favorite though, if you don't want something as greasy as the breakfasts, is the smoked turkey sandwich (with tons of thinly sliced meat, crispy lettuce to add a good texture, few slices of red onion, a dash of sweet honey mustard.) I've never used refreshing as a word to describe a sandwich before, but this one almost has a thirst-quenching quality to it with the cold, fresh turkey.Their turkey noodle soup is simple and standard, but hits the spot.Their Hali Dog (quarter pound all beef dog with sauerkraut, caramelized onions, hot pepper relish and melted Swiss 8.99 with side), is delicious as well. My first bite I found it quite spicy from the relish, but as I ate it, I didn't find it spicy at all, but tons of flavor and very filling.First time trying a knish and found it yummy, just a perfect small bite of flavor before a meal.Their Chicken Soup Pot (9.99 large serving of chicken coup, matzah ball, chicken & egg noodles served actually in a pot) is great. I often ask for it to be picked up for me if I'm sick in bed. One big matzah ball (my first time trying matzah) with huge chunks of meat, some carrots, etc. So simple yet satisfying.I would have to say their cheesecake was the best in HRM, but unfortunately since co-owner Victor has passed away, owner Sybil has stopped making it. I'd think she could make a lot of money selling the recipe though! I thought it would be basic, with caramel sauce, but it was melt in your mouth, not too rich or sweet. Also had it with strawberry one day and that was very good too, but the caramel was better.This place is cash only, and I rarely carry cash, so one time had to use their ATM with the unwanted banking fees. However, they will give you a free knish if you show them the ATM receipt, so you aren't really out that much. Staff are very friendly and they remember their regulars.
This is a great old deli atmosphere restaurant highly recommended. Jasmine is quick with your order with big smiles ? I'll definitely be back.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
backpacker31
After having lived in the New York metropolitan area for almost 40 years I will say that my standards for Jewish-style delis run quite high. The Hali Deli most certainly holds its own. We enjoyed smoked turkey and smoked meat on rye sandwiches with fries. The meats were fantastic - moist and flavorful. I typically eat smoked turkey on rye with Russian dressing, but the honey-mayo was very good. The fries were hand cut and cooked perfectly. The atmosphere is authentic old-world with tons of memorabilia from ‘the old days.’ Service was attentive and friendly. We will be back to try some of their breakfast specials which looked delicious. Note: CASH ONLY.
Isa
returned after a couple years away from halifax. this used to be one of my favourite spots in the city, but oh boy was i was bitterly disappointed.right off the bat, the server was really rude and for some reason they only offered bottled water? which wasn’t a thing last time i came. the food looked good on the other tables, but that was the cherry on top of the whole weird interaction. my parter got the ick, so we left soon after.i don’t know who made this decision, but they are actively losing money from it. we were walking around in a summer day in halifax, with every restaurant full and bustling, and they were sourly empty.
Mark E
A classic old school diner with some mouthwatering options. They do an amazing sandwich and their service is top notch and friendly. Prices are good too! Great spot for lunch with friends.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Smoked Meat Sandwich
Taija Swanston
Nice diner style. They don’t take card so bring cash. It is a brunch place but not a sweet brunch place. Mostly meat dishes.
Awesome smoked meat Rueben.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Smoked Meat
A cherished cash only time capsule! This cozy and warm restaurant feels like stepping into another world where you knew your neighbours. The tight tables, walls filled with memories, and beautiful original ceiling tiles are so special. Your eyes always have something to look at.The all day breakfast was what we had, which was absolutely fantastic. Simple traditional food immaculately executed. The lox, challah, and latke were just phenomenal and the proportions were generous. The coffee was good, and my cup never was never fully empty.The server was great! Funny and not overbearing, and the service itself was quick especially considering it was just the one person. I really love the window into the little kitchen seeing the staff hustle away.I was already in love with the Hali Deli and its warm and welcoming atmosphere when one of the staff brought everyone’s attention to a woman celebrating her 95th birthday. The whole restaurant cheered, and though I couldn’t see her face from where I was sitting I could see her cheeks rise into the biggest smile even from behind. The love was absolutely palpable.Vegetarian options: Quite limited, but not impossible. Varieties of potato, eggs, soup, toast, bagels, and grilled cheese.Parking: Free two or one hour side street parking on the blocks around, and I believe paid parking on Agricola. Read the neighborhood street signs carefully though!Wheelchair accessibility: Unfortunately this venue isn’t wheelchair accessible. 2-3 small steps to get in and very tight quarters making for limited mobility.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Challah, Lox
Great little spot! Food was really good.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Steak and Eggs with Hashbrowns and Toast
BEST smoked meat and fries EVER.Always a pleasure. Staff were
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Potato Salad, Smoked Meat Sandwich, Smoked Meat
This place is such a gem. Like stepping back in time. Absolutely bumping and lined up. Sat at the bar and worth the wait. Service was no nonsense but somehow perfectly suited the place. Decor looks like it's hardly changed since the 50s and I hope it never does or it will lose its charm. Food was better than expected and I had high expectations from my last time stopping.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Reuben Sandwich, Potato Salad, Smoked Meat Sandwich, Smoked Meat
Love to walk in to the familiar faces here, server is always smiling and helpful. Food is good diner and hits the spot! Kids love the huge milkshakes. A go to for soup as well. It’s our sick soup to help cure anything!!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 5
They only take cash. I was charged 4 bucks to take out 20 bucks from the ATM machine. The server/owner was at my head telling me to finish up as he had to close the shop. I ordered a simple breakfast and it was mediocre at best. I came from Ottawa here after listening about this place and it was disappointing. Skip it.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 1
Service: 1
Such great food but the waiter acts like you wanting to dine there is a personal attack on him. No water, no coffee, shooting you dirty looks if you ask a second time. This place is often busy and can obviously afford to hire a 2nd waiter but for some reason refuses to.
Fantastic waitress great food new favorite spot. Bought 2lbs of smoked meat for home amazing flavour
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I'd actually give here a 4.5. I've become a regular here over the last several years, whether it be for lunch with the same friend, or the odd weekend for breakfast. Consistently delicious, where sometimes I can finish my plates and other times need a doggie bag.The corned beef hash (9.99 with pan fried potato, caramelized onions, topped with an egg served with rye or challah), is DELICIOUS.The challah toast is buttery and toasted lightly (perfection for me), the meat falls apart amongst the potato. Very filling.Their Hali Benny comes with your choice of meat, and I've tried with the smoked turkey. And instead of an English muffin, they are served on potato latkes. My Mom visiting from Cape Breton has said this is her favorite Benny of all time.The friend I come most often with, loves their any-time-of-day breakfast as well. On a visit today for lunch (Aug 2023) he was practically moaning at the Special Deli sandwich (corned beef & Montreal meat on rye with spicy mustard added at the table), noting the meat was more lean than fatty, and just one of the best sandwiches he's had in a long time.The root beer float comes with a bottle of Dad's Root Beer and overflows a bit, but yummy.The grilled cheese deluxe (9.99 with salami and tomato) is quite gooey but flavorful.One day I tried these Cabbage balls? which were four good-sized meatballs in a sweet tomatoey cabbage sauce, served with semi-dry mashed potatoes and a small dish of sweet sliced carrots. This was satisfying and I had to take a doggie bag again.Our overall favorite though, if you don't want something as greasy as the breakfasts, is the smoked turkey sandwich (with tons of thinly sliced meat, crispy lettuce to add a good texture, few slices of red onion, a dash of sweet honey mustard.) I've never used refreshing as a word to describe a sandwich before, but this one almost has a thirst-quenching quality to it with the cold, fresh turkey.Their turkey noodle soup is simple and standard, but hits the spot.Their Hali Dog (quarter pound all beef dog with sauerkraut, caramelized onions, hot pepper relish and melted Swiss 8.99 with side), is delicious as well. My first bite I found it quite spicy from the relish, but as I ate it, I didn't find it spicy at all, but tons of flavor and very filling.First time trying a knish and found it yummy, just a perfect small bite of flavor before a meal.Their Chicken Soup Pot (9.99 large serving of chicken coup, matzah ball, chicken & egg noodles served actually in a pot) is great. I often ask for it to be picked up for me if I'm sick in bed. One big matzah ball (my first time trying matzah) with huge chunks of meat, some carrots, etc. So simple yet satisfying.I would have to say their cheesecake was the best in HRM, but unfortunately since co-owner Victor has passed away, owner Sybil has stopped making it. I'd think she could make a lot of money selling the recipe though! I thought it would be basic, with caramel sauce, but it was melt in your mouth, not too rich or sweet. Also had it with strawberry one day and that was very good too, but the caramel was better.This place is cash only, and I rarely carry cash, so one time had to use their ATM with the unwanted banking fees. However, they will give you a free knish if you show them the ATM receipt, so you aren't really out that much. Staff are very friendly and they remember their regulars.
Restaurantji Recommends
This is a great old deli atmosphere restaurant highly recommended. Jasmine is quick with your order with big smiles ? I'll definitely be back.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
After having lived in the New York metropolitan area for almost 40 years I will say that my standards for Jewish-style delis run quite high. The Hali Deli most certainly holds its own. We enjoyed smoked turkey and smoked meat on rye sandwiches with fries. The meats were fantastic - moist and flavorful. I typically eat smoked turkey on rye with Russian dressing, but the honey-mayo was very good. The fries were hand cut and cooked perfectly. The atmosphere is authentic old-world with tons of memorabilia from ‘the old days.’ Service was attentive and friendly. We will be back to try some of their breakfast specials which looked delicious. Note: CASH ONLY.
returned after a couple years away from halifax. this used to be one of my favourite spots in the city, but oh boy was i was bitterly disappointed.right off the bat, the server was really rude and for some reason they only offered bottled water? which wasn’t a thing last time i came. the food looked good on the other tables, but that was the cherry on top of the whole weird interaction. my parter got the ick, so we left soon after.i don’t know who made this decision, but they are actively losing money from it. we were walking around in a summer day in halifax, with every restaurant full and bustling, and they were sourly empty.
A classic old school diner with some mouthwatering options. They do an amazing sandwich and their service is top notch and friendly. Prices are good too! Great spot for lunch with friends.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Smoked Meat Sandwich
Nice diner style. They don’t take card so bring cash. It is a brunch place but not a sweet brunch place. Mostly meat dishes.