Are you ready to explore the culinary wonders of St. John’s?
As one of Atlantic Canada’s most vibrant cities, it is home to a diverse and interesting range of dining choices – all waiting for your taste buds to experience! From classic seafood restaurants serving up fresh local catches, to trendy eateries offering world-inspired recipes; there are plenty of great places for you to choose from when deciding where to eat in St. John’s.
So read on as we share details about some of our favourite haunts!
We have been going to The Duke of Duckworth ever since we were allowed in. It is a favourite haunt for many local musicians, artists, and sports fans alike, and has arguably the best fish and chips in town. Add on dressing and gravy and you’ve got a true Newfoundland feast. The Duke, as it is locally known, has plenty of local, domestic, and international beers on tap as well, so you won’t leave thirsty.
If you’re looking for a light breakfast bite or a freshly-made sandwich for a picnic lunch then be sure to stop into The Postmaster’s Bakery (yes, shameless plug here). Located at 134 Military Road, you’ll drool at all the Insta-worthy desserts, treats, breads, and more on display. Order a sandwich, cinnamon bun (the best around!), and a coffee, and take your little lunch to Bannerman Park, which is just steps away.
During the summer months, pretty much all of Water Street is closed to automotive traffic. The Pedestrian Mall is home to many restaurants, cafes, and bars. Adelaide Oyster House, for example, is a great place for internationally inspired small plates. They also have excellent cocktails, and perhaps the best selection of oysters around! It does tend to get noisy inside, but if you can score a seat on their deck, you’ve got it made!
Ready for a unique dining experience that combines fresh seafood, traditional Newfoundland cooking and an intimate atmosphere? Look no further than Merchant Tavern on Water Street! Located in the heart of downtown St. John’s, this restaurant has quickly become one of the most popular places to enjoy a leisurely evening meal with friends and family while indulging in delicious local fare. With its mix of modern-meets-rustic style décor, vaulted ceilings, original artwork and low lighting, Merchant Tavern offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for savouring delectable dishes made from locally sourced ingredients like halibut caught off the coast of Newfoundland or wild mushrooms picked right out on a nearby hiking trail. Whether you’re visiting our bustling capital city as part of your vacation or live here year round, be sure to pay a visit – we guarantee it won’t disappoint!
Also never to disappoint is Portage, also located in the heart of downtown St. John’s. This bistro serves upscale casual cuisine of family-style dishes to share at the table. Portage is relatively new on the scene, but their chefs are seasoned professionals. When you go, make sure you order their bread rolls. “But it’s just a bread roll,” you might say? Take our word for it, and get them. They are simply excellent. The menu changes often, depending on what is in season. When we were there we had a braised beef cheek (divine!) as well as pork dumplings which were out of this world!