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We've compiled the best of the best in South Shore and Annapolis Valley - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
This café/coffee shop/restaurant in a beautifully restored old building makes a great spot to grab coffee and a tasty baked treat or stay late on a Thursday, Friday, or Saturday night for dinner. Their menu celebrates seasonal and local produce and offers everything from brisket tacos and burgers to pork belly and seared salmon.
Firmly established as the best place to eat along this stretch of the coast, La Cuisine Robicheau overlooks the ocean and specializes in seafood and Acadian cuisine. The excellent pâté à la râpure (rappie pie, a chicken and potatoes dish) is usually the first thing to sell out, so come early. Other good choices include the fricot aux poutines râpées à la poule (chicken soup with potato dumplings).
Offering seafood, steaks, pasta, and pizza, the food at this dinner-only spot is consistent and delicious, with many ingredients locally sourced. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, and the service is top-notch.
This rustic midtown spot—a former store, stable, and Nova Scotia's oldest rural inn, dating to 1764—is full of natural pine and local art, and its staff and clientele treat regulars and newcomers like kin. In the windowed front section, a woodstove keeps things warm on chilly nights, and year-round you can order from a menu that's strong on seafood and comfort food. Lighter fare is also served, along with plenty of craft beers.
This cozy café serves up excellent breakfasts, lunches, yummy baked goods, and delicious coffee. Their sandwiches are piled high, there's always an interesting lunch special, and portions are hearty.
This bright and friendly spot is a Chester community hub, and is a great spot to grab breakfast, lunch, or just coffee and a treat. Everything served is fresh, locally sourced where possible, and absolutely delicious. The attached pantry sells specialty food items, locally made jams and chutneys, and a selection of take-and-heat meals to go.
This coffee shop and Japanese fusion restaurant serves up delicious, contemporary cuisine in the heart of Liverpool (a town with few dining options). With a seasonal menu that incorporates many local ingredients, dishes like prawn and lobster dumplings delight. The coffee is excellent, and the pastries are delicious, making this a fab stop for breakfast, too.
This authentic German bakery and café is much loved for its delicious strudels, cookies, and other European-style baked goods. It’s also a great spot for lunch or early dinner of bratwurst, schnitzel, and other German specialties (or just a pretzel or sandwich if you're looking for something lighter). Seating is inside or on a large patio overlooking the fort.
This much-loved-by-locals café serves up hearty chowders, soups, and salads.
Poised on the rocks near the base of Peggy's Cove lighthouse, this sprawling 180-seat dining room serves a variety of seafood, including orange brandy shrimp and scallops, lobster dinners, and Down East specialties such as salt-fish hash and beans. There are also chicken, steak, and vegetarian options, and breakfast is served from 8:30 to 11 am.
