8 Best Restaurants in South Shore and Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia

Background Illustration for Restaurants

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.

Gerrish & Gray

$$ Fodor's Choice

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. 

Bistro East

$$

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. 

274 St. George St., Annapolis Royal, NS, B0S 1A0, Canada
902-532–7992
Known For
  • Pastas freshly made in-house
  • Chocolate mousse topped with whipped cream
  • Excellent fresh seafood dishes

Something incorrect in this review?

Cocoa Pesto Bistro

$$$

A warm welcome and elegant surroundings provide a great first impression here, but it's the delicious, fresh, and health-conscious cuisine that lingers in memory. The menu changes seasonally, but always includes dry-rub or honey-glazed pork ribs straight from an apple-wood smoker. The bistro's rooms have a minimalist look that nicely balances the heritage building's original architectural features, and a patio provides outside dining in summer.

494 King St., Windsor, NS, BON 2TO, Canada
902-472–3300
Known For
  • <PRO>location in a nice old building</PRO>
  • <PRO>some gluten-free options</PRO>
  • <PRO>unpretentious menu ranges from upscale mains to pub favorites</PRO>
Restaurant Details
No lunch Mon. and Tues., no brunch weekdays

Something incorrect in this review?

Recommended Fodor's Video

Fo'c'sle Tavern

$$

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.

42 Queen St., Chester, NS, B0J 1J0, Canada
902-275–1408
Known For
  • Live music some nights of the week
  • Weekend brunches with lots of choices
  • Craft beers on tap
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon.

Something incorrect in this review?

The Jib Coffee House and Bistro

$$

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.

43 Queen St., Chester, NS, B0J 1J0, Canada
902-273–2186
Known For
  • Asian-inspired dishes like banh mi and noodle soups
  • Eggs Benedicts with lobster, smoked salmon, and more
  • Warm and friendly small-town hub
Restaurant Details
No dinner

Something incorrect in this review?

The Kiwi Cafe

$$

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.

Rebecca's Restaurant

$$
Head to Rebecca's for freshly prepared, flavorful, and beautifully presented dishes. Creamy seafood chowder is a popular starter, while hearty and interesting mains include inventive seafood, meat, and vegetarian choices (vegan on request). Several items can be made gluten free. There's regular live music here, too, and always a nice friendly atmosphere.
619 Main St., Mahone Bay, NS, B0J 2E0, Canada
902-531–3313
Known For
  • Local free-range meat and eggs
  • Gigantic and delicious made-from-scratch desserts
  • Lovely view over the water

Something incorrect in this review?

The Spitfire Arms Alehouse

$$

Head here for British-style pub grub classics—fish-and-chips, bangers and mash, curry, liver and onions, burgers, and seafood. They also serve plenty of appetizers to pair perfectly with a pint or two. You won't leave hungry, and you'll be raving about how great everything tastes. 

29 Water St., Windsor, NS, B0N 2T0, Canada
902-792–1460
Known For
  • Delicious lobster rolls
  • Has a decent kids' menu
  • Fun, friendly atmosphere

Something incorrect in this review?