Happy Trails

By Michele Sponagle, sponsored by Tourism Nova Scotia

Lobster, chowder, beer, wine and spirits — all roads lead to deliciousness when you follow Nova Scotia’s food-and-drink themed routes

No matter which direction you head in Nova Scotia, you just can’t help coming across delicious things to eat and drink. The Maritime province is renowned for its excellent, multi-faceted culinary scene. With so many great things to eat and drink packed into one destination, visitors may be unsure about how to make the most of every bit and sip available. It’s super easy, courtesy of three-themed trails highlighting the tastiest stops along the way.

AVONDALE SKY WINERY

© TOURISM NOVA SCOTIA/SCOTT MUNN

LOBSTER TRAIL

What’s Nova Scotia without lobster? It has some of the most fertile lobster fishing grounds in the world. Your toughest choice during your visit will be how you want to enjoy your lobster. Purists like a good old-fashioned steamed lobster dinner, while the more adventurous may gravitate toward lobster beer (Saltbox Brewing Company, Mahone Bay) or lobster tempura wraps (Salty’s, Halifax). If you’d like to try a favourite dish among those living in the southwestern part of the province, order the creamed lobster, made with butter and whipping cream, at La Cuisine Robicheau in Saulnierville. On this trail, you’ve got more than 40 crustacean-centric options available.

CHOWDER TRAIL

Back in the day, chowders were made from whatever bits were leftover from last night’s supper. Today’s versions have been modernized with luxurious ingredients and unique takes from many of Nova Scotia’s top chefs. That doesn’t mean chowders can’t have a rustic feel. Try the traditional one at the Grand Banker Bar & Grill in Lunenburg, made with cream, potatoes and celery. Scallops, clams, halibut and shrimp are the stars of the bowl. Or sample a hipper version finished with chive oil, fennel fronds, and grapefruit chutney at Founders House Dining & Drinks in Annapolis Royal. If those don’t sate your hunger, look to the other chowders featured on this trail — more than 50!

ONE OF MANY STOPS FOR CHOWDER ALONG THE TRAIL

© TOURISM NOVA SCOTIA / SCOTT MUNN

GOOD CHEER TRAIL

Innovation and creativity have pushed Nova Scotia’s offerings to new heights, and you’ll find unique adult beverages not found anywhere else. Its signature grape, L’Acadie Blanc, was created especially for local growing conditions, and is a favourite for sparkling wine. Unique reds include Lucie Kuhlmann and Leon Millot. The Gaspereau Valley is home to many top wineries. You’ll also find the Annapolis Cider Company in Wolfville, where you can sample ciders at its tasting bar. Beer lovers can taste craft brews in every part of the province, from Cape Breton (like Big Spruce Brewing) to Halifax (such as Garrison Brewing and Good Robot) to Yarmouth (Heritage Brewery). Artisanal distillers are also earning accolades, too. Try single malt whisky straight from the barrel at Glenora Distillery in the Cape Breton Highlands, or haskap liqueur from Ironworks Distillery in Lunenburg, and the classic gin by Steinhart Distillery in Antigonish that won big at the 2019 World Gin Awards. No matter what you tip into your mouth, make sure it’s accompanied by a hearty, “Sociable!” — the local way to say cheers.