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

With a focus on fresh produce and local seafood, the Grand Banker is a great spot for a tasty lunch or dinner overlooking the harbor whether you're in the mood for wings and a craft beer, lobster mac ’n’ cheese, or rack of lamb. There's an impressive selection of Nova Scotian wines, and you can order a five 2-ounce glass sampler for C$22, as well as a cocktail list that embraces locally distilled liquors.  

You don't have to dine on the waterfront in Digby to enjoy great seafood and good views, and this friendly pub offers both. Just uphill from the main street, its two-story deck has great sea views, and the menu mostly features local seafood that couldn't be any fresher. There are other choices, too, including vegetarian and vegan options, and any dish can be downsized for children. All are made from locally sourced ingredients, cooked to perfection by the talented chef, and there's local beer, locally roasted coffee, and occasional local live music.

The lobster rolls served at this takeout-only spot are divine, filled with fat chunks of lobster and served with a pickle and potato chips on the side. Order a classic (with celery and mayo), cajun (spicier version of the classic), or naked (pure lobster) and sit by the water to enjoy. Tom's also serves a few other seafood dishes (smoked salmon bagels, seafood pasta, fishcakes) and all are delicious. 

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. 

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.

Lunenburg is riddled with seafood restaurants, but this one stands out for its location inside a former fish-processing plant at the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, overlooking Lunenburg Harbour and with wharf-side dining in summer. Seafood is the specialty, of course, but you can also opt for chicken, steak, or vegetarian pasta. The Ice House Bar has 16 beers on tap and summer rum tasting events.

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.

Owned by esteemed local chef Martin Ruiz Salvador, each thoughtful dish embraces fresh, local produce and meat, as well as incredible seafood. The Mediterranean-inspired menu elevates mussels and scallops to another level, their pasta is all handmade, and service is exceptional. Be sure to save room for one of their decadent desserts. This bright and modern restaurant somehow fits perfectly into a historic property, and the waterfront location makes for beautiful views whether you dine inside or on the patio.

Housed in one of Chester's oldest buildings, with 200-year-old hand-hewn beams and plenty of original features, this dockside restaurant and pub offers excellent seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes in the most picturesque of locations. With decks right on the harbour, the views here can't be beat. 

Head here for great fish-and-chips, juicy scallops, or a lobster roll. Two patios overlook the water, and there's indoor seating too. This casual spot is great for when you want excellent seafood, and a fun atmosphere to go with it.