The Stillwell Bar makes its way into Downtown Halifax's thriving bar repertoire with its beer collection, sourced from some of the best breweries this end of the coast. With a dozen or so rotating craft beers on tap and a compelling snack menu by Chef Graeme Ruppel, this beer bar attracts droves of crowd from in and around the neighborhood. The space itself is modern and stylish, with exposed brick walls, subtle lighting and a large blackboard that displays the day's fares. The bar is great for some much needed bonding time with friends or for a quick evening drink before you head into town.
The Press Gang, a one-time private mansion dating back to the 18th Century, is now a friendly and lively meeting place for the after-work and late-dining crowd, just a couple of blocks up from the waterfront. The paella which is a savory mixture of saffron rice with sherry, shellfish, sausage and red bell peppers is the best in town. The Grilled salmon with caviar and cream is to die for. They also offer two set menus. There's a fine wine cellar and an oyster bar. Jazz nights at this restaurant on Friday and Saturday evenings sees quite the crowd. The interior is elegant with an open-brick fireplace, old-fashioned wood furniture and a grand piano. All in all, this is a great place to for special-occasion dining.
Close to all major downtown hotels and a short walk away from the World Trade and Convention Center, the Five Fishermen Restaurant offers several seafood specialties that set it apart. They also do chicken and steaks and feature some excellent desserts like the Pecan Tart and the Date Pudding. The nautical setting, with its painted carvings of fishermen, the brick walls adorned with lobster traps and a fireplace, is cozy and welcoming. This place has one of the largest wine cellars in the city.
A place brimming with excitement, Bearly's is the venue for great music, fine drinks and scrumptious bites. Centered around the concept of vintage blues and jazz clubs, the bar hosts musicians who keep the crowd tapping their feet with beautiful numbers. Take your pick from its tasteful collection of brews and spirits and sit back and enjoy some great performances put up by renowned artists from far and wide. Add in special theme nights, featured bands and a fabulous comedy hour and you've got a place that you simply cannot miss.