Best restaurants st johns newfoundland

Newfoundland Travel Guide

Best Restaurants in
St. John’s

The best places to eat in St. John’s from toutons at breakfast to fine dining by the harbour.

St. John’s has one of the finest dining scenes in Atlantic Canada world-class cooking using local seafood, game, and foraged ingredients at prices well below comparable quality elsewhere in Canada. Here are the essential restaurants sourced from the site.

Fine Dining

Mallard Cottage
Fine Dining Book Well Ahead
8 Barrows Road, Quidi Vidi Village, St. John’s

Located in the quaint Quidi Vidi Village, Mallard Cottage exudes timeless charm and culinary excellence. Housed in a beautifully restored building, it captures the essence of Newfoundland’s culinary heritage with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes frequently to incorporate the freshest ingredients. An impressive wine list. Toutons served here are simply divine.

The Merchant Tavern
Fine Dining / Contemporary
Downtown St. John’s

A popular spot for locals and tourists. Serves a mix of contemporary and traditional Newfoundland cuisine. Menu incorporates seasonal ingredients with chefs known for creative cooking. Impressive cocktail list. A great spot for drinks and appetizers. Combines fine cuisine with the historical ambiance of St. John’s.

Chinched Bistro
Charcuterie and Small Plates
5 Bates Hill, St. John’s, NL

Known for its charcuterie and innovative dishes. Locally inspired cuisine with a focus on house-cured meats and artisan preparations.

Breakfast and Casual

Bagel Cafe
Breakfast Toutons
246 Duckworth Street, St. John’s

Serves breakfast items, baked bagels, sandwiches, and delicious coffee. One of the best breakfast spots in the city. Start your day with a hearty breakfast before exploring Signal Hill.

The Rocket Bakery and Fresh Food
Bakery and Café
294 Water Street, St. John’s

A culinary oasis enticing visitors with artisanal baked goods and savoury delights. Showcases the region’s finest ingredients in every bite. From flaky pastries to hearty sandwiches.

Ches’s Famous Fish and Chips
Fish and Chips Institution
Multiple locations, St. John’s

A local institution for many years, serving up golden-brown perfection. An unassuming eatery and a beloved choice for a comforting taste of Newfoundland culinary heritage.

Near St. John’s

Chafe’s Landing Restaurant
Seafood Petty Harbour
Petty Harbour (20 min south of St. John’s)

Encapsulates the quintessential Atlantic dining experience. Commitment to freshness, serving up crispy golden fish and perfectly seasoned chips. Immerse yourself in Atlantic charm.

Hotels with Good Dining

For accommodation with dining options, The JAG Hotel offers modern amenities and artistic decor. Murray Premises Hotel provides a blend of history and comfort. Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland offers luxurious accommodations with stunning harbour views.

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Book Mallard Cottage in Advance

Mallard Cottage fills quickly in summer. Book 2-3 weeks ahead for dinner. It is also excellent for breakfast and lunch with slightly better availability. Call or book online before your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mallard Cottage (8 Barrows Road, Quidi Vidi Village) is consistently the top recommendation seasonal Newfoundland cuisine in a restored cottage. The Merchant Tavern is the best choice for downtown fine dining with contemporary Newfoundland cooking.
Bagel Cafe (246 Duckworth Street) for toutons and coffee. Mallard Cottage (Quidi Vidi Village) for the finest breakfast experience. The Merchant Tavern for upscale eggs Benedict.
Ches’s Famous Fish and Chips a St. John’s institution with multiple locations. For waterfront fish and chips, Chafe’s Landing in Petty Harbour (20 min south) is exceptional.

Visiting St. John’s?

See the complete St. John’s guide for things to do, day trips, and accommodation.

St. John’s Guide