Newfoundland & Labrador in Canada boasts some of the worlds freshest seafood, and every year foodies from across the globe flock here for delicious fish, lobster and mussels. With the riches of the sea colliding with some of the best game offered across the Americas, local ingredients are available for truly exceptional food. Here are a few of the best dining experiences on offer:
Bacalao Restaurant
St. Johns award-winning Bacalao Restaurant, which takes its name from the word meaning salt cold, offers nouvelle Newfoundland cuisine, with a vibrant seasonal menu priding itself on local seafood and game its even won an award for using hyperlocal produce. Try the Jiggs Dinner, a traditional appetizer of salt beef and root vegetables in cabbage-leaf parcel, followed by seared Fogo Island cod, cooked in a Newfoundland-created cod pot.
Raymonds
Raymonds is widely known as one of Atlantic Canadas best dining experiences, and was named Canadas Best New Restaurant in 2011 by enRoute Magazine. Run by dynamic duo Head Chef Jeremy Charles and sommelier Jeremy Bonia, Raymonds minimalist menu offers a simple range of appetisers and mains, and takes a sustainable approach to fine dining by sourcing locally-grown ingredients. Expect delicious cod, pork shoulder, tenderloin and sweetbreads, but dont expect the dishes to be hanging about on the menu!
The Reluctant Chef
This inventive restaurant is a regular favourite on the foodies tasting tour of Newfoundland & Labrador. Theres no set menu, so every visit brings a new surprise, with unique creations prepared daily by Executive Chef, Mike Boyd. With dishes such as Lobster Spaghetti Saffron Pasta and cold-water shrimp dumplings, The Reluctant Chef serves up delicious plates that tantalise the palette.
Mallard Cottage
Mallard Cottage in Quidi Vidi Village is a one of a kind destination, beautifully restored by Chef Todd Perrin, his wife Kim Doyle, and Sommelier Stephen Lee. This charming restaurant combines the best of Newfoundland produce, with some of the provinces beautiful architecture. Pair delectable local wines with a vast array of wild game and seafood, and enjoy a peaceful waterside meal in a truly idyllic location.
Lighthouse Picnics
One of the provinces quirkiest dining options is Lighthouse Picnics in Ferryland, which celebrates the provinces tranquil location on the Atlantic coast. Just an hours drive from St Johns, this scenic coastal spot serves up deliciously fresh picnic food, all lovingly made, kneaded and baked at the lighthouse. After lunch, settle down on a rug and read a favourite book borrowed from the Lighthouse Library, or simply enjoy the breath-taking views.
