Words by Dalene Heck / Photography by Dalene & Pete Heck
One of the things we cherish about living in the Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia is the impressive variety of dining options available. Each town, regardless of its size, boasts restaurants that are worth the visit. Among these towns, Wolfville stands out with several personal favorites. Below, you’ll find a list of our favorite restaurants in Wolfville that we have enjoyed so far, and we anticipate adding more to this list as we continue to explore the area.
Our Favorite Restaurants in Wolfville, Nova Scotia
Juniper Food + Wine
Location: 389 Main St
My best meal of 2023 was at Juniper Food + Wine. Although that delectable gnocchi dish is no longer on their dinner menu (which changes seasonally based on local ingredients), its existence will always elevate Juniper to one of my favorite restaurants in Wolfville — and even in the entire province.
Pete and I also enjoyed the baked potato beignets, and his pork belly dish was utterly delicious. Reservations are highly recommended here, preferably well in advance.
Troy Restaurant & Grill
Location: 12D Elm Ave
Troy Restaurant & Grill was the first place we dined at in Wolfville, and it served as an excellent introduction to the quality of food available in this small city. We’ve returned twice since then, and each time we’ve ordered the hot and cold mezze without fail.
We usually choose a “custom trio” of cold dips, with the roasted red pepper being a must-try, along with the spicy baked feta. We often end up battling over the last bite! One day, we promise to be more adventurous and try new dishes, but it’s hard to resist these Mediterranean classics. The cocktails also deserve a mention.
Lightfoot + Wolfville
Location: 11143 Evangeline Trail
Dining at Lightfoot & Wolfville offers a unique experience as it’s located in a winery. Famous for its wood-fired pizzas (and, of course, its wines), we thoroughly enjoyed both during our visit. We left with empty plates — the Canadian pizza was particularly delightful — and made sure to take home a case of wine.
We adored the beautiful design and atmosphere of the restaurant. Its open and airy feel creates a casual yet inviting ambience, even though the excellent food and wine could easily justify a more upscale setting.
The Church Brewing Co.
Location: 329 Main St
We frequently choose ‘Church Brew’ when entertaining family and friends. The unique atmosphere of dining in a repurposed church on Main Street is something to behold, and the craft beers are definitely worth a visit. The Heart of Gold amber lager is exceptional, as is the Forgive Me Father coffee stout (bonus points for the name!).
The food menu has been a mixed bag; we’ve enjoyed some fantastic dishes like the maple garlic cauliflower and the southern chicken sandwich with hot-honey lime. However, I would recommend passing on the turkey club — it claims to use focaccia (which it definitely does not), and the bread-to-filling ratio is unbalanced. The Sanctuary Chicken Dip is a great option for snacking alongside your drinks, and their fresh French fries are the go-to side.
The Library Pub & Wine Tavern
Location: 472 Main St
Another Main Street favorite, the Library Pub and Wine Tavern is hard to miss upon entering the bustling commercial area. It features a cozy pub vibe and is likely a central hub for local gossip, accompanied by an excellent selection of cocktails with plenty of locally crafted options.
We recommend trying the fish tacos with mango salsa, cabbage slaw, and wasabi yogurt, but it would be wise to skip the steak bites starter. While the sauce is tasty, the meat we had was overcooked.
Wolfville Farmer’s Market
Location: 24 Elm Ave
The Wolfville Farmers Market is one of the few year-round markets in the region, and despite the lengthy drive from our home, we find ourselves here often. The market has a lively atmosphere, complete with live music and fantastic local produce and crafts.
We always arrive with empty stomachs because the food vendors offer amazing delights! We particularly enjoy the burritos from Tipsy Toad Grove Farm and the pakoras from Taj Mahal Catering.
Charts Café
Location: 16 Elm Ave
Before heading to the Farmers Market, we ensure to stop by Charts Café for one of their exceptional specialty coffees. Their pastries are too tempting to pass by, and we often indulge in their savory quiches as well.
Benjamin Bridge
Location: 1966 White Rock Rd
Benjamin Bridge is one of our favorite spots in the Annapolis Valley, thanks to its delightful wines, beautiful patio, and generally charming atmosphere. We haven’t yet stopped for a full meal, but judging by their wines, piquettes, and charcuterie board, the food is sure to impress when we finally do. We also enjoy the creative events and activities they host throughout the year — for instance, the mini skating rink in winter! If we lived closer, I have no doubt this would be our go-to destination.
Other Noteworthy Restaurants in Wolfville
The following eateries are highly rated, and we look forward to dining at them soon!
- JEJU – 8 Elm Ave
- Paddy’s Brewpub – 460 Main St
- Kings Arms Commons – 430 Main St
- Hennigar’s Cookhouse – 10272 Nova Scotia Trunk 1
Our Favorite Nearby Restaurants to Wolfville
The Noodle Guy (Port Williams)
Location: 964 NS-358, Port Williams
This beloved local spot in Port Williams is known simply for its fresh NOODLES. With options ranging from wheat pasta to rice noodles, it truly offers comfort food in a bowl. On our one visit, Pete had the Soba (Japanese buckwheat and kamut noodles), while I opted for the shells in chipotle, asiago, and white wine sauce.
While we both enjoyed our noodles, my dish could have used a bit more flavor, leading to Pete winning the flavor battle. I’m eager to return for a rematch!
Cumin Kitchen and Drink (New Minas)
Location: 21 Roy Ave, New Minas
Located in nearby New Minas, Cumin Kitchen & Drink is one of the few non-chain establishments in town. The menu is filled with fresh and delicious options, many of which are vegan and gluten-free. You can feel good about ordering anything here — the ingredients are always fresh, locally sourced, and wholesome. Pete loves the Hipster Paradise Bowl with salmon, while I adore the fried chicken schnitzel.
Luckett Vineyards (Wallbrook)
Location: 1293 Grand Pré Rd
Luckett Vineyards is perhaps the most renowned vineyard in the Annapolis Valley, known for various reasons. Beyond their exceptional wines, the restaurant is perched on a hillside, offering stunning views of the vineyard below, lined with rows of grapes.
As a nod to its British owner, a bright red telephone booth from the UK (specifically Glasgow) is situated in the vineyard and has become a popular selfie spot. The menu may not be extensive, but it is well-curated. Just keep in mind that during summer, it tends to get crowded, as it’s a favorite destination for groups seeking to enjoy the lovely patio (it’s particularly popular with bachelorette parties, as I’ve noticed!).
Additional Nearby Restaurants on Our “To Eat At” List
Our list keeps expanding with these nearby restaurants that we’re eager to try!
- Le Caveau (Grand-Pré) – 11611 Evangeline Trail, Grand Pré
- Longfellow Restaurant (Grand-Pré) – 11668 Nova Scotia Trunk 1, Grand Pré
- Pizzeria Robust (Port Williams) – 980 NS-358, Port Williams
- The Kitchen at Planters Ridge (Port Williams) – 1441 Church St, Port Williams
- Port Pub and Bistro (Port Williams) – 980 Terrys Creek Rd, Port Williams
For a comprehensive list of all our recommended restaurants in Wolfville, check out our Google Maps link!
