Best Coffee Shops and Cafes in Halifax

"It would be remiss not to mention the giant, golden flakiness that is a TIBS croissant. With a croissant of the week available Monday through Friday, and my all-time favourite, a croissant stuffed with prosciutto and provolone, Two If By Sea is a laminated dough pioneer in the city. Two If By Sea Café, 66 Ochterloney Street, Dartmouth"

"Known as TIBS to locals, they opened their door in 2009 and have become a Dartmouth mainstay!. The croissants are creative and known city-wide. There’s a “Scone of the Week” with the offerings changing weekly."

"Two if By Sea is a lovely café in Dartmouth Centre, and is a popular spot for fresh-baked treats. All the treat at this café are made fresh daily, so plan to visit early to get the best variety."

"A dating hot spot for good reason, this shop features several exquisite cheesecakes to choose from. Flavours are often unique and can include anything from simple chocolate to Girl Guide mint. If you have special dietary needs, Sweet Hereafter has a wide selection of delicious vegan and gluten-free choices that taste the exact opposite of whatever you imagine when you think of vegan or gluten-free cheesecake."

"Sweet Hereafter, Halifax: See 134 unbiased reviews of Sweet Hereafter, rated 4.5 of 5 on Tripadvisor and ranked #55 of 690 restaurants in Halifax. Halifax RestaurantsCoffee RestaurantsEast Coast CanadaBest Places To EatCity StyleNova ScotiaTrip AdvisorLaughingWhale"

"Dilly Dally is a cosy little neighbourhood cafe on Halifax’s Quinpool Road. Not only do they serve up small batch treats and delicious caffeinated beverages, they’re also licensed!. I’m sensing a new favourite spot for evening drinks AND morning espressos!"

"Another adorable coffee shop on Quinpool, Dilly Dally has a great cozy, community vibe and a delicious breakfast menu. Stop by as early as 6:30am for options including Sunshine Yogurt Sundaes, Fried Egg Sammies, and BLT Bagels."

"This little shop is not only the destination for anyone who needs gluten-free desserts, but it also accommodates people with other food allergies, as well as vegans. This shop has lots of different dessert and cake options in its small space, and you can enjoy the locally roasted Java Blend coffee with whichever slice of heaven you choose."

"Bring your appetite and your patience when you’re heading to The Coastal. Its food is amazing and all of Halifax knows it, so get ready for a long wait and a killer breakfast. Popular items include The McCoastal (their take on an egg McMuffin) and The Elvis (buttermilk waffle sandwich with peanut butter, bananas, bacon and maple syrup!!)."

"The Coastal Café offers chef-driven breakfast fare in a casual environment. While the menu may seem fancy-pantsy in places (Cab Sauv reduction on your omelette?!), you’re still ordering at the counter in your pajamas. Breakfast and lunch is served until 2pm on weekdays."

"One of the most kid-friendly cafes in Halifax from 2010 to 2012, Local Jo’s is the place to stop in the west end of Halifax. There is a kid’s play area and there are yummy cookies for them to try."

"Steve-O-Reno's serves up tasty breakfast items (the huevos rancheros on weekends can't be missed), pastries and smoothies from its shop on Brunswick Street downtown. This petite café has been a Halifax institution for more than 20 years. Should you find yourself there later in the day try some of their baked goods such as the new tiramisu squares which have a chocolate crumb base, espresso almond filling and a cream cheese icing."

"1536 Brunswick St, Halifax – Downtown/Spring Garden Road area. Steve-O-Reno’s has been around for over 20 years, so if anyone knows coffee, it’s them. This independently owned and operated coffee shop in downtown Halifax is perfect to sit and enjoy a coffee or grab a quick bite, as they prepare fresh baked goods every morning, as well as delicious breakfasts and lunches."

"This cozy café serves up a hearty breakfast menu complete smoothies, egg sandwiches, breakfast plates, and granola. Pair that with their delicious coffee and inviting décor and you’ve got the perfect place to start your day."

"Before you head out on the St. Margaret’s Bay Trail, pop into the Bike n’ Bean for a drink or to rent a bike. The building is the historic French Village Train Station, which has been turned into a café and bike shop. They also offer repair services if your bikes need work."

"Visit the Museum of Natural History with the kids and tour the many Galleries such as Archeology, Aquatic life, Geology, mammals and more. The Museum has lots of interesting things to see, especially the forest exhibit with Gus the Tortoise, who is 94 years old. There is a small gift shop and an area in the basement level to relax and eat any snacks you might take with you."

"Halifax’s Museum of Natural History is an institution that depicts the regional geological past and present, through a variety of static and interactive exhibits. Along with rotating exhibitions that feature huge dinosaurs, this museum has galleries that display archaeology, geology, mammals, birds, marine life, ethnology and botany."

"The Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History has been open, in one form or another, since 1868. Known for its collection of animal specimens, both living and preserved, it’s a great and inexpensive indoor rainy day activity in Halifax."

"Housed in the former 1918 Canadian National Railway Station. Traces the history of the railway and early development of this region, with a collection that includes five railway cars, photographs, maps, posters, tickets, artifacts (such as baggage wagons and a sled), a small library and gift shop. Open mid-May to October."

"Learn the story of Nova Scotia railways at the Musquodoboit Harbour Railway Museum on Route 7. Examine the posters, tickets, maps and photographs in the Canadian Northern Railway station of 1918. Don’t forget to stop for ice cream on the way out!"

"Halifax’s first burial ground, founded in 1749, also happens to be a National Heritage site. Wander around and you’ll find yourself transported to Halifax’s early history as you pass notable headstones, including that of Major General Robert Ross, who fought in the War of 1812 and was buried with full military honors. At the entrance to the burial ground, you can also see the Welsford-Parker Monument which was built in 1870 to commemorate two Haligonians killed in the Crimean War."

"The Gothic Revival Catholic cathedral in downtown Halifax was consecrated in 1899 and boasts the tallest granite spire in North America. Guided tours are available year-round."

"Located in Eastern Passage, this is a good circular hike along a boardwalk. You can step off the boardwalk in several places and walk out onto the rocks or beach. The beach is right beside the shops and pier of Eastern Passage, so make sure to stop for a quick bite to eat (the lobster sandwich is great!) or shop for some local souvenirs."

"This beach in Eastern Passage, and located adjacent to the ever popular Fisherman’s Cove. There is a great boardwalk system, and offers views of McNabs Island, Devil’s Island, Eastern Passage, and more."