Saint John, NB, Canada

Eating out in Saint John, NB, Canada

Cooking in Saint John is a delicious yet pretty straightforward affair. They follow family recipes handed down over many generations, use only produce from backyard gardens, just-fished-fresh seafood like Bay of Fundy lobster or wild Atlantic salmon, then pour a fine local vintage to smooth it down and cleanse the palate. Voilà! This is New Brunswick dining at its best. Chefs all around the province put this formula to work in the kitchens of their bistros and elegant restaurants, then slip in a culinary trick or two for a gourmet triumph. From master German bakers using old-fashioned clay ovens to nouvelle cuisine artists whipping up bouillabaisse on the bay, you'll thrill to every bite. Bon appétit!.

Highly Recommended

Beatty and the Beastro is the most highly rated restaurant in New Brunswick and is ranked among the "Top Ten in Canada" by Where to Eat in Canada magazine. The smart, professional staff welcomes you to this cozy and informal restaurant draped with eclectic art. Absolutely everything is made from scratch! 60 Charlotte Street.

Local Flair

At Steamers Lobster Company, fun takes precedence over linen and silverware, in keeping with its rustic and nautical ambiance. Diners wield wooden mallets on the cooked crustaceans and the centerpieces are much-needed rolls of paper towels. Give the cashier your order and head outside, where your lobster is netted and dropped into a kettle. Enjoy the ocean spray and cooking aromas until it's time to dig in! 110 Water Street.

Romantic

Top of the Town is Saint John's only rooftop restaurant and has the best view in town, over the harbor and the historic east side. Sunsets and soothing live music are the backdrop to scrumptious meals prepared by one of Saint John's finest chefs, who presents you with focaccia bread and sorbet between courses. The staff is sharp and attentive, and greets diners with daily treats like blueberry in brie cheese. 10 Portland Street.

Going party in Saint John, NB, Canada

Music is very much a part of daily life in New Brunswick, so it follows that many bars and clubs throughout the province feature bands most nights, especially in Saint John and Fredericton. Much of the music scene is heavily influenced by French, Scottish and Irish heritage, but the region has recently acquired a distinction for jazz and blues as well.

Churchill's Bar and Pub

Charm and hospitality are the main draw at this downtown basement pub. Traditional English pub fare, 10 quality drafts on tap, and specialty martinis are served in a calm, engaging ambiance of good cheer.

Imperial Theatre

The beautifully restored Edwardian theater is home to Symphony New Brunswick and it stages Theatre New Brunswick productions. It's exquisite beauty and state-of-the-art sound and lighting make it a popular stop for major touring shows.

Jake's Pub and Steakhouse

Regulars call it a true neighborhood pub, and indeed it is. The crowd of mainly local friends and families spends the evening playing pool and foosball and requesting favorite tunes from the house DJ.

Shuckers Bar and Restaurant

The expert staff declares, "the only thing we overlook is uptown Saint John," and it's an honest claim. In addition to great service and one of the best views in town, they have scrumptious specialty food like Salmon Salad and Red Curry Coconut Shrimp. After you've munched, try one of the many drafts and try your skill at darts or pool.

3 Mile Tavern

This rollicking bar stages all sorts of live shows and dances, but country and western is what put them on the map.

Common events in Saint John, NB, Canada

Nesbitt Burns Jazz and Blues Festival

High-energy, top-line performers of slick jazz, gritty blues, and spicy Cajun gather for this party on the Saint John Harbor. July.

Highland Games and Scottish Festival

Don your tartan and show your true colors during this weekend celebration of Scottish culture. Fun is the main game here and everyone takes part with bagpipe bands, highland dancing and entertainment, Celtic sporting events, clan displays, Gaelic language lessons, crafts, food, and much more! July.

Festival By The Sea

Performing arts festivals rarely get better, which is why it is consistently ranked amid the Top 100 Events in North America by the American Bus Tours Association. Canadian performers celebrate the nation's unique heritage through song, dance, and more, night and day, indoors and out! Saint John, August.

Atlantic Balloon Fiesta

Over 30 vibrantly colored hot air balloons launching twice each day always brings cheer to even the crankiest of souls. Add in parachute demonstrations, helicopter rides, a craft show, antique and classic car show, non-stop entertainment, and you've got a high-flying fiesta! Sussex, September.