ST. JOHNS Newfoundland
Outdoor enthusiasts have long appreciated the natural wonders of Newfoundland and Labrador, but recently the St. John’s dining scene has become an attraction in its own right. Whether you’re here for the food (and thriving brewery scene) or visiting St. John’s at the beginning of an ecological adventure, get the lay of the (Newfound)land by spending three days eating through the province’s capital city. — Gabby Peyton DAY 1 BANNERMAN BREWING CO. | 1 p.m. While away a few hours at Bannerman Brewing, housed in a rejuvenated fire hall. The beer pairs nicely with the spicy fare at onsite restaurant Namjim, which serves up Thai food with a Newfoundland twist. TERRE RESTAURANT & CAFE | 7 p.m. Terre, inside the Alt Hotel, is nationally recognized for its ultra-local approach to dining. The not-so-secret tip is to “let the kitchen cook for you” and enjoy a parade of local chanterelles on toast and raw diver scallops brought to the restaurant directly from the ocean by a subsea forager. DAY 2 TOSLOW | 8 a.m. Waking up early to see the first sunrise in North America at Cape Spear works up an appetite, and Toslow satisfies with espresso, breakfast sandwiches and pastries. Toslow always has an imaginative danish on offer — recent daily danishes include spinach dip, banoffee pie and, yes, dressing and gravy. THE NOOK & CANNERY | noon. After a morning exploring The Rooms museum, stroll to the nearby Nook & Cannery for lunch. This relaxed café serves up an international menu with vegan-friendly grain bowls, burgers and dumplings. PORTAGE | 8 p.m. Two alumni of acclaimed Raymond’s have opened Portage across the street, focusing on their own style of cuisine with dishes like beef tartare with charcoal mayo (reminiscent of a hamburger) and apricot cake accompanied by French cheese. DAY 3 MALLARD COTTAGE | 10 a.m. Wandering Quidi Vidi village is a must-do, and brunch at Mallard Cottage, the iconic cottage-turned-restaurant, completes the experience. Think cosy vibes paired with high-end, locally inspired dishes and set to a playlist of traditional music. If cod cheeks are on the menu, order them. DUKE OF DUCKWORTH | 2 p.m. Complete your threeday food and drink tour by grabbing a pint at the Duke, the long-standing pub tucked in an alley between Water and Duckworth streets. The fish and chips are fantastic.