Bluenose II Restaurant
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In short, Bluenose II Restaurant is an old-school diner-style seafood restaurant that failed to live up to my expectations and all the hypes. I came here because of some Reddit reviews for the lobster roll in Halifax. Apparently, the BEST roll near Halifax is made by Tom's Lobster Shack in Peggy's Cove. However, I do not have access to a vehicle, and it was also very late (8 PM), so I went to the honourable mention spot, Bluenose II. The bads: I got the lobster roll, with a side of the fish chowder and fries. While the price was ok (the lobster roll + chowder combo for 26 dollars plus tax), the roll was pretty bad. First, unlike other proper rolls, the bread was so dry, like some sort of stale hot dog bun. It was probably one of the worst rolls I've had. The shredded lettuce underneath the lobster was also not good - it had a very strong lettuce flavour, which was unpleasant to eat with seafood. The lobster itself was ok - it was fresh. However, the mayo-y sauce on top of the lobster kind of ruined the experience. They should've perhaps premixed them. The extra fries I got on the side were also mid at best; they were quite hard and dry, instead of crispy. I managed to finish them with a LOT of ketchup since I was very hungry. The goods: The fish chowder. That was one amazing chowder. It had fresh salmon in it, with lots of potatoes. The dill flavour with a hint of spice was perfect. I saved the soup for the very last because I wanted to end my dinner on a good note, and it delivered. I'd come back to Bluenose II just for its chowders. The service was overall friendly; the place is quite old, and I'd say it needs some renovations.
All day breakfast, lobster "dinner" meal that you can order for lunch or dinner, fresh seafood menu, Greek specialties, and classic diner foods. What's not to love - and there's something for everyone. The clam chowder was hearty and filling, scallops were flavorful and local, and the salmon was well cooked and full of flavor. If you want authentic Halifax seafood experience with reasonable prices and close to the boardwalk, this place can't be beat.
The food was mid, nothing spectacular and if you haven't tried it, you're not missing out on much. Maybe it was the dishes we ordered and if we had chosen something else like the lobster it possibly would've been a different story. But since this review is based on the food we ordered, it wasn't bad, but it also wasn't the best. The fish and chips were okay, crispy outer layer of the fish but fries were not well seasoned and not very crispy. The creamy clam chowder soup just reminds me of the ones you'd get straight out of a can. The smoked salmon was pretty good actually! Unfortunately, the veggies were a disappointment though. Tastes like straight up frozen veggies that were microwaved and served. As for the white rice, you can't really mess this one up so it's okay. For the dessert we got rice pudding. I'm personally not the biggest fan of rice pudding, but I still gave it a try and it was alright at best. Nothing really to it. There was a hint of sweetness and the cinnamon powder was a nice touch on top. The inside of the restaurant was clean and pretty decent in size with comfortable seating arrangements! It does have that diner feel though- which can bring a cozy vibe
We had heard this was a local spot that has been around for years. We were underwhelmed by the lobster rolls which lacked flavor. More of the mayo sauce would've made it better. The clam chowder was okay. The sweet potato fries were the highlight as they were tasty. The server was not very attentive and the decor could use an update as it was worn.
This place was recommended by the Harbor Hopper folks The place was packed but it only took about 10 minutes to get a seat. We had a lobster roll and fish & chips. Both were excellent! But Beware ... the portion are huge. The place is clean and the service was excellent
A simple lobster dinner with no frills. The steep price of $42 really surprised me, as I thought Halifax lobster meals would be a lot more affordable. But I guess the r/Halifax sub-thread about lobster dinner recommendations is accurate: "People from the east coast don't eat lobster at restaurants." #TouristLife Our server did mention that for just 5$ more, we could have a steak with our meal, but we said no, as our focus of the trip was just on lobster. Long story short this was a 12 hour daytrip in Halifax. We flew in at 10AM and left at 10pm (excluding flight delays). Having previously done some research, we decided on lobster rolls near Peggy's Cove, and the authentic lobster dinner here at Bluenose II. The lobster dinner came with: - a bowl of clam chowder and a dinner roll - a cup of coleslaw - a cup of potato salad - clarified butter with lemon - a 1 pound lobster To be honest, after removing the lobster head, there wasn't a lot of lobster meat, so the chowder + potato salad + coleslaw + butter took up most of our appetite. The butter dipping was just alright to me, although my partner really enjoyed it. I am probably one of few that enjoy the lobster roe/tomalley inside the head, so I really ate everything except for the shell. The roe/tomalley was so freaking good with an unami flavour of the sea. I went at it with bare hands and repeatedly scooped the mixture into my mouth. I think I was in a trance for some time too, eating like a madman. We almost didn't receive our bread puddings near the end of the meal as the server said not everyone likes it. Still, we opted in, and it was quite good. Jello-like, not too sweet, with a dash of cinnamon. If not for me worried about eating cold things after a hot meal, I would definitely have finished it. Overall a satisfying meal to try once in the restaurant.
Star ratings can be pretty arbitrary. My review of 3 out of 5 is for the overall experience. We entered for lunch post hop on hop off bus tour of Halifax. (Our port stop with Norwegian) and we head back to the US tomorrow via Maine. We were greeted by a server from the bar who said to seat ourselves. While he came by quickly with menus it seemed a long time for him to deliver our waters and to take our order. Once the order was received it came quickly. A cup of chowder presents as a bowl with an accompanying package of crackers and rolls for the table. We ordered the lobster roll (price on menu stated market price = $25) which came with an abundance of fries and a teeny serving of coleslaw. We could've easily shared the soup as we each ordered it and we did split the lobster roll. Here's where I stand on lobster. 1. I've always preferred crab over lobster. 2. Cold seafood other than a nice shrimp cocktail doesn't do it for me. 3. Why DOES everyone go gaga over a lobster roll? I thought it was OK. It was cold and presented like a lobster salad with mayo and onions. Dunno why but thought it would've been served hot. Clam chowder was nice and hot and filled with potatoes and clams. It was seasoned ok but was lacking that oomph for me. Fries were hot and crispy. So, as a whole I'd be hesitant to return for THAT particular meal but would return for other options and even dinner.
The food was good, the service was excellent and the ambiance was ok. I thought I would try a straight up ol' fashioned Nova Scotia lobster dinner. It was exactly what you'd want! Big, cooked perfect and butter to soak it in. I had recently had a Lobster Thermidor at another place to compare this to and it's not in the same category. I think this is a good option for a simple dinner with the fast food fixings of coleslaw and potato salad. I paid about the same being the MP for more lobster meat but I felt this is expensive considering. Up there with a well cooked and appointed steak dinner. Either way it's a classic it should be on your radar, just start here and work your way to the Thermidor to judge for yourself.
I highly recommend this restaurant. You won't be disappointed!! I was looking forward to having lobster, and I had the iconic lobster supper--absolutely delicious clam chowder, a whole lobster, coleslaw and dessert. (I chose the homemade banana cream pie.) Our waitress was super friendly, and took the time to give us lots of touring advice. (I almost felt like I was back in the Midwest--talking to such a genuinely friendly server. The people here are NICE!!) My husband had the local Digby scallops and lemon potatoes. The prices were reasonable for seafood. Eat at The Bluenose II. You won't be disappointed! It's great!!
Good food, coffee and service. Easy walk from our hotel with nautical decor. Near the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia
- service was meh - environment was meh - fish and chips was dry, I felt like chewing a dry towel, didn't expect it's that bad, couldn't even finish one piece of it
So this is the best bang for your buck in Halifax for seafood. This was our cheapest lobster deal in Halifax. Nothing to look at restaurant wise..pretty standard diner if not clean. The reason why it looses a star is for the service. Slow as mollases. Not sure why. Servers spent a lot of time talking to other servers and not actually serving. It seamed to be more of a trend out here. However, food was good. We enjoyed our chowder, and the lobster was fine. My oldest took the salmon which she was happpy with. The real delight was the home made rice pudding. The staff were friendly but seemed overwhelmed. In general if you are not picky at the quality, but still want good, this is the best bang for your buck. So much so that we grabbed our last lobster dinner and lobster subs to go for the plane ride back.
This place is a gem . I had read this is not so much a touristy stop but locals come here I was excited about their lobster dinner with soup and dessert! My husband got the scallops! Everything was delicious! The service was great , so friendly! Highly recommend! read more
11 months ago
We were at the Province House and talking to a man who worked there. After some lengthy and very informative conversations about Nova Scotia politics and history he recommended Bluenose for lunch (since I said I wanted seafood). He did say it is not a fancy place, more like a diner style, which was completely fine by me! The service was pretty prompt, efficient and friendly. My husband ordered some fish dish which he enjoyed. I ordered lobster roll which I thought was okay. I did like the toasted rolls, but felt the lobster lacked flavour. What I did love was the fried calamari! It was both crispy and moist and just loved it. I tried the Nova Scotia wine, Lightfoot & Wolfville Flora and really enjoyed it! read more
In short, Bluenose II Restaurant is an old-school diner-style seafood restaurant that failed to live up to my expectations and all the hypes. I came here because of some Reddit reviews for the lobster roll in Halifax. Apparently, the BEST roll near Halifax is made by Tom's Lobster Shack in Peggy's Cove. However, I do not have access to a vehicle, and it was also very late (8 PM), so I went to the honourable mention spot, Bluenose II. The bads: I got the lobster roll, with a side of the fish chowder and fries. While the price was ok (the lobster roll + chowder combo for 26 dollars plus tax), the roll was pretty bad. First, unlike other proper rolls, the bread was so dry, like some sort of stale hot dog bun. It was probably one of the worst rolls I've had. The shredded lettuce underneath the lobster was also not good - it had a very strong lettuce flavour, which was unpleasant to eat with seafood. The lobster itself was ok - it was fresh. However, the mayo-y sauce on top of the lobster kind of ruined the experience. They should've perhaps premixed them. The extra fries I got on the side were also mid at best; they were quite hard and dry, instead of crispy. I managed to finish them with a LOT of ketchup since I was very hungry. The goods: The fish chowder. That was one amazing chowder. It had fresh salmon in it, with lots of potatoes. The dill flavour with a hint of spice was perfect. I saved the soup for the very last because I wanted to end my dinner on a good note, and it delivered. I'd come back to Bluenose II just for its chowders. The service was overall friendly; the place is quite old, and I'd say it needs some renovations. read more
All day breakfast, lobster "dinner" meal that you can order for lunch or dinner, fresh seafood menu, Greek specialties, and classic diner foods. What's not to love - and there's something for everyone. The clam chowder was hearty and filling, scallops were flavorful and local, and the salmon was well cooked and full of flavor. If you want authentic Halifax seafood experience with reasonable prices and close to the boardwalk, this place can't be beat. read more
The food was mid, nothing spectacular and if you haven't tried it, you're not missing out on much. Maybe it was the dishes we ordered and if we had chosen something else like the lobster it possibly would've been a different story. But since this review is based on the food we ordered, it wasn't bad, but it also wasn't the best. The fish and chips were okay, crispy outer layer of the fish but fries were not well seasoned and not very crispy. The creamy clam chowder soup just reminds me of the ones you'd get straight out of a can. The smoked salmon was pretty good actually! Unfortunately, the veggies were a disappointment though. Tastes like straight up frozen veggies that were microwaved and served. As for the white rice, you can't really mess this one up so it's okay. For the dessert we got rice pudding. I'm personally not the biggest fan of rice pudding, but I still gave it a try and it was alright at best. Nothing really to it. There was a hint of sweetness and the cinnamon powder was a nice touch on top. The inside of the restaurant was clean and pretty decent in size with comfortable seating arrangements! It does have that diner feel though- which can bring a cozy vibe read more
1 month ago
Tried pan fried haddock and grilled Atlantic salmon. Both tastes yummy. The seating was roomy. The server was very friendly. read more
4 months ago
We had heard this was a local spot that has been around for years. We were underwhelmed by the lobster rolls which lacked flavor. More of the mayo sauce would've made it better. The clam chowder was okay. The sweet potato fries were the highlight as they were tasty. The server was not very attentive and the decor could use an update as it was worn. read more
This place was recommended by the Harbor Hopper folks The place was packed but it only took about 10 minutes to get a seat. We had a lobster roll and fish & chips. Both were excellent! But Beware ... the portion are huge. The place is clean and the service was excellent read more
3 months ago
3 months ago
A simple lobster dinner with no frills. The steep price of $42 really surprised me, as I thought Halifax lobster meals would be a lot more affordable. But I guess the r/Halifax sub-thread about lobster dinner recommendations is accurate: "People from the east coast don't eat lobster at restaurants." #TouristLife Our server did mention that for just 5$ more, we could have a steak with our meal, but we said no, as our focus of the trip was just on lobster. Long story short this was a 12 hour daytrip in Halifax. We flew in at 10AM and left at 10pm (excluding flight delays). Having previously done some research, we decided on lobster rolls near Peggy's Cove, and the authentic lobster dinner here at Bluenose II. The lobster dinner came with: - a bowl of clam chowder and a dinner roll - a cup of coleslaw - a cup of potato salad - clarified butter with lemon - a 1 pound lobster To be honest, after removing the lobster head, there wasn't a lot of lobster meat, so the chowder + potato salad + coleslaw + butter took up most of our appetite. The butter dipping was just alright to me, although my partner really enjoyed it. I am probably one of few that enjoy the lobster roe/tomalley inside the head, so I really ate everything except for the shell. The roe/tomalley was so freaking good with an unami flavour of the sea. I went at it with bare hands and repeatedly scooped the mixture into my mouth. I think I was in a trance for some time too, eating like a madman. We almost didn't receive our bread puddings near the end of the meal as the server said not everyone likes it. Still, we opted in, and it was quite good. Jello-like, not too sweet, with a dash of cinnamon. If not for me worried about eating cold things after a hot meal, I would definitely have finished it. Overall a satisfying meal to try once in the restaurant. read more
1 year ago
Star ratings can be pretty arbitrary. My review of 3 out of 5 is for the overall experience. We entered for lunch post hop on hop off bus tour of Halifax. (Our port stop with Norwegian) and we head back to the US tomorrow via Maine. We were greeted by a server from the bar who said to seat ourselves. While he came by quickly with menus it seemed a long time for him to deliver our waters and to take our order. Once the order was received it came quickly. A cup of chowder presents as a bowl with an accompanying package of crackers and rolls for the table. We ordered the lobster roll (price on menu stated market price = $25) which came with an abundance of fries and a teeny serving of coleslaw. We could've easily shared the soup as we each ordered it and we did split the lobster roll. Here's where I stand on lobster. 1. I've always preferred crab over lobster. 2. Cold seafood other than a nice shrimp cocktail doesn't do it for me. 3. Why DOES everyone go gaga over a lobster roll? I thought it was OK. It was cold and presented like a lobster salad with mayo and onions. Dunno why but thought it would've been served hot. Clam chowder was nice and hot and filled with potatoes and clams. It was seasoned ok but was lacking that oomph for me. Fries were hot and crispy. So, as a whole I'd be hesitant to return for THAT particular meal but would return for other options and even dinner. read more
The food was good, the service was excellent and the ambiance was ok. I thought I would try a straight up ol' fashioned Nova Scotia lobster dinner. It was exactly what you'd want! Big, cooked perfect and butter to soak it in. I had recently had a Lobster Thermidor at another place to compare this to and it's not in the same category. I think this is a good option for a simple dinner with the fast food fixings of coleslaw and potato salad. I paid about the same being the MP for more lobster meat but I felt this is expensive considering. Up there with a well cooked and appointed steak dinner. Either way it's a classic it should be on your radar, just start here and work your way to the Thermidor to judge for yourself. read more
I highly recommend this restaurant. You won't be disappointed!! I was looking forward to having lobster, and I had the iconic lobster supper--absolutely delicious clam chowder, a whole lobster, coleslaw and dessert. (I chose the homemade banana cream pie.) Our waitress was super friendly, and took the time to give us lots of touring advice. (I almost felt like I was back in the Midwest--talking to such a genuinely friendly server. The people here are NICE!!) My husband had the local Digby scallops and lemon potatoes. The prices were reasonable for seafood. Eat at The Bluenose II. You won't be disappointed! It's great!! read more
2 years ago
Good food, coffee and service. Easy walk from our hotel with nautical decor. Near the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia read more
3 years ago
- service was meh - environment was meh - fish and chips was dry, I felt like chewing a dry towel, didn't expect it's that bad, couldn't even finish one piece of it read more
10 months ago
1 year ago
1 year ago
So this is the best bang for your buck in Halifax for seafood. This was our cheapest lobster deal in Halifax. Nothing to look at restaurant wise..pretty standard diner if not clean. The reason why it looses a star is for the service. Slow as mollases. Not sure why. Servers spent a lot of time talking to other servers and not actually serving. It seamed to be more of a trend out here. However, food was good. We enjoyed our chowder, and the lobster was fine. My oldest took the salmon which she was happpy with. The real delight was the home made rice pudding. The staff were friendly but seemed overwhelmed. In general if you are not picky at the quality, but still want good, this is the best bang for your buck. So much so that we grabbed our last lobster dinner and lobster subs to go for the plane ride back. read more
I wanted to stop by here for a lobster roll after our cruise re-routed to Nova Scotia. I was delighted as I saw poutine on the menu. Let me start off by saying that the portions are enormous! Keep that in mind before ordering. Of course, I appreciate big portions and was happily full. The food was decadent and filling. The sauces that came with the fish were incredible. read more
This is kind of a diner with lots of booths, all day breakfast, burgers, seafood, and beer and wine. I had the fish cakes which were salty but delicious. Also loved the local white wine I ordered. The waitress was the sweetest and gave great tips. read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
We stopped by for lunch and ordered mussels, lobster dinner ( $49 ) which included coleslaw, potato salad, clam chowder & desert. My wife ordered the lobster roll ( $25). Good portions and excellent quality. Although the restaurant was packed, we received excellent service. I would definitely recommend this restaurant. read more
Gord and I had breakfast at Bluenose II Restaurant. I ordered ham & eggs and Gord ordered fish cakes & eggs. I liked my ham and eggs and would get it again. There were a lot of home fries! Gord is a big fan of breakfast and said the fish cakes were okay. read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
Simple restaurant, slightly outdated decor. Friendly and efficient service. Good food! Had the clam chowder and lobster roll with ceaser salad. read more
2 years ago
3 years ago
Nice find while visiting Halifax. Some of the best clam strips ever. The lobster looked delicious also. Next time maybe? Excellent friendly service. read more
9 years ago
Food: The meat of the lobster was succulent, I ate the majority of it without the melted butter. If I ever stop by Halifax in the future I will definitely come back. Service and atmosphere: Bibs were provided. Casual, local establishment. The staff were sweet people. Price: I believe it was $20 per lobster, was the cheapest we found. read more
7 years ago
Come here and get a Real lobster roll. I had one in Vancouver a yr or so ago and took one bite and that was it for me. I've heard people talk about Lobster Rolls with great passion for them and I just didn't get it. A woman I knew in the Vancouver area who's from Halifax told me that she's moving back home to be close with her family again and that all her husband keeps saying is the first thing he has when he gets back home is to get a Lobster Roll. I just... well, hmmm BUT, after having one at Bluenose ll well, I completely get it. I have never been much of a lobster fan as most I've had has been tough and rubbery but it seems I've just not had great lobster. The bun on this roll was toasted perfectly and wasn't too bready, I know not really a word lol Lobster was excellent and I really like the sauce. The clincher for this dish tho is the greens they mix in with the lobster. Really balanced the texture and flavours. The coleslaw was Great, sweet but with a bit of tang too it, I had fries and they were nice also. My only disappointment with this meal is that I didn't get one here earlier during my stay in Halifax. My wife had the scallops and she offered me one and without any sauce or dip it was really good. Big, fresh and tender. The Greek potatoes and home style veggies were perfect accompaniments. This lobster roll Here appears to be the real deal, and this basic down town dinner has its own niche... Not fancy by any means but a comfortable clean environment with friendly upbeat staff and some great home style solid food. I'll be back here for sure! read more
3 years ago
Pleasant service, comfortable dining room, and fabulous meals in downtown Halifax. If I ever go to Halifax again, I will certainly go to Bluenose II. Solo traveler 4/2023. read more
3 years ago
8 years ago
We came here for dinner this evening. The server was quick and promptly took our drink and food orders. We ordered Fish and Chips and Pan seared Haddock. The Fish and Chips came with thick cut fries, coleslaw, the usual tartar sauce and lemon wedges. The pan seared Haddock came with choice of fries, mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, or salad. I opted for thick cut fries. Steamed green beans, carrots, and parsnips. This also came with tartar sauce and lemon wedges. Both fish dishes were fresh, tasty and very filling. There was no room for coffee and dessert. read more
3 years ago
2 years ago
8 years ago
This restaurant takes its name from a racing schooner, the Bluenose II. The Blue Nosers on this corner serve the best clam chowder I've tasted in a while. Potatoes perfect, slightly al dente, with clams-a-plenty, lightly cooked, and just a touch of cream. Also, recommend a BOWL of chowder, with a lobster roll or the club sandwich, which will be plenty for sharing. read more
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