Rise and shine, Halifax! It’s early in the morning, and you’re ready to start your day with the most important meal. With so many places offering breakfast and your head still groggy, choosing one can be a daunting task. This list will point you in the direction of several excellent eateries for a satisfaction-guaranteed morning meal!
Mornings can be hectic and rushed, so having a place where you can grab a quick, hot bite is essential. Mary’s Place is within walking distance of Dalhousie University, which makes it a popular eatery for university students, but it’s also frequented by working folk. Mary’s tables and booths are in high demand, and lineups are common. The all-day breakfast starts early, and the menu ranges from pancakes to steak and eggs to omelettes. If you're really hungry, go for the Big Guy 3X3 plate, which features bacon, eggs and sausage, ham or bologna, home fries and toast.
If you like your breakfast on the creative side, choosing Cora for your early morning meal is your best bet. Located just off of Spring Garden Road, Cora is an extremely popular choice for breakfast and brunch. The booths in its large dining area are often filled, with patrons lined up out the door. The menu features delicious creations like crepes, French toast and waffles, most of which are served with a side of fresh fruit. If you’re looking for a bigger and fruity jump start to your day, try a delicious smoothie or fruit cocktail.
Athens puts a Greek spin on food that isn’t traditionally Greek, and the restaurant’s breakfast dishes are no exception. Located on Quinpool Road, Athens features a huge dining area that can accommodate large groups. The menu is also big, and it’s always a struggle to decide on just one of its many dishes. Try the Athens Scramble, which is made with three scrambled eggs, loukaniko (Greek sausage), onions, mushrooms, feta and oregano.
If you find yourself in the north end of Halifax in the early morning, you should pop in to The Coastal Café for breakfast. This place gets a lot of love from locals, who enjoy its cozy atmosphere while dining on brilliant breakfast creations. The menu features about 10 dishes, and each one is like no breakfast meal you have ever eaten. One such dish is The Elvis, which consists of a buttermilk waffle sandwich filled with peanut butter, bananas, bacon and maple syrup.
At Elle’s Bistro, you feel at home. This is the kind of place where regular customers are greeted by name, and with a friendly smile. Its small front window belies plenty of seating around back. The breakfast menu consists of all the classic morning entrees at a great price. There are also a few original creations on the menu such as a breakfast sandwich, featuring jalapenos, bacon, fried egg and cheddar between two shredded-potato latkes.
Smitty’s is a very popular Canadian breakfast-themed restaurant. Situated opposite the Public Gardens on Martello Street, its Halifax location features booths and tables that can accommodate small to large groups. The menu features a wide variety of breakfast options from light to hearty. The Western Skillet includes diced sausage, onion, red and green pepper as well as creamy hollandaise sauce. The portions are large and filling, so arrive hungry!
If you want a big breakfast for cheap, Ardmore is for you. Featuring booth seating and decorated with pictures and artwork depicting Halifax history, it’s a comfortable spot. The breakfast menu is served all day, and it features all the breakfast standard dishes you want. Try the French toast plate served three slices high with the option of topping it with some warm Nova Scotia blueberries.