February is for lovers. The snow and cold have become oppressive, midterms are imminent and spring feels like a distant dream. For the couples out there, I’ve put together a list of spots that are perfect for a romantic Halifax evening. These are my go-to reliables for an intimate evening at any price point.
1. The Narrows Halifax Public House
This spot is perfect for any occasion: birthdays, parents’ weekends, casual drinks and date nights. The atmosphere is rustic and cozy, with tables and wooden seats covered in a thick amber varnish and walls covered in vintage maritime decor.
The reasonably priced menu features generous portions of traditional Maritime food, and live music on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. The Narrows serves some of the best fish and chips in Halifax, but the molasses brown bread and mustard pickles served with each square meal are enough reason to order one.
A variety of craft beers, reasonably priced bottles of wine and great cocktails are poured behind the well-stocked bar, but be warned that the restaurant doesn’t take reservations. Also, save room for dessert; their sticky toffee pudding is one of my favourites.
2. Quinn’s Arms Pub
My roommate and I frequent this spot as a weeknight library surrogate when we can’t bear the journey to campus, but want to have a drink while getting some work done.
This place is perfect for a cozy winter night. Pro tip: for extra privacy, try to snag a spot near the back. The menu is traditional British pub food, and larger plates are around $20. You can’t go wrong with any main, but if you desire a side to share, the mussels and pear salad are excellent.
3. The Stillwell Freehouse
The secluded booths in this North End bar service spot are perfect for long conversations over a bowl of fat chips. If you don’t like beer, there are plenty of delicious wine and cocktail options.
The menu is great for sharing and snacking, but they also offer heartier meals. I’ve learned to check the burger specials, and I always manage to convince my date to try the Brussels sprouts.
4. Yeah Yeahs Pizza
Slightly off the beaten path if you live near campus, the 10-minute bus ride up Oxford Street is well worth it for the best pizza in Halifax. Yeah Yeahs is comfortable, casual and checks every box.
Order the hard seltzer, or whatever they have on tap, split a white pizza and challenge your date to a game of cards while you wait. No matter how your evening plays out, you can rest assured the bill won’t be a heartbreaker.
