Restaurant Membership Criteria

Taste of Nova Scotia is a unique, province wide marketing program whose members are committed to providing exceptional Nova Scotia culinary products and experiences. All applicants must demonstrate a commitment to the following membership criteria:

As an applicant to Taste of Nova Scotia you understand that in order to qualify for membership you must commit to procuring Nova Scotia food and drink whenever possible.

You agree to the following minimum food and drink procurement standards: Please note – unlicensed businesses DO NOT need to meet the beverage requirements.

• 30% of the menu must reflect food purchases from Nova Scotia producers and processors.
• 15% of the total wine list must be Nova Scotia wines.
• 15% of the total beer list must be Nova Scotia craft beer.
• Applicants are encouraged to feature Nova Scotia spirits, soda, juice, coffee and other beverage products.

Applicants agree to identify Nova Scotia food and drink on their menu.

Establishments applying for membership with Taste of Nova Scotia must be businesses originating in Nova Scotia (restaurants cannot be part of a national or international chain or franchise).

All menus must be independently generated reflecting minimum food and beverage procurement percentages as outlined above.

Applicants must be open for business at the time of application.

Applicants must have a minimum liability insurance of $2,000,000.

Staff are expected to be professional and knowledgeable about the menu and featured local products.

Applicants must agree to educate staff on the Taste of Nova Scotia program. Please note Taste of Nova Scotia will provide tools to assist in staff training.

All applicants will be assessed for eligibility by a designated representative of Taste of Nova Scotia.

All members are subject to review during the membership year and will be asked to demonstrate a continued commitment to the Taste of Nova Scotia membership criteria.