What’s Cooking: April 17-23

Benjamin Bridge

Longer days and warmer weather mean it’s time to get out and explore! From April 17 to 23, Nova Scotia is buzzing with live music, spring markets, craft beer releases, and getaway specials. Whether you’re planning a weekend adventure or just looking for something new to try, there’s something happening in every corner of the province. Also check out our Easter and Who’s Hiring Blogs!

Easter 2025

Celebrate Easter Weekend the Local Way! Looking for the best way to enjoy Easter in your area? Our latest blog has you covered. From family-friendly events and local Easter egg hunts to overnight getaway specials and festive spring menus, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re planning a weekend staycation, a brunch with friends, or just want to explore what’s happening around town, this guide is packed with inspiration to help you make the most of the holiday! Easter 2025

Who’s Hiring?

Looking for your next opportunity? Our Taste of Nova Scotia members are hiring, and you could be part of the action! Whether you’re passionate about food, drink, hospitality, or tourism, there’s a spot for you in Nova Scotia’s thriving culinary scene. From kitchens and tasting rooms to farms and front desks, our Who’s Hiring blog highlights current job openings across the province with some of the best local businesses. Explore the who’s hiring blog now! Who’s Hiring?

Garrison Brewing Company

In need of a little midweek reset? Don’t forget HAPPY HOUR is on at the Garrison Brewing Company Seaport Taproom! Every Sunday through Thursday from 4 pm to close, enjoy $1 bags of popcorn and $1 off all beer, wine, cider, and RTDs. Find them at 1149 Marginal Road.

Sea Level Brewing

It’s only April, but let’s be honest, it’s felt like a year already. That’s why Sea Level Brewing is bringing a little levity to your week with the release of Elbows Up, their small-batch, limited-edition Kölsch-style ale. Light, crisp, and super easy-drinking, this brew is all about finding moments of connection, laughter, and a touch of comic relief during unpredictable times. “Elbows Up” is a toast to resilience, to supporting local, and to the joy of raising a pint with friends, even when life feels a little sideways. Available on tap and in limited cans swing by and get your Elbows Up with Sea Level Brewing!

Planters Ridge Winery

Only two weekends left to indulge in Planters Ridge Winery‘s Most Decadent Tasting Yet! Enjoy a guided pairing of artisan cheese, handcrafted chocolate, and four award-winning wines in their cozy tasting room with stunning vineyard views. Thoughtfully curated by their expert team, this experience is all about slowing down, savouring each sip, and discovering the magic of flavour pairing. Fridays through Sundays until the end of April. Limited spots available and must be 19+.

Valley Wine Festival

Valley Wine Festival 2025 Raise a glass and toast to the best of the region at the Valley Wine Festival 2025, hosted at the scenic Old Orchard Inn & Spa. This weekend celebration brings together the vibrant winemaking community of the Annapolis Valley and beyond, with featured wines from across Nova Scotia, the Maritimes, and Canada. Enjoy culinary pairings from top local chefs, live entertainment, and interactive displays from tour companies and food artisans.
Dates: April 25-27 2025. Purchase your tickets now: Events from April 25 – April 26 – Old Orchard Inn Resort and Spa

Afishionado Fishmongers

Get ready to experience the freshest flavors of the sea with Afishionado Fishmonger’s exciting upcoming events! First up, join them at the Savour Food and Wine Show on April 17th at the Halifax Convention Centre where they’ll be offering a delectable oyster sampling that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Next, they’ll be at Chefs for UNICEF on April 24th at HCC, once again bringing their signature oyster sampling to the event. Don’t miss out on this delicious way to support a great cause! In May, they’ll be at the Saltscapes Expo from May 9th to 11th at the Halifax Exhibition Centre, where they will have a booth. Come say hello and savour the freshest oysters! Mark your calendars for the 2025 Cold Water Seafood Festival at Lake Charlotte, on June 7th and 8th, where they’ll be offering more oyster sampling for seafood lovers to enjoy!

The Quarterdeck Resort

Coastal Canvas Paint Night! Guided acrylic Paint Night lighthouse on the ocean, with Natasha of “Paint Paradise” complete with paint, materials needed, and a 6oz glass of house wine. Friday, May 9th, 7:00 pm-9:30 pm at The Quarterdeck Resort! Purchase your Paint Night ticket online now by clicking here! Coastal Canvas Paint Night • RSVPify

Saltscapes Halifax Spring Expo

Experience the best of Atlantic Canada at the Saltscapes Halifax Spring Expo, taking place from May 9–11, 2025 at the Halifax Exhibition Centre. This beloved annual event is a celebration of East Coast culture, bringing together local artisans, makers, chefs, and small businesses for three days of shopping, sampling, and exploring all things locally homegrown. Whether you’re indulging in regional eats, discovering handmade goods, or connecting with passionate local vendors, Saltscapes is your one-stop shop for the flavours, stories, and spirit of Atlantic Canada. Doors are open Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 7 PM, and Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM. Tickets are $12.50 at the door, kids 10 and under get in free! All tickets are good for one-day admission and can be purchased online at tickets.saltscapes.com.

Benjamin Bridge

Benjamin Bridge is thrilled to welcome you for a special Sommo Festival showcase on May 18, celebrating the incredible talent of past and future Sommo performers! Join them for a full day of music, community, and breathtaking vineyard views as they set the stage for an unforgettable Sommo 2025 season. This is a ticketed event, running from 11am–6pm. Tickets are $20 in advance or $30 at the door, and include a welcome glass of their refreshing Piquette wine to kick things off.

Fox Harb’r Resort

Fox Harb’r Resort is thrilled to kick off the 2025 season, one that’s extra special as they’re celebrating 25 unforgettable years! It’s been a journey filled with cherished memories, familiar faces who feel like family, and the excitement of meeting new guests along the beautiful Northumberland Shore. Whether you’re joining them for the first time or returning for another stay, they can’t wait to welcome you back to where it all began. Give them a call at +1 (866) 257-1801, they’re there to help with every detail of your getaway.

Sou’Wester Gift Shop & Restaurant

Get ready for a night of music, laughter, and Maritime charm, Pub Night with the Saunders Brothers is coming to Sou’Wester Gift Shop & Restaurant! Join them on Saturday, April 26th from 6–9 PM as the legendary band brings their signature blend of great tunes, good-natured banter, and dance moves. It’s the perfect way to kick back with cold drinks, delicious seafood, and classic East Coast hospitality, all with an unforgettable view. Come early, stay late, and let the Saunders Brothers entertain you in true Nova Scotian style!

Spill The Tea – In Mahone Bay

Same heart fresh new name! Formerly known as The Tea Brewery is excited to introduce their new name…Spill The Tea – In Mahone Bay. Same delicious tea, same warm welcome, just with a new look they can’t wait to share!

Milestones!

L’Acadie Vineyards

Celebrating 20 Years of Organics at L’Acadie Vineyards! In 2005, Bruce Ewert and Pauline Scott set out to create Nova Scotia’s first certified organic vineyard and 20 years later, that vision is thriving. From planting L’Acadie Blanc vines in the Gaspereau Valley to pioneering traditional method sparkling wine, it’s been a journey rooted in passion and sustainability. At L’Acadie Vineyards, great wine starts with living soil. Their organic practices nurture vibrant fungal ecosystems that bring out the unique mineral and saline notes of the ancient seabed terroir, capturing a true sense of place in every glass.

Hitting the Shelves!

Chain Yard Urban Cidery

Brighten up your day at the NSLC! Just in time for the weekend, Chain Yard Urban Cidery’s Bright Grapefruit cider is hitting the shelves! Bursting with juicy, citrusy flavour, it’s fresh, punchy, and made for sunny sips.

All Things Wine!

Grand Pré Wines

Great news! With the changing temperatures, Grand Pré Wines is now able to ship across Canadian provinces, making it easier to enjoy a taste of Nova Scotia from wherever you are. From the valley soil where their grapes are grown, to the careful hands that harvest them each fall, and the wines they craft right here, it’s all a reflection of their deep-rooted connection to our province. Thank you for continuing to support all things Canadian-grown and made.

Planters Ridge Winery

Is there anything better than springtime blooms and a glass full of bubbles? Try Planters Ridge Winery’s Sparkling Rosé, a crisp, refreshing sip with delicate hints of strawberry, cherry, and just a touch of red licorice and watermelon. It’s pure celebration in a glass. Visit their tasting room to experience it for yourself, they’re open Friday & Saturday from 11–5, and Sunday from 12–5.

Gaspereau Vineyards

Riesling Rocks! classic Gaspereau Vineyards style Riesling reveals a freshness and minerality that only Riesling grown in a cool climate can achieve. Bright notes of green apple and white pepper dominate the palate, while apple and kiwi notes with floral undertones are expressed with added notes of dried apricot and minerality. Perfect for Spring!

Reopenings!

Grand Pré Wines – The wait is almost over, Grand Pré Wines reopens for the season on April 23rd! They’re so excited to welcome you back to the vineyard for another unforgettable season of award-winning wines, stunning views, and warm hospitality.

La Cuisine Robicheau – Get ready to savor the flavors of Nova Scotia! La Cuisine Robicheau is reopening on April 25th! Known for their delicious seafood, homestyle dishes, and warm hospitality, it’s the perfect spot to kick off patio season with a memorable meal!

L’Acadie Vineyards – The wait is finally over! They are so excited to welcome you back into their wine shop and tasting room for the 2025 season! To celebrate the occasion, they are offering free tastings from May 1st to May 15th. Plus get ready for some exciting new releases this season!

Chanterelle Restaurant is getting antsy counting the days to finally open again and welcome their neighbors and guests from away back into their space. May 1st is closer than you realize!

The Long Table Social Club – New season starting May 1st through November 2nd, 2025! With just one month until opening, keep an eye on their socials for some exciting announcements coming soon!

Luckett Vineyards – Mark your calendars! Luckett Vineyards will be open on May 2nd for the 2025 season! Come sip some wine, grab a bite to eat, or pick up a favourite from their shop, all while enjoying a spectacular view! Wine Shop + Tastings 10-5 and Bistro Lunch 11-4!

Liscombe Lodge Resort & Conference Centre – Opens for the full season on May 16th! Get ready for riverside relaxation, delicious dining, and unforgettable adventures. Who’s ready? Book your stay now!

Tangled Garden – Opens on May 17th, welcoming you to explore its lush, enchanting gardens. Stroll through blooming pathways, discover handcrafted herb-infused treats, and experience the magic of nature in full bloom.

Support Local