What’s Cooking: February 26 – March 5
Marching Toward Spring
It’s hard to believe we’re already rolling into the third month of 2026! For many of us, the novelty of a “winter wonderland” has officially worn off, because between the salt-stained floors and the endless cycle of shovelling, we’re all getting pretty tired of the snow.
But if there’s one thing Nova Scotians know how to do, it’s making the best of a long winter. While we wait for the first real signs of spring to emerge, there is plenty of warmth to be found in our local communities.
This read offers some information on upcoming events and great products to keep you feeling inspired until the ground finally thaws!
Meet Freedom: Culinary Culture
This week, we’re thrilled to shine the light on Freedom!
After noticing a major lack of African Nova Scotian representation on the Halifax waterfront, Dean Lucas decided to do something about it. He’s turned a simple food kiosk into a space for connection and culture, while serving up delicious traditional Maritime cuisine. Check out the full profile to learn more about how Dean is cooking up change.
Read it here!
Cozy up with Coffee!
If you’ve been searching for a new brew to get you through the cold weather, look no further than our own coastline. Nova Scotia is home to an incredible community of coffee roasters, so check out the list below to meet the people keeping our province well caffeinated, and find your new favourite product!
Since 1938, Java Blend has been a Halifax staple, roasting premium, ethically sourced beans to perfection. Whether you’re into light, fruity notes or a bold, dark roast, their decades of expertise ensure a world-class cup every time.
Laughing Whale Coffee Roasters
Based in Lunenburg, Laughing Whale blends traditional small-batch roasting with eco-friendly technology to create exceptional organic, Fairtrade™ coffee. For over 20 years, they’ve focused on direct farmer relationships and community giving, proving that great coffee really can do great things.
In Cape Breton, Fire and Stone brings a farm-first philosophy to their products. Applying the same German artisanal tradition they use for their handmade meats, they roast high-quality beans in small batches with a serious focus on quality and craft.
In the North End of Halifax, Hope Blooms is doing something groundbreaking with their “From the Ground Up” mushroom coffee. This blend mixes ethically sourced Colombian beans with four types of mushrooms to give you focus and energy without the typical caffeine jitters. Plus, every bag helps fund youth scholarships and community programs!
Sunday Silence Coffee Co. is a local artisan and environmentally-friendly coffee roaster based in Mahone Bay. Developed at The Barn Coffee & Social House, their goal has been to find and source the best coffee from around the world and have it roasted right on the South Shore.
An International Women’s Day Experience at The Flying Apron Inn & Cookery
On Sunday, March 8th, The Flying Apron is hosting a cooking class and lunch that’s all about the women who changed the food world, in celebration of International Women’s Day. You’ll get to cook and eat your way through history with dishes from legends like Julia Child, Alice Waters, and Mère Blanc, the first woman to ever earn a Michelin star.
This is great opportunity to gain hands on skills, while learning about culinary trailblazers. There are only a couple of seats left, so check out the poster above for more details, or book your spot today by calling 902-633-2300.
Staying Busy with Saltbox Brewery
If you ever find yourself in need of something to do on the South Shore, look no further than Saltbox! A charming brewery located in Mahone Bay, there’s no end the activities they host. Below, find a list of events offered weekly, or head to their full event calendar to see what special offers are up next!
Mondays
- Saltbox Sociable Happy Hour: 5-6 p.m.
Tuesdays
- Yappy Hour Pet Friendly: 5-6 p.m.
Wednesdays
- Six Buck Sips on 13 oz Beer & Cider: 4-9 p.m.
- Saltbox Sociable Happy Hour: 5-6 p.m.
- CKBW Radio Bingo: 7-8 p.m.
Thursdays
- Saltbox Sociable Happy Hour: 5-6 p.m.
- Saltbox Sweaters Run Club: 6 p.m. departure
- Chase the Ace: 7-8 p.m.
Fridays
- Saltbox Sociable Happy Hour: 2-6 p.m.
- Crib Club: 6-8 p.m.
Saturdays
- Trivia with Carmen: 3-5 p.m.
Sundays
- Open Mic Every Second Sunday: 2-4 p.m.
Support Local
By eating out at local restaurants, you’re not only supporting those restaurants but also the local producers and suppliers they purchase from. When you support local, more of your money stays in the province and circulates back through Nova Scotia’s economy.