Halifax is a small, but vibrant city. By the time the month of May arrives, we are all in full ‘bloom’, literally! Flowers of every colour spill out in all their glory. From exceptional fine dining to street food, renowned galleries to vibrant street art, exquisite fine jewellery to locally crafted accessories, and lively festivals to inspiring local musicians—we are the destination in Halifax for culture, creativity and refined experiences! As most of us are owner-operators, we have a vested interest in creating a wonderful experience for you. Enjoy!
The heart of Halifax luxury—where discerning visitors enjoy exceptional dining, boutique shopping, local art and custom fine jewellery along the Halifax Boardwalk. Image: novascotiavirtualtour.com
HALIFAX BOARDWALK
The ‘boardwalk’! If you are arriving via cruise ship at the SeaPort, then walk along the harbourfront, a working port surrounding by the sparkling ocean, local artisans, seasonal wonders and year-round businesses, based at Cunard, Bishop’s Landing and Queen’s Marque.
A REFINED EXPERIENCE AT CUNARD & BISHOP’S LANDING
CUNARD
~5 minute walk from the SeaPort (500m)
After visiting the pier, proceed along the boardwalk to the new development of Cunard. Home to new restaurants—Water Polo for a gorgeous location on the water and elevated seafood for lunch or dinner; Spanish tapas at Matadora is fabulous; culinary excellence at Tribute; British-inspired afternoon tea at Crème; or for fun-on-the-run, a handmade donut from Vandal’s.
From exquisite custom jewels at FRIDA to delectable delights by Crème, every delicate detail is a celebration of beauty and precious moments.
Londonderry Market
Cunard
Around the corner of Cunard, facing Lower Water Street, visit the Londonderry Market boutique for contemporary designer fashion finds.
BISHOP’S LANDING
~8 minute walk from the SeaPort (600m)
Your next stop, a short stroll along the boardwalk from Cunard, is Bishop’s Landing. As my fine jewellery business is based there, I have a particular love of the area. This is Halifax’s most desirable condominium location, supported by independent boutiques, cafés and many of the cities top restaurants. Bishop’s Landing is a favourite among locals and visitors alike… and my destination of choice!
Pane e Circo
Bishop’s Landing
Nestled in the courtyard/piazza at Bishop’s Landing, you will find Pane e Circo, a charming café, offering great coffee, divine house-made desserts and croissants of every description.
Tip: Try the amaretti cookies, my favourite!
Enjoying my favourite treat at Pane e Circo in the Bishop’s Landing courtyard—amaretti cookies. Pillowy, powdered puffs of perfection!
URBN-ish
Bishop’s Landing
URBN-ish for casual finds—linens and jeans in every colour, shape and size. The Free People brand is one of my favourites at this boutique, offering laid-back luxury with a bohemian spirit. Guaranteed you will find something to take home!
MXM Fashion Studio
Bishop’s Landing
MXM is a contemporary fashion boutique featuring unique pieces, accessories and emerging international designers.
FRIDA Fine Jewellery
Bishop’s Landing
For custom fine jewellery, I invite you to visit my boutique, FRIDA, located across the courtyard from Pane e Circo and the Bicycle Thief Restaurant. Based in Halifax for over 15 years, FRIDA is an independent Canadian luxury brand and destination boutique, known for signature collections and distinctive one-of-a-kind fine jewellery creations. I design beautiful pieces for a discerning clientele, with jewellery handmade in Canada by master goldsmiths and diamond setters, using the finest quality of precious metals, exquisite ethically sourced gemstones, diamonds and pearls. In an atmosphere that is both relaxed and sophisticated, I welcome you to a personalised shopping experience where you can immerse yourself in our world.
Specialising in custom design, I create investment jewellery in 18kt gold and the finest of precious metals. Pieces are handmade in Canada with exquisite, collectible gemstones—celebrating master craftsmanship, beauty and individuality. Image captured by Alexa Cude in collaboration with Downtown Halifax and Visit Nova Scotia.
Creating beautiful jewellery is a journey. It begins with a vision; a vision through which we celebrate master craftsmanship, innovative design and every facet of the process. Each exquisite gem is set into treasures that transcend trends. Celebrate your journey… be your own brand!
In addition to signature FRIDA collections, discover exclusive creations from local and international artisans and designers. Whether you are finding or creating the perfect jewel, the experience will become an occasion.
The Prow Gallery
Bishop’s Landing
Continue your creative journey around the corner from the Bishop’s Landing courtyard facing Lower Water Street, and visit the Prow Gallery. Contemporary Canadian art takes centre stage. Thoughtful curation offers a glimpse into the creative spirit of the East Coast and across Canada. My dear friend and internationally renowned artist, Dawn McNutt, shows her woven sculptures exploring the beauty of human frailty at the Prow Gallery, along with established Mi’kmaq artist, Alan Syliboy, and many other talented artists… enjoy!
Market Price
Bishop’s Landing
A few doors down from the Prow Gallery on Lower Water Street, Market Price offers a great selection of the coolest sneakers, plus an interesting mix of casual streetwear for both men and women.
Tip: Meet the owners. We are all owner-operators!
Dining At Bishop’s Landing
I am constantly asked for lunch and dinner recommendations. As Bicycle Thief and Ristorante a Mano at Bishop’s Landing offer consistently fabulous fare—fresh food, beautifully placed dishes with excellent wine lists, plus patio seating outside. I know you will have a great experience! My favourite dish is the fish in parchment.
Sushi at Sea Smoke is also wonderful. Sit outside at a fire-pit table by the water, relax, people watch and enjoy!
Exceptional restaurants at Bishop’s Landing. Imagrey captured by Bishop’s Landing and Bicycle Thief.
CONTINUE YOUR WATERFRONT JOURNEY
THE SALTER BOARDWALK
~10 minute walk from the SeaPort (750m)
Moments down the boardwalk from Bishop’s Landing, you can relax on a hammock along the Salter boardwalk. The perfect place to contemplate, to indulge in a handmade ice cream from Cow’s or street food from an assortment of kiosks and pop-ups. Cool drinks, sea breezes, live music and waterfront views.
QUEEN’S MARQUE DISTRICT
~15 minute walk from the SeaPort (1km)
Continue along the boardwalk for approximately 5 minutes, and visit the new waterfront district. Queen’s Marque is home to the luxurious Muir Hotel, Peace by Chocolate, Drift Restaurant, Bar Sofia, Another Shop Canadian fashion boutique, and many other retail and dining options. Outdoor public spaces, dining and art installations, all at the water’s edge.
Mystic Fine-Dining Restaurant
Queen’s Marque District
An absolute must, if you have time, is Mystic. A fine-dining experience, I highly recommend. Manger, Andrew Flynn, will assist you in navigating a truly wonderful and personalised culinary experience. There are two distinct tasting menus—Fauna and Biota—designed to take you on a guided journey through land and sea. The decor is casual sophistication and is exceptional in every way.
“This is not merely dining; it is a sensory voyage through time, place, and the boundless possibilities that lie within our natural world.” — Mystic.
Mystic fine-dining restaurant at Queen’s Marque District. Imagrey: mysticnovascotia.ca
VINTAGE & HIDDEN GEMS
~15 minute walk from the SeaPort (1km)
If time allows, wander slightly off the boardwalk—I recommend it. No luxury experience is complete without a little treasure hunting. Halifax is home to some of the best vintage stores, where you will uncover everything from timeless designer pieces to beautifully crafted accessories, each with its own story to tell.
Two recommendations: Elsie’s Consignment Clothing on Grafton Street, and Shotgun Vintage on Blowers Street, both known for their charm and rare finds.
EXTEND YOUR STAY IN COASTAL LUXURY
MUIR HOTEL
Queen’s Marque District
If you are spending the night, the boutique Muir Hotel is my top recommendation. More than a hotel, it is an immersive luxury experience, rooted in the essence of the Atlantic. Sip a nightcap at BKS, the hotel’s exclusive speakeasy, browse a private gallery of regionally curated art, or embark on a private tour for breathtaking views of the city and coastline from the water aboard the Muir’s 36-foot Morris yacht. Discover refined coastal living at its finest, where every detail thoughtfully inspires and elevates your stay.
Queen’s Marque District on the Halifax Waterfront. Image: queensmarque.com
No matter how long you stay, Halifax offers a luxury experience that is both timeless and unique. It is a place where refinement meets authenticity. From windswept coastlines to elevated experiences, Halifax exudes a quiet elegance that stays with you long after you leave.
We hope you enjoyed our curation of Halifax’s luxurious side—there is so much more this city has to offer. Whether you stumbled upon a hidden treasure or savoured a moment of stillness, we would love to hear about it. Share your experiences with us, and continue to seek out beauty in your own way, wherever you are in world.
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