Top 5 Places to Eat in St. John's

Written by Alexander Kopp, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans
30/07/2025
Vibrant houses perched on cliffs in St. John's, showcasing unique architecture and coastal charm.
Hyukman Kwon, Pexels

St. John's offers a vibrant and evolving culinary landscape, blending traditional Newfoundland ingredients with contemporary flair, providing diverse dining experiences from upscale establishments to casual local favorites.

1. The Merchant Tavern

Cuisine: Contemporary Canadian, Seafood, Bistro

Nestled in downtown St. John's, The Merchant Tavern offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience within an industrial-chic setting. The menu highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, with popular dishes including fresh halibut, exquisite duck, and beef tartare. It is celebrated for its exceptional food quality and outstanding service, making it an ideal choice for a sophisticated meal.

Price: CAN$31 - CAN$50 per person

Getting There: Located at 291 Water Street, it is easily walkable from most downtown areas. Public parking is available on Harbour Drive.

2. Mallard Cottage

Cuisine: Canadian, Local, Brunch

Situated in the charming Quidi Vidi Village, Mallard Cottage operates from a historic 18th-century building, exuding a rustic and cozy atmosphere with an open kitchen. The daily-changing menu focuses on fresh Newfoundland seafood and wild game, often featuring dishes like seafood crepes and cod preparations. Its renowned 'Cake Table' during brunch, offering a wide array of house-baked pastries, is a particular highlight.

Price: CAN$30 - CAN$50 per person (can be pricier for dinner, brunch often more affordable)

Getting There: Found at 8 Barrows Road in Quidi Vidi Village, it is a short drive or a pleasant, longer walk from downtown St. John's.

3. Piatto Pizzeria

Cuisine: Italian, Neapolitan Pizza

Piatto Pizzeria offers an authentic taste of Naples with its VPN (Verace Pizza Napoletana) certified wood-fired pizzas, ensuring traditional preparation and ingredients. The atmosphere is casual yet inviting, suitable for families, couples, and casual gatherings. Beyond classic pizzas like the Margherita, unique options such as 'The Stephanie' (goat cheese, prosciutto, caramelized pears) are popular. They also serve pasta and delightful desserts.

Price: CAN$15 - CAN$30 per person

Getting There: The downtown location is at 377 Duckworth Street, conveniently located and walkable from central St. John's.

4. Oliver's Restaurant

Cuisine: Seafood, Steaks, Canadian

A long-standing favorite in St. John's, Oliver's provides a cozy and intimate dining setting with attentive service. The menu features a variety of dishes including fresh local seafood like pan-seared halibut and crispy cod tongues, alongside hand-cut steaks. Its warm ambiance and consistent quality make it a reliable choice for a comfortable and satisfying meal.

Price: CAN$40 - CAN$80 per person

Getting There: Centrally located at 160 Water Street in historic downtown, it is easily accessible by foot.

5. YellowBelly Brewery & Public House

Cuisine: Gastropub, Wood-Fired Pizza, Craft Beer

Housed in a historic building that survived the Great Fire of 1892, YellowBelly Brewery offers a vibrant brewpub experience. It is known for its on-site brewed craft beers, which pair well with their selection of wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, and local seafood dishes. The atmosphere is lively and popular with both locals and visitors, making it a great spot for a casual meal or a social evening.

Price: CAN$20 - CAN$40 per person

Getting There: Situated at the intersection of George Street and Water Street in downtown St. John's, it is a highly central and walkable location.

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