New Brunswick is a must-visit foodie destination in Canada, where you’ll find fresh inspiration to fill both your bucket list and your stomach. As Canada’s only officially bilingual province, New Brunswick’s food reflects its dual influences. This means the province's food encompasses everything from foraged blueberries and maple syrup to lobster rolls, a must-try dish in the Maritimes (the region off the Atlantic Ocean), as well as iconic Acadian cuisine like fricot, a hearty stew. While New Brunswick may not have the world spotlight that many others do, this province stands out as a hidden gem for food lovers. And seafood is one of New Brunswick’s culinary hallmarks, thanks to its coastal geography. Whether you’re savoring a cedar plank salmon dinner or enjoying a seafood pizza with homard (lobster in French), there’s something special for everyone.
With so many choices, you might wonder where to start; that’s where AAA Inspectors come in, a group of experts well-versed in New Brunswick's dining scene who bring expert insights through their anonymous evaluations of AAA Diamond hotels and restaurants. Their extensive experience across the region — and North America at large — allows them to deeply understand the destination and offer expert tips, highlight exceptional service and share personal favorites.
AAA Inspector 87, who contributed to this article from New Brunswick, notes strong culinary influences, including Acadian, Irish and French Canadian. (Note: Although Acadians and French Canadians share French heritage and language commonalities, they are distinct, as Acadians are descendants of early French settlers in The Maritimes.)
“Seafood is probably what most travelers seek,” Inspector 87 says, citing the regional popularity of Prince Edward Island mussels, oysters, lobsters and steamers, aka a steamed clam, which can be described as “served in the shell and open after being steamed. Served with the broth and melted butter. You just eat the clam and toss the shell,” the inspector adds.
Along with an overview of food from New Brunswick, read on for background on local ingredients and foodie experiences as well as a few AAA recommendations on the best restaurants in New Brunswick.
Acadian Foods & Events
At the heart of New Brunswick’s culinary story is its Acadian culture, inspired by descendants of French settlers who have passed on their traditions. For the Acadians, food is more than sustenance; it’s an expression of identity and a way to preserve their heritage. Recipes passed down through generations highlight the importance of fresh, local ingredients like blueberries, fiddleheads (curled fronds of a fern, often foraged) and an edible seaweed often dried into a salty snack called dulse. Chicken fricot, combining chicken, potatoes and dumplings with a broth infused with local herbs, could be considered the comforting Acadian version of chicken and dumplings. Must-try potato dishes are potato pancakes (ployes), potato dumplings with pork called poutine râpée, and rappie pie, sometimes called râpure or rapure pie — a grated-potato dish best likened to a casserole. Rappie pie recipes, also popular across Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick, can vary, with toppings like molasses, hot sauce or a dash of salt and pepper.
For those curious about Acadian life and cuisine, head toward Caraquet and New Brunswick attractions like Village Historique Acadien (Acadian Historical Village) in Bertrand, which provides an interactive look at the culture in addition to traditional food on-site. Attending a festival also underscores the importance of cuisine in preserving heritage, with events like the Poutine Râpée Festival in Saint-Antoine and the Festival Acadien de Caraquet giving visitors a chance to experience Acadian flavors while enjoying the region’s warm hospitality.
A Maritime Seafood Haven
Whether exploring Acadian dishes at a festival or enjoying fresh seafood in a quiet coastal village, the ingredients, flavors and preparations in New Brunswick cuisine will be an addition to any trip, and maybe one of the best-known "must-dos" is the province’s seafood. Lobster, fresh oysters, mussels, clams and even dulse are central to its identity.
For a new perspective on one of New Brunswick's chief industries, check out Acadian Sturgeon and Caviar Inc. in St. John or its Carter’s Point Hatchery facility on Carters Wharf Rd.; all products, both wild and farmed, are Ocean Wise certified. You also can learn about fishing and sustainability and book a tasting feast or “caviar safari” experience by boat; phone 506-639-0605 for reservations.
No exploration of seafood would be complete without encountering dulse, a deep-purple seaweed product that remains an integral part of Grand Manan Island in New Brunswick, where it is still harvested. The seasonal Grand Manan Museum in Grand Harbour, open from June to September, provides insights into the island’s life and the sea vegetable’s importance through exhibits that include baskets made by the Passamaquoddy tribe to carry dulse, archival photographs, and dulse facts, articles and recipes.
Culinary Experiences in New Brunswick
For food enthusiasts, markets and restaurants offer a deeper connection to the region. New Brunswick farmers’ markets offer fresh produce and regional specialties. The Saint John City Market, Canada’s oldest continuously operating farmers’ market, is a hub for local produce and artisanal goods. Nearby, Slocum Farm Fresh Produce in Waterborough, offers fresh produce that's farmed sustainably while honoring a family legacy dating back over a century; it’s run by Reg Slocum, grandson of G.W. Slocum, who started the long-running Slocum & Ferris, which closed after 129 years in Saint John City Market.
Beyond shopping, culinary tours and events, such as those previously mentioned at Acadian Sturgeon and Caviar Inc., invite visitors to engage directly with New Brunswick’s food ecosystem. Other tastings showcase the unique flavors of the province, such as a “150 Years of Beers” tour exploring the oldest independent brewery in Canada, aka Moosehead Breweries in Saint John.
Artisanal products highlight the care that goes into celebrating New Brunswick’s food culture — and its provincial pride. Favorites include Lady Ashburnham Pickles, a mustard relish recipe rooted in the provincial capital Fredericton, and New Brunswick donairs, aka wraps or sandwiches with sliced beef, vegetables and tangy donair sauce, that are similar to a Nova Scotian donair — a variation itself of a Turkish doner kebab. For dessert, try chocolates from Ganong Bros., Limited, Canada’s oldest candy company; head to St. Stephen to try their sweets at the Ganong Chocolatier, 73 Milltown Blvd., then go next door to The Chocolate Museum, and plan your visit to coincide with the town’s annual Chocolate Fest.
A Food Lover's Itinerary: Restaurant Picks
New Brunswick’s culinary scene encourages curiosity, from bustling markets to fun coastal eateries. Caraquet is a key destination for immersing in Acadian culture, while directories like Buy LocalNB guide visitors to locally sourced ingredients and goods across the province. The New Brunswick Trans-Canada Highway makes traveling between city centers and picturesque rural communities easy, allowing visitors to experience New Brunswick food and culture as well as the region’s beautiful landscapes.
In summer, it’s not uncommon for road-trippers or cruise passengers to fill the restaurants in New Brunswick and dine on the fresh catch of the day. The AREA 506 Waterfront Container Village on the Saint John waterfront is a central spot for music, shopping and local dining; pets are welcome with a leash everywhere except the stage area. Each New Brunswick Day long weekend, the hub hosts the AREA 506 festival, featuring New Brunswick goods, music and more. Close by, Market Square provides additional options with its shops, restaurants and live music on the boardwalk during the summer.
For those wanting to eat in New Brunswick, whether perusing quick lunch or fine dining options, AAA Diamond restaurants offer a curated list of standout establishments from which to choose. These great food places exemplify New Brunswick’s ability to balance tradition and creativity, making them perfect options to conclude your culinary adventure.
1. Atelier Tony
- Address: 50 Rue du Marché, Dieppe, NB
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Reservations: Suggested
At Atelier Tony, you'll enjoy upscale, French-inspired cuisine that's perfect for a special occasion or a trip to celebrate all things local. Choose from locally sourced poutine, mustard pickles, oysters or blueberries prepared in a Continental fashion. Their classic steak frites and the César Atelier, the restaurant's take on a Caesar salad with bacon and rye crumbles, are a hit for all ages. Pair with locally sourced beer and wine, and leave room for dessert. The restaurant offers breakfast, weekend brunch, lunch and dinner menu options with excellent service.
2. Catch22 Lobster Bar
- Address: 589 Main St, Moncton, NB E1C 1C6
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Reservations: Suggested; required for a group of 10 or more.
At Catch22 Lobster Bar, you can indulge in fresh seafood dishes ranging from lobster thermidor to maple bacon wrapped scallops and then pair them with handcrafted cocktails or beer on tap. Gluten-free entrées are available, but you should inform the restaurant in advance about any allergies to ensure a safe dining experience. Don't forget to save room on a date night for the "Flambé For 2" served over vanilla ice cream, a sweet and sizzling ending to a memorable meal.
3. East Coast Bistro, Saint John 334042
- Address: 55 Queen St, Moncton, NB, E1C 1K2
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Reservations: Suggested
At East Coast Bistro in Saint John, you get a fresh take on the traditional French bistro with simple but delicious dishes made from seasonal Maritime ingredients. Whether you’re opting for oysters on the half shell, fish and chips or a veggie burger, the focus on quality is clear. You can also bring the experience home by ordering from their Saturday Bakery selections, ranging from sourdough loaves to strawberry puff pastries and quiches with bacon, caramelized onion and Gruyère Cheese.
4. Gahan House Hub City
- Address: 55 Queen St, Moncton, NB, E1C 1K2
- Diamond-designation: Approved
- Reservations: Suggested
This Gahan House Hub City in downtown Moncton, located in the Canvas Hotel, Tapestry by Hilton, is named after John Gahan, a 19th-century merchant from Prince Edward Island. (The original Gahan House, his former residence in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, remains a local favorite.) In this New Brunswick location, however, there are fresh East Coast oysters, handcrafted ales brewed on-site and an inviting atmosphere, with convenience via public transit or parking for a fee.
5. Lemongrass
- Address: 1 Market Sq, Saint John, NB E2L 4Z6.
- Diamond-designation: Approved
- Reservations: Available
Enjoy tasty Thai cuisine overlooking the waterfront at Lemongrass in Market Square. The menu features authentic dishes like rich curries and stir-fried noodles made with fresh, flavorful ingredients, with some gluten-free options. Its heated patio provides a relaxing backdrop for a great meal.
6. Steamers Lobster Co.
- Address: 110 Water St, Saint John, NB E2L 0B1
- Diamond-designation: Approved
- Reservations: Available
Step off the cruise ship and straight into the cheerful seafood shack vibe of Steamers Lobster Co., perfectly perched right across from the cruise terminal. You can dig into fresh lobster, steamers and mussels while sipping on a cold local beer. With a spacious patio and welcoming, friendly service, it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger and soak up the atmosphere.