Dined at Stayners' 3 weeks ago and decided it was time to write a statement. The service is still second to none, however, everly increasing pricing and smaller portions seem to go hand in hand. My wife and I were also witness to some shenanigans from the wait staff. It was a quiet evening and two of the staff decided to play a game of rolling the pepper mills across the floor by the bar. Very poor ediquitte. We have decided after many years as faithful customers to give Stayner's a break for a while.

Went to Stayner's on Saturday night to enjoy Los Flamencos play. I must say, after having read some of the mediocre reviews below, my confidence was restored, and I was pleasantly surprised. We arrived two hours early for the show, at a busy time, but the staff accomodated us well by giving us the option to stay, or to return with a seat up front by the band. We stayed, and ordered appies at leisure, with pints of Garrison's Organic Amber Ale and Schooner in between. We had the calamari, smoked salmon, spinach salad and pork. Everything was plated well and suitably presented. The staff kept good to their word and gave us an available table up front. We received good food, service, entertainment, and had a great time.

What can I say? Stayner's has no equal in Halifax!

Stayner's is a very good resturant, one of their best dishes is the Eggplant and Spinach dip, everyone should try it. Also their fish and chips are the best and their pub club is to die for.

Never had a bad meal in this establishment!Staff are always so knowledgeable and friendly.Personal variations to the menu are welcome and choices are many!I'll never go to Halifax without a visit to Stayner's.

Not welcoming to tourists or non-regulars.

If you ever switched schools when you were young, and sat at the wrong table in the cafeteria on the first day, and had the cool kids glare at you, this is how you will feel at Stayner's Wharf if you show up early and get a good seat to see their live shows. The regulars have a real sense of entitlement despite their being no reserved signs posted on any of the tables. If you get to a good seat before one of the regulars does, you will be pressured to move.

The owner will back up his regulars and not the newcomers.

Halifax is such a wonderfully welcoming city avoid Stayner's Wharf to maintain this impression.

Not welcoming to tourists or non-regulars.

If you ever switched schools when you were young, and sat at the wrong table in the cafeteria on the first day, and had the cool kids glare at you, this is how you will feel at Stayner's Wharf if you show up early and get a good seat to see their live shows. The regulars have a real sense of entitlement despite there being no reserved signs posted on any of the tables. If you get to a good seat before one of the regulars does, you will be pressured to move.

The owner will back up his regulars and not the newcomers.

Halifax is such a wonderfully welcoming city avoid Stayner's Wharf to maintain this impression.

tourism trap anjd over priced

This is truly a unique casual dining experience at Halifax Harbor. My friends and I were greeted by host Todd with a hearty welcome and a taste of the fun and quality experience in store for us during a recent dinner visit.

Our first taste was Todd challenging us to pound a nail into the post near the bar. (It's not as easy as it sounds and it's all good fun for charity.)

The remainder of our visit was equally pleasing. As my party is all in the restaurant industry, we were blown away by the creativity, variety, and eclectic selections on the Stayner's Wharf menu. That's not to say this place is pretentious at all. It's all real food, prepared with care and served with impeccable professionalism and warm hospitality--all at a very reasonable price fit for anyone's budget. Whether you're looking for traditional Nova Scotia seafood, steaks, chops, or a mouth-watering burger, Stayner's has something for everyone. The large selection of draft and bottled beers, wines, and a full bar selection is also one of the finest we've seen around. The featured local jazz was also a nice way for us to unwind and relax after a busy all-day conference.

Overall, this is now our favorite spot in Halifax, and one you should definitely put on your must list when visiting this historic city.

Dave Penkala

ASn oustanding oasis for good food, fun and relaxation in the heart of busy Halifax, NS. Wonderful outdoor seating pan fried haddock best in town!