St. John's punches above its weight for food. Fresh cod is the obvious staple — fish and chips, pan-fried cod tongues, and fish chowder are everywhere — but the restaurant scene has diversified well beyond seafood.
The Cellar Restaurant on Water Street is a downtown favourite: fresh and smoked fish chowder, scallops, blackened salmon, and a dessert list including bakeapple cheesecake (tel: 709-579-8900). Oliver's Café (160 Water Street, tel: 709 754-6444) is a warm, sociable spot for a hearty dinner.