Charlotte CampbellI remember the first time I stumbled upon this hidden culinary world—I was just looking for a place to grab a quick bite before a movie. Little did I know, I was about to embark on an epic journey of wontons, dim sums, and sizzling hot pots.
Funny enough, I originally believed that finding decent Chinese food in Halifax might be like hunting for a needle in a haystack. Spoiler alert: I was wrong. Whether you’re a Halifax local or just visiting, you’re in for a treat.
I’ve munched through my share of dumplings and noodles (all in the name of research, of course), and I’m excited to share the juicy details.
So, get ready to loosen your belt a notch as we explore the best Chinese restaurants in Halifax. You’re going to be thanking yourself later for reading this.
Look Ho Ho Restaurant
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Website: https://www.lookhoho.com/
Address: 6420 Bayers Rd
Contact details: +1 902-455-5479
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday and Sunday – 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Combo Meal Plates
Look Ho Ho Restaurant has been serving locals since 1959, making this spot practically a Halifax institution.
Known for its friendly staff and huge menu, this place offers delicious Canadian Chinese cuisine that’s perfect for both takeout and a casual dine-in experience.
If you hit them up around lunchtime, you’ll find some awesome specials waiting for you. Their lunch specials, including favorites like egg rolls, beef fried rice, and sweet & sour chicken, are seriously to die for.
Got company? Their Combo Plates and Group Dinners are perfect for sharing and easy on the wallet. Plus, you’ve got to try the chef’s specials—it’s the “best of the best,” as they say themselves.
| Pro tip: Ask about their off-menu specials or seasonal dishes. The staff is always eager to recommend something unique that might not be on the printed menu. |
Jacky’s Cafe
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Website: https://jackyscafehalifax.com/
Address: 5991 Spring Garden Rd
Contact details: +65 6980 5977
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Sunday – Closed
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Shrimp Wonton
Jacky’s Cafe is a cozy spot that serves up some irresistible Chinese cuisine that’s bound to make you a regular. Whether you’re in for a quick bite or looking to settle in for a heartier meal, Jacky’s has got you covered.
The menu is full of crowd-pleasers. The pan-fried dumplings and veggie spring rolls are fantastic to start with. For main dishes, you definitely need to try the Kung Pao Chicken and Jacky’s Special Chicken.
They also have a variety of stir-fry specials, noodle soups, and even all-day breakfast options if you’re up for something different.
But Jacky’s Cafe isn’t just about the food; it’s about the whole experience. The friendly service makes it a great spot to relax with friends or family.
| Pro tip: Don’t miss out on their homemade sauces. These sauces add an extra kick to your meal and are a well-kept secret among regulars, elevating the flavors to a whole new level. |
The Orient Chinese Cuisine
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Website: https://theorientns.ca/
Address: 227 Bedford Hwy
Contact details: +65 6980 5977
Operating hours:
- Monday to Tuesday – Closed
- Wednesday to Thursday – 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Hot Chilli Shrimp
The Orient Chinese Cuisine, run by the talented Chef Ivan Chan, offers both traditional and modern Chinese dishes that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
As you walk in, you’ll notice a warm, welcoming vibe where quality is front and center, thanks to locally sourced ingredients in every dish.
You should kick off your meal with some classic starters like their famous dumplings or hot and sour soup. For the main event, you can’t go wrong with the Peking Duck or General Tso’s Chicken—everyone loves them.
Chef Ivan Chan has put together a menu that ensures each dish, from hearty mains to delicate dim sum, is spot on.
| Pro tip: Take advantage of the traditional tea service available. Pair your meal with specially selected teas that perfectly complement the flavors of your chosen dishes. |
Happy Garden
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Website: http://www.happygardenhalifax.ca/
Address: 1304 Birmingham St
Contact details: 1 902-423-8882
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM
- Saturday to SUnday – 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Szechuan Beef
Happy Garden is a fully licensed spot that offers everything from dine-in to take-out and delivery. Inside, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff ready to serve you freshly cooked dishes made from local ingredients.
Their menu has something for everyone, with mouth-watering favorites like General Tso’s Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, and those amazing special spring rolls. Craving something spicy, savory, or just comforting? Happy Garden has it all.
Be sure to check out their daily specials for great deals, or dive into their extensive menu to find new and exciting flavors.
| Pro tip: Ask about their traditional Chinese herbal soups. These soups are not listed prominently on the menu but are a hidden gem featuring rich, nourishing ingredients believed to have health benefits. |
Happy Veal Hot Pot
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Website: https://happyvealhotpot.com/
Address: 1333 South Park St
Contact details: +1 902-423-2777
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Chongqing Spicy Hot Pot
Happy Veal Hot Pot is a unique restaurant that offers an all-day hot pot with a variety of tasty choices.
At this spot, you’ll find a bubbling pot of delicious broth at the center of your table, where you can cook your own sliced meats, leafy vegetables, mushrooms, noodles, and seafood.
Some crowd favorites include the special spicy soup with over 20 kinds of Chinese spices, perfect for those who love a kick of flavor and a health boost! For a milder option, try the non-spicy broth made from local pork and beef bones.
They also offer homemade dumplings and BBQ dinner specials on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, making every visit a new culinary adventure.
| Pro tip: Mix and match ingredients like minced garlic, chopped scallions, cilantro, soy sauce, and sesame paste to create a personalized flavor boost for your hot pot. |
Canton Garden Restaurant
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Website: https://www.cantongardenns.com/
Address: 30 Farnham Gate Rd
Contact details: +65 6980 5977
Operating hours:
- Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Friday and Sunday – 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Moo Shu Pork
Canton Garden Restaurant gives you a delightful Chinese culinary experience. From hot, tantalizing soups to mouthwatering combination platters, this spot covers all your craving bases.
It’s known for its diverse menu that ranges from classic beef and pork dishes to exquisite seafood and vegetarian options. Trust me, their flavorful duck or chicken entrées will have your taste buds dancing!
And if you’re in the mood for something comforting, their rice and noodle varieties are always a hit. You really can’t go wrong here.
| Pro tip: Order their dim sum dishes, which are available even outside of traditional dim sum hours. These bite-sized delights, such as har gow (shrimp dumplings) and siu mai (pork dumplings), are typically made fresh and offer an authentic taste of Cantonese cuisine that you won’t want to miss. |
Beyond Pho
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Website: https://www.beyondphohalifax.com/
Address: 5518 Spring Garden Rd
Contact details: +1 902-425-3133
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday, and Sunday – 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Satay Sauce
Beyond Pho is famous for its delicious Chinese-style pho, but that’s just the beginning. With a variety of dishes made from fresh ingredients, you’re in for a treat.
You’ll find specialty dishes that go beyond your usual pho experience—everything from spring rolls that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside to vermicelli bowls packed with flavor.
They’re not just sticking to the classics either—they’re always coming up with new recipes, so there’s always something exciting to try.
| Pro tip: Don’t skip over their drink menu. Be sure to try their Vietnamese iced coffee, known for its rich, bold flavor and perfectly sweetened with condensed milk. |
9 + Nine Chinese Cuisine
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Website: https://www.9plusnine.com/
Address: 480 Parkland Dr
Contact details: +1 902-431-7575
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM & 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM
- Tuesday – Closed
- Sunday – 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Pan-Fried Dumplings
9 + Nine Chinese Cuisine has a really welcoming and relaxed vibe. The menu is loaded with all sorts of goodies, from delicious, flavorful soups to hearty noodle dishes that feel like a warm hug.
You’ve got to try their house-made dumplings—they’re seriously perfect with that amazing dough and filling combo.
They only use the best ingredients, so everything tastes fresh and authentic. Each dish is made with lots of care and skill, making you feel like you’re getting a true taste of Chinese cuisine.
The dishes are not just tasty but also beautifully presented, showcasing the chef’s passion and experience. You’re going to love it!
| Pro tip: Order their Peking Duck in advance. It’s a specialty that takes time to prepare, but it’s well worth the wait for its crispy skin and succulent meat. |
YiLan Chinese Halal Restaurant
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Website: https://yilanchinesehalal.com/
Address: 1335 Barrington St
Contact details: +1 902-431-1234
Operating hours:
- Monday – Closed
- Tuesday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: Lamb & Green Onions Dumplings
If you’re on the hunt for authentic Chinese food that’s also halal, YiLan Chinese Halal Restaurant is your spot. The place has a cozy and relaxed vibe, making it perfect for a meal with friends or family.
Their menu is full of delicious options like handmade dumplings, steamed buns, and a variety of fried and stewed dishes, all made with halal ingredients.
The flavors really pop, whether you’re digging into their savory fried rice, hearty noodles, or those unique handmade dishes.
Make sure you try their signature handmade dumplings—they’re a crowd favorite. And if you want to sample a bit of everything, the combo meals are an awesome choice and totally satisfying.
| Pro tip: Try their house-made chili oil. This flavorful condiment can be added to many dishes for an extra kick of spice and depth of flavor. |
Mr Yan Chinese Barbecue
Website: https://www.mryanbbq.ca/
Address: 1022 Barrington St
Contact details: +1 902-428-8338
Operating hours:
- Monday and Wednesday, and Friday – 3:00 PM to 11:30 PM
- Tuesday – Closed
- Thursday to Sunday – 5:00 PM to 11:30 PM
Cost: $$
Must-Order: BBQ Lamb
If you’re craving some fantastic BBQ, head over to Mr. Yan Chinese Barbecue. This place nails the authentic Chinese BBQ vibe, all within a cozy, laid-back setting. The moment you walk in, the mouth-watering aromas will hit you.
Their skewers are where it’s at—juicy lamb, beef, and tender chicken, all grilled to perfection. Trust me, you can’t leave without trying the spicy cumin lamb skewers. The flavors will blow you away.
And don’t forget the sides. Fresh, crunchy cucumber salad and those piping-hot steamed buns are perfect additions to your BBQ feast.
| Pro tip: Save room for dessert! Mr Yan Chinese Barbecue offers a delightful selection of traditional Chinese sweets that perfectly complement the savory BBQ dishes. The red bean pancakes and sesame balls are local favorites. |
