The Best Authentic Chinese Food in Halifax
By Joyce
As someone from Guangdong Province—where there’s a saying, “All the best food is in Guangdong” (吃在广东)—I’ve always had a deep connection to food.
For us Cantonese, food is not just part of daily life; it is life itself.
When I moved to Nova Scotia, I began exploring local restaurants to find that familiar comfort and share it with friends.
Now that I’ve built a community here, I’m even more curious about what others love.
I was surprised to discover new places I hadn’t visited—and to realize that Halifax has far more Chinese restaurants than I imagined!
Here are four authentic Chinese restaurants, personally recommended by members of our Chinese Women+ Network:
1. Jacky’s Café by Joyce
5991 Spring Garden Road, Halifax, NS B3H 1Y6
Website: https://jackyscafehalifax.com/
A family-owned Hong Kong-style café that’s been part of the downtown Halifax scene for over 20 years, with creative interior decor that brings a nostalgic Hong Kong feel.
Popular dishes include Pineapple Bun with Butter, Beef Brisket Noodle Soup, and their Signature Baked Pork Chop with Cheese and Rice.
The brisket is tender and prepared in the traditional Cantonese way, with just a hint of modern Szechuan influence.
This place offers both comfort food and a visual treat, filled with familiar Hong Kong street signs and lucky cats.
2. Szechuan Restaurant by Wenwen
950 Bedford Hwy, Bedford, NS
Website: https://www.szechuanrestaurant.ca/
Featured Dishes:
• Mao Xue Wang – A spicy, rich broth packed with a variety of toppings like tripe, tofu, sausage, and vegetables. Perfect for lovers of authentic Szechuan heat.
• Hot Fei Chang (Spicy Pork Intestine) – Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with no unpleasant odor. Stir-fried with chili and garlic for a bold, addictive flavor.
3. Red Asian Fusion by Angela
5169 South St, Halifax, NS B3J 1A2
Website: https://redasianfusion.com/
Located in downtown Halifax, this restaurant serves authentic Cantonese stir-fry dishes with generous portions and consistently high quality.
Spicy food lovers will enjoy the Pepper Chicken and Country Stir-Fried Pork, while those with a sweet tooth can try the Sweet & Sour Pork and Honey Ribs.
The Preserved Egg Fish Soup is also a hidden gem—especially for those who love cilantro.
Owner Gigi is warm, welcoming, and always brings joy to the dining experience.
4. Yilan Chinese Halal Restaurant by Melody
1335 Barrington St, Halifax, NS B3J 1Y9
Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/YiLan-Restaurant-100094528211942/
With a 4.9 Google rating, this downtown favorite is loved by both locals and visitors.
Best known for its chicken dishes, we highly recommend the Chef’s Special Spicy Chicken.
The Big Plate Chicken is also delicious—made fresh to order, so it’s best to call ahead.
Don’t miss their hand-pulled noodles and cumin lamb, both full of flavor and perfect with rice.
If you haven’t tried these spots yet, they’re definitely worth a visit.
And if you have a favorite Chinese restaurant in Halifax or beyond, we’d love to hear from you too.