Road Trip Blog- Halifax, NS – 2025

Day 2 – March 14, 2025-  A Blend of Errands, Indulgence, and Exploration
The day began with a practical errand—getting the car serviced. Once that was out of the way, we treated ourselves to a morning stop at a cozy café on Robie. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee was irresistible, and the rich, velvety taste perfectly complemented the buttery, flaky croissants. Simple yet satisfying, it was a great start to the day.

After breakfast, we made our way to IKEA on the Dartmouth side. A trip to IKEA is never just about shopping—it’s an experience, a mix of inspiration and discovery. From unique décor pieces to clever storage solutions, we wandered through the aisles, finding both practical and surprising treasures.

By mid-afternoon, hunger called again, and we headed to Los Toros, a Spanish restaurant and wine bar, for a meal with our sons. Los Toros delivered a dining experience rich in flavor and culture. We began with a Charcuteria Variada, a delicious assortment of Spanish cured meats, cheeses like tangy manchego, briny olives, and sweet figs. The warm pita bread stole the show—its crispy exterior and soft interior elevated every bite. To accompany the meal, we enjoyed glasses of El Picoleo Red, a Spanish wine with deep berry notes and a hint of spice that paired beautifully with the flavors of the charcuterie board. The friendly service and warm ambiance made the experience all the more special—a perfect opportunity to connect with our sons over great food.

After the meal, our sons headed off to reconnect with childhood friends for an evening gathering. Meanwhile, we strolled through downtown Halifax at a relaxed pace. Wandering the streets lined with historic charm and modern energy, we soaked in the fresh ocean breeze and the unhurried rhythm of the city.

Later in the evening, we joined close friends for dinner at Waterpolo, a stunning seafood restaurant along Halifax’s vibrant waterfront. The ambiance was an ode to elegance, inspired by the sleek, nautical design of handcrafted boats, complemented by dynamic waterfront views. The meal began with six freshly shucked oysters, served with delightful accompaniments like French 75 mignonette and house-made hot sauce. Each oyster was briny and fresh, a perfect start.
The Colossal Shrimp Cocktail followed—succulent shrimp paired with vibrant cocktail sauce and a tangy mustard aioli that added a surprising depth to the dish. For the main course, the poached halibut stood out as the star. Tender and delicate, it was beautifully paired with yuzu kosho beurre blanc, dill oil, buttered green beans, toasted almonds, baby potatoes, and a touch of salmon caviar for a hint of indulgence.
The meal ended on a high note with the Baked Hawaii, a whimsical dessert that blended tropical flavors of yuzu and coconut gelato, angel sponge cake, and mango compote, topped with perfectly torched Swiss meringue. Each element balanced citrus brightness and creamy richness, leaving us with an unforgettable finale.
Waterpolo’s impeccable service, thoughtful wine pairings, and dedication to showcasing Nova Scotia’s seafood offerings made for a truly exceptional evening.

As the day came to a close, there was a sense of fulfillment—not just from the meals enjoyed or the items found, but from the seamless blend of experiences. The joy of discovering new places, the ease of familiar traditions, and the quiet magic of a day well spent.