Going Home Part 3: Dr. Phelan's Top Pics

I wanted to write my third and final blog about St. John's on some restaurants and watering hole pics, but I knew the list would be too long and, with the growth in Newfoundland over the past few years, I was not the ex-pat to give the most up to date advice.  So, I turned to a local foodie who happens to enjoy an occasional pint or two to get the skinny on some great starting places.  Dr. Phelan, of course, is my brother-in-law and my hubby's dedicated drinking partner. ;-)

First off, this was not an easy choice to name his top three - Newfoundland continues to expand in their culinary adventures and foodie spots.  Food and drink have always been important culturally and each local will have their own favorite.  You can find some amazing bistros, cafes, and high end restaurants in the city, and every small port has their own selection to choose from - it is also common to see locals take a nice drive "around the bay" to stop in at their favorite local haunt for a bite on a Sunday afternoon.  As for pubs, St. John's has the highest pub ratio in North America condensed on one street -George Street - those who have been there know...

Restaurants

Basho - looks like Japanese restaurant with a fusion mix and  great cocktail selection.  Check the review:
http://thescope.ca/scoff/basho-restaurant-and-lounge

The Gypsy Tea Room in downtown St. John's  - looks like a more traditional mix on the menu of duck confit, seafood and some classic desserts.  Check out the review:

http://thescope.ca/scoff/gypsy-tea-room

Atlantica in Portugal Cove - "Atlantica Restaurant was named Canada"s Best New Restaurant 2007 in by enRoute magazine. Located on oceans edge a few minutes outside St. Johns, Atlantica's focus is to give their guests the most unforgettable dining experience, combining food, wine, service, and ambiance."  Here is the Open Table review:

http://www.opentable.com/atlantica-restaurant


Pubs

Well, of course, we have to start with the pure definition of "pub" in St. John's and steer visitors towards where the locals go : The Duke of Duckworth Pub, or more commonly referred to as "The Duke".  One of the best known pubs in St. John's, you have to look for the access to this fine establishment, carefully placed in a side alley off Duckworth Street. Known as a non-traditional Irish Pub, it's a friendly, singing drinking hole where supposedly, Dr. Phelan has visited on occasion. ;-)

The Republic is also a keeper, and is known as The Duke West - that is, located on the west end of Duckworth Street.

From my days in St. John's, the "artistic types" would  visit The Ship Pub, the oldest pub with tons of local color. Located on Solomon's Lane, an alleyway between Duckworth and Water Streets,  here, you can get your fill of live local bands and poetry readings!

On high recommendation, Tourists should check out Fiddlers Pub in St. John's and The Inn of Olde in Quidi Vidi, a small village inside the city of St. John's and about a five minute drive from downtown.  You will also find Quidi Vidi Brewery here, a well known micro brewery with fantastic local beer!

There are dozens of great pubs to choose from and most within walking distance of each other downtown.  No matter what your looking for, chances are you will be met with a smile, good measure and great conversation from friendly locals!