Congratulations to the 2026 Winners of the Nova Scotia Restaurant Awards!

The 2026 NS Restaurant Awards Gala, hosted by the Restaurant Association of Nova Scotia (RANS) celebrated outstanding service in the food and beverage industry at the annual awards gala held on January 26, 2026 at the Westin Nova Scotian Hotel.

“The Nova Scotia Restaurant Awards is one of my all-time favourite nights. We know the food and beverage industry does not lack for challenges. With inflation, labour shortages, and changes to regulations, it is a truly unique entrepreneur who navigates these hardships. At the gala we presented awards to recognize the great successes and achievements in the restaurant sector. We acknowledged the skill, creativity and hard work of those in our province who make this industry everything that it is.”

Natasha Chestnut, Executive Director of RANS

The Winners

2026 Best Social Media Winner - Dear Friend Bar
Sponsored by Eclipse Media Inc
2026 Community Engagement Award Winner - Upward Mobility Kitchen & Cafe
Sponsored by Westland Insurance & Westland MyGroup
2026 Best Outdoor Dining Award Winner - Water Polo
Sponsored by RANS
2026 Best Beverages Award Winner - Tribute Restaurant
Sponsored by NSLC
2026 Best Limited Service Restaurant - DeeDee's Ice Cream
Sponsored by SONA
2026 Best Atmosphere Award Winner - Creme
Sponsored by Jymline Glassware Ltd
2026 Best Bartender Winner - Elise Sergerie
Sponsored by Harvest Beer | Wine | Spirits
2026 Hospitality Award Winner - Casa di Stefano
Sponsored by Bishop's Cellar
2026 Local Hero Award Winner - Mystic
Sponsored by Nova Scotia Loyal
2026 Best Chef Award Winner - Chef Chris Pyne
Sponsored by Afishionado Fishmongers
2026 Best Restaurant Cape Breton Winner - Table Doucet
Sponsored by Foodbuy Canada
Best Restaurant Mainland NS Award Winner - Bessie North House
Sponsored by Foodbuy Canada
2026 Best Restaurant HRM Winner - Mystic
Sponsored by Foodbuy Canada
2026 Best New Restaurant Winner - Reta's Restaurant
Sponsored by Sysco Foodservice

Photo Gallery

Thank you to our contributing sponsors Harvest Beer Wine & Spirits, Afishionado Fishmongers, Jymline Glassware, and Beyond Hospitality. Thank you to Paul Brushett for the musical entertainment. Thank you to Liam Mather for the photography and for capturing some great memories at the gala.

RANS was proud to partner with the NSLC to offer free and safe rides home to our guests on any Halifax Transit service.