Congratulations to the 2025 Winners of the Nova Scotia Restaurant Awards!

The 2025 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 27, 2025 at the Westin.

“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

2025 Social Media Award Winner - The Bicycle Thief
Sponsored by Boyneclarke LLP
2025 Community Engagement Award Winner - Beanie's Bistro
Sponsored by Westland Insurance & MyGroup
2025 Local Hero Award Winner : Sushi Bay Japanese Cuisine
Sponsored by NS Dept. of Agriculture
2025 Best Beverage Award Winner - Dear Friend
Sponsored by NSLC
2025 Best Limited-Service Award Winner - Pane e Circo
Sponsored by SONA
2025 Best Atmosphere Award Winner - Martin's Kitchen
Sponsored by REgroup
2025 Volunteer Award Winner - Joe McGuinness (Durty Nelly's)
Sponsored by RANS
2025 Hospitality Award Winner - Wiley's By The Wharf
Sponsored by Bishop's Cellar
2025 Best Outdoor Dining Award Winner - The Bicycle Thief
Sponsored by Foodbuy Canada
2025 Best Restaurant Cape Breton Winner - The Annex
Sponsored by SkipTheDishes
2025 Best Restaurant Mainland NS Winner - Bessie North House
Sponsored by SkipTheDishes
2025 Best Restaurant HRM Winner - Oxalis
Sponsored by SkipTheDishes
2025 Best New Restaurant Winner - Mystic
Sponsored by Sysco Foodservice

Photo Gallery

Thank you to our contributing sponsors Harvest Beer Wine & Spirits, Nespresso Professional, Jymline Glassware, and Creme. Thank you to James Shaw Quartet for entertaining us with their jazzy tunes. Thank you to Liam Mather for the photography and 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.