July 2026
This article is part of our From the Industry series and was contributed by Chef Stephen Barrett of Seasoned Plate. RANS works with collaborators and guest writers to feature restaurants across our beautiful province.
Restaurant Spotlight: Tuna Blue
Overlooking the water in Hubbards, you’ll find Tuna Blue Inn & Restaurant. This is a local gathering spot with ocean views, boat accessibility, and lots of outdoor seating for people to sit and enjoy while dining.
The restaurant and inn are owned and operated by the Murphys, alongside their friends the Flemmings. The restaurant was developed from the dream of recreating an easygoing vibe of Caribbean beach bars back home in Nova Scotia, so when the former Dolphin Restaurant finally came up for sale in 2019, they purchased the property and turned it into what it is today.
What followed was a full renovation that turned the space into a vibrant seaside destination. Tuna Blue now has a welcoming dining room, a casual beer garden right on the water, a marina for dock and dine visitors, and cozy rooms and cottages for overnight stays.
Seafood is at the focal point of the menu. Under the leadership of Chef Steve King, Tuna Blue serves potato-free seafood chowder, savory seafood crepes, local haddock, lobster, and more. They also have rum punch and live music three nights a week to keep the Caribbean spirit alive.
Tuna Blue reflects the personality of its owners. “We don’t want to be just a restaurant, we want it to be an experience,” says Christine Murphy, as she prides herself in chatting with guests and lending a hand alongside staff during busy dinner service.
With more than 60 local staff each summer, Tuna Blue is both a major employer and a social hub in the community of Hubbards. As Murphy puts it, “It’s like welcoming people into our home.”
About Author
Chef Stephen Barrett
Seasoned Plate
Seasoned Plate has been showcasing high-quality local food and drink since 2015. Stephen attended culinary school in Melbourne, Australia where he had the opportunity to immerse himself in one of the top culinary scenes in the world. He has completed courses in food writing from UBC, a barista course from the Gurkhas Institute, and a World of Wine Course from the University of Adelaide. Chef Barrett has traveled the globe seeking out culinary adventures and is now happy to call Halifax home, where he continues to highlight all things food, drink, and travel.
From The Industry articles are an opportunity for our members to highlight the skills, talent and hardwork that goes into this industry. We work with a network of trusted guest writers and collaborators to tell stories from the industry. For more information about RANS membership, contact heather@rans.ca.
