Halifax is a city with A LOT of bars. Allegedly, there are more bars per capita than in any other city in North America, and if you’re interested in exploring them then Argyle Street is a really good place to start. This short street only runs for three blocks, and two of them are packed with drinking holes and restaurants. Here are some of the best bars in Halifax:
The Carleton (1685 Argyle Street)
Attracting an older, more sophisticated crowd, the Carleton is a great little live music venue. Owned by Mike (Campbell) and Mike (Rhodes), who were in the original Much Music line-up in the 1980s, the Carlton attracts bigger name local musicians, such as Joel Plaskett, to do intimate shows. The food is decent and the cocktails delicious. Be sure to get there early if you want a table though.
The Foggy Goggle (1667 Argyle Street)
For the past three years, this friendly little bar has charmed Haligonians with it’s great drinks specials and healthier bar food (they pride themselves on having no deep-fryers, everything is baked). There’s a small stage at the back, where you can find small theatrical performances and slam poets as well as bands.
The Economy Shoe Shop (1663 Argyle Street)
This cavernous bar is popular and busy. The decor is fun, the staff are surly and the supposedly-the-best-in-town nachos take forever to get made. There’s a big patio that gets rammed at weekends, and this is a great bar to people watch because it attracts such a diverse clientele.
The Seahorse Tavern (1663 Argyle Street)
You don’t get much darker and dingier the Seahorse, which is one of the things that makes it a great live music venue. All kinds of bands play here – you’re as likely to catch the hottest new local band as you are an Iron Maiden tribute act. Don’t bother coming before 11pm, the place will be empty.
Durty Nelly’s (Corner of Argyle and Sackville Streets)
This huge Irish pub gets busy and rowdy at night, and is a very fun place to drink beer (or Guinness), watch a band, or take part in one of their popular pub quiz nights. If you are hungry, the rib-sticking traditional Irish fare will leave you needing to loosen your belt.
The Bitter End (1572 Argyle Street)
If you’re a fan of martinis and DJ sets, then the Bitter End will be your cup of tea. It tends to attract a smarter young urban crowd, and gets packed full of young women early in the evening. The appetizers here are good, and the martinis excellent.
The Loose Cannon (1566 Argyle Street)
Modelled on a traditional Scottish pub, this is a popular locals haunt where you can go and just drink without being bothered by too much noise or bluster. They serve traditional British pub grub, and even go so far as serving haggis on special