Yes, it's cheap, but that's not the point; the name actually comes from an open market that once occupied this street, named after a similar market in London. This cheerful and lively cafe is tucked inside the Provincial Building, one of two structures housing the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, and it's a fantastic find. Run by the same proprietress as the late, lamented Sweet Basil Bistro, it's my place of choice in downtown Halifax for sandwiches and sweets. The interior is almost like a small museum, with fun artwork on the walls and table settings. The daily card of soups and sandwiches might feature choices like jerked pork tenderloin on rye with an apple-blackberry compote, open-faced shrimp sandwiches with dill mayonnaise, phyllo with chevre and mushrooms, or grilled red pepper and Portobello sandwiches. Other daily fare could include haddock fish cakes, simple pasta dishes, Caesar salads, and a changing crepe of the day. These are all tasty, but desserts really go over the top: Linzer tortes, raspberry mousse tarts, cookies, Florentines, cheesecake slices, and the eponymous Cheapside Café torte with its combination of milk and dark chocolates and pavé of sweet crunchy hazelnut.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
