Saint John has plenty of dining options. But for every memorable meal, there are several forgettable spots someone swears by just because they’re convenient, and we don’t want you settling for those. Not when so many outstanding restaurants deserve your attention—like the ones in this updated guide. This list covers the city’s best, from cozy neighborhood gems to celebrated waterfront destinations.
Saint John Ale House
$$ | (506) 657-2337 | WEBSITE
Saint John Ale House is situated in the heart of downtown Saint John, but we doubt you’ll be thinking about the surrounding cityscape while you’re here. You’ll be too captivated by the kitchen preparing some of the most satisfying pub fare in New Brunswick.
There’s a lot to savor (with options like Irish Red beer, quinoa salad, shaved prime rib with reduction sauce, organic burger, scallops, and fish and chips), and if there’s a dish you’ve been curious about, this is the place to order it—everything is consistently high-quality and flavorful, and made even better by the wide selection of drafts and flights available. After enjoying as much food and drink as you can, then start considering your plans for the rest of the evening.
New Chinese Cuisine Restaurant
$ | (506) 635-2828 | WEBSITE
A name like “New Chinese Cuisine Restaurant” might feel a little out of place on a Best Restaurants in Saint John guide. But this spot’s massive plates of Szechuan beef and General Tso chicken dispel any doubt that it belongs. And while New Chinese Cuisine Restaurant does have a long list of Chinese dishes, you come here for the best chicken balls in Saint John.
The chicken is coated in a crispy exterior that has the ideal ratio of crunch to tender meat, with a hint of sweetness from the accompanying sauce. You can also just order a plate of Singapore noodles for around $14.
Lily’s
$$ | (506) 693-3586 | WEBSITE
Lily’s is a popular spot in Saint John, especially during the busy lunch hour. This place is great for both work lunches and gatherings with friends, thanks to its pleasant atmosphere and lovely patio that offers a stunning view of the lake. We’re big fans of the BBQ Roast Beef Grilled Cheese with poutine. It’s flavorful, hearty, and satisfying. The dish is so good that it really doesn’t need any extra sides, but we like to add the Atlantic Seafood bake anyway.
While you’re at it, get the lemon blueberry cake for dessert, too.
El Patron Taco Truck
$ | (506) 910-2333 | WEBSITE
We often treat El Patron Taco Truck’s menu like a taco treasure map, a place to dream about our next flavorful adventure. All the tacos at this Saint John spot feature tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, with your choice of delicious accompaniments—like the birria tacos, where the beef is paired with a perfect consommé, topped with generous toppings, crispy papa fritas, and refreshing grapefruit soda.
McDonald’s
$ | (506) 634-2702 | WEBSITE
McDonald’s has been serving Saint John for decades, and we’re pretty sure they’ve spent every moment of those years perfecting their French fries and milkshakes. This spot is spacious and very casual, and during family hours, you can expect a line at the counter. The obvious choice here is the Snack Oreo McFlurry, made with soft serve that’s blended with Oreo pieces until perfectly creamy. But also make sure to get the kids’ meals, complete with a toy and fries. It’s convenient and satisfying.
Lock Stock and Barrels
$$ | (506) 657-5942 | WEBSITE
Fish and chips are a classic comfort food, and Lock Stock and Barrels embraces this tradition by serving what many consider the best version in the area. The fish portions are generous and very tasty, complemented by flavorful fries and coleslaw. All of the menu items are prepared with care, from the customized philly cheesesteak to the decadent brownie dessert.
And with consistently delicious meals whether dining in or taking out, plus the friendly service and welcoming atmosphere, there’s no reason to dine anywhere else.
Swiss Chalet
$$ | (506) 657-9477 | WEBSITE
“Family restaurant” often means bland food and slow service. Unless it’s Swiss Chalet in Saint John, which is where you’ll find consistently good meals and friendly faces. All of the food at this reliable sit-down spot is solid, but the quarter chicken dinner is the main reason we keep coming back. Tender chicken gets a generous ladling of their signature Chalet sauce, giving each piece a savory glaze, and it’s all served with crispy golden fries.
Oh, and the Caesar salad that comes with every meal? It’s fantastic—toss a hefty portion of the creamy dressing before each forkful. Waitresses like Tiana provide phenomenal service, being pleasant and attentive throughout. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or just a casual weeknight dinner, Swiss Chalet delivers tasty food at reasonable prices in a comfortable, no-fuss atmosphere.
the Zesty Lemon
$ | (506) 636-8090 | WEBSITE
The Zesty Lemon is a bustling spot on a busy street in Saint John. Unsurprisingly, the specialty here is sandwiches, but anything that involves their fresh ingredients is delicious, including their desserts. Everything is so well prepared that there’s no wrong decision, whether you order the smoked meat sandwich, Philly steak sandwich, chicken club with maple chili bacon, or lemon loaf. It all goes perfectly with the quick, easy, rather lively service.
Moosehead Taproom
$ | (506) 635-7000 | WEBSITE
This Saint John taproom has a rotating selection of beers (with some classic favorites always available), which makes it easy to get distracted from what’s essential: the small batch exclusives. Particularly the grapefruit radler, made with juicy, tart, and refreshing flavors that can only be tried here. It’s absolutely perfect and qualifies as a complete experience on its own.
China Coast
$ | (506) 635-1774 | WEBSITE
If China Coast were a film, the lead role would undoubtedly go to the incredible lemon chicken, the star of this restaurant’s western-style Chinese menu. And the supporting dishes aren’t just extras—they’re headliners themselves. China Coast uses fresh ingredients for their chicken balls, the sauces are perfectly balanced between sweet and savory, and the hot dishes have a comforting warmth, creating a wonderful contrast to the tranquil, welcoming atmosphere.
You choose between dine-in or takeout—the former offers the full experience of their pleasant service, and the latter delivers the same quality to your home. We can’t decide which we prefer, and you won’t convince us otherwise.
Pomodori Pizzeria
$ | (506) 652-6600 | WEBSITE
We’re not big on recommending places that require you to navigate a labyrinth of one-way streets, or spots where the waitstaff communicates exclusively through interpretive dance. But we’re telling you to visit Pomodori Pizzeria in Saint John. This casual pizzeria operates with a wood-burning oven and offers outdoor seating during the summer months. But it’s worth planning your day around their thin-crust pizzas, which come with generous portions and are cooked to perfection.
The friendly staff, especially supervisor Chloe, provides excellent service that makes the whole experience feel professional and welcoming. You can enjoy quick, tasty options here, with the added convenience of being able to order next door at Picaroon’s. The ambiance is pleasant, with a unique character that adds charm to your meal. Their vegetarian options, including amazing salads, are fantastic, and the affogato dessert remains a popular choice.
The crust often receives praise for its quality, and the gelato is highly recommended. Overall, it provides a satisfying taste of Italy, making it a go-to spot for many in the city.
Grannan’s Seafood
$$ | (506) 634-1555 | WEBSITE
Grannan’s Seafood near the downtown harbor makes ordering very easy because they only focus on one thing: seafood. And the fantastic fish and chips are the best seafood delivery system. The halibut is cooked perfectly without being dry, and has just the right amount of flavor that’s nicely balanced out by their tasty Caesar salad.
Pizza Delight
$ | (506) 634-6814 | WEBSITE
Pizza Delight is a casual sit-down spot in Lansdowne Plaza, and there’s a 90% chance that you’ll see families with kids enjoying a meal while you’re here. It’s a likable, family-friendly place with a short list of options on its menu. Our favorites are the vegetarian pizza (fresh, with a great amount of flavor), spaghetti (classic and hearty), and the Super Donair on pizza crust (a local specialty). While everything is well-prepared and delicious, the service stands out.
The waitresses are kind and patient, which complements the welcoming atmosphere perfectly.
