10 Best Restaurants on Prince Edward Island: A Culinary Journey
Prince Edward Island (PEI), affectionately known as Canada’s Food Island, is celebrated not only for its breathtaking landscapes and pristine beaches but also for its vibrant culinary scene. The island’s rich soil and surrounding waters provide a bounty of fresh ingredients, from world-famous potatoes to succulent seafood, making it a paradise for food lovers. Whether it’s fine dining establishments that creatively showcase local produce or cozy family-run eateries that serve up comforting traditional dishes, PEI offers a diverse array of dining experiences that reflect the island’s unique character and charm. Here’s our guide to the 10 best restaurants on Prince Edward Island that you absolutely need to try.
1. The Inn at Bay Fortune
Located on the scenic eastern shores of Prince Edward Island, The Inn at Bay Fortune is a renowned culinary destination owned by celebrity chef Michael Smith and his wife, Chastity Smith. The couple has transformed this charming inn into a world-class farm-to-table dining experience, celebrating the island's rich agricultural and maritime heritage. The inn’s FireWorks Feast, a communal dining experience featuring dishes cooked over an open fire, is the highlight of their unique offering.
Chef Michael, one of Canada’s most celebrated chefs, is known for his passion for sustainable and locally sourced cuisine. Chastity, who manages the inn, brings her hospitality expertise to create an inviting atmosphere that feels like home. Together, they have created a dining experience that is both rustic and refined, showcasing the best of PEI’s bounty.
The menu changes daily, depending on what’s fresh from their on-site organic farm and local fishermen. Expect dishes like wood-roasted oysters, char-grilled meats, and vegetables cooked to perfection in the outdoor fire kitchen. Dining at The Inn at Bay Fortune is more than just a meal—it’s an immersive experience that reflects the Smiths' commitment to sustainability and their love for the island.
Specialty: Farm-to-table cuisine prepared using ancient fire-cooking techniques, featuring seasonal ingredients from their organic farm and local waters.
Recommended Dish: The FireWorks Feast, a multi-course dinner experience featuring dishes like wood-roasted oysters and smoked pork shoulder, cooked over open flames in the outdoor kitchen.
Location: Bay Fortune, Prince Edward Island
Local Tip: Book your experience well in advance, as seats for the FireWorks Feast sell out quickly. Arrive early to explore the farm and meet the chefs before dinner.
Rating: 4.9/5
2. Water Prince Corner Shop
Nestled in the heart of Charlottetown, Water Prince Corner Shop is a beloved family-owned restaurant that has been serving up fresh seafood for over 30 years. Owners Shane and Maureen Campbell have created a welcoming, no-frills atmosphere where the focus is on high-quality, locally sourced seafood. Shane, who comes from a long line of fishermen, is passionate about supporting local fishers and farmers, ensuring that only the freshest ingredients make it to your plate.
The menu is a testament to PEI’s rich maritime heritage, featuring dishes like their famous lobster roll, generously stuffed with sweet, tender lobster meat and a touch of lemon mayo. The casual setting, complete with maritime-themed decor and friendly service, makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal with family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of their creamy seafood chowder or a plate of golden fish and chips, you’ll feel right at home at Water Prince Corner Shop.
Specialty: Fresh, local seafood served in a casual, no-frills setting that highlights the natural flavors of PEI’s ocean bounty.
Recommended Dish: The lobster roll, served with a side of crispy fries and coleslaw, is packed with sweet, tender lobster meat and a touch of lemon mayo.
Location: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Local Tip: Arrive early to avoid the wait, as this popular spot fills up quickly. Don’t forget to try their homemade blueberry pie for a true taste of the island.
Rating: 4.8/5
3. Blue Mussel Café
Perched on the scenic shores of North Rustico, Blue Mussel Café is a family-owned restaurant that has become a beloved dining destination on PEI. Run by husband-and-wife team Steve and Tanya Gallant, the café offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and an incredible view of the harbor. Steve, a native islander, and Tanya, originally from Ontario, share a passion for showcasing the island’s freshest seafood and local produce.
Their menu is a celebration of PEI’s maritime bounty, featuring dishes like their renowned seafood chowder, packed with local clams, scallops, and mussels. The rustic, nautically-themed decor and friendly service make Blue Mussel Café the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely meal while taking in the stunning coastal scenery. The Gallants are committed to sustainable practices and community involvement, making their restaurant a true reflection of the island’s spirit.
Specialty: Fresh seafood dishes, including PEI mussels, scallops, and fish, prepared with a focus on quality and simplicity.
Recommended Dish: The seafood chowder, creamy and packed with fresh fish, scallops, and mussels, is a must-try comfort food that perfectly captures the flavors of the island.
Location: North Rustico, Prince Edward Island
Local Tip: Enjoy your meal on the patio for beautiful views of the harbor. Be sure to try their homemade lemonade—it’s the perfect refreshment on a sunny day.
Rating: 4.7/5
4. Lot 30
Located in the vibrant downtown of Charlottetown, Lot 30 is the creation of Chef Gordon Bailey, a culinary artist with a passion for using local ingredients in innovative ways. With years of experience in some of Canada’s top kitchens, Gordon brings a refined yet approachable style to Lot 30, offering a menu that blends contemporary Canadian cuisine with PEI’s rich culinary heritage.
The restaurant’s sleek, modern decor and open-concept kitchen create a lively, engaging atmosphere. Guests can watch as Chef Bailey and his team craft dishes like seared scallops with sweet corn purée and crispy pancetta—a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. The wine list, curated by Gordon himself, features selections from PEI and beyond, perfectly complementing the menu. Lot 30 is a must-visit for food lovers looking to experience the best of PEI’s culinary scene.
Specialty: Modern Canadian cuisine crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients, presented in an elegant, upscale setting.
Recommended Dish: The seared scallops, served with a sweet corn purée and crispy pancetta, are a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Location: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Local Tip: Make a reservation in advance, especially on weekends. Ask for a wine pairing recommendation to elevate your dining experience.
Rating: 4.8/5
5. Claddagh Oyster House
Situated in the historic heart of Charlottetown, Claddagh Oyster House is a family-owned restaurant that has been a favorite among locals and tourists for over two decades. Owned by Liam and Mary O’Connell, the restaurant is known for its elegant setting, impeccable service, and a menu that celebrates the island’s famous oysters and seafood.
Liam, a certified oyster shucker, is passionate about sharing the unique flavors of PEI’s oysters, while Mary oversees the kitchen, crafting dishes that highlight the best of the island’s produce. From the raw oyster platter to their seafood linguine, every dish is prepared with care and precision. The warm, inviting atmosphere and extensive wine list make Claddagh Oyster House the perfect place for a special night out or a memorable meal with friends.
Specialty: Fresh, local oysters and seafood dishes, paired with a carefully curated wine and cocktail menu.
Recommended Dish: The raw oyster platter, featuring a variety of PEI oysters served with house-made mignonette and lemon, is a must-try for seafood enthusiasts.
Location: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Local Tip: Visit during Happy Hour for great deals on oysters and drinks. Ask the staff for recommendations on the best local oysters of the day.
Rating: 4.9/5
6. Victoria Village Inn & Restaurant
Located in the charming seaside village of Victoria-by-the-Sea, the Victoria Village Inn & Restaurant is a delightful spot that offers a taste of traditional PEI hospitality. Owned by the friendly and welcoming couple, Jane and David MacMillan, the restaurant is housed in a beautifully restored historic inn. Jane, who manages the front of the house, and David, who is also the head chef, bring their combined expertise and passion to every aspect of the dining experience.
The menu features a range of classic and contemporary dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From their pan-seared Atlantic salmon to the decadent chocolate mousse, each dish is thoughtfully prepared and presented. The cozy, intimate atmosphere and stunning views of the harbor make it a perfect destination for a romantic dinner or a relaxed meal with family.
Specialty: Farm-to-table cuisine featuring fresh, local seafood and seasonal produce, served in a charming, historic setting.
Recommended Dish: The pan-seared Atlantic salmon, served with a lemon dill sauce and seasonal vegetables, is a flavorful and healthy choice.
Location: Victoria-by-the-Sea, Prince Edward Island
Local Tip: Enjoy a leisurely walk through the village before or after your meal. Be sure to try their famous chocolate mousse for dessert—it’s a local favorite.
Rating: 4.7/5
7. The Table Culinary Studio
The Table Culinary Studio, located in the picturesque community of New London, offers a one-of-a-kind dining experience that goes beyond a traditional restaurant. Owned and operated by Chef Erin Henry and her husband John, The Table invites guests to participate in interactive cooking classes using fresh, local ingredients, followed by a communal meal. Erin’s passion for food and education shines through as she guides participants through the process of creating a gourmet, farm-to-table meal, providing insights into the rich culinary traditions of Prince Edward Island. John, who manages the business side of the studio, ensures that every guest feels welcome and engaged.
The menu at The Table changes daily, depending on what’s in season and available from local farms. Guests can expect to prepare and enjoy dishes like PEI potato gnocchi with a sage brown butter sauce or a perfectly roasted local chicken served with a medley of farm-fresh vegetables. The intimate setting, combined with the hands-on experience, makes dining at The Table a truly unique and memorable event. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a complete beginner, you’ll leave with new skills, new friends, and a deeper appreciation for the island’s food culture.
Specialty: Interactive cooking classes followed by a gourmet farm-to-table meal, featuring fresh, local ingredients and traditional recipes.
Recommended Dish: The seasonal tasting menu, which changes daily based on what’s freshest and in season, offers a delicious and educational culinary journey.
Location: New London, Prince Edward Island
Local Tip: Book your experience in advance, as classes and dinners fill up quickly. Be sure to check out their small gift shop for local food products and cookbooks.
Rating: 4.9/5
8. Point Prim Chowder House
Perched on the scenic Point Prim peninsula, Point Prim Chowder House is owned by the dynamic duo, Paul and Julie Sheridan, who have created a true destination dining experience on PEI. The couple, originally from Ontario, moved to the island with a dream of opening a restaurant that would showcase the best of local seafood in a stunning, rustic setting. Their dedication to quality and hospitality is evident in every aspect of the restaurant.
The menu is simple yet delicious, focusing on hearty seafood chowders and fresh, local dishes. Paul, who heads the kitchen, creates mouthwatering dishes like the seafood chowder, packed with clams, scallops, and lobster, and served with their famous buttermilk biscuits. Julie, who oversees the front of house, ensures that every guest feels right at home, whether they’re seated on the patio with its breathtaking ocean views or in the cozy dining room.
Specialty: Hearty seafood chowders and fresh, local dishes served with a side of stunning ocean views.
Recommended Dish: The seafood chowder, packed with fresh clams, scallops, and lobster, is a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cool day.
Location: Point Prim, Prince Edward Island
Local Tip: Visit during low tide to explore the nearby Point Prim Lighthouse. Don’t miss their homemade desserts, especially the wild blueberry crumble.
Rating: 4.7/5
9. Sims Corner Steakhouse & Oyster Bar
Sims Corner Steakhouse & Oyster Bar, located in Charlottetown, is a premier dining destination for those looking to enjoy high-quality steaks and fresh oysters. Owned by John and Lois Dalziel, the restaurant combines the elegance of a classic steakhouse with the vibrant energy of a contemporary oyster bar. The Dalziels, who have decades of experience in the hospitality industry, are committed to providing an exceptional dining experience, from the quality of the ingredients to the professionalism of the service.
The menu features premium cuts of PEI beef, aged and grilled to perfection, as well as a wide selection of fresh oysters sourced from the island’s pristine waters. Signature dishes like the PEI ribeye steak and the oyster Rockefeller are beautifully prepared and presented. The restaurant’s sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect place for a special night out or a casual dinner with friends.
Specialty: Premium steaks and fresh, local oysters, served in an upscale, welcoming environment.
Recommended Dish: The PEI ribeye steak, aged and grilled to perfection, served with a side of truffle fries and a house-made steak sauce.
Location: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Local Tip: Pair your steak with one of their signature cocktails or a glass of local red wine. Be sure to make a reservation, as this popular spot can fill up quickly.
Rating: 4.8/5
10. The Dunes Studio Gallery & Café
The Dunes Studio Gallery & Café, located in Brackley Beach, is a unique fusion of art and cuisine. Owned by Peter and Norine Baker, this extraordinary venue combines a beautiful gallery showcasing local artwork and crafts with a vibrant café serving a fusion of international and local flavors. Peter, an accomplished artist, and Norine, a talented chef, have created a space where food and art come together in perfect harmony.
The café menu reflects their passion for fresh, organic ingredients, featuring dishes like seafood pad Thai made with local shrimp and scallops, and a refreshing summer salad with greens and herbs from their garden. The stunning setting, with its beautiful gardens and ocean views, provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying a leisurely meal. After dining, guests can explore the gallery and gardens, making it a truly immersive experience.
Specialty: A fusion of international and local cuisine, featuring fresh, organic ingredients and creative presentations in a beautiful, art-filled setting.
Recommended Dish: The seafood pad Thai, made with fresh shrimp, scallops, and rice noodles, is a delicious and satisfying choice for those looking for something different.
Location: Brackley Beach, Prince Edward Island
Local Tip: After your meal, take a stroll through the gallery and gardens to admire the local art and pottery. Their homemade ginger ice cream is a refreshing treat on a warm day.
Rating: 4.7/5
These restaurants reflect the best of what Prince Edward Island has to offer, combining the island's natural beauty with its rich culinary traditions. From casual seaside cafés to fine dining establishments, each spot offers a unique taste of PEI’s vibrant food scene, making your visit to the island truly unforgettable.
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