Halifax, N.S. – Taste of Nova Scotia restaurants represent a variety of dining styles and atmospheres, but all establishments reflect Nova Scotia’s rich culinary tapestry.
“Is there a need for the consumer to be more aware of supporting our own farmers and local produce? Most definitely,” says Janice Ruddock, executive director of Taste of Nova Scotia. “However, Taste restaurants have been doing this for years. When you look at a menu in our restaurants, you see Fox Hill cheese, you see Acadian Maple Products, you see Eel Lake oysters, you see Willy Krauch salmon – highlighted proudly on their locally and seasonally inspired menus.”
Taste restaurant members purchase fresh, seasonal Nova Scotia products according to availability and are very aware of the benefits of doing so on a sustainability as well as a business level. Their staff is expected to be professional, efficient, friendly and familiar with the food products of Nova Scotia, particularly in their regional area.
“Our only issue is supply and demand,” says Ruddock. “Although we have a plethora of quality, world-class products, it comes down to distribution and quantity of product available. Many of our chefs deal with this by creating seasonal menus for their restaurants…working with the land and sea.”
The new Halifax Farmers’ Market, opening on Saturday, August 7, will be another opportunity to support and educate chefs, staff and consumers about even more of Nova Scotia’s local producers. Taste members at the new market include Boulangerie la Vendéenne, Jost Vineyards, Domaine de Grand Pré, Glenora Distillery, Fox Hill Cheese House, Blomidon Estate Winery, Indian Point Marine Farms Ltd., Gourmandises Avenue Chocolaterie and Tideview Cider.
“Approximately 120 members are part of Taste of Nova Scotia,” says Ruddock. “It is their passion and dedication to local, quality foods and culinary experiences that make us a successful culinary tourism destination…as was proven when we were chosen as the host site for the One World One Table International Culinary Tourism Summit taking place September 19 to 21, this year.”
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