This post was originally published on the Tourism New Brunswick website.
Forget the red stuff. Or that bowl of white liquid you’re pretty sure is just flour and sad frozen fish. And that ‘clams only’ nonsense? No thanks. Around these parts we take our chowder seriously. We’re talking steaming bowls of fresh seafood drowning in savoury broth, soft pieces of potato, and anything else the chef feels inspired to toss in the pot. A freshly baked roll to dunk in the bowl? You bet.
We know we’re spoiled being right on the coast and all, so we want to spread the seaside love. Try the chowder at any of these spots and you won’t leave disappointed (or hungry, for that matter). It’s part of what makes New Brunswick so quintessentially East Coast. So go ahead, hop on the chowder train and see where it takes you.
The Caves Restaurant and Seaside Restaurant & Takeout, Village of St. Martins
Take sides in a chowder war. Both spots in this Bay of Fundy village claim to have the world’s best. And they’re probably both right. We’ll let you pick the winner...
The Loch Pub & Grill, Village of Harvey
This village has less than 500 residents and one seriously good bowl of chowder at the local pub. If you’re traveling between Fredericton and the west part of the Fundy coast, stop in for lunch or dinner.
Quai Aboiteau Wharf Restaurant & Bar, Village of Cap-Pelé
It kind of makes sense that the place known for being one of the East’s best beach towns also has supreme chowder, but we’ll say it anyway. Head here for live music, crazy sunsets, and unbelievable seafood.
Harbour View Restaurant & Variety Store, Village of Alma
The chowder at this tiny restaurant tucked behind a convenience store in the equally tiny town of Alma just might be the best on the East Coast. Give it a try when you’re visiting the area around Fundy National Park.
Hotel Paulin, Town of Caraquet
Get an Acadian spin on traditional seafood chowder with this take on seafood fricot (Acadian stew). Local whitefish, shellfish, and wild mushrooms provide an irresistible trio. It’s best to request this dish in advance (especially if you’re staying at the hotel) since it’s not always on the menu. If you ask nicely we bet Executive Chef Karen Mersereau will be happy to serve it up.
Catch Urban Grill, City of Fredericton
It might seem counter-intuitive to head inland and upriver for seafood chowder, but leave your suspicions at the door and PLEASE DIG IN to this gorgeous bowl of chowder at Catch. It’s known for sourcing the best seafood New Brunswick’s got to offer (and there’s a bunch).
La Terrasse à Steve, Miscou Island
Okay, so the lobster au gratin at this seafood shack on the Acadian Isles isn’t technically chowder, but their signature dish is so darn good we couldn’t keep it off the list. And this place is basically the seafood mecca of the Acadian Peninsula. Our reco? Order one of everything, sit back, and soak in that coastal vibe.
Did we inspire you to cook up some chowder tonight? Give these tried-and-true New Brunswick recipes a try:
