Culinary Road Trip – Sampling Newfoundland and Labrador’s Local Cuisine

Newfoundland and Labrador, with its rich cultural heritage and coastal charm, offers a unique culinary experience that reflects the province’s history and geography. If you’re a food enthusiast looking for a memorable road trip, join us on a culinary adventure as we explore the flavors and traditions of Newfoundland and Labrador’s local cuisine. Get ready to savor the tastes of this beautiful province.

Sampling Newfoundland and Labrador’s Local Cuisine:

1. Starting Point: St. John’s

Your culinary road trip begins in St. John’s, the vibrant capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, where you can enjoy a traditional Jigg’s dinner or touton (fried dough) with molasses.

2. Screech-In Ceremony

Before hitting the road, consider participating in a Screech-In ceremony, a Newfoundland tradition. This fun event involves reciting a few phrases, kissing a codfish, and taking a shot of Screech (a type of rum). It’s a rite of passage for anyone visiting the province.

3. Fresh Seafood in Trinity Bay

As you venture north along the coast, make a stop in Trinity Bay. This area is known for its fresh seafood, particularly cod and crab. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste delicious fish and chips or seafood chowder in one of the local restaurants.

4. Fogo Island Cuisine

A detour to Fogo Island is a must for food enthusiasts. This remote island boasts unique culinary experiences. Enjoy homemade bread, locally sourced seafood, and dishes infused with the flavors of the island’s wild herbs.

5. Moose and Game Meat

Newfoundland and Labrador is known for its game meats, including moose and caribou. Try a moose burger or stew, which can be found on many local menus. These hearty dishes reflect the province’s hunting heritage.

6. Bakeapple Delights

Bakeapples, also known as cloudberries, are a local delicacy. You can find them in jams, desserts, and even beverages. Be sure to try a bakeapple pie or ice cream for a unique and delightful taste.

7. Berries Galore

Summer in Newfoundland and Labrador means an abundance of wild berries like blueberries, partridgeberries, and crowberries. Sample berry jams, pies, and tarts made from these natural treasures.

8. Root Cellar Cuisine

Learn about the province’s history by visiting traditional root cellars, where vegetables and preserves were stored. Taste pickled beets, salted fish, and other preserved goods in these unique underground spaces.

9. Toutons and Flipper Pie in Bonavista

Make a stop in Bonavista for toutons (pan-fried dough) served with molasses and flipper pie, a local delicacy made from seal flipper meat. The flavors are hearty and quintessentially Newfoundland.

10. Scenic Views with a Side of Fresh Seafood

End your culinary journey with a seafood feast while taking in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Many restaurants along the coast offer seafood platters, lobster, and crab dishes that are a true taste of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s local cuisine is a blend of cultural influences, from Indigenous traditions to European heritage. A culinary road trip through this province is an opportunity to explore the unique flavors and stories that make this region special. Be sure to savor the tastes of the land and sea, immerse yourself in local traditions, and enjoy every bite along the way. Newfoundland and Labrador’s culinary scene will leave you with memories and flavors to cherish. Bon appétit!