Tempest Restaurant
117 Front Street
Wolfville
902.542.0588
www.tempest.ca

Signature Drink: Any of the area wines (varied pricing)
Signature Dish: Grilled Lobster BLT ($13.95)
Rating: ****
Dinner & drinks for 2: $47

The Annapolis Valley is spectacular at this time of the year; the air is crisp and the gentle hills are an array of autumn reds and yellows. Brunch at Tempest Restaurant in Wolfville — about 40 minutes from Halifax — is a wonderful way to kick off a lazy Sunday.

A starter of Finnie Haddan and Chorizo Chowder ($8.95) pleased the palate with its savoury mélange of smoked haddock, spicy Spanish pork sausage, potatoes and onions.

The Smoked Salmon Benedict ($11.95) was heavenly, smothered in rich Hollandaise sauce and accompanied by potato, fruit and the freshest greens I have had in years. Ditto for the house Eggs Benny ($10.95).

Make sure to sample the Chocolate Buenuelos ($10), lightly baked and topped with creamy raspberry sauce and a flicker of fruit. A steaming pot of coffee on the side ($6) and life cannot possibly get any better.

Owner Michael Howell is not only one of the finest chefs in the region, but he is also one of the most personable and always makes it a point to speak with every patron. His support of local food providers and his advocacy for sustainability are admirable, and they are both subjects he espouses in his excellent new cookbook Atlantic Seafood Recipes.

Dining out
Crepes ahoy
Here’s an idea that is long-overdue; Halifax now has its very first full-on creperie. Chez Tess has just opened its doors at 5687 Charles St. (between Agricola and Maynard) in the city’s trendy North End. The menu includes a variety of tasty crepes, along with scrumptious soups, chowders and desserts. Rumour has it that owner Liz Cunningham will be bringing live music in soon also.

Decor different, food same
Mary’s Place Café on Robie Street has undergone renovations of both the decor and menu. Still the same great breakfast, however.