Hey there, fellow food lovers and adventurers! I’m Donny Love from the Adventures Unknown television series, and today I’m thrilled to take you on a culinary journey through Newfoundland and Labrador. As someone who’s spent countless hours exploring every corner of this rugged and charming province, I can tell you that Newfoundland cuisine is an adventure in its own right. From hearty seafood feasts to a proper “scoff” that warms you from the inside out, the food here is as rich in tradition and flavor as the landscapes that surround it.
In this article, I’ll share my personal favorite local dishes, dive deep into the cultural significance of Newfoundland’s culinary traditions, and offer practical tips that only a true local would know. So grab your fork, your appetite, and a big dose of curiosity—let’s explore the must-try delights of this North Atlantic Island!
There’s an old saying around these parts: “Food is the heart of Newfoundland.” And, trust me, after years of traveling this rugged province, I couldn’t agree more. The cuisine here is more than just sustenance—it’s a living expression of our history, culture, and the resilient spirit of our people.
In Newfoundland and Labrador, every meal tells a story of our history. It’s in the way a hearty seafood stew can evoke memories of stormy Atlantic nights, or how a humble scoop of fish and brewis carries the legacy of generations who relied on the sea for their livelihood. For me, tasting this cuisine is like taking a bite out of history—a sensory journey that connects me to the land, the ocean, and the people who call this place home.
Now, if you’ve never experienced a “scoff” before, you’re in for a treat. A scoff isn’t just a meal—it’s a celebration, a communal event that brings families and friends together. Whether it’s a casual get-together at a local pub or a more formal community feast, a proper scoff is as much about the food as it is about the shared experience.
I remember one particular scoff in a small outport where the dining room was filled with the rich aromas of slow-cooked seafood chowder and freshly baked bread. The conversation flowed as freely as the local brew, and I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging—a reminder that, here in Newfoundland, food is not just about nourishment; it’s about community, history, and heart.
Newfoundland’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its geography. Whether you’re feasting on fresh seafood, indulging in traditional dishes, or sampling local sweets, each bite is a testament to the province’s rich heritage. Here are some must-try dishes that have become personal favorites over the years.
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The Atlantic Ocean is the lifeblood of Newfoundland, and its bounty is reflected in the abundance of seafood dishes you’ll find here.
There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of cod chowder on a chilly day. I remember sitting by the window of a small, family-run restaurant in St. John’s, watching the rain drizzle down as I savored every spoonful of that creamy, hearty chowder. The delicate flavor of the cod, combined with tender potatoes and a medley of herbs, created a perfect balance that warmed both body and soul.
While cod is the star of many dishes, don’t overlook the local lobster. Fresh, succulent lobster meat served on a buttered, toasted bun is a true delicacy here. I once found myself at a seaside shack where the lobster rolls were so fresh, I could taste the brine of the ocean with every bite. It’s these moments—simple, unpretentious, and utterly satisfying—that make Newfoundland’s seafood so memorable.
Traditional Newfoundland dishes are hearty and steeped in history. They reflect the resourcefulness of a people who have learned to thrive in one of the world’s most challenging environments.
Fish and brewis is a dish that might seem humble, but it carries the weight of centuries of tradition. Brewis refers to hard, dried bread that is soaked to soften it, and it’s served alongside salted cod. The combination might sound simple, but it’s a meal that speaks to the ingenuity of early Newfoundlanders who made the most of limited resources. I’ve had this dish in a tiny coastal village where the locals prepared it with such care and pride—it was a reminder of the deep connection between the land, the sea, and the people.
A jigg’s dinner is much more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of community. Typically served on Sundays, it consists of boiled salt beef, carrots, potatoes, turnips, and sometimes pease pudding, all served together with a generous helping of local love. I’ve been fortunate enough to eat a lot of jigg’s dinners, usually every Sunday! Sometimes in restaurants or at organized events, but usually at home! Imagine a long table set under a banner of warm lights, with everyone laughing, sharing stories, and enjoying the simple pleasure of a well-cooked meal. That, my friends, is the essence of a jigg’s dinner.
Newfoundland isn’t just about savory dishes—the province is also known for its sweet treats, many of which are made with locally foraged blueberries.
One of my absolute favorites is blueberry grunt. This dessert features stewed blueberries topped with soft steamed biscuit dumplings that absorb the sweet, tangy juice. I remember the first time I tried it down in Mortier on the Burin Peninsula while we were filming an episode of Adventures Unknown—Oh, the burst of flavor! The comforting warmth of the dish! My taste buds were all smiles – a taste of pure Newfoundland.
Local berries are often transformed into delicious jams and preserves, perfect for spreading on freshly baked bread or scones. The rich, vibrant flavors of partridgeberry, in particular, evoke the rugged beauty of the landscape and the ingenuity of local cooks who have mastered the art of preserving nature’s bounty.
I could go on for hours about the incredible food experiences I’ve had in Newfoundland and Labrador. I just love food! So, here are a few of my fav food stories that illustrate just how deeply the cuisine here is intertwined with the culture and spirit of the province.
One of my earliest food memories in Newfoundland was a visit to a small diner in the heart of St. John’s. It was a chilly morning, and I shuffled in, greeted by the friendly buzz of conversation and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. I ordered a plate of fish and brewis with a side of toast and homemade jelly. As I sat by the window watching the city come alive, I couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of comfort and belonging. The food was simple, but it was made with such care that every bite told a story of tradition and resilience. The diner’s owner, an older gentleman with a twinkle in his eye, leaned over and said, “That’s proper food there Donny b’y!”—and in that moment, I knew I was experiencing something truly authentic.
My travels have taken me to many remote outports, where food isn’t just eaten—it’s celebrated. I remember being invited to a family feast in a tiny coastal village that felt like stepping back in time. The house was filled with laughter, the clinking of utensils, and the irresistible aroma of seafood chowder simmering on the stove. Everyone gathered around a long wooden table, sharing stories and memories that spanned generations. That day, I learned that food in Newfoundland is more than nourishment; it’s a way of connecting with people, preserving traditions, and sharing the love that makes life so rich. I left with a full belly and a heart brimming with gratitude for the warmth and hospitality that defines these communities.
No trip to Newfoundland is complete without experiencing a screech-in ceremony—a rite of passage for newcomers that involves, among other things, a hearty swig of screech rum and a recitation of some local lingo. I was once invited to a screech-in at a pub in a small outport town, and the experience was nothing short of unforgettable. The ceremony was filled with laughter, boisterous chants of “Yes, b’y!” and the clinking of glasses. But what really stood out was the communal meal that followed. Locals and visitors alike gathered around tables piled high with dishes that ranged from freshly caught seafood to traditional jigg’s dinner. It was a celebration of life, resilience, and the unique bond that ties every Newfoundlander together. That day, I realized that food and drink in Newfoundland are not just about sustenance—they’re about forging lasting friendships and creating memories that warm you long after the ceremony has ended.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Newfoundland cuisine is its ability to engage all your senses. The experience of dining here isn’t confined to the palate—it’s an immersive journey that touches every part of your being.
Imagine biting into a perfectly cooked piece of salt cod, its flavor enhanced by the subtle smokiness of local sea salt, or savoring a spoonful of blueberry grunt that bursts with tangy sweetness and soft, comforting textures. Each dish is a carefully balanced interplay of flavors that tell a story—stories of the Atlantic, of hardworking fishermen, and of families who have passed down these recipes through the ages.
Picture yourself in a bustling kitchen where the clatter of pots and pans mingles with lively conversation. The sizzle of fresh seafood hitting a hot skillet, the rhythmic chopping of vegetables, and the occasional burst of laughter create a symphony that’s uniquely Newfoundland. It’s as if the very act of cooking is a celebration, a communal ritual that brings people together.
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a well-cooked home meal! Whether it’s the comforting scent of fish and brewis simmering on the stove or the sweet fragrance of blueberry jam spread on warm bread, every aroma is a reminder of home. I’ve often find myself closing my eyes, taking a deep breath, and savoring the familiar scents that evoke memories of both the past and the promise of new adventures.
Newfoundland’s culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry of colors and textures. The deep red of locally caught lobster, the golden hue of perfectly baked toutons, and the rich green of freshly foraged herbs all come together to create a visual feast that is almost as delightful as the food itself. When you dine in Newfoundland, every meal is a celebration of nature’s bounty, artfully presented and steeped in tradition.
For those of you ready to embark on your own culinary adventure in Newfoundland and Labrador, here are some practical tips and insider recommendations that I’ve learned along the way.
Newfoundland and Labrador are as much about their people and traditions as they are about their food. When you dive into island cuisine, you’re not just tasting ingredients—you’re experiencing a way of life that has been refined over centuries.
As I wrap up this culinary adventure through Newfoundland and Labrador, I hope you’ve enjoyed this glimpse into the rich and diverse world of cuisine. Every dish I’ve encountered—from the humble fish and brewis to the festive jigg’s dinner—has left an indelible mark on my heart and palate. The flavors, the traditions, and the stories behind each meal have deepened my appreciation for this rugged, beautiful province.
Newfoundland’s cuisine is a celebration of life itself—a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of its people. It’s about more than just food; it’s about community, history, and the deep connection that binds us to the land and the sea. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler eager to explore authentic local flavors, I invite you to join me on this delicious journey.
So, pack your appetite, embrace the adventure spirit, and come experience the true taste of Newfoundland and Labrador. Let’s share in the laughter, the warmth, and the unforgettable flavors that define Newfinese cuisine. Trust me, once you’ve had a proper scoff, you’ll understand why food here isn’t just about nourishment—it’s about celebrating the enduring, hearty spirit of our land.
Thank you for joining me on this flavorful adventure. I’d love to hear your own culinary experiences and tips—drop me a line, a comment below, or post your photos on AdventuresUnknown social media. Let’s keep the conversation (and the feasts) going!
Until next time, happy eating, keep exploring, and remember: every bite is a new adventure waiting to be savored.
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Donny Love,
Adventures Unknown
donny@adventuresunknown.ca
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