Stepping into The Gypsy Tea Room on Water Street felt like walking into a storybook—a cozy, timeless nook tucked into the heart of St. John’s. The exposed brick walls, dim candlelight, and gentle hum of conversation created the perfect ambiance for an unforgettable evening.
I’ve always believed that the best meals tell a story, and from the moment I sat down, I knew this dinner was going to be a story worth sharing.
Donny Love @ The Gypsy Tea Room
The menu was nothing short of a masterpiece—a carefully orchestrated blend of Newfoundland’s rich culinary heritage and the vibrant, sun-soaked essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Every dish told a story of land and sea, celebrating the rugged beauty of Newfoundland while borrowing the warm and bold flavors of the Mediterranean. Fresh Atlantic seafood took center stage, enhanced with olive oil, citrus, and herbs that evoked images of coastal villages far across the Atlantic. Even the traditional dishes of Newfoundland carried a twist, infused with ingredients and techniques that brought a Mediterranean breeze to the rugged North Atlantic.
The Chef’s Tasting Menu that she prepared for me truly stole the spotlight. This curated journey through the menu felt like an invitation to experience the best of both worlds, plate by plate. How could I possibly resist? Each course promised to showcase the bounty of Newfoundland’s pristine waters and fertile soils, elevated with the zest, freshness, and vibrancy of Mediterranean cooking.
The appetizers at the Gypsy Tea Room were the kind of welcome that instantly makes you relax—warm, indulgent, and quietly irresistible.
The Chicken Wings with Dipping Sauce were a delightful beginning. Crispy and golden, they came with a zesty dipping sauce and each bite carried a hint of spice and tang that was wonderfully soothing.
Seafood Salad
Chicken Wings
Gypsy Nachos
The Calamari was tender and perfectly breaded, it was served with a garlic aioli that added a creamy, flavorful touch. Then came the Nachos, an unexpected addition that was loaded with gooey cheese, fresh veggies, and just the right amount of spice. The Seafood Salad was a revelation—a light and refreshing mix of shrimp, scallops, and mussels tossed in a citrusy vinaigrette. The bright, zesty flavors felt like a taste of the sea that resonated deeply with my palate. Finally, the Seafood Chowder stole my heart. Creamy and brimming with mussels, cod, and shrimp, it was hearty and briny, a Newfoundland classic..
The main courses at the Gypsy Tea Room were nothing short of spectacular—a symphony of flavors that celebrated Newfoundland’s seafood bounty while weaving in Mediterranean and global influences. Each dish was a masterpiece in its own right, showcasing the chef’s creativity and skill.
Beef Tacos with Korean Bulgogi
The Herb-Crusted Cod was an absolute standout. Blanketed in a golden crust of fresh herbs, it rested atop a bed of asparagus. A drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil glistened under the soft light, tying the elements together with Mediterranean charm. The crust was crisp and fragrant, the cod delicate and flaky, and the roasted vegetables added a sweet, earthy depth that made each bite unforgettable.
Crusted Cod with Herb Wine Mushroom Sauce
Cajun Salmon with Sundried Tomato Sauce
For those craving something hearty and fun, the Gypsy Smash Burgers and Cod Burgers brought comfort food to another level. The smash burgers were juicy, stacked high with all the fixings, and oozing with melty cheese. The cod burgers, on the other hand, offered a lighter twist, with tender cod fillets nestled between soft buns and topped with a tangy slaw that added crunch and freshness.
Gypsy SmashBurger
Then there were the tacos—oh, the tacos! The Cajun Cod Tacos brought a spicy kick, with blackened cod paired with fresh salsa and a creamy drizzle that cooled the heat just enough. The Beef Tacos with Korean Bulgogi offered a fusion of flavors, combining tender, marinated beef with a tangy, slightly sweet glaze that left me wanting more.
Tacos: Cajun Cod & Beef Bulgogi
Each main course was thoughtfully crafted, offering something for every craving and mood. Whether you were in the mood for bold, spicy flavors, delicate seafood dishes, or hearty, comforting classics, the Gypsy Tea Room delivered with style and precision. By the end of the meal, I found myself marveling at how seamlessly the chef had brought these diverse flavors together, creating a menu that felt both global and deeply rooted in Newfoundland’s culinary soul.
But it wasn’t just the dishes that made the night special. It was the people. From the server who spoke passionately about each ingredient to the chef who came out to chat with me about their inspirations, the warmth and generosity of the Gypsy Tea Room’s staff reminded me of why I love this place. Newfoundlanders have a way of making you feel at home, even when you’re far from it. The hospitality is as genuine as the food, and that’s saying something.
Cheers To The Chef For A Spectacular Feast.
As I walked out of the Gypsy Tea Room that night, I felt a sense of gratitude. The meal wasn’t just a feast—it was an inspiration and a celebration of everything that makes Newfoundland so special. The Cod, the Tacos, the Smash Burger—the staff, the venue, all of that made for a fantastic experience.
Let me leave you with a tip: If you ever find yourself wandering down Water Street in St. John’s Newfoundland and Labrador, do yourself a favor and step into the Gypsy Tea Room. Trust me, it’s not just a meal—it’s an experience you’ll carry with you long after the last bite.
Until our next meal together
Donny Love
Adventures Unknown – The best stories are the ones you live yourself.
Donny Love is the star of the Adventures Unknown Television Series, host of The Donny Love Radio Show on OZFM, and a Newfoundlander who’s rarely standing still. He’s out exploring the world one adventure at a time — and writing about it honestly, so you know what’s worth doing and what’s not.
