We will be in Charlottetown for two nights in Sept. Please recommend a few restaurants (fine dining or nice casual). We will be staying at the Great George Hotel.

Hi Debbie,

Thank you for reaching out to Ask an Islander. September is a great time to visit Prince Edward Island and it may still be warm enough to get in a swim if that strikes your fancy. Our beaches are among the best in the country with the warmest ocean waters north of Virginia (although the water is probably warmer in South Carolina).

There are quite a few nice restaurants in Charlottetown, all within walking distance of the Great George (a lovely hotel). A local family business, Murphy Hospitality Group (MHG), owns the hotel and operates quite a few restaurants in town.

There are no true fine dining places in town. The ones I'm suggesting are fine-casual.

I would recommend the Claddagh Oyster House (pronounced Cla-da) on Sydney Street, close to the hotel. It is newly renovated and a lovely seafood spot. You'll find the Olde Dublin Pub upstairs. So, if you feel like some music and drinks after dinner, drop in there.

Next door, you will find the Brickhouse, an MHG property. It has a nice fusion menu, a cozy atmosphere, and decent cocktails as well.

A little further down the street is Sims Corner, also an MHG restaurant. This is probably the closest to fine dining within walking distance. It's a steak house featuring PEI-raised beef and seafood. They have the best wine selection on PEI and a fabulous selection of PEI Oysters. I have always enjoyed going there. It's always good.

On Queen Street, you can check out Merchantman (MHG again) for its seafood. They usually have a good selection of oysters available, and the atmosphere is a little more open and airy.

On Queen and Richmond, you will find Sea Rocket. This restaurant has only been open for a couple of years and it's become very popular. As you can imagine from the name, it has a heavy seafood focus. Again, I have enjoyed every visit to this place. It's a nice big room and the service is great. They also have some tasty desserts!

Further on Queen Street, heading away from the harbour is Slaymaker and Nichols. This is a cute spot with a great story, some tapas-style dishes and really good cocktails. It is a small room but has a beautiful bar and a very homey feeling.

I recommend reservations for all of these places. Depending on the days you are visiting, it could be busy.

I invite you to download or order our 2024 visitor’s guide. You can always stay in touch by signing up for the Tourism PEI newsletter which includes details on upcoming festivals and events and recipes too!

I hope you have a great visit and enjoy the Island's hospitality!

Cheers,

Rod
 

P.S. You may enjoy reading this blog: Restoration Restaurants