The Wooden Monkey

5 stars all around for the Wooden Monkey! As a celiac who must eat gluten-free and avoid cross contamination, I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of safe options which were available to me. Most of the dessert menu was also gluten-free, which was an exciting surprise. The server explained their process for cooking each meal with a new, clean pan to keep things safe, and I am pleased to say I did not eat sick after any meal I enjoyed here. During our trip to Halifax, we returned 3+ times to try multiple different options, all of which are pictured below. These were some of the most delicious meals I’ve had in a long time, and I was even more impressed with their ethical food sourcing. Everything tasted so fresh and wonderful, the scallops and salmon especially. The atmosphere was also very cozy and warm with unique monkey-themed decor, and the servers were positive and friendly. I wish this restaurant existed in Ontario but I am so happy to enjoy it while in Halifax. Thanks for a great experience!

Very good fish dishes and kind service.

Great service and food but most appreciated the support of local farmers and informative wall features on the impact of said farmers and supply chain.

Very good food. Angie was amazing. We will definitely be back to try other items on the menu. All/most (I am not 100% certain) of their food ingredients are locally sourced. The kitchen is an amazing showcase of Nova Scotia produce & quality.

Great food with a strong local flavor; I had the lemon halibut and my wife had the vegetarian Korean tacos, both delicious!

I keep trying! I just wish it were consistent! I’ve had some great experiences at The Wooden Monkey over the years — hosted large events, celebrated special occasions, and the staff and atmosphere have always been great. Unfortunately, the food continues to be very hit but mostly miss. A few years ago, after ordering a few pizzas for guests that was wafer thin, dry and honestly like cardboard, we put The Wooden Monkey on pause. I’ve slowly started adding both locations back into the rotation, hoping things had improved.. When we choose to eat out, we want food that feels like a treat — something we couldn’t make just as well, or better, at home. Today’s takeout was another disappointment. The fish cakes were mostly potato (burnt and dry) the roasties were burnt to a crisp, and the pita was completely inedible from the char. The apple salad was completely wilted and mushy. The roasted red pepper dip, however, was excellent as always! (I had stuff at home I used to dip) I really do want to love this place, which is why I keep going back. But consistency matters in any industry! Sadly, I think it’s time to put The Wooden Monkey back on pause.

Just looking for a quick bite… it was delicious. Had an apple and goat cheese salad and some garlic bread. Loved them both as did the others at my table. Alice was so nice and helpful we really had great service from them. They are using all local ingredients and are huge farm supporters.

I always go to Dartmouth that I love but here in Halifax it was so disappointing! Service was soo bad! Last time for me sorry

I chose the Wooden Monkey because of the high recommendations of other families with allergies, and they did not disappoint! They were very allergy aware, and prepared to serve our group with various severe allergies, including dairy, treenuts, legumes, gluten, and more. Everyone enjoyed a delicious, nutritious, and safe meal together, and I couldn't be more grateful for the attention paid to the preparation. Lovely service and atmosphere as well. Thank you for answering all my questions and for having such a knowledgeable and thoughtful team. We will definitely be back when we visit Halifax again!