Tides Inn & Social: Comfort Food Meets & Coastal Vibes

Tides Inn & Social: Comfort Food Meets & Coastal Vibes

Apr 20

Written By Sylvie Mazerolle

There is a menu on the table in an over head composition with plates of food surrounding it. Only the title of the menu can be seen it says Tides Inn and Social. There is a greek salad on the bottom left corner, Bacon wrapped scallops on the bottom — Tides Inn and Social Restaurant

Chef Jennifer O’Neal Is in the Kitchen

Chef Jennifer O’Neal is the magic behind the menu at Tides Inn & Social and she’s not just cooking, she’s creating. Her hospitality journey has taken her from Grand Manan to Vancouver and Mexico, where she explored traditional cooking techniques and developed a love for working with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

This is Chef Jennifer O'Neal from the Tides and Social Inn, Grand Manan Island. She is leaning with her elbow on the railing of the patio at the inn. She is wearing her black chef jacket. — Chef Jennifer O’Neal

That experience shines through in every dish. From the house-made burger buns and tortillas to a menu that evolves with what’s local and available, this is more than just comfort food.

A plate of Fish tacos. there are 3 of them on the plate. the fish is coated in cornmeal and deep fried. there are fresh garnished of red cabbage coleslaw. It's on the menu at Tide-and-Social-Inn-Grand-Manan-Island fish Taco's.jpg — Hand made Tortillas for the Fish Tacos

And if you're like me and leans toward the lighter side of things, they’ve got you covered with fresh, feel-good options that don’t skimp on flavour. Seriously, those mash potatoes were so good.

And here's the exciting part, Tides Inn & Social has started hosting celebrity chef kitchen takeovers. Yes, you read that right. This little seaside spot is making culinary waves. Let’s just say I’m crossing my fingers in hopes of getting invited back for the next one.

Greek Salad (Left) Parmesan crusted Halibut with Garlic Mash (Right)

Come as You Are

The vibe at Tides Inn & Social is refreshingly casual. It’s the kind of place where sandy feet, windblown hair, and second helpings are totally acceptable. Again, those mash potatoes ….Yum.

Nautical decor in the Tides and Social Restaurant

Just good food, good people, and a view that reminds you to slow down and savour the moment. I’m looking forward to seeing the patio in full swing this summer.

I would suggest booking ahead for reservations in the peak season.

Casual dining at Tides and Social Restaurat

Get to know some of the locals and other travellers.

The view of the Tides and Social Inn with its beautiful patio

View of the Inn (Left) Espresso Martini (Right)

And if you’re lucky enough to be there on an open mic night? Even better. The atmosphere gets even warmer with live music and that kind of laid-back charm that makes you want to stick around a little longer and get to know some of the locals and other travellers.

(maybe just another round and dessert?)

The atmosphere gets even warmer with live music

Chocolate & Raspberry Brownie (Left) Blueberry Cheese Cake (Right)

Sleep It Off Upstairs

Not quite ready to head home after that second slice of cheesecake? You’re in luck, the Tides Inn has six beautiful rooms located right above the restaurant. I had the pleasure of staying there recently. You can read more about my stay in my previous blog post.

A Little Post or Pre-Meal Hike , Anyone?

Now, if you happened to overdo it on the fish tacos (no judgment), might I suggest the South Head Beach Trail? It’s nearby, it’s scenic, and it’s a great way to balance out all those handmade tortillas & divine desserts. Bu tit’s only one of the many gorgeous hikes on the island. Pick your path here.

How to get there

To find it, head south on Route 776 towards the southern tip of Grand Manan Island. The trailhead is located near the South Head lighthouse to the left. It’s a short drive, but totally worth it.

Once there, you’ll find a short but exhilarating hike that winds along dramatic cliffs with breathtaking ocean views. It’s the kind of scenery that makes you pause and catch your breath and grab your camera. But also be mindful of your steps, as the path can be a bit uneven and steep in places.

Safety first, views second!

You can either backtrack to get to your vehicle or come out to the main road and circle back to the starting point. It took me about 45 minutes but I stopped a lot to capture the landscape.

Book your Ferry Crossing from Blacks Harbour here: https://grandmanan.coastaltransport.ca/schedule.html

Book your stay at the Tides and Social Inn and/or Resraurant here: https://www.tidesinnandsocial.com/

Check out the Grand Manan hikes here: https://www.hikingnb.ca/Trails/FundyWest/GrandManan.html

Find out more about Grand Manan here: http://www.grandmanannb.com/

and here: https://eastcoastmermaid.com/2021/08/26/visit-grand-manan-in-a-day/

and here: https://www.maritimesmaven.com/new-blog-1/2021/8/26/grand-manan-island