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- Hours:
Mon-Sun 11 am - 2 am
- Delivery:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Take Away:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Music:
- Background
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
49 reviews for Economy Shoe Shop Cafe & Bar
Review Highlights
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"Be sure to try their award winning nachos." In 22 reviews -
"...Halifax night-life, the wait staff so incredible, and in..." In 3 reviews -
"...interior to food and drink selection is a step above..." In 3 reviews
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49 reviews in English
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Review from Hilary G.
1/3/2012 4 photos
The atmosphere at the Shoeshop is very cozy with the warm lighting and atrium feel. The service was good at lunch. I loved the lobster flambe which was lobster meat with peppers, onions and mushrooms in a cream sauce with toast points. It was a welcome change from most of the dishes I have had in Nova Scotia which seem too heavy. My husband enjoyed the mussels in the herb butter sauce. The calamari was quite good but the portion was a bit small.
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Review from Allison T.
South End, NS
4/10/2012
If you have a friend in town and want to show them a bar with a "cool" interior, they will be impressed with the Shoe Shop.
But don't go there for the food or the service.
Last time I went the server tried to pressure me to pay for someone who was at our table who he claims never paid. (And they did) There were ten other people at my table and somehow he chose me as the culprit.
I have only been to the Shoe Shop for food and it has never impressed me. I don't care how good any nachos are. Make your other food just as good.
So to conclude. Drinks? Yes. But for the love of God be good to your service or every drink you will order will come with a side of sass.
Food: NO! -
Review from Adam S.
3/8/2012 1 Check-in Here
I don't know that I can add anything terribly valuable that hasn't already been covered by other Yelpers.
This is a perfectly "meh" restaurant that is fortunate enough to have a great atmosphere. The food and service are generally average at best, but the inside of the place is what sells it to new Haligonians and keeps the people packing in.
It's a dimly lit, winding, outdoor-in-the-indoors type place that is truly unique in Halifax. It's just a shame that the food isn't on the same level. However, it's popular enough that they likely won't see the need to ever change.
(Yes, the nachos are decent. But they're not as orgasmic as the hype would lead you to believe.) -
Review from Kim H.
2/13/2012 1 Check-in Here
Sigh, I feel a bit sorry for the Shoe Shop. I love the decor and the atmosphere of the place - it feels very cozy and warm inside, and I love the "shabby chic" + nature feeling of the mismatched chairs, murals and giant tree overhanging the tables at the back. But, I have only ever had OK food and service here, and I feel like the place has really gone downhill since they closed up the entire back section a few years ago (I heard they were having money troubles). It really cut down on the seating and I feel since then the service and food have really been lacking.
Last time we were there we actually had a waiter that was a bit weird - I can't really explain why but he just seemed sort of stunned. And they had two whole sections closed off until 6pm, which just didn't make sense (the sections were empty - there were no reserved groups using them or any set-up for anything going on). Even when people came in at like 5:50pm and wanted to sit there they couldn't. It always seems rather haphazardly organized here, in general.
I believe I have had better experiences here when I've stopped in to have a drink or two with friends, so I would recommend it more for that (good stop on a "crawl" of Argyle Street if you feel like doing such a thing), or for a place to sit and sip a beer on the patio in the summer and people-watch. But that's about all.
I think I want to like the place more than I actually do - I want to like it because it does have good things going for it and I feel bad that it has fallen on hard times. But unfortunately there is just not enough to keep me coming back on a regular basis, and to give it good reviews. Sorry, Shoe Shop. -
Review from Jill M.
1/11/2012
Like most everyone else, I feel lukewarm about the Shoe Shop. The atmosphere is great and everything else is hit or miss. I've had terrible service, I've had fantastic service. I've had great, reasonably priced drinks and I've fallen victim to ordering $11 "martinis" that just give you a sugar headache.
All in all, it's a classic Halifax spot that I know I'll end up at every once in a while - usually on those nights where you roam Argyle Street looking for a bar that actually has a spare table. Sometimes it's the Shoe Shop, sometimes it isn't, and I'm totally OK with that.Listed in: It's Always Cocktail Hour, Argyle Love
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Review from Robin S.
Halifax, NS
12/10/2011
Oh, the Shoe. It's the place you go when no one in your group knows where you should go.
After the Foggy Goggle was unexpectedly closed for a private function, my friends and I bopped next door to the Shoe. Sad to say that aside from the interior, the Shoe is a world of meh. The interior is beautiful, yes. But after four years in Halifax, it doesn't wow me like it used to.
There is nothing inherently bad about the Shoe. The food was okay, the prices are fine, the beer and wine selection are okay. The biggest benefit is the size of the place. You can usually find a table for larger groups even later into the evening.
My visit there last night was the first time I'd been in a year. I had the chicken quesadilla and it was thankfully not greasy and served with GIANT cups of salsa and sour cream. Not bad. But it was literally the only selection on the menu that appealed to me. My friend had the hamburger which she said was good, but she never touched her fries.
All in all, the Shoe Shop will stay on our lists as plan B or C. It is a beautiful spot, and adds a lot to the character of Argyle. I just wish the food was tastier and the menu more broad. -
Review from Frank O.
Dartmouth, NS
11/13/2011
Let me sum up my whole review with this:
Server: How was the fries?You didn't eat many.
Patron: Ah yea, There were bits of food mixed in with them, see (picks out piece and holds it up a random mushroom, or what appears to be a mushroom ), the potatoes were dirty and they were mostly bits of skin.I only ate two fries.
Server: Hrm, well thats not dirt, it just that the oil is dirty. Is that on one bill?
And Scene. -
Review from Holly B.
Dartmouth, NS
3/1/2012 1 Check-in Here
It's okay for a quick bite. Servers are really nice. It used to be the plane to be 20 years ago...it seems to have lost that spark and is tired now.
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Review from Teena D.
9/25/2011 9 photos
My sister and I had brunch at the Economy Shoe Shop today. It was a gorgeous day and we sat on the patio.
My sister doesn't eat meat and had eggs, toast and wedge fries ($6).
I had a burger and wedge fries. It was a good burger! The bun was perfect ... soft and not too doughy. It was a great deal for $10. I saw that nachos are $17 ... that's expensive!
We sat in front of the original restaurant. Over the years, it has expanded and has taken over the two buildings to the right also. They are all interconnected. The space is really cool.
If you went with a crowd, there are lots of nooks and crannies so you'd be able to find a private corner.
We thought it was a cute spot and liked it -
Review from Mel H.
8/4/2011
So, I'm not going to reinvent the wheel or anything here. I agree with what everybody else has said. Lackluster (at best) service and pricey drinks.
As for the nachos? Sure, they're delicious, but as far as being worth $18 for some tortillas, cheese and a few veggies?! Are you effing crazy? THEY'RE NACHOS!
You can never say you won't go back, the Shoe Shop is just one of those places you just kind of end up at every once in awhile. Like seeing an ex- you know better than to go but you do anyway and end up feeling bad about it afterward. -
Review from Laurie B.
Halifax, NS
1/17/2012
I don't understand why everyone goes crazy for this place. I mean, yes, it's okay. The trees inside are nice. But there are never any drink specials. Sometimes you get igorned by the servers for a while. The nachoes win best of in the Coast all the time, and they are over priced, and not very good. The only time I think it's worth visiting is when it's the summer, and you can get on the patio!
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Review from David H.
11/25/2011
Layout is super strange - the place looks empty and you go around the corner and there are people hidden in rooms not visible from the entryway or windows from the street.
The wait staff are extremely friendly, sometimes they can be less than helpful but they try to do the best they can and I think that compensates for any shortcomings.
They let us split an Irish car bomb (making two 1/2 servings) and I don't know if they charged us double or only half. But they entertained the idea and I wasn't the one who paid so I will assume they didn't gouge for it. We made this request because we had to drive back to our hotel and didn't want to do so drunk and adding two more servings of alcohol on top of our previous drinks would have been over the edge yet we still wanted that delicious car bomb. -
Review from Tiffany T.
Halifax, NS
7/18/2011
Oh the Shoe Shop, how do I rate thee?
The Shoe Shop is not usually one of my go-to places and it is rarely planned. So let's do this in steps.
1. The decor and layout is great, it is always something that I have enjoyed. The patio is lovely as well.
2. The food is pretty good. The Nacho's have been voted the best in the city by The Coast for many years running. I don't particularily understand why. Especially at $17 before adding any extras. I enjoyed my warm spinach salad last night though, and have enjoyed my meals in the past.
3. Drinks are not cheap. But I must say their sangria is FANTASTIC and worth the $26 pitcher, it's also VERY big.
So, Shoe Shop you are A-OK. I wish I enjoyed you more. I am not sure why I don't -
Review from Sarah H.
5/4/2011
I went to The Economy Shoe Shop for dinner with some friends before catching a cheap-night movie.
One of my friends told us that we should try the nachos, as they are the best in the city. So, we decided that we would all split them as a appy. When they came out, I thought they looked good. Large portion, more than enough for everyone. But, I have to admit they are not my favorite. I do give them props for not skimping on the cheese (which so many places do!), but what was there in cheese lacked in other fillings. I love lots of veggies on my nachos: red pepper, green pepper, onions, tomatoes - all the pretty colours! These nachos came out looking like a heap of orange and brown. Plus, we added chicken - and that was too lacking. The salsa was AMAZING though.
My friend order the chicken wrap, which she seemed to enjoy. The other friend ordered a basket of fries (and ate a lot of nachos!). Whatever the dipping sauce was that came with the fries: delish! Garlic yumminess.
I ordered the philly cheese steak melt. Was tasty. I also really love their fries at this place, as I believe there homemade. A little crispy, with fluffy insides. Who doesn't love fluffy insides? -
Review from Pouri B.
6/10/2011
Interior is romantic and beautiful; quite unique really! The outdoor space is pretty neat, too! Food sucks but service is OK.
It's a perfect spot to grab a couple of drinks on a sunny afternoon! -
Review from Sarah B.
Halifax, NS
4/18/2011
5 stars seemed too many, 4 stars didn't sit well so we've made pit stop at 3 because there is no 2.5.
First truth is.. I've never had great service here. This place isn't small, tables are tucked in everywhere, and the decor hides even more bodies so the servers are more often than not running around like someone screamed, "GUN!!". So when you do, or I should say IF you get the attention of a server it's usually rushed to the point of being rude.
The second truth is... their grub is not at all worth the wait! The nachos are quite good, but not worth the hunger pains you're sure to get while waiting and nothing else on the menu is worth mentioning.
However, the dim lighting, unique decor and tucked away seating has its own appeal, and it is home to an after-work-let's-relax vibe. So, if you're not in a rush and are focusing on your date and not service you might enjoy it!
Since the service is as dim as the lighting maybe we should start a "happy lamp" collection and then service might be accompanied with a grin?
That's about it. -
Review from Ben B.
3/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
I had a hard time with the star-rating here...I don't seek out opportunities to visit the Shoe Shop but at the same time I don't feel terrible about bringing people to see one of the most unique interiors in the city. I also don't actively have hate my time while I'm there (usually due to good company), but at the same time I rarely leave thinking, 'now THAT was a great experience!'. So there you go, I'm kicking this off with emotional conflict.
We all know the Shoe. It's been a downtown staple for years and even enjoyed a brief period of cock-of-the-walkery among drinking destinations as the hip, the artsy, and the scenesters took to its low-lit caverns for after-work-and-well-into-the-night bevvies. Packed with tons of interesting things to see from a ceiling covered with a fake foliage canopy, to the sculptures and art that line the brick walls, to the former glory of the now-closed atrium that connected the bar between two buildings. Unfortunately I think it's this unique charm that keeps letting the Shoe think that they don't actually have to try anymore.
The drinks are hit-or-miss depending on the bartender and usually take a good 15-20 minutes to come back to your table, the food is hardly worth remembering or - for that matter - ordering (don't believe the hype for the nachos), and the service needs an intervention from some hard-assed, British-accented Food Network personality. Even an occasional smile would be a huge step toward removing some of the general apathy and disdain you usually feel when asking for just about anything here.
All in all, it's worth a look for the coolness of the space, but I wouldn't bother staying long. You're on a street full of bars and restaurants, most of which are willing to try a little harder to get you to come back. -
Review from Chrissy M.
Halifax, NS
11/20/2011
ahh once upon a time when my palate was less refined, I quite enjoyed an evening at the shoeshop. I went here recently with a friend from university who returned to halifax for a visit. She wanted to go there so I gave in. She got nachos and I got a chicken sandwich. I received a nice sized kaiser bun with a chicken breast portion in between. I bite into it and am immediately hit by pain in my teeth that only comes from sensitivity to cold.. the chicken breast was FROZEN. Woops! They forgot to cook it! Well, defrost it I should say, as it had been cooked and frozen. NASTY. The waitress was great and I returned it but decided not to eat anything else, and I sure as hell will never go back.
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Review from Erin P.
2/7/2011
Meh is definitely the right word to use here.
I'm really not a big fan of the Shoe Shop. Service lacks. The food is definitely sub-par. Yeah the atmosphere is OK but everything else needs some TLC.
I ordered a Montreal Smoked Meat sandwich and fries as my meal. The sandwich was bland, had precious little for fillings and wasn't toasted. The bread was soggy. The fries were, well, fries. There was just nothing special about it.
I wouldn't waste my time going here. There are better places to go for good pub food and better service. -
Review from David H.
Halifax, NS
3/10/2011
Most people think of the Economy Shoe Shop as a place for after-work drinks. But for me it's a great place for lunch thanks to their $9 all-day specials that can be checked out at http://economyshoeshop... The Wednesday special is usually posted on the front page of the Economy Shoe Shop website each Wednesday whereas the Saturday special is really a surprise special.
My favourite is the pork Schnitzel on Thursdays. It is absolutely perfect, exactly the same way that it would be in Austria. Only downside: they are a bit stingy with the meat, so the Schnitzel is VERY thin. But apart from that an excellent lunch at an affordable price -- which in Halifax is not that easy to find. I like it! -
Review from Mike B.
3/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
I love the Shoe Shop because of its atmosphere and layout. Although that changed when the back section was closed off and essentially removed from the picture altogether. Before that, the Shoe Shop was like removing yourself entirely from Halifax and going to some underground paradise with all the vegetation and lights and just the character. Ah.... enough living in the past.
Well, the distant past. My review is based on all past experiences there. I haven't been in a few months but the times I have gone, I remember particularly some not-so-great experiences there. I had a birthday there a few years back and, while the waitress was super sweet, she was also very spacey. I actually felt bad for her because, while I'm understanding, I wondered what other less-empathetic people would say to or about her because of her forgetfulness and long lapses between attending to our tables.
Another time I'd been there, with a different server, and I felt like we were forgotten altogether. What makes up for an amazing atmosphere has lacked in service. But there have been other times (if I sit closer to the bar area) when service has been more attentive, although still merely average.
The food is also nothing to shake a stick at. And it's disappointing to think because, again, how wonderful the inside is, one would expect exceptional food but it doesn't match up. Of course the nachos are wonderful but everything else is, decent. But not great.
I think the Shoe Shop is a place I'd keep returning to if only for the amazing vibe. I terribly miss the back section. It makes all the difference in the world for this restaurant. Even more than the subpar service and the just okay food. Just imagine how incredible this place could be if it had the best of all 3 worlds! Food, Service AND Atmosphere! -
Review from Laura O.
Halifax, NS
2/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
I won't write much on this, since I just finished ripping another restaurant a new one due to sub-par food. The Shoe Shop is NOT known for great food, but I will admit it is a Halifax icon. The famous nachos are enjoyable, and I'm sure there other random menu items here and there that people love, but personally I just love to have a drink here. Also, if you peek inside the kitchen it doesn't exactly lend much to building up your appetite for Shoe Shop food.
I was here with a couple people on Friday night and we had an awesome time. It's always packed, the atmosphere is cozy with tons of character, and the drink menu is pretty diverse. I drank a few Stutz (by the bottle) with glasses of ice, and as well we ordered a bottle of wine. The service can be a bit sketchy and this night was no different - but I think I am not alone when I say that I overlook that to be in a buzzing, fun atmosphere in downtown Halifax. If you're with good company, you are bound to have a good time here. Don't expect much for food - but if you are having some drinks and don't let inattentive or indifferent servers ruin your evening, you're in for a treat! -
Review from Eleanor M.
Point Edward, NS
3/17/2011
I went to "The Shoe" once while I was visiting friends in Halifax. All I can say about the food is OH MY GOD- THE NACHOS! The caesar I had there tasted a little strange... That might be because I "accidentally" ordered a double instead of a single (I tend to think big and regret it later).
Also: cool atmosphere, I felt totally rich, until I got my bill and regretfully emptied my pockets... Oops to me. -
Review from Leslie F.
10/10/2011
The Shoe Shop is a good option if you're looking for an Argyle street watering hole and restaurant. It has a nice ambience, and if you get there at the right time you can usually find a table that will accommodate a large-ish group. The food and drink selection is pretty standard, and the service isn't bad. However, the servers don't wear any sort of uniform to distinguish themselves so that can cause some confusion when you're trying to flag someone down to place your order or get your bill. Overall, I don't have any complaints about the Shoe Shop. It's a nice, casual restaurant, and a good place to grab a drink with a friend.
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Review from Courtney M.
Halifax, NS
9/10/2009
Without comparison, 'The Economy Shoe Shop,' or 'The Shoe,' has no rival in Halifax when it comes to restaurant ambience. The tropical plants strung precariously from walls and light fixtures combined with the rustic vaulted ceilings and dripping candles truly make this place a must see. Located in the restaurant hub of Argyle street, from which all things tend to flow, (literally, all things, as it's located down the hill from the infamous 'Palace' night club) 'The Shoe' is a must stop if for the panache of the place alone.
Good news too, the food isn't bad either- especially not at this price point: Tapas and sandwiches mainly go for around $10, with pricier items still ringing in around the $15-$25 mark. Expect a twist on typical north-American fare, with a decidedly east coast injection. Food: 7.5/10. Be sure to try their award winning nachos! Literally they've won The Coast's annual nacho category so many times the category has been retired to the hall of fame.
Unfortunately, however, the servers and bartenders at 'The Shoe' seem to be relying on the mystique of the place alone; you certainly won't be inclined to come back based on the service. Since reservations aren't possible, expect a healthy dose of attitude if perchance you show up with a party of 6+. All in all, if you can ignore the eye rolls of the staff (the spring rolls do compensate!) and if being out and out ignored doesn't tend to hamper your dining experience, then 'The Economy Shoe Shop' is a great stop off for those casual enough to ignore the service. -
Review from Kevin D.
Toronto, ON
6/8/2009
HALIFAX AT IT'S BEST!
The 'shoe shop' as it's affectionately known is right downtown on Argyle Street, where people get crazy on the weekend. I like SS the best because its got it all:
-great seating for groups
-tiki bar for late night shotties
-good food, late service
-killer band set up on the lower level
I saw one of the greatest funk bands (9pc) on the Lower Level and they rocked the joint. Check out the Shoe Shop 'homes! -
Review from Lacey H.
3/11/2010
I used to go to the Shoe Shop quite frequently, jonesing for their oh-so-popular nachos and a pint of beer; however, as the years have passed so has my desire to spend any time at this establishment.
Every time I end up here, I always say I'll never go back - but a couple of months down the road and there I am, at the Shoe doing it all over again. It's like a bright light and I'm the brainless moth, fluttering closer until eventually burned.
The service is lack-luster and often rude, not too mention excruciatingly slow. But there is something about this place that makes it appealing. I don't think it's the food, and as previously mentioned I know it's not the service. You know what it is? It's the atmosphere. It may just be the only place in town that can get away with so many offenses but still be bumping night after night.
The place just has a quality that makes it unique. It's quite big, with many nooks and crannies to choose from. In the back there are vaulted ceilings and different levels sporting tables of various sizes. There are vines and trees everywhere, albeit fake I think, they still lend a charming quality to the overall appeal of this place.
So yes, I'll drone on about my distaste for this bar. I'll consistently say I'll never go back, but when patio season is in full swing I bet myself $10 that I'll end up here multiple times, enjoying a bevie and turning a blind eye to all of the things I find so displeasing about the Shoe Shop. -
Review from S M.
Halifax, NS
2/7/2012
Went to have some drinks and a bite before a show at the Seahorse recently. Service was terrible. Had to go to bar to request our drinks after waiting for 15 mins. ( it wasn't that busy) food was not good. Had to ask for utensils and a dip for the calamari. The dip was bad and couldn't salvage the rubber calamari. We left payment at table, server never did return to ask how things were. There are lots of choices downtown, We will make any other selections next time.
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Review from Stefano TK A.
Dartmouth, NS
9/30/2010
I hate to say it (cause so many do) but I love it here, atmosphere, food, service. It's a solid bet. As an aspiring "out of towner" I gotta say it's got a pretty approachable way of doing things, which I like.
Often a good choice for starting out downtown as it's central but not sleazy or loud.
Worth it. -
Review from Candice W.
St John's, NL
9/29/2010
When I first heard of this place, I wondered why anyone would eat at a shoe shop. Then someone told me to try the nachos, which I absolutely cannot resist under any circumstance. Paired with a Garrison brew, it's the perfect beginning to a night.
The service can be a little slow, but the dimly lit venue covered with fun foliage is a popular primer for a night out downtown. It's usually busy but reservations aren't required. Bring friends! -
Review from Laura P.
Updated - 8/3/2010
I try to space out Shoe Shop ventures, simply due to its ongoing tolerance for lazy, rude service. But the reality is this: the Shoe is central, has lovely night-time atmosphere, and is one of those easy venues for summertime meet-ups. Perhaps this is why poor service prevails.
My last visit left me pleasantly uplifted, and not at all appalled. (Which is usually the case.) Drinks with a few friends, our waiter was a top-notch sweetie, and ushered in and out with attentiveness on this busy night. The service was a refresher, and although my drink order was confused (Vodka lime -vs- vodka soda WITH a lime), it was an easy mistake and cleared up quickly.
A large veggie nachos came fast, and WOW... I hadn't realized that they're actually up to the hype. Perfect drizzling of cheese, toppings over crisp chips and a plethora of side sauces. It was heavenly.
A decent night at the shoe... I am glad to know its possible. Although not entirely convinced, I am certainly encouraged.2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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5/21/2010
Another classic night at the Shoe. And when I say "classic", what I really mean is "brutal".
I've… Read more »
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Review from Bethany J.
Halifax, NS
4/29/2010
The Shoe Shop, as it's affectionately known, has been a downtown mecca for post-work get-togethers. It's also great on an early Friday evening or Saturday afternoon, especially if you get a table on the patio.
Sure, the inside can be wicked crowded after 7pm, but you've got to love the Shoe Shop's unique design. (Although this makes it particularly hard to find your party if you arrive late!)
The menu is varied and imaginative; eschewing most nouveau cuisine in favour of cultural favourites from a variety of countries. Here, you'll find hummus, oven roasters (potatoes) and mussels on the same menu - and all prepared with the Shoe Shop's usual flair.
One caveat: The Shoe Shop is no place to be after, say, 10pm on a weekend unless your idea of a good time is sharing a bathroom with puking just-past-teenagers. Have a good time, everyone -- but not too good, eh? -
Review from cheryl d.
Halifax, NS
4/9/2010 2 photos
Shop Shoe has been a staple DT for a long time. Going here after work when I was single with the girls on a Friday night was something that they always looked forward to.
It is something about this place that never really turned my crank but I went along for the ride. Often trying to squeeze through the crowd to get to the bar was very frustrating. The overall design of the bar itself did not work for me. To cut up and to narrow maybe they did that to bring people closer together.
Friday we went down for the nachos as doing this Yelp gig I have actually discovered many things about a place I lived for 41 years that I did not know about and yes they are good Nachos and always followed for a cold beer and that is about the extent of my time now spent in the Economy Shoe Shop sorry. -
Review from R N.
Halifax, NS
9/10/2010
I'll give it to them--in the aftermath of Earl, they were open, servers running around, and putting out food the best they could.
In other circumstances, the beers are expensive and the food is below average bar grub. The decor is strange and marvelous, and all the tiny nooks make it a fun place to stop in for a drink. But every time we do, we ask, 'why did we come here again?!' -
Review from Katie M.
Halifax, NS
4/17/2010 3 photos
The Economy Shoe Shop is one of our cities more popular bars. It has a great atmosphere, but it's popularity can sometimes cause orders to get backed up and occasionally forgotten.
I love the nachos at the Shoe Shop, and although the prices are a little expensive it can be worth it as a treat every once in a while. That being said, as good as the food can be, there have been times I've waited over twenty minutes for a diet coke! Call me crazy, but this seems like a bit too long. Even worse, I've had friends not receive their drink orders. I know it can get crowded, but this is a problem that should really be sorted out.
Despite these problems, the Shoe Shop is a great place to meet up with friends. I've had a lot of great nights start here and am sure I will have more in the future!
Hot Hint - Music Trivia at the Shoe Shop is a great chance to test how big of a music geek you are! -
Review from Patricia M.
Edmonton, AB
3/29/2010
The Economy Shoe Shop has the worlds best nachos hands down. As west coast visitors we took advice from the locals and visited the places they suggested. We were told we'd find amazing nachos - amazing doesn't describe it. It was like a mountain of heavenly goodness.
The place itself smelt like sewage - not sure if it was a temporary pluming problem or permanent fixture! The restaurant is self seating, which normally wouldn't be problematic, but seeing how it's a multi level maze with dim lighting, it was hard to navigate. I didn't even attempt to look for a bathroom in case I got lost in the labyrinth.
The food and the vibe of the place makes up for everything! Seriously, I loved the food. -
Review from Ang M.
Halifax, NS
10/27/2009 1 photo
Well, it is what it is. If you want to "see and be seen" in Halifax, you go here. It's like a rule. All of the city's minor, major and medium celebrities hang here so they can act all cool and pretend like they don't see anyone around them. Whatev.
Apart from the people-watching, there's not much other reason to come here. The food is mediocre - and that's giving it more credit than it deserves. (The nachos are crazy overrated.) The service is too pretty to care about your order.
Perhaps the biggest upside is the outdoor patio in summer, where at least there's some fresh air circulating between you and all the other pretentious patrons. -
Review from Adam B.
Halifax, NS
12/30/2009
Although it may be a local institution for some, It's been nothing more than a headache for me.
The dark, maze-like, multi-levelled rooms gives the regular diner a sense of privacy that comes usually with smaller establishments, but can also cause mayhem and confusion if you are not familiar with they layout (or don't have an orienteering hobby). But it is quite an awesome layout and very enjoyable to look at when the shop isn't crowded (which is rare).
The food in my experience has always been decent, mostly great in conception but falling short in the execution. Last time I ate here my table received nachos with partially melted cheese, and my order of potato leek soup was cold (the kitchen staff should be grateful it is still tasty when served cool).
If as much attention was paid to the food as the decor I'm sure that the Shoe Shop would be worth its price point, but as it stands the Shoe Shop is lots of style and little substance. Go downstairs to the Seahorse for genuine character. -
Review from Shawna D.
Chester, NS
5/21/2010
The Economy Shoe Shop back in it's Hay Day was the place to go. Although it was never high on my list of places to go, the gals seemed to like it.
Maybe it was because we would grab a bite to eat and try and yell through the crowd to have a conversation. I guess liquor can make anywhere a good time.
The layout of this place is very strange and cramped getting anywhere.
It is what It is! A quick place to grab some light snacks and drinks , if you want to have conversation, go elsewhere. -
Review from Emily W.
Halifax, NS
12/7/2010
I had only heard good things about this place, so i wanted to try it out. The restaurant was packed, and had a great atmosphere for sitting to have a drink, or whatever. I was starving so I ordered the spinach artichoke dip, two bites into the dip my husband and I both agreed that we'd never order it again. It was very runny and had huge chunks of artichoke in it that didn't even fit on the pita/chips. Overall, I loved the atmosphere and I would go back there again for drinks, but I don't think i'll be going there to eat again anytime soon.
