- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Coffee & Tea |
- All
Fred Salon Cafe & Gallery
Categories: Beauty and Spas Hair Salons Food Coffee & Tea Restaurants Sandwiches Hair Salons, Coffee & Tea, Sandwiches [Edit]
2606 Agricola StHalifax, NS B3K 4C8
(902) 423-5400
- Hours:
Mon, Sat 9 am - 5 pm
Tue 9 am - 6 pm
Wed-Fri 9 am - 8 pm
Sun 11 am - 4 pm
- Attire:
- Casual
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Quiet
- Ambience:
- Trendy
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
29 reviews for Fred Salon Cafe & Gallery
Review Highlights
-
"...some of the best chocolate cupcakes in Halifax from what I..." In 10 reviews -
"Real raspberry with pistachio." In 2 reviews -
"...the gingerbread latte as well as the apple breakfast bar." In 3 reviews
Loading...
29 reviews in English
-
Review from Sandra M.
This is not my first time eating at FRED.'s, but my first review.
On December 27th, as a lunch break from the boxing day shopping, My husband, his parents and I went to FRED. for a quick lunch. We had no trouble finding close street parking.
Once inside, we had noticed the art had changed since our last visit and there are now living walls all around. The space looks great and the living walls complement the fresh artwork. I like the openness of this space and the modern fixtures. The bathrooms are clean, spacious and the stones in the sink to prevent splatter are a great idea.
At a table for 4, I was pleased we had ample space and that the tables are not clustered to close together. The atmosphere was not too loud and with the open kitchen, I was surprised I had not heard a thing.
When it came to ordering, I had the Mac & Cheese with a bean salad on the side. when I was brought a greens salad by mistake, they were quick to correct and my in-laws enjoyed the greens salad anyway. The mac & Cheese was great. Just as with my first visit (a variation on the same dish), I was very pleased. It was not too heavy or large for lunch, but very satisfying with a perfect level of creaminess. There were added vegetables, they used cavatapi pasta and had the crispy bread crumbs on top which I love! I would gladly go back for this dish again and again!
As family, our group has a habit of sharing so we all have a taste of great food.
My husband ordered the J.F.P - I believe it was called. It had prosciutto, portobellos and, house made aioli, and cheese (havarti maybe) on a croissant. This was crispy and amazing with so much flavour! Enough so, I stole a second bite.
My father in law had what appeared to be a Panini with Pesto (I can't seem to find their online menu with our selections, to give better details). It was perfectly made and had a great taste!
My mother-in-law had their soup of the day which was a tomato base with carrots, sweet potato(?) and other vegetables. It was greatly enjoyed, as was the seasoned tea biscuit.
I am looking forward to trying their Hope Blooms - pesto dressing, that was bought for me that day.
Overall, I am very pleased with Fred. and would recommend as a perfect lunch spot. We discussed making it a boxing day tradition.Listed in: Halifax Eats We Would Revisit
-
Review from Sam A.
Stopped in to Fred for a late lunch, and was very impressed. First off, Fred has done a fantastic job in regards to ambience and the gallery. The tropical vertical gardens and rosemary centrepieces of the cafe tables were unique and fun. We sat down upon request and we ordered some glasses of fruit iced tea. It was sweet and bright red flavoured with strawberries and mint, refreshing! The menu consists of a few paninis, these read to be delicious, and a couple of salads. I wanted a lighter meal, so I opted for a spinach salad.
It was full of flavour, with roasted beets, leeks and sunflower seeds, a bright dressing and a rich sprinkle of fresh parmesan. The kind of salad I would try to It also came with a side of multi-grain toast, more exciting and fresh than it sounds. My lunch partner ordered some acronym-named panini, I forget the name exactly, but it had prosciutto, portobello mushrooms and was pressed on a croissant. His also came with a nice sized side orzo salad. I didn't try any of his, but he remarked it was okay. For the unsatisfied gourmet he is, I would take that as he loved it.
Fred's other half is a salon, and while I needed a haircut I didn't stick around for one. Plus I don't know if this is the type of place that serves a lot of male clientele, but I could be wrong. There was a few retail items such as local maple syrup and coffee, but we didn't pick any up. Maybe next time, as I for sure will be returning for another lunch soon. -
Review from Ashlee F.
This was my first time in Fred. I really like their decor and layout; the cafe is really classy and trendy.
Our server was super nice, but quite slow. It took us awhile to get our drinks and dessert. I ordered the gingerbread latte, which was delicious! My friend got a coffee which she said was cold, and very small. Although, they did give her a refill!
For dessert we both had the pecan wedge? I think that's what it was called. It was served with whipped cream. It was tasty and sweet - but a little on the harder side.
The bill for a latte, coffee and two desserts was about $18.00. That's pretty steep for something that wasn't THAT great. I probably will return and give it another try though. -
Review from Kimberley M.
Halifax, NS
I never thought that I'd actually step foot inside FRED. Yes, it's a landmark for the North End, and yes, it has rave reviews in all areas - food, art, hair. But typically, I don't go for the upscale salon experience - I'm more no muss, no fuss - and to be honest, I was a bit intimidated by the whole place. The reputation sort of preceded itself, and since I've never had anyone else initiate a visit to the Whet side of FRED, I haven't stepped in on my own. Shameful, I'm sure.
What changed, you say? A near and dear friend raved about her newly found stylist, Krista, who was "amazing!" and gave her the cutest bangs ever. I needed a haircut, and without much twisting of my arm, the word of mouth magic worked. I was booked in for an appointment with the beloved Krista pre-holiday season.
I loved the entire experience - everything from the warm and welcome greeting to the discovered that the cafe has a great offering of GF bread to the sideshow conversation that I couldn't help but overhear between the famous Fred and one of his clients. It was hysterical to listen in on what was a retelling of something that, in his words, had gone terribly wrong. And, best of all, I love the haircut!
I'll definitely be returning.Listed in: North/West End Haunts
-
Review from Colette O.
Bedford, NS
I've been a reluctant FRED visitor. I think it's my absence of hipster persona. That and I was admittedly a bit scared that Fred himself would give me the Manhattan once-over and roll his eyes at my Banana Republic-fueled wardrobe and misplaced hair. But, alas, my fears were unfounded.
The place is, indeed, cool. But not in any way inaccessible. It's cool in an inviting sort of way. The staff played a big part in that. Our server was a warm hipster. And the service was fantastic. The decor was beautiful. Simple, but dramatic. The cappuccino was delightful.
But the icing on the lovely, dainty little cupcake was, in fact, the icing. Real raspberry with pistachio. Quite simply one of the most delicious things I've eaten. Perhaps ever. That wee cupcake gets five stars all on its own. -
Review from Susan S.
Dartmouth, NS
I went in to get my hair done. I had heard so many wonderful things about FRED and I have seen Fred Connors on TV a few times. I thought it would be an interesting experience.
While they did an AMAZING job on my hair, I was a bit shocked by some of the conversation of the staff. Someone had shown up late to work, so the knives were out. It was nasty and unprofessional of them. Needless to say, I didn't leave a tip. I won't be back, only because I'd be afraid of how they would retaliate. -
Review from Ben B.
Fred is one of those places that I always think of and never go to. Which is just madness because it's as beautiful as an art gallery, as calming as a spa, and as delicious as some of my favourite lunch destinations. Not to mention the added convenience of the location - right across the bridge, no need to worm your way downtown.
Today I had a lovely excuse to change my ways, meeting two friends for coffee and breakfast snacks to kick off the mid-week and I'm so glad to have made it in for a legitimate stay instead of a networking event or quick tea grab.
First off, I was floored by the difference made by the installation of greenery walls throughout the café. It really warmed the place up and gave it a lovely character that I just couldn't get enough of.
Second, the service was delightful. I assumed you had to stand at the small cash, wait for your order, and find a table. But no. We sat down, got comfortable, and a server professional enough to work at a fine-dining resto handled our every need for the next two hours.
Third, an impressive drink selection ranges from specialty teas to your pick of espresso-based concoctions. While my latté wasn't my absolute favourite, it was still tasty enough to avoid disappointment and came served in a delightful stainless steel mug.
And finally, the food. There's a cute breakfast menu with all the staples for cheap. I went with a multigrain bagel with cream cheese that was only about 75 cents above Timmie Ho's prices but infinitely better. My only regret is not staying for lunch after perving on all the delicious, fresh made options in the glass case on the way out.
Lunch date, anyone? Tomorrow? The next day?
You let me know. I'll meet you there. -
Review from Crystal H.
Vancouver, BC
If you've ever said to yourself, "I could go for a dessert before dinner" this is a place for you. For you, your sweet tooth, your hairstyle, your culturally artistic side, and your lunch time hunger pangs.
How is Fred so many different things? I have no idea, but I love what he's doing with his space. Indulging in an overly guilty pleasure (chocolate cupcake with whisky icing and Bailey's cream centre) I breathed in the living wall art, full of flora. On the large communal table - where you might just meet a new friend or two to share your rich chocolate cake with - lived an assortment of vases, each one sprouting with ferns and other fauna. Beautiful.
Want to know what's sitting atop the cake stands or in the baked-fresh-today cake tier? Just ask. There's no signs, but the descriptions are best heard, not read. Raspberry pistachio cupcake, breakfast bar, morning glory muffin. (I just drooled a little)
It's a vast space with sweet staff and decent wi-fi. Next time I think I'll need to go savoury first and test drive the sweet potato shepherds pie. Looking classy, modern and yummy.
28/30: 30 Day ChallengeListed in: 30 Day Review Writing…, Sprinkled With Haligonian…
-
Review from Kent P.
Fred boasts an impressive space and one of the most interesting dichotomies of a business - a hair salon and a place that serves sandwiches.
The gallery portion of Fred is very spacious and you can have a private conversation even with every table full. This would be a good spot for a date or a quick business lunch in the North End.
The sandwiches are all quite attractive and well portioned - you won't walk away stuffed or hungry. I had an order of the snow-crab cakes a rhubarb chutney and green salad with a rhubarb prosecco spritzer.
The prosecco cocktail was pretty nasty. Not sure if that was the rhubarb or the prosecco. Not worth 8$.
The crab cakes were tasty (minus a piece of shell) but were reheated - so instead of a crispy/fried outside, it was soft, spongy, and dry. The salad was plain but fresh.
Fred touts their cupcakes as being ones not to miss, so I ordered a mini-chocolate espresso to go as we paid - but when returning home noticed that they stuffed in (and charged for) a large cupcake which was all smooshed in the tiny container. Tasted decent - but looked like excrement.
Fred is alright. -
Review from Kimberly W.
Halifax, NS
Had a fantastic lunch here with Ben B. The decor feels like an art gallery or museum restaurant: sparse, hip, yet somehow inviting. I had the "soup" of the day which was a hearty vegetarian chili with spinach creme fraiche and a huge piece of cornbread. The latter was somewhat dry but otherwise the meal was fantastic. Service was also friendly and unobtrusive.
-
Review from Lesley-Anne S.
Halifax, NS
I remember when Fred opened and people talked about it being too gentrified and uppity for the North End, even for Halifax. Those people were totally wrong. This is one of my favourite places in the city. My hairdresser Krista is amazing. The space is lovely (I've even been there for a wedding reception). The food is downright amazeballs.
Every time I've eaten at the café side, I've walked away feeling happy. I often give myself extra time around a hair appointment so that I can at least enjoy some coffee and a mini version of one of the fantastic cupcakes. And the talk about how good the cupcakes are? Not hyperbole. They really are the best in the city.
I also love that the food is locally sourced, often from their own garden. I once saw a farmer or something delivering bags of greens while I was having lunch there. That just warmed my local food loving heart.Listed in: Nom nom nom, North Ending, Coffee Talk, Treat Yo' Self
-
Review from Rob B.
Bedford, NS
First off let's get something out in the open: I'm scruffy and not very cool. Fred is very sleek and cool. I really should hate it but I can't.
Nice bright room with great spacing between the tables. Works as a coffee and work spot. Just as good as a lunch spot with a couple of friends.
Menu is always changing. Salads, sandwiches and others. When they have the Tortierre (sp) order it. You've heard about the cupcakes.
Best part about the place? The staff. Fred is proof that owner operated joints get it right. The staff reflect the great attitude and professionalism of the owners.
You should go....we're lucky they're here. -
Review from Brittney K.
Halifax, NS
This trendy salon-cafe-hotspot is fabulous; it is vibrant and lively, drawing a diverse crown of patrons ranging from corporate businessmen and women discussing affairs over beverages, college students gathering between classes, and women indulging in the cafe after being pampered at the salon.
The cafe is delightful; it's a tad pricey, but worth every penny. I'm going to sound a bit like a broken record here, but you really do need to try the cupcakes!! I was skeptical about them at first, thinking that they could not be as fantastic as every one says- but alas, they are divine (this coming from a self-professed sweet-tooth!). Since my first visit to the café, I've been a recurrent customer. It's really THAT good.
After months of thinking about it, last week I decided I wanted to try the salon. I didn't want to cheat on my usual stylist, and I wasn't sure about the quality of the salon, so rather than getting an actual haircut, I figured I'd get a blow-out, just to test the waters. I was graced with the chance to have the owner himself (Fred) style my hair- (He is quite a character- clearly the vividness of the salon is a reflection of his friendly, cheerful persona!) . The blowout was incredible- admittedly, better than what I get at my usual salon (my fiancé agreed- he called my new 'do "sex kitten hair" haha!). Not sure if I will be making Fred my new "It"-salon just yet, but it is definitely a consideration. -
Review from Laura P.
I finally made it to this North End hotspot, and it was everything I'd envisioned and more. Fred's fusion of Cafe / Salon / Gallery is a well executed vision with the big city buzz.
Its quarters bring an energy that's unique to any spot in the city. The colors of Fred are not on the walls, but in the architectural detailing and inspired artwork of the gallery. Spectacular lighting, savvy seating accommodations and an impeccably fresh counter area are all factors of this special flow.
The look maintains a minimalist approach, with a shaken up, down to earth regime. Its lofty, upscale taste is reassured with thoughtful details, such as fresh flowers on every table top.
Service was fast, friendly and cool. I arrived with a friend during a busy time, and the staff appeared as real professionals. The tea selection is fab-- lots to pick from. Sidetracked by the display of layered frosted cupcakes, I opted for the quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette and a Ginger Sun tea. Yum! The salad was incredible-- so fresh and flavourful, and with perfect presentation. This is how I'd like summertime to taste. And to enjoy such piquancy in the provided surroundings was the icing on the cake.
FRED: a polished, well conceived retreat for all ages and all people. Its a place to get lost in your surroundings and be inspired.
(Next time I am trying the cupcakes.) -
Review from Courtney M.
Halifax, NS
'Fred' is an extremely chic café and salon; definitely don't stop in if you don't have some major coin to drop.
I was in earlier this week and tried the gingerbread latte as well as the apple breakfast bar. The latte was great! Delicious even after the whipped cream was gone. The bar was pretty dry and the two combined came to over $9.00. Seemed steep to me!
'Fred', run by local entrepreneur Fred Connors, does take part in some pretty interesting fundraising and community initiatives. Ex: When I was in last Thursday, staff and organizers were setting up for the 'Adsum House Mystery Art Fundraiser.' 100 pieces of art, all being sold for $100, by well known but mystery artists were sold at this event. Buyers found out the names of artists afterward, and all proceeds went to the Halifax based shelter for women and children: Adsum House. Pretty cool stuff going on at 'Fred' that's for sure.
Definitely head in and check this unique spot out! The panini's are apparently amazing, so I'll be back to try one of those. Check the 'Fred' website out for salon pricing and upcoming events.
The café within 'Fred' also specializes in providing fair trade and local treats! -
Review from Lindsay K.
Halifax, NS
I was super confused by this place the first time I made my way over there. Is it a hair salon, spa, or cafe? Make up your mind!
Just kidding! I think this is one of the most innovative, creative, funky places I've ever been in to. The atmosphere is hip and different and definitely eye-catching and fun.
The stylists in this place are extremely professional and very talented. I didn't have the pleasure of meeting Fred, the owner, but I was told a lot about him and he seems like quite the character. I guess you'd have to be in order to think up a business like this one.
It may be a little pricey in here, but it's 100% worth it! You get a professional style and exactly what you want. They aren't going to give you a cut and colour that you don't want.
Next up, I'm going to give that spa a try... then I'll make my way to the coffee. -
Review from Adam B.
Halifax, NS
Last night I had a real treat dropped off at my door. A dozen cupcakes from Fred! From the eager response of my other guests I knew right away I had to try these out.
So I did, and wow, delicious!
I've stopped in at Fred before but I've never had the urge to buy anything (usually because I always have a stronger urge to pay my rent), but after tasting these cupcakes (Specifically the Boston Cream) I may have to change that policy! These were so moist and sweet, they were possibly the best cup cake I have ever tasted.
Fred is a really cool spot, but definitely not for the frugal. Check it out if you have an opportunity and at least try the cup cakes! -
Review from Mel H.
I've only ever checked out Whet at FRED, but I gotta say, I'm a fan. Both times I've been for lunch I had awesome service and the food was delicious. The space itself is beautiful- somehow an art gallery/cafe/hair salon works so you have to give props for making this combination a success. As far as haters who say FRED is gentrifying the North End... seriously? Gentrification shouldn't be such a dirty word- I spent an afternoon in the North End, went for lunch at Whet and then spent money at 2 other local businesses that I normally wouldn't have checked out. Just sayin'!
-
Review from Cadence M.
Halifax, NS
Dear FRED, I love your orzo salad and mini cupcakes and oh so cool layout. Great spot to stop by for a lunch meeting, this unique space makes you feel like you're in a bigger city like Toronto or New York. They also hold some great art events and fundraisers here.
-
Review from Bessy N.
Halifax, NS
This review is for the Cafe. I work nearby so I'm often grabbing lunch from the cafe - which I believe is called Whet. Their menu changes weekly which is great!
I love their quinoa salads, paninis, almost everything they serve.
The staff is exceptional as well!
You can also get fancy coffee drinks if you fancy. -
Review from Val G.
I've always loved Fred salon, the Whet cafe and gallery. This is one of the few places in little old Halifax that has more of a big city mentality, well ..sort of. If you don't already know, Fred Connors the owner and head stylist plays ego booster on Canadian tv network Slice's 'X-Weighted' among other things. As you get your haircut he will tell you about the time he kissed John Stamos in some made for tv movie. The other stylists are good too. I always left happy with my cut, colour and blowdry.
There's also a mini day spa at Fred. I've only ever had my eyebrows waxed here but with good results.
The food at the Whet cafe is delicious but a bit on the pricier side. It is run by Fred's partner who is sometimes wearing the corresponding rhinestone t-shirt with his name spelled out on it like the one Fred wears. Cupcake alert! They have some of the best chocolate cupcakes in Halifax from what I remember. I just wish they had more vegetarian meal options like a panini.
The art in the gallery is always changing but I enjoy the local artists featured, especially Michelle SaintOnge pet portraits that I first discovered back in 2004 at Remedy Spa but have since been featured on Martha Stewart! Yay for successful local talent. -
Review from Joshua Y.
Vancouver, BC
It did not surprise me that I would fall in love with this place. I had heard so many good things about FRED that I needed to stop on by and see what all the fuss was about.
First off, it is beautiful on the inside! I love the open room concept with the coffee shop area. The staff are nice and they really make sure the place is very, very clean. But the look of it is half artsy, half futuristic in my opinion.
I ordered a simple coffee and breakfast bar the first time around. Both I would rank higher than average. The coffee was very good but didn't blow my mind. The breakfast bar was surprisingly even better than I had hoped. It wasn't too think and had very sweet crumbs to it. I highly recommend it. The second time I went in I tried the infamous cupcakes. Yes, they are amazing and I don't care if you are on a diet or not, try one. Its worth it!
The staff are very nice and pleasant but not overly friendly which is fine by me. I haven't had my hair cut at the Salon part of the Cafe & Salon, but I have heard very good things.
Mixing a Cafe with a Salon and throwing very cool art in this ultramodern looking place was just a great idea! It was badly needed in an area of Halifax that required a bit of a face-lift and stands out as a unique and original place to go to in the city. -
Review from Ruth D.
Halifax, NS
Truth be told, I've never had my hair done at Fred, but that hasn't stopped me from having lovely ladies lunches and teas at the cafe. The first time was when a friend suggested it. She's a local Haligonian and I was just a new arrival from Toronto, missing the "Toronto Vibe" and Fred was perfect. I love the art by local artists on the white walls and cool but low key furnishings that never overshadow the art or your conversations.
Not sure which I enjoy more...watching the lovely ladies with their great hair, people watching in the cafe or the delightful lunches of homemade soups and sandwiches or baked goods to go with a perfect cappuccino. -
Review from Lacey H.
I'm loving this place. It's so bright and noisy, alive with moms and babes, friends chatting and business associates dining and crunching numbers.
I'm currently sipping a berry banana smoothie, made in house, served in a charming glass tumbler with a baby citrus wedge. I started off my visit with a double soy latte, giving me that sweet java kick in the pants. The employees are chatty, sweet and fun - telling stories and fostering relationships with their diverse clientele.
Babies coo and amigos laugh, while this bumping hot spot serves the Halifax masses. Fred is a diamond indeed.
Heart, heart, heart.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
3/5/2010
After visiting Fred yesterday with my mother, I couldn't believe that I had waited so long to… Read more »
-
3/5/2010
-
Review from R N.
Halifax, NS
this is for the cafe only. the small menu is filled with enticing options that always makes Whet a sure thing for us. There's always great art to look at, and we've had very helpful service here. They never mind making adjustments for our food allergies and preferences.
-
Review from Allison K.
Halifax, NS
since I wrote this review FRED has launched a personal attack against me here are some of of his comments
" I also enjoy your selective memory and nack for story telling. As I said in my phone message, I remember your visits to the salon, our conversations(Sarah Jessica Parker) and your very tangly hair and sensitive scalp." (10/20/2010)
" clearly remember how sensitive your head is. Molly is amazing and you are m@#n and you don't look like SJP. I was just being nice." (03/12/2011)
almost two years later and still being bullied
-none the less I stand behind my review.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
8/11/2009
I went for my birthday present from my mom for a cut and color (separately). His colorist got 2… Read more »
-
8/11/2009
-
Review from Ang M.
Halifax, NS
The cafe is called Whet, and the space is called Fred (after its owner, flamboyant local businessman Fred Connors). I haven't been to the salon, but the gallery and cafe is a clean, all-white modern space that offers lots of tables and comfy chairs to sit and enjoy the ever-changing artwork and one of the cafe's delicious cupcakes with a nice cappuccino. These cupcakes - also ever-changing - are to die for: big, sugary, yet often fruity and healthful. There are also panini and soups, but for me, this place is all about the cupcakes.
-
Review from Sarah D.
Halifax, NS
Best place in Halifax (and maybe only ?!) to get Presecco by the glass !! That alone makes me a fan but the meals I've had here have always been inventive,fresh and delicious !
-
Review from Anna H.
Halifax, NS
I think I'm giving myself away as a non-native Maritimer by this but I love places like FRED, which local friends of mine consider a bit froo froo. But alas, I am a west-coaster, and FRED is undeniably wonderful. A visit here is my favorite inexpensive way to feel pampered. Ordering at the front counter I'm told to hold onto my money until I leave, my waitress will bring everything to my table after I sit down. As I drink my Americano out of its stainless steel cup and untie the bow that holds the parchment paper around my crumble-topped muffin, I relax into the gallery atmosphere. Everything here is clean and soft; white paint and warm wood dominate the aesthetic and the walls house a rotating art installation which adds interest to the open space.
Baked goods here have all been delicious and my coffee has never disappointed. Go for the cupcake if you're craving something sweet - flavours like Chocolate Cherry Coke and Creamsicle won't let you down.
