There’s something undeniably charming about Charlottetown. As you wander its picturesque streets in search of local flavours, you’ll quickly discover that this small city has far more to offer than meets the eye. As the capital of Canada's Food Island, Charlottetown is a destination where rich history, coastal beauty and an exceptional food scene come together.
While fresh seafood is certainly a must when visiting Charlottetown, the city’s food scene offers so much more to discover. From local producers and makers to iconic Island products and unforgettable food experiences, there are plenty of ways to get a taste of what makes this destination so special. Along the way, you’ll uncover the stories, traditions and people behind some of the city's most memorable flavours. Read on to discover what makes Charlottetown such a delicious destination.
If you’re not already familiar with COWS Creamery, you’re in for a real treat (pun intended!). While COWS is well-known for its famous ice cream, it’s their cheese that we're putting in the spotlight.
Avonlea Clothbound Cheddar is perhaps one of the best Canadian cheeses out there (yes, we said it!), and it has the awards to prove it. Made with the milk of PEI Holstein cows using a traditional recipe from Scotland's Orkney Islands, each wheel is wrapped in cloth before aging, creating quite the reveal when it's finally unwrapped. Alongside its celebrated Cheddar, you'll also find rich cultured butter, aged cheeses and a variety of local dairy products that showcase the exceptional quality of PEI milk.
If you're visiting the Charlottetown creamery, be sure to check out the free self-guided tour, where you can peek into the cheese cave, watch ice cream being made and learn how one small Island business grew into a Canadian favourite. Whether you're stocking up on local cheese or simply curious about how it's made, it's a delicious stop that's well worth adding to your Charlottetown itinerary.
This is about as hands-on as it gets! Head out on the water with Top Notch Charters on one of their Lobster Tours and discover what it takes to get lobster from the ocean to your plate. Running from July through the end of August, this seasonal fishing experience is filled with stories, spectacular coastal views, and, of course, plenty of lobster.
Aboard the company's 45-foot vessel, Top Notch, you'll haul lobster traps, band claws and learn the ins and outs of the Island's iconic fishery before sitting down to a traditional PEI lobster supper served right on board. How's that for the catch of the day?
Just a 20-minute drive from Charlottetown in Warren Grove, Deep Roots Distillery is a family-run business focused on crafting small-batch spirits that capture a true taste of Prince Edward Island. What began as an organic u-pick apple orchard has grown into a distillery dedicated to showcasing as many local ingredients as possible.
One of the best ways to experience the distillery is through the Island Infusion Experience. The experience begins in the orchard, cocktail in hand, where you'll learn about the craft of distilling spirits and liqueurs before heading inside for a hands-on session. There, you'll create your own custom bottle of vodka or gin by infusing it with a selection of locally sourced botanicals and ingredients to take home.
While you're there, be sure to sample the distillery's flagship apple brandy, a standout spirit that celebrates the orchard where it all began.
If you can't make the trip to Warren Grove, you can still pick up Deep Roots Distillery products at the Charlottetown Farmers' Market.
Ask anyone what comes to mind when they think of Prince Edward Island, and chances are they'll say potatoes or Anne of Green Gables. Luckily, you can experience both through a pair of classic Island treats thanks to Anne of Green Gables Chocolates.
Fans of the beloved literary classic can sip a little piece of the story with the brand's sparkling raspberry cordial, also available in a slush format at all locations on PEI. Inspired by the raspberry cordial famously featured in Anne of Green Gables, this uniquely PEI beverage is a sweet nod to one of the Island's most iconic characters.
For a savoury snack, pick up a bag of COW Chips. Made with PEI-grown potatoes, these sweet and salty kettle chips celebrate the crop the Island is best known for. Pair them with a glass of raspberry cordial for a quintessential taste of Prince Edward Island.
Founders' Food Hall & Market is Charlottetown's go-to destination for great food, local shopping and community connection. Located in a beautifully restored waterfront building, this vibrant gathering place brings together PEI artisans, makers and food vendors, along with globally inspired cuisine with an Island twist.
With ticketed events like bread making classes, pasta parties, and wine tasting sessions, there's always something fun to take part in. Whether you're grabbing a coffee, browsing local shops, or enjoying one of the many year-round events, Founders' offers a welcoming space where locals and visitors can experience the best of Prince Edward Island, all under one roof.
More to Explore
Have we convinced you that Charlottetown deserves a spot on your list of delicious destinations? With an abundance of local flavours, unforgettable experiences and stories waiting to be discovered, this charming capital city offers a true taste of Prince Edward Island.
From iconic Island classics to innovative culinary experiences, there’s always something new to savour. Head to Discover Charlottetown to start planning your tasty getaway today!
