Sugar Moon Farm Restaurant - Earltown

Obviously one of the best times to visit Sugar Moon, an hour or so outside of Halifax, is when the sap runs.

4 of us went for brunch- so good- pancakes, maple bacon and sausage, maple butter and syrup. Lovely gift shop selling all things maple- will return during maple syrup season for the tour

We have gone here twice trying, in vain, to get a pancake. Upon arrival, we put our names on the restaurant waiting list, go for a hike and then check back only to find out the wait will be another hour or 2. By then, we are famished and ready to buy a growler of maple syrup and just pass that around. Meanwhile, inside, the restaurant is half-full. Both times we have left after the hike, hungry and disappointed.So in the end, I have no idea what this restaurant is like, and don't plan to return. The hike is nice enough, although very wet once the snow has melted. And the maple on a stick they sell out front is delicious. Everyone who works here seems friendly. In theory, it should be a great activity but in reality it misses the mark both for visitors and is a massive lost business opportunity. If you go, make sure you have lots of time. And snacks.

The sugar shack experience is one which is more closely tied to Quebec, but Nova Scotia puts on its own version here at Sugar Moon farm. The interior is maybe more rustic than it needs to be, but it adds to the charm of the experience. The menu is also not full of choices, basically giving an option of how you want the pancakes to be served, but the overall experience is great. It is unpretentious and friendly and delivers what it promises.

Well, we were there on a gorgeous fall Saturday morning - not sugaring-off season, but maple was definitely the theme. The decor is classic maple sugar shack, with log walls, bench table seating, and an enormous stone fireplace. Our waitress was cheerful and efficient and took our joshing around well and dished it right back. The breakfast menu was extensive and our party of four made full use of it. They were a little stingy with their delicious maple cream and biscuits - just one each! But we shamelessly mooched more. All our breakfasts were delicious and generous and the coffee was great. We were thoroughly stuffed and suitably fortified to go out and explore the day. I understand they do special events throughout the year and of course they are in high gear during the sugaring season. I would love to go back then. We can highly recommend!