Chef Luis Gaspar and partner Victoria Dunham Gaspar are longtime veterans of Halifax’s dining scene. And when they decided to embark on a project all their own, they saw a glaring omission in the city’s dining scene. Specializing in Portuguese cuisine, with rich, filling and full-flavoured dishes. Pipa is the only restaurant of its type in Halifax, specializing in Old World and Brazilian dishes such as Moqueca (fish stew) and Feijoada (a stew of meats and black beans). Seafood dishes abound, including fresh grilled sardines. Located in the heart of the city and dramatically renovated to showcase its soaring atrium, this eye-catching and friendly restaurant has become a favourite of the downtown lunch crowd. For visitors to the city, it’s an unexpected taste of something truly different. 1685 Argyle St., Halifax, 902-407-7472. www.piparestaurant.ca