Portside Beer Garden

We just reached this place strolling by the boardwalk. To our surprise, this is definitely worth a visit if you are ever in Sydney, Nova Scotia. Of course it is popular amongst the locals of all ages. I loved the ambiance and food. We ordered mussels and sea food pasta, along with drinks. I am certainly going back once again before we leave. Such a lively place, town and people, and breathtaking sunsets to enjoy while taking a stroll on the boardwalk, and enjoying your food at Portside.

The servers are fantastic, but the owner clearly didn't test his equipment before opening which makes things difficult for his staff.As a criticism of the management I would say that training your new staff instead of simply throwing them into the fray would benefit this restaurant. Again, the serving staff were absolutely marvelous, but it was quite clear that management are not giving staff the tools they need (both tech and soft-skills wise) to be the best that they can be.One last time: the staff are doing great in the conditions they are in. This is not a criticism of them.

Great ambiance... live entertainment... friendly servers...

For 69 Candian dollars was not really good. Fish and chips oily and the mussels were tiny. Beer not so cold .At least they have a warm staff

Exquisite. That's one way of defining the whole experience. The food tastes good. Loved the fish. The ambience is really soothing, especially coz it is right next to the beautiful sydney river. Must visit if u r in Sydney.

Love this spot. Great food. Fish and chips are a good size. Often has live music in the afternoon and evening. Even seen staff do a few sets. Everyone friendly. As it's all an outside patio, they are dog friendly. Great option for dinner and an evening stroll along the boardwalk.

I'd go back! My sister and I went for lunch. We both chose fish tacos, mine with ceasar salad, her's with fries. We are kinda spoiled when it comes to fish tacos and prefer the Mexican iteration(that traditionally always come in 3's), but the two fish tacos presented were really nice, battered, crispy, tasty and filling. My ceasar salad was better than average. Sister's fries were like food truck fries, fresh and crispy. We both had Island Folk cider with our meal which was a refreshing accompaniment. Portside is completely outside in the elements but every table has an umbrella and the outside edge has a plexi wall so even though it is open, it's also protected. Beware though, you may want a jacket handy.The service was great, the women on deck that day, were moving quick and keeping focused. The cooks were hopping too. Everyone had great work ethic, helping each other as well as customers. The maritime music playing made it great. They often have live musicians, and I would happily go back to be entertained as well as eat and drink.

Reasonable price, decent food, decent service! Nothing to gloat nor complain about.

Amazing food!! excellent service!! Due to the delay in the food, the manager did not charge the bill, it was a great consideration for my family. I recommend this restaurant to everyone. It is allowed dogs, so it was possible to have a meal with the whole family and with the dog. And I couldn't fail to mention the restaurant has a wonderful view of the sea.

The fish n chips were okay... Except for the piece of raw beef and metal spike from deep fryer mixed amongst the fries, discovered when we got back to hotelCalled up, to let them know; not even an apology, the person on other end seemed to not even care.