Victory tastes as sweet as the chocolate at Halifax’s Rousseau Chocolatier. The chocolatier has been recognized with international awards for its confections, but this is their first-ever Taste of Nova Scotia award for “producer of the year.” “We absolutely love what we do and we work really hard to make sure that the products are exceptional,” said Nathalie Rousseau, owner of Rousseau’s Chocolatier. Taste of Nova Scotia held their annual awards in Wolfville, N.S., last week, during the “Devour! The Food Film Fest.” Rousseau said they were proud to be recognized by Taste Nova Scotia, and credits the provincial organization for showcasing the exceptional food and drink industry that operates in the province. The timing of the award gives the team at Rousseau Chocolatier a boost as they head into the busy Christmas season. “We were able to bring most of our team along with us to the award ceremony and really celebrate and honour them at the same time,” said Rousseau. “And that is something that’s really special and something that we’ve never had a chance to do.” From chocolate to cocktails, Dear Friend bar is among this year’s Taste of Nova Scotia award winners. Well-known for its creative cocktails, the Dartmouth hotspot has spent the past few years working to elevate its food menu, and the “Restaurant of the Year” award is recognition of that effort. “It warms our heart that we are getting this recognition,” said Dear Friend owner Jeff Van Horne. “It means a lot to me, because we put our hearts into this everyday. We love this industry, we love Nova Scotia and the industry we are in. It truly feels special to get that recognition.” With these awards come more attention, and it’s hoped, more customers. Five businesses in all were recognized with awards this year, including Benjamin Bridge who won the Gary MacDonald Culinary Ambassador Award. Product of the Year went the Lunenburg Rum Cakes and the Award for Service went to Grape Escapes. For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
