Our Story
Previously located on Dresden Row, Black Sheep was a humble hole-in-the-wall and exclusively word-of-mouth. Opening our doors in 2015, the focus was food and the goal was simple: to serve awesome and inspired dishes in a non-pretentious environment. As word began to spread, Black Sheep on Dresden quickly became known for doing things a little differently, line ups around the block and its friendly, personable staff.
During our time on Dresden, Black Sheep gained recognition for its cocktail program, competing in local events like Made With Love, Imbibe and Speed Rack, and our menu was recognized in local publications such as Curated Magazine and The Coast. Creative cocktails, elevated meals and exceptional service brought in locals and out-of-towners alike. Guests became regulars, who became friends, who sometimes even became a part of our team!
Our new location offers three times the space for guests to enjoy the same quality service and exceptional fare. Our mission remains to make awesome food and drink from scratch using quality, locally sourced ingredients. Our menu is globally inspired, yet approachable and our new, harbour adjacent home has influenced a focus on fresh, East Coast seafood.
Web design and artwork by Rebecca Hergett
Photography by Andrew Donovan & Crissie Brenton and Jessica Emin
Our Team
John House – Owner
John hails from Newfoundland and journeyed to Edmonton at 18 to start his culinary career, continuing his training in PEI and eventually settling in Halifax in 2011. After roughly 5 years as a Chef for GIO Restaurant, he decided to create his own business and cooked up the idea for Black Sheep.
Brett – Chef
Growing up in Tatamagouche, Brett’s family spent much of their time in the kitchen and garden, setting the stage for a life-long passion for food. While studying Culinary Arts at NSCC Akerley, Brett completed his co-op at Grandview Golf & Country Club, and continued his work there afterwards, sparking a love of professional kitchens. Brett spent the next 8 years working his way up at the Prince George Hotel, eventually overseeing Gio’s lunch and dinner services. During this time, Brett worked with our owner, John House for over a year before John left Gio to found Black Sheep. Brett’s favorite cuisines are French, Mediterranean and Asian, and in his down time he enjoys movies, trivia, history and learning new languages.
Lola – Front of House Manager
Lorinda (Lola) began her career in hospitality in Toronto more than 30 years ago. Originally from New Brunswick, a move to Halifax in 1999 was a welcome return to the Maritimes. Lola joined the Black Sheep family in 2020, aiding in our transition from Dresden Row. When not in the restaurant, you might find Lola in her garden, taking drawing classes or just chilling with her furry friends.
Morgan – Assistant Front of House Manager
Coming to Nova Scotia in 2019 from Ontario, Morgan joined the Black Sheep family as a server when the new location opened on Lower Water. Working in the industry for the past 19 years, in several countries and having an extraordinary passion for food and drink has allowed her to gain a wealth of knowledge and experience, making her transition into a management role quite natural. She’s always excited to share her expertise with anyone who asks!
Darryl – Bar Manager
Darryl brings with him over 20 years experience in the industry. Starting in back of house, Darryl jumped behind the stick 17 years ago and was immediately hooked. He has worked as a General Manager, Bar Manager, and Consultant, tending bars across Ontario before moving to Halifax in 2019. Darryl believes that tending bar is more than just making great cocktails, that a great bartender holds court every night and provides true hospitality to all who grace the bar. He also, to the chagrin of our staff, tells bad jokes.