Taralli

There are many versions of these crisp Italian pretzels. Large, boiled and baked, egg-enriched ones like these are great snacks to tear into pieces and have with a cold beer or glass of wine. Bake them directly on oven racks to get an all-over crunchy crust.

Welsh Rarebit with Smoked Ham & Pickled Onion

The Welsh rarebit is a dish originating from Wales. Traditionally, it consists of a piece of toast covered with a melted concoction of cheese, beer and seasonings, which is then broiled. Here, we’ve added ham and pickled onion. You can replace the homemade pickled onion with store-bought pickled onions or chopped pickles.

Team Sandwich

Jamie Hodgson, art director of The Hockey News, says this half-metre-long sandwich, pretzels and beer make a hat-trick combination. Assemble the sandwich ahead, then put it in the oven when guests arrive. Serve on a cutting board with a serrated knife for guests to cut off according to their appetites.

Fish Cakes With Lemon Mayonnaise

The atmosphere at The Economy Shoe Shop on Argyle Street in Halifax is über-fun and laid-back. They serve these home-style cakes as an appetizer, but they're substantial enough for a main course, especially when accompanied by a green salad and a fantastic local beer such as Propeller Bitter Ale.

Rich, Hearty Vegetarian Chocolate Stout Chili

I chose this dish because it is so rich and satisfying, that even the biggest meat-eaters wouldn't miss the meat. It's hard to find a good vegetarian Chili Recipe, and I believe this is the best out there. It focuses on complex flavors and it screams "Canadian". A big bowl of chili is the ultimate comfort food. I serve this will a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream on top, and a sprig of fresh cilantro. And of course with one of my Honey Buttermilk Beer Buns (recipe follows) on the side. This is hands-down the best vegetarian chili out there!

Grainy Mustard-Glazed Ham

Stout Pecan Pie

Green Onion Crêpes

Best Fried Potatoes and Onions

Frying onions in the oil before adding the potatoes adds subtle flavour to the fries. Plus, the onions become meltingly tender inside, with crisp edges and a wicked sweetness. Oil-blanch the potatoes in very small batches; the moisture in them makes the oil really bubble, which could cause it to overflow.

Baked Beans

The baked beans at the shore lunch was a dish I always looked forward to. Dipping fresh-cut fried potatoes in beans is certainly better than ketchup!