Halifax Alehouse, Halifax

The Halifax Alehouse is a lively bar and restaurant housed in a historic brick building on Brunswick Street in downtown Halifax. Nestled at the base of the Halifax Citadel, the structure carries a fascinating past, originally built in 1895 as the Salvation Army’s first permanent temple in the city. Designed by architect Henry Busch, the building is an example of Second Empire architecture with Gothic Revival influences, featuring sturdy multi-wythe load-bearing brick walls.

Before its transformation into a popular nightlife venue, the site was home to the Mackenzie Temperance Reform Club, a group advocating for abstinence from alcohol. The Salvation Army occupied the former club building in 1892 before demolishing it to construct the Citadel temple, which served as its headquarters and central place of worship in Halifax until 1961. After its religious function ended, the building evolved into a commercial space, eventually hosting a bar and restaurant for several decades. In the 1990s, it was known as Jerry’s Pub, and as of December 2019, it was owned by Jehad Khoury Holdings Ltd.

Today, the Halifax Alehouse embraces a traditional Maritime brew pub theme, blending history and hospitality. The bar is renowned for its extensive selection of East Coast beers, boasting 29 on tap. The menu focuses on classic pub fare, with a notable specialty in Belgian mussels. Adding to its vibrant atmosphere, the Alehouse regularly features live music, with a strong emphasis on Celtic-inspired bands. Among the many performers to grace its stage are Satori, The Frequency, Shameless, Ten Mile House, Kapyr, The Persuaders, The Morning After, "The Legendary" Frankie Deuce, Frisky Biscuit, UP, Green with Envy, and Merimac.

With its deep historical roots and energetic nightlife, the Halifax Alehouse is a unique fusion of past and present, making it a staple of Halifax’s social scene.