Station House Restaurant - Louisbourg

After reading reviews, we knew what to expect. We had breakfast here because it was the only place open. Basic menu. Reasonably priced ,not greasy) breakfast and decent coffee. It's a bit like having a visit with a somewhat cranky aunt and uncle. Very informal; customers all tend to get involved in one big conversation. This is very Cape Breton and could be off-putting it you're not used to it. The Cape Breton sense of humour is unique, too, often involving good-natured put-downs, which can be misinterpreted. Louisbourg is a small town and the people retain their sense of community.

The only other place offering lunch when we were leaving the fort was a new place (not even a sign outside) offering only lobster wraps, so we ended up at this place located just off Main Street. Lobster Kettle had been our aim, but it was just sold to a new owner and not open. A true 'mom pop ' place with an old couple doing everything there. My wife had the seafood chowder (mostly fish, but not from a can) and a grilled cheese. I had a hot turkey sandwich (real turkey, not deli slices) with fries. Overall, an 'ok ' lunch, but almost $30 total.

We were on cruise and rented car for the day to visit Fort Louisbourg and country. This small community was celebrating annual Lobster and Crab gathering and Tall ships at dock. The town was overrun by enthusiastic visitors. Restaurants were very busy. We looked for small local restaurant and found Station House on Harbour Front Cres. It was vary old and in need of a good washing and cleaning. The owners were very elderly and had their hearts in the business but it seemed too much for them. Client traffic too much. We found a table, removed dishes and sat down. Service was slow. When faced with overall situation, we ordered small meal and hoped it would be ok. Too many items on menue for them. Just go for basics. An experience and we would not venture there again.

I woke up super early to enjoy the sunrise by the Louisbourg's lighthouse and decided to have breakfast in a local place. Station House is totally local, old vintage style. Today there were lots of customers at once and it was a bit messy. Had all my time and got the chance to discuss with a local old lady. Met her nephew, a very well known figure from Louisbourg making business in the fishery field... and finally had breakfast. Was delighted by the experience and at the end I didn't really care about the black tea I got. That's also this, traveling and letting great people making your meal more enjoyable and once in a life memory. And for the entire story, I got the surprise that my breakfast was offered by the nephew. Thanks Kathleen and Jimmie Dale.

The restaurant was a classic diner. I visited during the off-season and was the only customer that evening. However, I enjoyed chatting with the staff and a couple of locals who were just relaxing there. The highlight of my visit was their helpful local recommendations, which led me to the Playhouse and one of the best performances I've ever seen.