Blue Mussel Cafe

Beautiful setting with a stunning sunset and friendly service, our waitress, Ella, was especially kind and attentive. However, the food felt overpriced for what was offered. The lobster dish was flavourful and nicely presented, and while the market price for lobster is understandable, the portion of sides (vegetables and potatoes) was quite small for a $60 plate. Dessert was also enjoyable but noticeably overpriced for its size. A lovely place to enjoy the view and atmosphere, but the value for money, especially regarding sides and desserts, could be improved.

Overall we had a pretty good meal and dining experience. The highlight was the service. The food overall was good but didn't quite live up to all the high ratings we had looked at. There were 12 of us total and everyone enjoyed it but no one thought their dish really met expectations. The pork I would avoid, it was overcooked and bland. The mashed potatoes were fantastic! The drinks were a hit with everyone. McMurphy's Summertime Drink was great, as were all of the House Radlera.

First, the conclusion: this is a place with food that tastes decent, but with a markup so high that it feels unacceptable. Starting with the positives: there were plenty of servers, they were friendly, and the service was fairly efficient with nothing to complain about. The décor showed some effort, but it’s undeniable that the overall dining environment was poor. There was no air conditioning indoors, only a few fans, and the tables were quite crowded. These things alone wouldn’t make me give just 2 stars. The real issue was the flies and bees flying around the food on the tables, constantly circling and trying to land on it. You have to keep waving your hands to shoo them away. This was really unpleasant, especially the flies. And it wasn’t just at my table—the whole restaurant had this problem. We ordered the seafood chowder, halibut, mussels, and oysters. To be fair, the seasoning of the food wasn’t bad. The mussels were flavored with garlic and rosemary, which worked well to mask the fishy taste. The oyster sauce paired nicely, and although the halibut was a bit under-seasoned, it was still acceptable. However, the quality of the ingredients was extremely disappointing, especially considering the price. The oysters in the picture cost $40 for a dozen. They were tiny—about 5 cm long—with barely any meat inside. You could easily scoop it out with a coffee stirrer spoon. They were reasonably fresh, but some had sand in them. The mussels were $19, also very small, with meat that was almost nonexistent. These oysters and mussels were among the worst quality I’ve had in Canada. For a place that’s supposed to be at the source of fresh oysters, the price-to-quality ratio was unacceptable. As for the mussels, frankly, the PEI mussels I’ve bought at Costco in Toronto were far better than these. The halibut itself was of passable quality, but the seasoning was weak, and at $43, I don’t think it was worth it.

We enjoyed an awesome lunch here. Reserving your spot on the online waiting list is strongly advised so you’re not waiting for long. The lobster dip was perfection! The haddock and bubbly seafood bake were also divine! Great servers were very friendly and efficient. Definitely recommend this spot for a great seafood meal!!

Dreams Fulfilled. From the freshest oysters (New London Bay) and seafood to the tastiest lobster rolls we savored every plate. The rustic setting combined with hand crafted plates and serving dishes made our afternoon meal exceed our already high expectations. Our server, Ella, was knowledgeable and made our experience very memorable. Do not miss this wonderful restaurant.

The Blue Mussel Cafe was so awesome we came back for a second night! We had the mussels, which were buttery and flavourful. Oysters were fresh and fantastic. The chef prepared 3 large halibut that came in fresh in the morning. Very well seasoned, done medium, and very moist. Served with fresh local potatoes and carrots. I had it again the second night! Parking was a gong show, but they are moving to a new location next season, which should help. Be sure to get on the wait list ahead of when you want to be seated (online).

Best restaurant in PEI during my short trip. Excellent food, great service (a little slow), and an amazing location. It’s on the pricier side but the food was fantastic. Highly recommend the mussels, seared halibut, chowder, and halibut tacos. Restaurant fills up extremely fast so avoid busy times or go at opening. Wait times can reach 2+ hours!!

I can’t say more about the seafood chowder! It’s amazing and a MUST if you dine here. It was the best I had 10yrs ago and even BETTER this year! And don’t get me started on their dessert Pecan Tart!! Try it!

Best chowder ever! Good service and good food. Was busy for lunch. Everything was just right and we will be back.

Quite possibly the best lobster I have ever eaten in my life! The waiters are all super friendly here and the vibe is just perfect with the lighting. I had a glass of white wine with the Lobster Thermidor, and I enjoyed every single bite! This meal was definitely the highlight of my trip to Prince Edward Island - a good tip is to get on the waitlist through Yelp before heading over, as it can be pretty crowded.

Dined here after golfing in the area. Great service! They were able to accommodate a large group. Delicious cocktails to start. Food was fresh and flavorful. Halibut is a must. Wish I had taken a picture. Nice views and relaxed atmosphere.

One of our top restaurants that we still remember from our trip this year. The weather was dismal and rainy all day, but the restaurant was absolutely charming and lifted our spirits. I loved the decor in the dining area, as it is in a large enclosed patio that is rustic and nautical. The staff are friendly and the food was amazing. After days of eating fried food, we were so grateful to find out that they don't fry their seafood here. Their pan fried haddock is batter but not deep fried, so the amazing flavors of the batter stays on the fish but isn't greasy at all. I also had the Seafood bubbly bake which was so creamy and delicious. We got a pack of their seafood seasoning to bring home so we could extend the 'visit' later. I would definitely come back to eat here again. Reservations highly recommended as they are popular with both locals and tourists alike.

My favourite summer restaurant. A "MUST DO" on PEI ! The halibut is always my go to and is amazing, cooked perfectly with roasted veggies. Staff are super friendly, welcoming and really work as a team. I love the upstairs tables, a little more intimate and quiet.

I can't say enough good things about this experience. From the greeting at the front to the dessert and coffee, everything was terrific. There is a camaraderie among the staff that was obvious. The food was well prepared and the portions were just right. We're big on sharing across the table so we get a taste of everything. The Rustico Bay oysters we delicious and the two sauces were a nice addition. The local mussels were in a perfect broth that begged for a soup spoon! The Bubby Bake was full of perfectly cooked seafood.

Kept coming across this, and, after biking much of the National Park, this was just down the hill, and sounded perfect. It was. Got there around 3p, so between lunch and dinner crowds. Waitress was willing to give advice, always appreciated. Ended up with mussels, classic prep. Delicious, perfectly cooked. It was a generous serving. Halibut was fresh caught that morning, and recommended by the waitress. It was amazing, like eating a perfectly cooked (fish) steak. The salad that came with it was equal to the fish with wonderful colour and a delicious dressing. This meal was a standout!

Scenic views waterfront location , fabulous oysters, delicious mussels and great lobster dip. Service was exceptional and Sam was very attentive. Overall great lunch and will definitely be back if I get to PEI again.

Great food. Large portions. Beautiful atmosphere! Service was exceptional. Recommended to me by a local. They were so right.

Love the food, love the ambience. We come here anytime we are in PEI. The menu has something for everyone, seafood lover or not. Try it. You will love it

Excellent service. Server was very friendly and conversant. There was a little wait involved re: shift change from lunch to dinner menu but we sat in the outdoor bar and had a cocktail while we waited. Very friendly there as well. Looked forward to the experience and were not disappointed. Travelled all the way from Ottawa On and this place was highly recommended!

Food, servers, and ambiance.... We're regulars and it is always great! Highly recommend!

We have been to the Blue Mussel many times and have always been happy with our meals. Tonight the service was great. Lobster dip appetizer was awesome. Mussels had way too Much garlic and the seafood chowder was lukewarm and mostly potatoes. Also the biscuit served with the chowder was stale. My husband had the scallops and they were overcooked. Hopefully this is just an anomaly and things will get back to how I remember them.

We had a big party of 9 without a reservation and did not have to wait too long. The staff were nice and there was an area to order drinks before sitting down at your seat! The food was delicious and the seafood was fresh, would definitely come back again.

Five stars all around - excellent food and service. Best halibut I've ever had, oysters & mussels over the top as well. Best meal while on PEI!

Awesome views, staff are very friendly and welcoming. Food was outstanding. Don't miss this place.

Fresh and oh so tasty seafood in an adorably decorated waterside restaurant. My group ordered oysters, seafood chowder poutine, the classic mussels, lobster roll, tuna, and halibut and we devoured everything. I love the focus on local ingredients. Every dish we ordered was seasoned simply but well so the seafood could really shine. Some of the nicest staff as well. Our lunch here was delightful--a bit pricey at $235 including one pint of cider and tip, but worth it for the quality of the food.

Ben at the Anne of green gables bookstore told us to try Blue mussel cafe at North Rustico. Great advice. We sat at the bar in the back. Had a great view of the Harbour. Loved the bartenders. So much fun watching them multi task and put out great cocktails. Wonderful seafood bubbly !!! Perfect afternoon on PEI. Even bought a shirt which we never do.

Rarely do I write reviews. Menu is incorrect. There was no seafood in the seafood chowder with the exception of the 3 mussels on top. Should be called potato soup. My husband's was the same. The salad did not have beets as described. Also, the mussels had no taste, definitely no wine as described. Big disappointment. And prices are exorbitant. Hey, but they are sure getting the business and very nice. Not much else To choose from.

This place is top drawer. Went for a full dinner and drinks on a couples trip to PEI. Insane interior with incredible views. Tons of locals and seemed like a place where everyone knows each other. Seafood bubbly bake was unreal, not too heavy and super fresh. Halibut was knock your socks off good. Mussels were excellent as well. Type of place you go to more than once if you're in PEI for more than 3 days. My partner has coined it a top 3 dining experience ever. Waitlist system is super slick and we were offered to finish our drinks on the patio once our meals were finished. Cant recommend enough.

Received several unsolicited recommendations about this place when we mentioned travelling to PEI so it was the top of the must try list. Walk in or wait list only - put ourselves in wait list and got in less than 20 minutes so don't be deterred. Got raw oysters and mussels to start. Both were 4.5/5 stars. Had the pan fried haddock which was good, not great. Give it 4/5. Wife had the scallops which was good but a little overcooked to be honest. 4/5. Perhaps our expectations for "BMC" were too high. Would go back but don't think this is the best seafood restaurant in PEI as some suggest. Giving it 4/5 stars. The service was really good though and it was a good room with seaside vibe.

Food, service and atmosphere is excellent! I would recommend this restaurant highly. We have been privileged to have had seafood in Europe, Africa and North America and this is one of the best.

We did the wait list thing and walked right in when we got there. We were seated at a picnic table upstairs with open windows at 7:30pm. Cool air blowing in made the food cold pretty fast! I had crusted haddock which was seasoned way too much and too salty. The piece of turnip, asparagus, picked onion and cucumber were all nice contrasts of flavor. Pricing is pretty crazy for what it is. A shack near the water. Party of 5 ate for $380. Way too much. Can not recommend for that reason alone!

I know everyone already knows this place is great. But we visited after enjoying their sister cafe the day before, and were happy to have one of the most memorable seafood diners ever. Our "dont like fish cause it tastes fishy" diner says the Halibut was not only cooked to perfection, but also the best ever..as well as everything else we tried! Wow! Dont miss this stop

Sat at the small bar and got phenomenal service from the bartenders. Had a proprietary beer from PEI brewing specifically for Blue Mussel Cafe. It was delicious, cold, and not very hoppy. Perfect for me. Had the classic mussels cooked in white wine, garlic and lemon, and they were the best mussels I have ever had. So tender and flavorful. Love this place

Amazing food and great island atmosphere! Loved the cozy wool Blankets for use at night!

Amazing service, food, and setting. Waitlist feature allowed us to time the evening easily.

Glad we stopped at Blue Mussel Cafe on our drive around Cavendish for the day. Great spot to grab a nice lunch. Food was excellent and service was great. The patio and main dining offer great views. We got the lobster dip as a starter, lobster roll & mussels for mains. Highly recommend!

When you travel to PEI, I would strongly suggest putting this cafe at the top of your list. Everything was awesome- the atmosphere, the wait staff, and the food. I had the freshest mussels and oysters ever! Out of all the places I dined in PEI, this was by far the best.

Terrible reservation system Was texted our table was ready yet when we checked in we were told 50 more minutes -yet the guy behind us was seated

The crème de la crème of seafood from all the places I sampled during my maritime tour. This is a very cute restaurant about 30 minutes from the Anne of Green Gables museum most tourists visit during their PEI stay. My cousins and I split the seafood chowder poutine (my favorite of everything we had), 2 lobster rolls, and a half dozen oysters (the most underwhelming but is just the nature of oysters in general in my opinion). Everything was fresh, timely, and appropriately portioned. It was also a nice day and the patio seating added the touch of whimsy that made this meal memorable.

Great service. Tried my first lobster roll here. It was fantastic. The rustic fish shanty ambiance was nice to experience.

Fantastic meal!!!! So a couple of things you should know... while they don't take reservations, you can get on the wait list (highly recommended) and start checking long Before you want to eat. Last night when we tired we were 83rd on the list. They rest the list between 3-4 for dinner, so If you are having trouble keep trying. Food is excellent! But not many (any) options for kids who don't eat seafood. Lots of fresh air/ beach walks around the corner. Charcuterie board is is MUST!!!

Consistently delicious with awesome service! Glad they stayed open well into October.

Eat local...so we ordered the oysters and mussels, local Craft Beer. Oysters were the best I've ever eaten and well worth price. Mussels were sweet and delicious too. Service was extraordinary, thank you Ashley. My wife has food allergies and the menu includes allergy keys for EVERY item! Thank you! Great atmosphere, right on the water. We enjoyed everything about this place and hope to revisit before we leave the island.

It's one of the nicest ocean front restaurant on the Island. The service has ALWAYS been excellent. The food is exceptional. We have a Cottage in the area and try and get there at least every couple weeks. It's always busy during the summer months. With no reservations, it's best to use Yelp for posting yourself for a time and the amount of guests on the present day/evening you're going. DON'T be late or the table is gone. Show up 15 minutes before your confirmed time and CHECK in with the Hostess. It's excellent food and atmosphere

Service and food were tremendous! It was the perfect ambiance for our trip! Although we had to wait for quite a while to be seated, we enjoyed walking around outside (with our beeper) until the restaurant was ready for us.

Food is excellent ! Service is good and attentive. We enjoyed our diner and for sure will return for more in future

Food is really good and great quality. However the service is hit or miss. Would still recommend trying it however prepare for a wait

They All Made My Birthday spectacular ....Reservations , not Easy on the Wait List! Once you overcome the List, its Well Worth the Wait! Fun Atmosphere, with Very Attentive Wait Staff , with evidence of Great Team Work. Loved our appetizer cheesy lobster dip then the seafood bubbly bake for dinner. ...Maybe too much cheese with app & dinner? Thanks BM it was Great!

Fantastic all around experience! Great food, Sam was amazing, awesome vibe! Definitely going to come back!

Food was great but expensive and I came from the US. It's basically US prices minus the tip after the exchange. One issue -they have a mudhole on the way to the restaurant that several people stepped on that day and they are prepared with a water can to have you wash your feet after you sink to your ankles. That's great. It ruined a pair of great European sandals: I approached the manager and ask why they don't place a cone to warn people and he said it was a touchy issue with the strip of land .. so he lets people step on it over filling it with some sand. As i was talking to him two other people sank in mud. thought I'll put it here maybe they will actually do something about it.

Excellent waiter, hostess and staff The seafood was fresh and the best I have ever Had We have traveled all over the world, and the chowder was the best I've ever had The mussels were so good and the oysters Were fabulous I even bought a sweatshirt so I could remember My experience We sat outside along the water just before sunset and we had a nice breeze We were comfortable and cozy and made everlasting memories in PEI

This place was awesome! The service was the best I've experienced on PEI, people were attentive and friendly in a relaxed way. There's no kids menu but the chowder with herb biscuits and tacos got rave reviews from my kiddos. I got the linguine with scallops- the fried capers added so much flavor. Go! You won't be disappointed.

Delicious food, excellent service and a great seaside vibe! The online reservation/waitlist system is easy to use. We will be back next summer.

Really cute place. They're only open from May to about October/November. The staff is nice and the place is a really unique style. The oysters are so fresh, as they catch them right behind. The lobster is amazing. Would totally recommend.

This place is full of people and they don't take reservation. We went there at 1:30pm on Wednesday and told the wait is about 40mins (they use yelp waiting system, and you can cancel it anytime), after all it's not so bad because we went to the beach nearby to kill time. We sat down and ordered mussels, chef selection Pasta with scallop and bacon, seafood chowder grill cheese for the kids, and blue mussel lager. Service is excellent, portion is great and lots of seafood considered the price is more expensive than others, but it is quite salty or rich maybe because they put a lot of spice together. 1 star is deducted from there. Steam mussel highly recommend, it's very fresh. View is gorgeous and I love deco inside the restaurant.

The food was absolutely delicious - we enjoyed lobster dip, mussels, lobster thermidor, pan fried haddock, a gorgeous view and excellent service. The food was truly divine.

Amazing food. Great service. Recommend the halibut. Also, use the wait in line app for quick seating when you arrive.