Smile's Seafood Cafe Ltd - Prince Rupert, British Columbia

Steven R.

Located just a half a block off the cruise pier this is a small, been around a while establishment. I would call it rustic with plenty of local photographs on the walls and other memorabilia. I wish I could give the food a higher rating but shrimp and scallops are breaded and right out of the freezer into the fryer. I would expect with the availability of fresh fish that it wouldn’t be frozen deep-fried. However, the Boston clam chowder was outstanding rich and flavorful with plenty of clam. The owner, waitress, bus person, cashier was friendly, and truly hustle to get everybody taken care of. Although I didn’t have one, I saw that the hamburgers looked to be pretty good size.
I would say if you’re wandering around the docks of Prince Rupert if you give it a try, just know what you’re ordering.

Shelly B.

Very small restaurant and it was packed. We got lucky and were seated right away. But there was only 1 waitress so took quite a while for service. Staff were friendly, though. We received our food quickly, especially with it being so busy. The food was decent, just a little under seasoned across the board. We had fish, puteen, and hamburger steak. Good bar/beer selection which we were surprised by.

KS B.

This place has been around forever. And then some. When you walk inside, it’s like a time capsule. I would bet the fish and chips have been made the same way since this place opened.. It’s not a tourist trap. The locals eat here. The food is good. Chances are you know the guy sitting on the side of the restaurant. If you have a chance to go try. It’s worth it.
Fish and chips the way it should be .

Stephen W.

The fish and chips were the best I had in Rupert. The batter was crispy and I'd definitely come back.

The service was top notch too. The lady and her helper literally ran to clear a table and served up a great meal in short order.

Top notch all around with a great atmosphere.

Regan G.

I recently dined at this incredible seafood restaurant, and I was blown away by the experience! The service was prompt and attentive, with staff who genuinely seemed passionate about their craft. The food was the star of the show—perfectly cooked fish, delicate shrimp, and a crab dish to die for. Each plate was beautifully presented and packed with flavor. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, with a nautical theme that creates a warm, relaxed atmosphere. Definitely a must-visit for seafood lovers!

Lang ?. ?.

Interesting little place very quaint food is very good and lovingly prepared, larger portions and better quality than their competitors, service was a little abrupt but I believe this was more due to English skills than rudeness, it was still attentive and swift and obviously with the purpose of my comfort and enjoyment of my meal. The place is family owned and not a huge corporate chain so I’m happy to patronize places like this that are the true fabric of the community, I love the dedication to local history displayed by the numerous photographs displayed throughout the restaurant it results in a very warm comfortable atmosphere that adds to the dining experience, the numerous customers all seem to truly enjoy their experience and I could help but to enjoy the positive energy generated by this place. One of the most pleasant dining experiences I’ve had in this region.

Barendina S.

Whenever I make a trip home, I always stop here for lunch. Born & raised in Rupert first 22 years of & there's just something about Smiles that brings me back for a toasted shrimp sandwich.

They don't make them like they used to, that's for sure, but they're still good.

Considered getting Monte Cristo Sandwich because that's my favorite sandwich on the planet, but Smiles does not prepare with turkey. That's the only thing I'd suggest they add to this sandwich & offer options for sourdough bread 🙂

Love, L. A. L.

I found the place overhyped.The only reason to go there was that we wanted to sit in the patio as we had a puppy with us.I wanted to have medicine before food so I literally requested water bottle more than 3 times to a server.Twice i went inside to remind them we are sitting outside and ready to order.
We ordered couple of items and also ordered a black coffee and a cappuccino.I told the female server 3 times for sugar still didn’t get it.There was no sugar in my coffee.
Service very poor and slow. The restaurant had tables inside but if there is a customer table outside it should not be neglected.We had kids and puppy so we expected the prompt service from this restaurant.
The fish and chips were average and the fries were not crisp at all.
The portion size of sweet and spicy prawns was very small.
I have had much better chowder in Vancouver and Seattle so there was nothing special about it.Too runny no creaminess.
I think this place is pretty old and have a food legacy but need to upgrade its service standards.