Edmonton, the capital city of Alberta, Canada, is a food lover's dream destination. With its vibrant culinary scene and diverse population, Edmonton offers a wide range of dining experiences that cater to all tastes and budgets. Whether you're in the mood for a fancy night out or a quick bite on-the-go, Edmonton has got you covered. In this blog post, we'll take you on a gastronomic journey through the top 10 best places to eat in Edmonton. From trendy cafes to upscale restaurants, we've scoured the city to bring you the very best of what Edmonton has to offer. So get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover some hidden gems along the way!
Local Food Culture in Edmonton
Edmonton's food culture is a reflection of its diverse population, with a vibrant culinary scene that offers a wide range of cuisines from around the world. From Indian to Vietnamese to Ethiopian, there's no shortage of delicious international food to try in Edmonton.
One of the highlights of Edmonton's food culture is the emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. Many of the top restaurants in Edmonton use ingredients that are sourced from local farms and suppliers, supporting the city's vibrant agricultural community. This farm-to-table approach not only ensures that the food is fresh and flavorful but also helps to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting food over long distances.
In addition to restaurants that focus on locally sourced ingredients, Edmonton is also home to many craft breweries and distilleries. The city's craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, with new breweries opening up all the time. Whether you're a fan of hoppy IPAs or smooth stouts, there's a craft beer for every taste in Edmonton.
If you're looking for a unique dining experience, be sure to check out some of Edmonton's farmers' markets. These markets offer a wide range of fresh produce, meats, and other products from local farmers and producers. Many restaurants in Edmonton have even created menus inspired by the farmers' market offerings, giving diners a chance to sample some truly unique and delicious dishes.
Overall, Edmonton's food culture is a testament to the city's commitment to supporting local businesses and promoting sustainable practices. Whether you're a foodie or just looking for a great meal, there's something for everyone in Edmonton's vibrant culinary scene.
Best Dishes to Try in Edmonton
Edmonton is a foodie's paradise, with a diverse range of restaurants that offer unique and delicious dishes. Whether you're in the mood for fusion cuisine or classic comfort food, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. In this section, we'll explore some of the best dishes to try in Edmonton, from hidden gem restaurants to fine dining experiences and brunch spots.
Hidden Gem Restaurants in Edmonton
Edmonton is home to many hidden gem restaurants that are off the beaten path but offer some of the best food in the city. One such restaurant is Cafe Linnea, which serves up French-inspired cuisine with a Scandinavian twist. Their brunch menu features dishes like smoked salmon tartine and brioche French toast with rhubarb compote. Another hidden gem is RGE RD, which focuses on farm-to-table cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. Their menu changes frequently based on what's in season, but you can always expect creative and delicious dishes like bison carpaccio and elk tartare.
Fine Dining Experiences in Edmonton
For a special occasion or a fancy night out, Edmonton has many fine dining options that offer exquisite dishes and impeccable service. One such restaurant is Corso 32, which serves up modern Italian fare in an intimate setting. Their menu features dishes like ricotta gnocchi with tomato sugo and braised short rib with polenta. Another fine dining option is Sabor Restaurant, which specializes in Portuguese and Spanish cuisine. Their seafood platter is a must-try, featuring fresh oysters, shrimp, clams, and lobster.
Best Brunch Spots in Edmonton
Brunch is a beloved meal in Edmonton, and there are many restaurants that offer delicious brunch dishes and bottomless mimosas. One such spot is OEB Breakfast Co., which serves up creative breakfast poutines like the Gold Digga (potatoes topped with duck fat fried egg, cheese curds, foie gras gravy, and truffle) and classic dishes like eggs benedict. Another popular brunch spot is Canteen, which offers a more casual atmosphere but equally delicious food. Their brunch menu features dishes like avocado toast with poached eggs and smoked salmon and breakfast tacos with chorizo and scrambled eggs.
Budget-Friendly Eats in Edmonton
If you're looking for delicious food in Edmonton that won't break the bank, you're in luck! There are plenty of budget-friendly options to choose from, including food trucks, vegan and vegetarian restaurants, and delivery and takeout options.
Food Trucks in Edmonton
Edmonton's food truck scene is thriving, with a wide variety of options available throughout the city. Whether you're in the mood for gourmet grilled cheese or Korean-style tacos, there's something for everyone.
One popular option is Drift Food Truck, which offers a rotating menu of globally-inspired dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients. Another great choice is Bully Food Truck, which specializes in comfort food classics like poutine and mac and cheese.
Vegan and Vegetarian Options in Edmonton
If you're a vegetarian or vegan, you'll find plenty of delicious options in Edmonton. Many of the city's top restaurants offer plant-based dishes that are just as tasty as their meat-based counterparts.
One standout restaurant is Padmanadi Vegetarian Restaurant, which serves up authentic Indonesian cuisine made entirely without meat or animal products. Another great choice is The Buckingham, which offers a range of vegan burgers and sandwiches that are sure to satisfy.
Food Delivery and Takeout Options in Edmonton
With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many Edmonton restaurants have pivoted to offer delivery and takeout options. This means you can enjoy delicious food from your favorite restaurants without leaving the comfort of your own home.
One popular choice for delivery is LovePizza, which offers a range of creative pizza toppings made with fresh ingredients. Another great option is Remedy Cafe, which serves up delicious Indian cuisine that's perfect for a cozy night in.
No matter what your budget or dietary preferences may be, there are plenty of delicious eats to be found in Edmonton. So why not explore the city's diverse culinary scene and discover your new favorite spot?
Food Festivals and Events in Edmonton
Edmonton is a city that loves to celebrate its food culture, and there's no better way to do that than by attending one of the many food festivals and events held throughout the year. Here are some of the top food festivals and events in Edmonton that you won't want to miss.
Taste of Edmonton
Taste of Edmonton is one of the city's most popular food festivals, and for good reason. Featuring over 50 local restaurants and food trucks, this festival offers visitors the chance to sample delicious food and drinks from some of Edmonton's best chefs and mixologists. From July 22 to August 1, you can indulge in everything from classic Canadian dishes like poutine and butter tarts to international cuisine like sushi and tacos. With live music, cooking demonstrations, and more, Taste of Edmonton is a must-visit event for any food lover.
Edmonton International Street Performers Festival
While not strictly a food festival, the Edmonton International Street Performers Festival is an event that every foodie should check out. This festival features many food vendors that offer delicious eats, from mini donuts to poutine to Thai cuisine. With street performers from all over the world entertaining crowds throughout the day, this festival is a fun-filled celebration of art, culture, and of course, great food.
Edmonton Craft Beer Festival
For beer lovers, the Edmonton Craft Beer Festival is a must-visit event. Featuring over 400 beers from 100 breweries, this festival is a celebration of all things craft beer. Sample local brews or try something new from across Canada and beyond. With live music, games, and plenty of delicious eats to pair with your beer, the Edmonton Craft Beer Festival is a great way to spend a summer weekend.
Whether you're a local or just visiting, these food festivals and events in Edmonton are sure to satisfy your cravings for great eats and good times. So mark your calendars and get ready to indulge in some of the best food and drink that Edmonton has to offer.
Best Coffee Shops and Cafes in Edmonton
Edmonton's Strong Coffee Culture
Edmonton is known for its strong coffee culture, and there are plenty of independent cafes that serve up delicious brews. Whether you're looking for a classic latte or something more adventurous like a pour-over coffee, these cafes take their coffee seriously. Some of the most popular coffee shops in Edmonton include:
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Transcend Coffee: With three locations in Edmonton, Transcend Coffee is a local favorite. They roast their own beans and offer a variety of brewing methods, including pour-over and aeropress.
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Credo Coffee: Located in the heart of downtown Edmonton, Credo Coffee is a cozy spot with a great selection of coffee and tea. They also offer tasty baked goods and sandwiches.
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Lock Stock Coffee: This hip cafe in the Old Strathcona neighborhood is known for its excellent espresso drinks and friendly staff. They also have a small selection of pastries and sandwiches.
Cafes with Outdoor Seating
In the summer months, Edmontonians love to enjoy their coffee outside. Luckily, there are plenty of cafes that offer outdoor seating options. Whether you're looking for a cozy patio or sidewalk seating with great people-watching, these cafes have got you covered:
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Little Brick Cafe & General Store: This charming cafe in the Riverdale neighborhood has a lovely outdoor patio surrounded by greenery. They serve up delicious coffee and baked goods, as well as breakfast and lunch items.
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The Colombian Coffee & Roastery: Located in the trendy Ritchie neighborhood, The Colombian Coffee & Roastery has a spacious patio where you can enjoy your coffee in the sunshine. They also roast their own beans on-site.
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Iconoclast Koffiehuis: This sleek cafe in downtown Edmonton has a small outdoor seating area where you can enjoy your coffee while watching the hustle and bustle of the city. They offer a variety of brewing methods, including pour-over and siphon.
Cafes with Live Music or Entertainment
For a unique coffee experience, check out one of Edmonton's cafes that offer live music or entertainment. These cafes are perfect for a cozy night out or a fun date:
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The Blue Chair Cafe: This cozy cafe in the Old Strathcona neighborhood is known for its live music and spoken word poetry events. They also serve up tasty food and drinks.
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Cha Island Tea Co.: This cute cafe in the Garneau neighborhood offers more than just tea - they also have live music and open mic nights. They also have a great selection of bubble tea and snacks.
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The Grizzlar Coffee & Records: This funky cafe in the Alberta Avenue neighborhood is part coffee shop, part record store. They often host live music events featuring local musicians.
No matter what kind of coffee experience you're looking for, Edmonton has plenty of options to choose from. From cozy cafes with outdoor seating to hip spots with live music, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Edmonton's Food Truck Scene
Edmonton's food truck scene has been gaining popularity in recent years, with new trucks popping up all the time. From Filipino cuisine to gourmet hot dogs, these food trucks offer some of the best eats in the city. Here are some must-try food trucks in Edmonton:
Must-Try Food Trucks in Edmonton
1. Drift Food Truck
Drift Food Truck is known for its delicious and creative sandwiches, such as the "Pork Belly Banh Mi" and the "Beef Brisket Grilled Cheese". They also offer vegetarian options like the "Roasted Mushroom Grilled Cheese".
2. Filistix
Filistix offers Filipino-inspired dishes like the "Adobo Fried Rice" and the "Pork Belly Bao". They also have vegetarian options like the "Tofu Adobo".
3. Sailin' On
Sailin' On is a vegan food truck that offers plant-based versions of classic comfort foods like poutine and burgers. Their "Vegan Poutine" is a fan favorite.
In addition to the regular food truck scene, Edmonton also hosts food truck events throughout the year. These events are a great way to sample a variety of food truck fare.
Food Truck Events in Edmonton
1. What The Truck?!
What The Truck?! is one of Edmonton's most popular food truck events. It features a rotating lineup of food trucks and live music.
2. St. Albert Food Festival
The St. Albert Food Festival is an annual event that features over 30 food trucks from across Alberta. It also includes live entertainment and activities for kids.
For those with dietary restrictions, there are many food trucks in Edmonton that offer vegetarian and vegan options.
Food Trucks with Vegetarian and Vegan Options
1. The Green Onion Cake Man
The Green Onion Cake Man offers vegetarian and vegan versions of their famous green onion cakes. They also have vegetarian options like the "Vegetable Stir Fry".
2. The Local Omnivore
The Local Omnivore offers a variety of meat-based and vegetarian sandwiches. Their "Veggie Reuben" is a popular choice among vegetarians.
3. Calle Mexico
Calle Mexico offers vegetarian and vegan options like the "Vegan Tacos" and the "Vegetarian Quesadilla". They also have meat-based options for non-vegetarians.
Postcard - Edmonton Cityscape in Winter
Winter Cityscape
Edmonton is a beautiful city all year round, but there's something truly magical about the winter cityscape. The snow-covered streets and twinkling lights create a cozy and festive atmosphere that's perfect for exploring. One way to commemorate your trip to Edmonton during the winter months is by taking a postcard-worthy photo of the cityscape.
Whether you're a professional photographer or just snapping some shots on your smartphone, there are plenty of great spots in Edmonton to capture the perfect winter cityscape. Some popular locations include:
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The Alberta Legislature Building: This stunning building is lit up with thousands of lights during the holiday season, making it a must-see spot for any visitor to Edmonton.
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Churchill Square: Located in the heart of downtown, Churchill Square is home to several iconic Edmonton landmarks, including City Hall and the Art Gallery of Alberta.
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The High Level Bridge: This historic bridge offers stunning views of the city skyline, especially when it's covered in snow.
Once you've captured your perfect winter cityscape photo, consider turning it into a postcard to send to friends and family back home. Not only will it serve as a unique souvenir from your trip, but it will also give your loved ones a glimpse into the beauty of Edmonton during the winter months.
Overall, Edmonton's winter cityscape is not to be missed. So bundle up, grab your camera, and explore all that this beautiful city has to offer during the most wonderful time of the year.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Edmonton is a food lover's paradise with an abundance of dining options to suit every taste and budget. The city's diverse culinary scene offers everything from fine dining to street food, and there's always something new and exciting to try. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring the top 10 best places to eat in Edmonton is a must-do experience. So why not plan your next food adventure and discover the hidden gems and popular hotspots that make this city a culinary hotspot? Don't miss out on the chance to indulge in some of the best food in Canada – book your trip to Edmonton today!