The 2023 Best Things to Eat or Drink in Edmonton.
Every year we ask people to tell us what was the best thing they ate or drank the year before. This year, more seafood and shellfish and beef. More salribeyeads, fewer cakes, except carrot cake. We love our local charcuterie and noodles and burgers. Pasta is king. We are happy to be back in restaurants but we still love the convenience of snacks. Conclusions? None. It’s messy and weird and we love it. Congratulations to all these beautiful dishes and thank you for nominating your favourites.
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1. Spaghetti with Wild Pink Shrimp, Uccellino
With its casual yet refined vibe, the just-the-right-amount-of-attention service and the consistently delicious food, Uccellino makes it look all so simple. But, we know simple isn’t easy. The care and attention behind the scenes, vital to the polished experience that diners enjoy meal after meal, is why Uccellino tops the list this year. Nominators had a hard time choosing between their favourite dishes. “House-made goat ricotta. It’s the best thing to eat in Edmonton, nobody comes close,” Daniel S. “Endive, pear and roasted almond salad. I could happily nominate everything on the outstanding Uccellino menu, but this creative and tasty salad deserves a special mention,” David P. Also nominated: Icelandic cod, plump, silky, satisfying. The spaghetti with wild pink shrimp and bottarga? Tastes like the sea itself.
2. Smashed Cucumber Salad, Biera
Chef Christine Sandford continues to create robust and inventive dishes from what some could say are mundane, everyday ingredients. Like cucumber. “Smashed cucumber salad,” Janice H. “Stunning. Among the best dishes I’ve had, hands down.” “Biera chefs transformed the mild flavour of cucumber into this deeply umami-rich yet refreshing cucumber salad with XO sauce and chili oil.” “The steelhead trout carpaccio is well-balanced and highlights locally-grown young ginger—fresh and delightful,” Paige A. Also nominated: BC striped prawn crudo, the beef tartare.
3. Road Trip, RGE RD
RGE Rd offers a sublime dining experience probably best illustrated by the Road Trip tasting menu. Nominators love the inventiveness, the seasonality and the originality of putting themselves in the chef’s hands for the night. Also nominated, the bison and the pumpkin salad from the winter menu. Then there is the hunting lodge meets Wes Anderson vibe and the well-chosen wine list. Exec chef/co-owner Blair Lebsack, his wife Caitlin Fulton and their team interprete Alberta cuisine at a deliciously high level and patrons respond with a full house. Best kept secret: slide into one of the bar seats for a quick appetizer and glass of wine on a weekend night before the movie.
4. Kale and Kohlrabi Salad, Bündok
Nominators love the hand-made food at Bündok, the compact restaurant downtown on 104 Street, particularly the Parisienne gnocchi, the grilled striploin with black garlic butter and, especially, the kale and kohlrabi salad with its toothsome vinaigrette and crunch of puffed wild rice. As well, “the charred broccoli and chicken skin snacks are my go-to,” Shauna F. The modern French bistro cooking of chef Ryan Hotchkiss is delicious, day in and day out.
5. Focaccia, Bar Bricco
Nominators found it hard to pick only one delicious thing from the Bar Bricco menu of impeccable meats, cheeses and spuntini, aka the best bar snacks in town. Prosciutto and potato chips, the mortadella and pistachio, the OG egg yolk ravioli, the various crostini and, of course, the focaccia, which our friend Amanda calls birthday cake. “Giant chunks of crispy saltiness on the outside and chewy warm deliciousness on the inside,” Angie R.
6. Sablefish, Hayloft Steak + Fish
A casual west-end room that is completely serious about its beef, sourced from Sturgeon Valley’s Jeff Nonay, then dry-aged to perfection. The fish, particularly the sablefish, was the top dish nominated, the type and preparation depending on the season. Leave room for Basque cheesecake (yes, it’s supposed to have a burnt top) and the chocolatey peanut crunch cake. “Always such great service,” says Vicky S. “They are so generous to the community. The fries are awesome, the ice cream sandwich to die for, and my absolute fave, the Brussels sprouts!”
7. Entrecôte Frites, The Marc
This is the resto everybody wants to call their neighbourhood joint. Whether it’s for frites and a glass of Champagne at the bar on a Wednesday night, dinner with family and friends or the Sunday Supper dining experience, diners rely on the Marc for consistently well-prepared French bistro classics. Nominated: mushrooms on toast, French onion soup, the daily fish, the unctuous short ribs (pictured). “The French onion soup is the ultimate comfort food on a cold winter evening—perfectly cheesy, gooey and full of flavour. Delicious! I dream of it,” Amy D. “The entrecôte frites is the best, hands down—hot, crispy, salty fries, simple salad and the generous ribeye cooked to perfection. It never disappoints.” Lori R.
8. Bacalhau, Sabor
Was it the extravagant lobster risotto? Or the braised pork cheeks? The Ocean Wise fish choices? Yes. But what nominators really love is the bacalhau frito, a heritage dish for chef Lino Oliveira. Sabor’s warm hospitality, award-winning wine list and menu featuring the flavours of the Iberian Peninsula continues to win over diners year after year.
9. Fili Beef Bowl, Filistix
The Fili Beef bowl (formerly known as the Thai basil beef bowl) was tops for nominators. “A hearty, tasty, generously portioned meal! Always perfectly seasoned beef and rice, with the best slaw (seriously, what is in that dressing, it is pure magic) and a splash of chili oil to add that perfect kick,” Sanjula K. Also, the South Pacific coconut chicken (pictured). “It is delicious every single time,” Trina C. We love Filistix for its full-throttle approach and the attention paid to the flavours and textures of their Filipino heritage.
10. Tandoori Lamb, Monsoon
The tandoori lamb chops are a big hit at this contemporary south-side restaurant. “Very flavourful dish, best ever,” Sat S. Also nominated was the smoked butter chicken with its “unique smoky flavours in a rich creamy spicy tomato sauce,” Jaseep H. And the decadently rich daal tadka and the Singh is King cocktail. Catch one of Monsoon’s wonderful wine dinners, a delightful collision of east and west.
11. Chocolate Mousse, Dalla Tavola Zenari
“I could talk about the wonderful atmosphere, staff, cocktails, wine menu, mains, et cetera, at Dalla Tavola Zenari—but let’s talk mousse. It’s definitely for chocolate lovers. But what makes it really special is the aquafaba (chickpea water, or vegan egg white). To have an egg-free, gluten-free dessert that is truly satisfying is rare. And to have it crafted in Edmonton by a local restaurant that strives to make accessible comfort food, where you don’t even feel embarrassed about ordering the same dessert every single time you’re there because it’s that good?” Rachel S. Jessica M says the muffaletta (pictured) is “hands down one of the best sandwiches in Edmonton. And there were nominations for the cipolle and the pate di noci, the walnut spread which is a dead ringer for chicken liver pâté.
12. Smørrebrød, Three Vikings
Fan favourites at this friendly pub are the frikadeller, the Norseman burger and those adorable open-faced sandwiches (smørrebrød). About the frikadeller (patties, gravy and potatoes) Shane N. says, “this dish feels like a warm hug from your Mom, with the most savoury gravy.” But it’s not all Scandinavian classics. “I nominate the chicken tartelette with kale caesar. The food is consistently excellent; the beer selection acceptable indeed; and the servers are exceptional. My favorite place to meet friends for lunch,” Lance B.
13. Braised Lamb Shanks, Glass Monkey
The braised lamb shanks, halibut, Salt Spring Island mussels and the house-made pappardelle with braised pork and wild mushrooms topped the raft of nominations for this easy-going Lendrum-area eatery. “The Glass Monkey knows how to prepare anything seafood. It is always done to perfection,” Denise B.
“A local gem.” Wonderful staff and service,” Cameron K. And for dessert? “Bread pudding, Fantastic dessert. Especially with a Taylor 20,” John A.
14. Piri Piri Shrimp, Bodega Tapas & Wine Bar
The Sabor folks have grown Bodega into a neighbourhood phenom with six locations (including Sherwood Park, St. Albert and, opening soon, Ellerslie) with a fun and tasty tapas menu. Highlights according to nominators are the piri piri shrimp, sardines and the braised bison cheeks. As well, the quince jelly-glazed bacon wrapped dates and patatas bravas.
15. Tagliatelle, Impasto Lab
The nominations poured in for the mortadella crostini and various tagliatelle. “Cocoa tagliatelle with rabbit ragu,” Jon C. “It’s creative yet simple, delicious and all the ingredients are locally sourced.” “Fatta a mano al ragu Bolognese (pictured). Best Bolognese in the city, you can taste the love in this dish,” Sherwood S. Chef Rosario Caputo closed his restaurant Cibo during the pandemic. Now he explores all permutations of fresh pasta and bread and hosts private dinners.
16. Arctic Char, Café Bicyclette
The arctic char in a maple black garlic sauce was the top dish, according to nominators. You would expect a resto in the French quarter to be nominated for their tarte au sucre and poutine. But a burger? Yes. And the bacon and eggs? Yes. And the brownie? Yes! About that burger. “It is what every backyard barbecue burger wishes it could be,” Odin N.
17. Sushi and Sashimi, Kobachi
The tiny perfect Japanese restro in Sherwood Park consistently delivers beautiful sushi and sashimi. Seasonal items such as king salmon and BC side striped prawns as well as tuna nigiri, duck udon topped the nominations as did the chirashi bowls and chicken katsu. “It is the only place in all of northern Alberta that serves sushi and fish that makes you feel like you are in Vancouver. Unbelievable service and experience,” Scott. G. “Kobachi is authentic and welcoming, truly a hidden gem,” Gwendolyn H.
18. Tuna Twist, Nineteen
Along with the now legendary tuna twist, nominators love the KFC (Korean fried cauliflower) and the lobster ravioli. “Like all of their dishes, the ravioli is flavourful, well-executed and made with quality ingredients,” Maria B. There are also many fans of exec chef Andrew Fung’s special events, such as Peking Duck Night.
19. Popowich Meat Company
Nominators raved about the Maui ribs, (“you don’t need to go to Hawaii to get a taste of the islands, it’s in your own back yard,” Neil C.), the sausages, (“I love Doritos. I love jalapeño. That Popowich is able to combine these flavours in a delicious pork sausage is mind blowing,” Chris H.), pork chops (“they are nice and thick and juicy and tender! Super on the barbecue or in air fryer!” Brian G.) and steaks (“beef tenderloin, best in YEG,” Carol F.). “Great staff, great selection and great location. One of my few weekly errands where I leave with a smile every time,” Jim R. “The quality and service are second to none when it comes to purchasing high quality proteins in Edmonton.”
20. Apple Turnover, Awn Café
The apple turnovers and the cinnamon buns were neck and neck with nominators. “The homemade puff pastry, made with the best quality butter, is truly outstanding, and with the apple filling, it’s flaky, buttery, apple-y deliciousness,” Johanna W. “They make the best cinnamon buns in the city and they support local farmers and producers,” Kathy H. The sausage (and lentil) rolls also saw lots of love.
21. Mini Beef Dip, Partake
The croque ‘mon’ soubise is still top with nominators but they love the mini beef dip at least as much. “Every single item on Partake’s menu is perfect, but the mini beef dip will transport you to another dimension. The meat itself falls apart like butter. The buns are pillowy nuggets of joy. I would like a dump truck of the Gruyère. Given the opportunity, I would drink the jus,” Keltie Y. Another winner? Sunday Sip n’ Snacks. “Such an amazing deal to try high-quality unique dishes,” Michelle D.
22. Smoked Duck Breast, Meuwly’s
“I love how Meuwly’s creates new products for us to enjoy. This smoked duck breast is a star,” Vanessa B. Nominators also love the monthly subscription service called Charcuterie Club, and the holidays hams. Can’t beat that.
23. Honey Fried Chicken Sandwich, Central Social Hall
The energetic downtown and St. Albert spots are lauded for the hearty Ronald burger. This year nominators are giving the honey-fried chicken sandwich some love too. “It’s crispy, crunchy, sweet and savoury— all the things I look for in a chicken sandwich. The pickles are made in house and are so yummy,” SJ. “They are so underrated when it comes to the food and prices. They have the best wings in town; not sure if wings would ever grace the Top 100 though, haha!” Blair J. Thirsty? “Central Social Hall’s botanical cocktails are almost too pretty to drink,” Martha T.
24. Prahok Ktiss, Pho or Kuy Teav
This modest north-end spot serving Vietnamese and Cambodian dishes hit the list last year with the super savoury Super Satay #24. This year nominators also love the lemongrass beef and the prahok ktiss. “This is the best! Made from scratch, love the lemongrass. Served with fresh-cut vegetables, cabbage, cucumbers, carrots and you scoop the goodness with minced meat. Also, it’s gluten free!” Mike G. “The lemongrass beef sticks served with chrouk (chili paste). The combination of flavors is just perfect. You get a bit of spice, sweetness and tanginess when you combine the pickled veggies with the beef,” Julie S. “Anyone who enjoys Asian cuisine should give it a try, it’s the perfect place to eat Vietnamese or Cambodian food,” Kevin T.
25. Smash Burger, Ribeye Butcher Shop
This new St. Albert butcher shop, which opened in November, has made waves already with their offerings, including the made-to-order smash burger. “The dry-aged steak melted in my mouth. My nine-year old (who might be the pickiest eater I know) asked me the next day if we can make the steak we had for dinner last night again,” Trevor Y. “The best burger! The quality of the meat was next level and customized with the toppings I love. I got to eat it in-store with an order of dirty fries and a cold beer while the staff prepared my dinner roast—delish!” Sara D. “Great selection of deli meats and cool sauces and a fresh and juicy smash burger and so cool to find it tucked in the back of a real butcher shop.” Mike W.
26. BLT, Lock Stock Coffee
The cosy spot reinvented the coffee scene downtown, leading the way for the return of the independents. Not only is the coffee consistently on point, the menu is delicious; think classic breakfast items with a twist. Nominators love the kouign-amann (layered Breton pastry), the savoury scone, the ham and cheese tartine and the BLT (tomato jam, white cheddar, arugula and lemony mayo on an English muffin or focaccia, pictured, or on a biscuit on weekends). “It’s incredible, the best of sweet and savoury. An absolute must-have, best breakfast sandwich in the city,” Becca W.
27. Charcuterie Boards, Art of Charcuterie
Art of Charcuterie’s boards, boxes and tables are works of art with numerous fans. “The highest quality local ingredients and the love and creativity that go into the charcuterie presentations, not to mention the diversity of ingredients; an utter delight for the eyes and palate,” Leanne H. “The Duo Box is gorgeous and delicious—fantastic option for date night,” Tamarah W. “Better yet, hire Diana to create a grazing table in your home. It’s a work of art, made with her particular kind of rare, warm, magic,” Marina M. “Outstanding artistic creations!” Maria W.
28. Crazy Rich Rice Noodles, Fu’s Repair Shop
Fu’s has cheeky fun with our idea of the Chinese restaurant. The crazy rich rice noodles (Singaporean-style curried rice noodles with chili oil, tofu and veg) are no exception and a big hit with Fu’s regulars. “The name alone! Chef Winnie Chen has created another delightfully modern take on standard Chinese menu fare. I appreciate anyone making tofu come to life…this dish does it three ways,” Elizabeth D. And don’t miss the Viet Coffee Negroni with all-day dim sum.
29. Currywurst, Otto
Otto’s fan love the sausages and the easy-going vibe of this unassuming storefront in Norwood. Nominators love the veggie meatballs with curry tomato sauce, the currywurst, the feature dog and the fish and chips. Excellent local beer selection too.
30. Sausage Roll, The Butchery
Along with outstanding dry-aged cuts source from local ranches, The Butchery offers several prepared items to-go, such as daily soup and salads and their hearty sausage rolls. “I nominate the sausage roll from The Butchery by Rge Rd. I could easily eat four of these in a row,” Sandi H. Warm or cold, with a dab of mustard and a little salad you have lunch.
31. Three Berry Beef Brisket Sandwich, Pei Pei Chei Ow
“This sandwich couldn’t be any more perfect. There’s a crunchy baguette which holds tender beef brisket, marinated in Scott’s signature three berry barbecue sauce (made in house), topped with sweet sautéed onions, and a dash more of sauce. This is a big sandwich, the kind where you eat half and say you’re gonna eat the rest at home. But then you pull over into a parking lot, so you can eat the rest of the sandwich.” “Nish klik (pork cutlet sandwich) and Cree coffee. This business is owned by a great couple who put Indigenous food education and sovereignty at the forefront. Their food is delicious and crafted from love and family history,” Kylie C. “Big Bannock Loaf. Stopped in for a bag of hot breakfast items and made an impulse purchase of a large round loaf of bannock. Toothsome and crusty, it was a crowd pleaser,” Thea W. Check out this cute café tucked away in the Whiskeyjack Art House or take a class with chef Scott Iserhoff.
32. Lemony Buttermilk Pancakes, Rosewood Foods
The chicken katsu and the chocolate chip cookie have a lot of fans. The lemony buttermilk pancakes have worshippers. “There’s a lot of uncertainty in life, but the lemony buttermilk pancakes at Rosewood Foods helps keep worry at bay one plate at a time. The pancakes, with Gosford Farm maple syrup, have just a hint of lemon that hits like the first time, every time. Count on it,” Andrew M.
33. Crispy Colonel, Woodshed Burgers
Nominators rave about all the Woodshed burgers (Juicy Lucy and the Woodshed for sure, such great beef) but the chicken burger? Oh yeah. It topped the noms this year. “Large juicy locally-sourced chicken, fantastic thick-cut pickles, crispy lettuce and sauce, I would eat it every day if I could.” Jordan R.
34. Pâté de Campagne, La Petite Iza
The country pâté, the steak tartare and the house frites (fried in duck fat) were nominated. “The house fries are hot, extra crispy and served with a delectable aioli. The perfect accompaniment is the country pâté, with astringent pickled veg and crunchy baguette,” Claudia K.
35. Act Burger, The Next Act
“The Act burger has a lightly-toasted fresh brioche bun, very good meat that’s not overcooked and traditional toppings. A little bit of mayonnaise adds to the luxurious mouthfeel. A classic,” Louise M.
36. Lemon Pie, Birdog
The much-nominated lemon pie is Chef’s Tony Lee’s homage to chef Peter Johner’s lemon pizza. (Remember Boccalino and Packrat Louie’s?) The modern interpretation is delicious, just the thing to have with a few cocktails at Birddog’s bar.
37. Baguette Ham Sandwich, Eleanor et Laurent
E&L’s take on the classic French jambon-beurre hits the mark. “Simple but elevated; what a ham sandwich should taste like,” Johhanna W. Also nominated was the country sourdough and baguette, and the excellent chocolate croissant.
38. Little Bird, Chartier
Nominators love Chartier for their bread program, the holidays season tourtière, the brunch eggs benny and their feature burgers highlighting staff members. And for the drink called the Little Bird. “I’m not a coffee drinker and wanted to try something that was unique to Chartier. The server suggested the Little Bird (cucumber, mint, lime juice) and what a great choice it was—refreshing, unique and beautiful,” Charlotte W.
39. Old English Battered Fish & Chips, Catch of the Week
“The perfectly light and crispy batter encases flavourful, tender, flaky cod—served with the right amount of house-made tartar sauce and a fabulous creamy coleslaw. And the chips! Classic homemade fries that are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. These fish and chips (and if we are lucky, a visit with chef Brad Smoliak in the kitchen) and a bottle of sparkling wine is the perfect takeout combo,” Juanita R.
40. Maple Bourbon, Kind Ice Cream
Kind Ice Cream was the first of the indie ice cream shops. And all of a sudden going for ice cream became a thing again. Now there is two (soon to be three) locations, which takes the pressure off the Richie spot where the lineup can stretch around the block. Nominators went crazy for the Maple Bourbon and the Lemon Jammy Strawberry (vegan too!) as well as the Birthday Cake (especially if you are under 10). And yes, there were votes for vanilla.
41. Baguette with Dukkah and Olive Oil, Cavern
Cavern is the place for fine, well-conditioned cheese, but it’s also a terrific place to have snacks and wine. “Of course, the cheese boards (pictured) are amazing, as was the dukkah and olive oil with baguette with a lovely glass of wine,” Cindy G. Cecilia Groblicka, Cavern’s co-owner, says the dish is a classic wine bar snack down under (she is Australian). Their dukkah (a Middle Eastern condiment made with seeds, nuts and herbs) is delightful, with cumin and coriander seeds and toasted pistachio and almond nuts.
42. Pita and Roasted Garlic Hummus, The Happy Camel
The Happy Camel’s hummus is always fresh and tasty. As is the pillowy (Israeli-style) pita. “The pitas are always so fresh with the perfect texture and the roasted garlic hummus is my favorite. Not just for pita but veggies too it’s perfect every time,” Anita A. Also nominated, the dill pickle hummus with its bits of dill pickle, robust pickle flavour and creamy texture.
43. Cured Sammie, Caffé Sole
“The number 1, the Cured Sammie, is a delightful flavour combo. The three different types of salami make each bite different and the bread it’s on is delicious. Lovely owners, great cafe, the best coffee in Edmonton,” Kenneth B. “The number 7 (Cheezy Prez) and an Americano. On those days that you don’t feel like going to exercise class, the thought of having these two is what gets me going—a great combo,” David W. “It’s a cozy little cafe with a wonderful atmosphere, nice to visit to get a coffee or one of their delicious Mexican hot chocolates,” Anna Y.
44. Michel Cluizel Chocolate, Twice Cream Ice Cream
This newish (opened summer 2022) shop across from the park in Westmount makes ice cream with an astonishing depth of flavour and beautiful texture. Nominated: Michel Cluizel Chocolate, Brazilian Canadian Coffee and Rose Saffron Pistachio ice creams. Look for features and rotating flavours like the Choco Cherry and the vegan ice creams made with cashew and coconut milk.
45. Spicy Pepperoncini and Dill Soup, Pals Sandwiches
“The spicy pepperoncini and dill soup is a perfect mix of warm, creamy, spicy and pickled. It is the best soup in Edmonton and it’s not even close,” Riphay A.
46. Uncle Le’s Lemon Chicken, Rebel Food and Drink
“Uncle Le’s lemon chicken is a unique dish from exec chef Tony Le—karage chicken, Meyer lemon, citrus honey, fresh herbs, yummy,” Curtis C.
47. Sour Cherry Gelato, Little Bear Gelato
“The sour cherry gelato is tart and sweet and truly my favorite frozen dessert,” Anita A. Nominators also love the Belgian choc and the mango passion fruit—so full of rich natural flavours. “Great taste, great flavour selection. High quality product,” Kim Q.
48. Good Morning Bunwich, Brown Butter Café
House-made milk bun, egg and pickle. That is, essentially, the ingredients of this ever-popular breakfast sandwich at the south side café. “It’s oh so delicious! “All of the ingredients come together so well and the specialty buns are to die for,” Nutavikarn C. “This bunwich has a perfect combination of sweet, savoury and a little bite from the pickled onion. It is a perfect combination for a breakfast sandwich,” Madeleine D.
49. Prairie Fairy, Sea Change Brewing Co.
Among the many Sea Change beers nominated, the Prairie Fairy remains the favourite. Here’s why. “This brewed in Edmonton blackberry-raspberry wheat ale is a delicious and refreshing beer that gives back to the 2SLGBTQ+ community. A portion of proceeds from every can and keg has helped to raise funds to support over 30 different community groups in Edmonton. This beer tastes great and makes the world a better place, one pint at a time,” Keith A.
50. Po’Boys, DaDeO
The enduringly quirky Whyte Avenue eatery inspires devotion and not only for the po’boys. “The ownership is kind and considerate, the servers are attentive and professional. It would make our heart swell with pride if you could pass along some love for this divine restaurant. Dadeo is an Edmonton gem and the world should know about Dadeo. We can’t imagine Whyte Avenue without Dadeo,” Sean W.
51. Tap Water, Epcor
“The drinking water in Edmonton is under-rated, but you wouldn’t know that until you move away. I moved from Edmonton to Toronto and what the 6ix does not have is Canada’s best drinking water, which Edmonton truly does have. I’ll have a cold, wet, glass of the Sask any day,” Michelle L.