The 2024 Best Things to Eat or Drink in Edmonton.
How to take the pulse of a city’s food scene? Find out what people really like to eat. Every spring we ask readers what is the best thing they ate or drank last year. We had thousands of nominations to make this list. Dishes from both established restos and recently opened. Vegetables from local farmers. More fish and local makers (pastry, ice cream and chocolate, especially) less pizza and fewer burgers, which is very surprising.
Dig in!
Click images to zoom
Click orange business names to see their websites
1. Poached Leeks, Bar Bricco
Nominators found it hard to pick just one thing on the reimagined Bar Bricco menu. Yes, the egg yolk ravioli and the focaccia. Yes, delicious pasta such as the malloreddus with mussels or the fonduta agnolotti. Yet, the votes say the dish that best illustrates the energetic new approach is the poached leeks with ricotta and spicy topping. Bricco’s talented kitchen puts this humble vegetable front and centre. Tuna crudo is another dish given the inventive and delicious Bar Bricco treatment. “Hard not to order everything. From the anchovy crostini and tuna crudo to culatello and porchetta, we love everything about this menu,” Christina J. And that’s before we talk about the Negroni and the exceptional Italian wines and amaros on offer.
2. The Road Trip, RGE RD
RGE RD has been a champion of local for over a decade and one of the dishes that best typifies this is the road trip experience. Nominators love this culinary adventure, year after year. “The road trip is adventurous dining at its best,” says Kyle F. “We have tried so many things on the road trip menu that weren’t ever on our radar and loved them.”The bison tartare has loads of fans too. “Perfectly balanced flavours; will leave you dreaming of it later,” Vanessa L. The pepper-crusted duck breast and the butcher’s cut beef also garnered noms. We love the attention paid to seasonal eating and thoughtful wine choices at this Edmonton gem.
3. Ravioli di Zucca, Uccellino
People have pasta revelations at Uccellino. Nominations for the pastas—the sublime ravioli di zucca, the hearty paccheri, the briny spaghetti with prawns (last year’s most nominated dish)—topped the charts. Then there is the charred cabbage, “Makes you think of cabbage in an entirely new way,” says Karl M. And the house-made goat cheese ricotta crostini which has graced this list many times over. Nominators didn’t ignore the outstanding main dishes served family style (chicken cooked under a brick, the sablefish) or the beautiful Sicilian salad on the winter menu. Uccellino has major fans.
4. Lakeside Dairy Fromage Blanc and Squash Dumplings, Biera
Several dishes on Biera’s clever menu—grilled ACME chicken, smashed cucumber salad, the sunflower seed risotto—received votes, but it’s the squash dumplings in that savoury cheese sauce that sent nominators into a frenzy. Tastes delicious with either Blind Enthusiasm beers or wine. The bright and comfortable room, essentially the tap room for the brewery, also offers great small bites and an outstanding rotating cheese selection. There are big fans of Biera’s brunch; “the breakfast bowl with herbed potatoes and the 1608 cheese is my go-to,” says Kathy M. And nobody ever says no to another order of sourdough nuggets with beer cheese during happy hour.
5. Grilled Pork Chop, The Marc
Chef Cara Lazarevich’s menu pays homage to the French bistro faves the Marc is known for (entrecôte and frites anyone?), while incorporating a subtle Mediterranean influence, with dishes such as the daily burrata with grilled bread. Nominators love Sunday Supper, Alsatian Week and the Marc’s Frites and Champagne birthday celebration every fall. The dish with the most raves? The grilled pork chop. “Best restaurant dish this year,” said Leanne S. “Juicy, always cooked right and great flavours. It tastes like a dish my nonna used to make,” Dillon D. The ultimate compliment.
6. Miso Cod, Darling
Chef Lindsay James has found her groove, with dishes like the exceptional croquettes (changing daily, just the thing with a glass of wine before a movie) the tender octopus and the brioche French toast. The dish most loved is the miso cod, the fish on point, the leek dashi buttery and flavourful. Then there is the brassica salad. “You may have heard the phrase ‘you don’t make friends with salad,’ which is typically true. However, Darling’s kale and cabbage salad is the exception. A symphony of salty and sweet, it is lick-your-bowl delicious. Share this delight with a friend to cement your status as best friend ever,” Hannah H. Leave room for the dark chocolate semi freddo to share with your pals. Chic and modern, casual, with a terrific patio and lovely wines.
7. Pacific Ling Cod, The Butternut Tree
Chef Scott Downey’s ethos? All Canadian ingredients, from coast to coast, even in the cocktails. Wild, raised, grown, and foraged—think northern ocean fish, Acadian caviar, Alberta beef. Nominators voted for the Pacific ling cod with fennel and einkorn in droves. “Flaky and flavourful and never overdone. We love ordering the cod when it’s on the menu!” says Gina T. Also, the special event high teas and brunch dishes (beef wellington and the fried chicken with maple sausage, woo hoo!). The Butternut Tree is not just for special occasions, you can pop by for a few appetizers and a glass of wine during happy hour to gaze at that glorious river valley view.
8. Parmigiano Soup, Bündok
Yes, cheese soup. With leek and bacon. Nominators are in love with this umami bomb. “Hard to believe that something that starts with cheese rinds could taste this good,” says Bryan G. Also nominated—the bright-tasting steelhead crudo, rich and delicious gnocchi Parisienne, and the grilled broccoli. Hard to go wrong with this menu. Always a well-chosen wine list too. The soup is just one example of chef Ryan Hotchkiss’ ongoing commitment to sustainability. Chef continues to do things his way in Bündok’s intimate room with the open kitchen. We are so glad.
9. Shanghai Noodles, Fu’s Repair Shop
Fu’s Repair Shop is not only a terrific place to go dancing, the food by chef Winnie Chen’s team is top notch. Tops for noms is the Shanghai noodles. “The noodles are so fresh and so amazing. The pork is cooked to perfection. The texture? What heaven tastes like. The flavour takes you to flavour town and you never wanna leave,” Anna L. Next up was the warm yeh choi salad. “The salad, with brown butter, shio miso and pickled red cabbage, has lots of texture components and temperature diversity. You get loads of funky notes from the compressed kimchi. It’s a delightful salad easily shareable with the entire table,” Robert T.
10. Black Cod, Little Wolf
“The black cod belly at Little Wolf is one of the most complex, interesting and delicious dishes I had in 2023. The rich, buttery flavour and texture of the perfectly seared cod belly is balanced by these delightfully tangy fermented Gull Valley tomatoes. Cucumbers and kaffir lime add another layer of freshness, crunch and zip to this dish. Balancing interesting flavours and textures like this takes a deft hand, but chef Shaun Hicks is more than up to the task with this delightful plate,” Ian B. Also nominated: the chicken thighs with focaccia “This dish was savoury and delightfully subtle. The chicken thighs were tender and falling off the bone delicious, while the focaccia was warm and fresh with a spectacular hummus. Bravo,” Jason K. Chef’s new spot near the High Level Bridge is tremendous value and has exceptional cocktails.
11. Milk Bread French Toast and Chicken, May Restaurant
“The flavours pair so well together. The maple syrup and spicy hot sauce are the perfect complement to the crispy chicken thigh. Perfection,” Caroline A. There were several noms for the tempura oyster mushrooms with pan-seared trout too. “The mushrooms with smoked black garlic cream is easily one of the best things in the city. The kimchi broth is perfectly spicy, well balanced with the rest of the dish and the crispy salty skin of the trout pairs perfectly,” Declan Y. May offers an attractive room with a fun cocktail list, mostly local brews and a concise wine list along with delicious food that’s meant to be shared. Can’t beat that.
12. Brussels Sprouts, Tryst Wine & Small Plates
This casual, easy-going St. Albert spot has delicious food and lots of fans. “I can’t even begin to wax poetic about the Brussels sprouts; a perfect mix of warm sprouts, chunky bacon and crispy cheese. It’s truly heaven. This is truly one of the best kept secrets in the Edmonton region,” Tam B. Also popular with nominators, the beet flatbread. “The chewy delicious sourdough crust is enough to make me want to nominate it and the house-made beet jam, roasted garlic, goat cheese and arugula make this the absolutely most flavourful flatbread. It looks beautiful and tastes better. It is just as good cold the following day, if, you happen to have any left,” Alana E.
13. Fries, Happy & Olive
You know how fries are often so disappointing? Limp, or overly crispy? Over seasoned, or worse, bland? This Goldilocks is thrilled that Happy & Olive gets it right every time with the rosemary parm fries with lemon aioli. Nominators agree. “Those fries,” says Janine M. “Super crispy, with so much flavour they don’t even need ketchup.” Also nominated, latkes (with mushroom, smoked salmon or smoked meat) and the vada pav sliders, Indian-spiced potato patties with chutney. Is there a potato theme happening here? Maybe. And why not, potatoes make everybody happy.
14. Sushi, Kobachi
This bijou Japanese resto in Sherwood Park has legions of fans. “Not only is Ron the friendliest and most respectful restaurateur I have ever met, the sushi, maki and sashimi are the freshest and most delicious. Six out of six family members would choose Kobachi as our number one, and with three of us having celiac disease, the food meets dietary requirements without compromising on quality,” Krista S. “Their à la carte sushi is consistently the best I’ve had in Alberta while being affordable. Fantastic stuff!” Shaun H. “The duck udon, I’ve never had something so rich in flavour before. The duck was tender and flavourful, the udon al dente and the broth rich,” Katie P. There you have it.
15. Ki Dal Makni, Monsoon Bistro and Bar
Nominators loved the tandoori lamb chops last year. This year it’s all about the lentils, especially the gingery-scented ki dal makni, a savoury blend of black lentils in cream and garlic. Also nominated, the murgh methi dhabewala, chicken with fenugreek leaves, the dill naan and yes, the toothsome lamb chops. Don’t miss the Singh is King cocktail either. Goldie Hazrah is the hospitable owner and it’s a great spot for a birthday celebration. Bring all your friends so you can share more dishes. And, don’t miss Monsoon’s fun, generous wine dinners or whisky nights.
16. Carpaccio, Hayloft Steak and Fish
Paul Shufelt and team know seafood, and they know meat. If you want an exceptional steak, go west. “The close relationship between the restaurant and the beef supplier allow for some of the best tasting beef in Alberta to be dry-aged in house,” says Stephanie F. The Nonay club cut was singled out as a particularly good value, but it was the exceptional carpaccio with pickled mushrooms and crispy capers that really wowed nominators.
17. Tuna Twists, XIX Nineteen
Nineteen’s menu is an intriguing blend of exec chef Andrew Fung’s influences: classic French cuisine (he did cook in Switzerland after all) and contemporary Cal-Ital freshness, informed by elegant Japanese and Chinese flavours. It makes for a deliciously heady dining experience. The tuna twists—ahi tuna served on a spoon with spicy Thai noodles and Asian-inspired slaw—have been a stalwart on this list from the get-go. Nominators also love the mussels with gorgonzola, the robust duck confit and that outrageous burger, the Baconator, on a sesame milk bun.
18. Fish n’ Chips, Sabor
“I grew up on Vancouver Island. I know what fish n’ chips should taste like and they taste like Sabor’s. Flaky, perfectly cooked west coast halibut in a light, crispy batter with house-made tartar sauce—reminds me of home,” Colleen M. Every Friday in August, Sabor offers take away fish n’ chips to raise funds for Ronald McDonald House and Santa’s Anonymous. The rest of the time? Sabor’s menu, inspired by the flavours and technique of the Iberian coast, offers a veritable feast. Nominators love the Portuguese salt cod fritters, the grilled octopus and the range of jamon. Best deal in town? The seafood platter.
19. Chip Stack, Nowhere Wine Bar
“Nowhere Bar has a menu full of unexpected bites but never has a dish surprised me more than the chip stack. The perfect dish to snack on over a glass of wine—salty, fatty and crunchy, with a little sweet and a little spice to hit all the notes you crave. One of the best dishes of 2023 for me,” says Lindsay H. “Meatball Mondays at Nowhere are incredibly fun; the smell of marinara and toasty brioche is lovely, especially on a night when most spots are closed. The meatballs, made with beef from Modest Meats, are incredibly flavourful and juicy, and properly finished in the marinara before hitting the cheesy bun and heading to the countertop oven. The whole thing is sprinkled with a generous helping of Parm. The meatball sub is additionally an achievement considering Nowhere functions without a full kitchen,” Marianne S. “Chef Filliep’s tartare is the best in town! The combo of local Alberta beef with fresh dill and sour Polish pickles makes it uniquely delicious,” Barry S.
20. Salmone Crostone, Dalla Tavola Zenari
“I love the smoky taste of the salmon combined with the delicate dill cream cheese that melts in your mouth. Now that I am 10, I’ve learned to appreciate how the flavour of the salty capers adds to the dish,” says Victoria L. Nominators also love the creamy pâté di noci and the porcini risotto. “Rich mushroom flavour, just the right amount of cheese, perfectly prepared—ideal for a winter supper. It should be on the regular menu,” says Alex A. And the lasagna bianca? “Amazingly delicious twist on a classic Italian dish—so good your tablemates will gasp with jealousy when they see yours,” Tatum W.
21. ’Berta Sushi Rolls, Central Social Hall
The tasty beef and rice rolls topped the noms for Central Social Hall this year. Noms for wings, the Ronald burger and the honey fried chicken sandwich were close behind. Celina R. had this to say about the chicken sandwich, “You have the crispy chicken with the honey drizzle, the slaw and the cheddar served on a nice bun. So good, 10/10.” “Best wings in the city. The Texas dry rub has just the right amount of spicy and salty, cooled down with the house-made ranch,” Jeremy Z.
22. Boar Cheeks, Bodega
It’s the red wine-braised boar cheeks that garnered the most nominations for Bodega this year. “Flavourful, unctuous and just plain delicious,” says Alex A. This friendly neighbourhood outpost by chef Lino Oliveira and Christian Mena of Sabor is a terrific spot for tasty snacks such as grilled sardines and piri piri prawns. Nominators also love the lobster risotto. “Bodega makes an amazing risotto. Each location has a great atmosphere and extensive wine list. Quite affordable too,” Tara B.
23. Arctic Char, Café Bicyclette
The Arctic char on corn millet pilaf topped the noms again for this charming resto in the French quarter. “It is the most unique seafood dish in the city. The dazzling contrast in colours of the fish, sauce and sides seduce the eyes before electrifying one’s palate,” Lorna L. Also, the boeuf aux mille saveurs, braised Chatsworth Farm beef brisket: “the inspired fusion of Chinese and western flavours is such a trip. Every dish chef Joseph and his team create takes my mouth on a journey. This is a cultural mosaic on a plate,”says Crystal A. Then there is brunch. “Everything on the brunch menu is so unique. From bennies to tartines, and their scratch cinnamon raisin brioche french toast with cheesecake icing and berry compote; everything is a work of art followed by a sensational orchestra of flavours in your mouth,” Jiahao W.
24. Massaman, Arbour
The newish Arbour on Whyte has gained many fans already, especially for chef Greg Sweeney’s braised chuck in Massaman curry. “From the tenderness of the beef to the depth of flavour in the sauce, this dish will have you wanting to lick the plate clean,” Alex M. “Everyone needs to try this flavour bomb,” Jude W. “It’s non-traditional, delicious and super tender. Always look forward to enjoying this and many more of the great dishes at Arbour,” Dale C. Second in terms of noms were the Red Curry Mussels. “The best mussels in Edmonton,” says Sarah S. “The curry is made from scratch and has enticing layers of flavour. It’s fresh, the flavours are balanced and it’s warm, not too spicy. Order extra of the sourdough focaccia to sop up all the sauce.”
25. Currywurst, Otto
We love a restaurant with an unapologetic point of view—that’s Otto. Proprietor Ed Donszelmann prefers to keep it simple. Take the cocktail list. You will find a substantial number of gins and Negronis (currently at seven). Only. The all-Canadian (mostly Alberta) beer list includes several ciders and three meads from Fallentimber Meadery. The menu? Sausages, pretty much. Otto is a cosy and easy place to hang out. “Some of the simplest things are our greatest pleasure. I love the German street food, the currywurst, which they have executed brilliantly. The Fuge bratwurst is grilled perfectly and is the ideal combination with the house-made curry ketchup. They make their own at Otto, and it is so much more than just curry powder and ketchup,” says Brad S. “Leave room for the cheesecake,” says Juanita R.; “and go for the fish n’ chips on Wednesday!”
26. Charcuterie Boards, Art of Charcuterie
Diana Harrison’s elegant charcuterie boards have garnered legions of fans. The delightful selections come in unos, duos and boxes for up to eight people. AoC is also known for their charcutierie tableaux created in situ for parties and events. “Diana produced some exquisite charcuterie boards for our rural wedding in May. Her amazing flavours and presentation lit up the cocktail hour,” Norman H. “Artful, colourful, abundant, full of surprises. Top quality, with unusual spreads, condiments and accents that make the eating experience special and memorable,” Daya R.
27. Smoked Nonay Short Rib, The Workshop Eatery
The partnership between Paul Shufelt (Robert Spencer Hospitality) and Jeff Nonay (Lakeside Farmstead and Nonay Beef) pays off in flavour. “We had the Nonay short rib along with several other dishes to share. It was amazing, so juicy, tender and flavourful,” says Mona B. Along with the various Nonay cuts nominated, guests love the crispy Brussels sprouts, the beet and wedge salads and wakey wakey eggs n’ bakey at brunch.
28. Copenhagen Pølse, Three Vikings Pub
Nominators love the smørrebrød, those delicious little open-faced sandwiches, the frikadeller (especially in the Friki benny at brunch) and, especially, the Copenhagen pølse. This is not some ordinary hot dog. It’s the quintessential Copenhagen street food—a K&K European wiener with Danish remoulade, crispy onions and house-made sweet pickle on a Bon Ton bun. “This takes a hot dog to another level, and goes best with a Sea Change Irish Red Ale,” says Ben T.
29. Stuffed Pork Loin, Popowich Meat Company
Nominators love the west end’s Popowich Meat for its variety of great cuts, customer service and the house-made, ready-to-cook items like Maui ribs and the stuffed pork loin. “Their sausages are consistently the best tasting with the best texture. The owners are super nice people that go above and beyond for their customers. Everything from here is top notch,” Jennifer R. “Whenever we have a large family gathering, or a get away for a weekend at the lake, my first stop is Popowich. I always know I am getting the best cuts of meat to serve my friends and family. From briskets to roasts to sausages and appetizers, Popowich Meats has everything I need to prepare a fabulous meal on any occasion,” Dennis K. “Really high-end product. Always trimmed perfectly. Mike will cut bones off and re-tie them to the roast,” Jim N. Need something special? Like a stuffed pork shoulder? Just ask.
30. River Valley Road Ice Cream, Kind Ice Cream
Of all their beautiful ice cream flavours nominated—Maple Bourbon Pecan, Birthday Cake, Dunkaroos—it’s River Valley Road with the big fan base. “Loaded with brownies, marshmallows, candied walnuts. Surrounded by milk choc ice cream. What’s not to like?” says Ryan L. “My kids alternate between Rocky Road and Dunkaroos when available. Next year they will be big enough for their own cones,” says Maggie W. We like the way this mom measures time.
31. Yubu Bites with Bulgogi, MJ’s Korean Kitchen
“It’s the tastiest explosion of flavours to pop in your mouth. I can’t stop going back to the (Bountiful) market for it. Every. Week. It’s a problem. The owner is the loveliest and most down-to-earth person,” Crystal B. “Pastry chef by day and culinary entrepreneur by night, Min Jin, the owner of MJ’s, has realized a dream of bringing the gourmet flavours of Korean food to us in fresh and innovative ways. All her carefully crafted foods are next level delicious! A must try for those with curious palates,” Tracey C.
32. Pastel Azteca, Luna Cocina Mexicana
“This delicious dish is incredible. It has all the flavours and soul of Mexico, but presented in the style of an Italian lasagna. Rich and creamy with poblano peppers, salsa verde and crema. A truly one-of-a-kind dish, not to be missed!” Lynsee L. “It’s hard to pick just one, but this dish is unique, you won’t find it in any other Mexican restaurant in Edmonton, it’s home-made traditional Mexican. I am from Mexico, and even in Mexico, it is not that common to find, unless your mama cooks it for you,” Angelica L.
33. Dry-aged Steak, Ribeye Butcher Shop
In the short time Ribeye has been open they have garnered a lot of happy customers. Nominations ranged from the toothsome Smash Burger (last year’s Top100 pick) duck fat potatoes and various cuts of meat. About the dry-aged rib steak: “It’s absolutely exquisite. It was very close to the quality of Wagyu in taste, texture and marbling. These steaks don’t require more than basic seasoning as the flavour stands on its own: balanced, buttery, beautiful,” says Paul D. “I have bought plenty of steaks from them, marinated, dry aged, or just normal. I have never had a bad cut. The staff is also very friendly and helpful. Along with steaks they also have poultry, drinks, a frozen section and many other food items,” Michael E.
34. Sugar Skull Burger, Backstairs Burger
Backstairs has legions of fan, for the duck tots, the OG burger and the crack fries, but this year it’s the Sugar Skull. “Amazing balance between sweet and savoury,” Efeoghene O. “This burger is unbelievable. The horseradish and beef with the bone marrow-caramel glazed bacon and ruffle chips. Pickled onions bring a beautiful crunch and tang. This is a must have,” Kelly V.
35. Take and Bake Meals, A Cappella
Nominators love the convenience and the variety of choices—chicken cacciatore, beef roulade, beef on a bun, chicken parm. “We have taken these meals to the mountains and I delivered them to my mother when she was recovering from surgery. They taste homemade and it’s so easy—you just order the day before,” says Christine J.
36. Bibimbap, Buok Fresh Korean Kitchen
“Simply amazing! Packed with flavour, my go-to for comfort food that is healthy and delicious,” Mike S. The japchae was also nominated by many. “This dish is a wonderful blend of glass noodles and veggies. It’s a delicious dish that isn’t spicy, filling when eaten with rice, a perfect meal when you need to be refreshed,” Colleen S.
37. Devilled Egg, Partake
“The preparation changes slightly throughout the year, but the devilled eggs (currently with leeks, mushroom duxelles and crisp smoked bacon) are always excellent. The house-made popcorn when you first sit down is a nice snack with an interesting wine by the glass, or non-alcoholic cocktail from bartender Jenn,” Cindy G.
38. Effing Fish Filet, Woodshed Burgers
The beer-battered flaky cod burger is a winner. “It is the best fish burger I’ve ever eaten. A generous portion, fresh, crispy coating, great toppings and so delicious!” Kay U.
39. Rose Saffron Pistachio Ice Cream, Twice Cream
The charming Westmount area ice cream shop comes up with amazing flavours—Dark Cherry Lemon Curd, Michel Cluizel Chocolate and the much-nominated Rose Saffron Pistachio ice cream, classic Persian flavours in a creamy delight. “It smells beautiful, it’s not too sweet and I love the crunch of the pistachios. This ice cream makes me feel like a million bucks,” says Chris S.
40. Kouign Amann, Lock Stock Coffee
“It is so flaky, tender, buttery and the perfect combination of salty and sweet. If you love French pastry you need to try this. We plan coffee dates at Lock Stock specifically for their kouign amann,” Lindsay S. We concur.
41. Candied Bacon BLT, Meuwly’s
We think of Meuwly’s for excellent ham, terrific charcuterie and an excellent selection of locally-made food stuffs. We forget that their sandwiches are second to none, especially the Candied Bacon BLT. “Super fresh, huge tomatoes and delicious candied bacon. The chive mayo really elevates the whole experience. I’ve never been disappointed by this sandwich and it would take me more than two hands to count how many times I’ve enjoyed it,” says Bee A.
42. Vancouver Fog Doughnut, Doughnut Party
“The Vancouver Fog is a perfect combination of earl grey tea, vanilla, and maple and it is one of the best desserts I have ever had. Soft, flavourful and comforting—everything you could ask of a doughnut,” Hazel O.
43. Girls’ Night In Cookie, Sugared and Spiced
The charming south side alley bakery has heaps of nominations for the turtle tart, chocolate chip cookie, lemon tart and the picnic cakes. But it’s the Girl’s Night In that was the “all-time favourite cookie. The caramel and the sea salt combined with the chocolate and cherry adds another level of texture, appealing to those who crave both salty and sweet,” Connie R.
44. Crossing the Bridge Rice Noodle Soup, Dagu Rice Noodle
The name references a love story from Yunnan province about a wife who discovered that if she kept the soup and noodles separate and layered the hot broth with chicken fat to insulate it, she could bring her husband a hot lunch. Hugo L. called Dagu’s version the “ultimate cold weather comfort soup.” “The food is fresh and tasty! The service is top notch, Vicky the owner takes great pride in making sure her customers are well taken care of,” Donna N.
45. Rocky Mountain Gin, Lone Pine Distillery
This crisp and flavourful gin is made with wild bergamot, mint and rosehips, all native to the western alpine. “We love it for G&Ts, so clean and refreshing,” says Gordon P. There were also nominations for the Earl Grey Gin and the Ginski, a unique blend of whisky and gin aged for 33 months in oak. Lone Pine uses its exceptional distilling equipment and abilities to make other Alberta spirits too—Coriander Liqueur by Above Average Drinks and Don’t Call Me Sweet Pea by Field Notes. Their casual tasting space is available for rentals too, great spot for an event.
46. Halo Halo, Yelo’d Ice Cream + Bake Shop
“On a hot summer day nothing hits quite like Yelo’d Halo Halo, a divine combo of red beans, ice cream (soft or scoop) jellies, jackfruit, and shaved ice,” says Cathy C.
47. Dry Gin, MD Distillery
The St. Albert distillery is known for its exacting distillation using only Alberta wheat and water. The result? Spirits with absolute clarity, harmonious flavours and no sharp edges. Margo H. had this to say about the double-infused Dry Gin with notes of juniper and coriander. “We love this gin for martinis with a twist because it’s so smooth and flavourful.” MD also makes some nifty cocktails in their tasting room—try the French 75 made with Rhubarb Gin.
48. Distemperance Mulled Haskap Mocktail, Token Bitters
“Seriously, the mulled wine needs to become YEG’s official drink for winter,” says Meghan T. “It’s rich and smooth, not too sweet and anyone can drink it because there is no alcohol.” Made with Token Calder Chai bitters, local haskaps from Rosy Farms, orange zest and baking spices and created by JoAnne Pierce of Mock-Ups Mocktails. Drink warm.
49. Carrots, Sundog Organic Farm
Among all the Sundog vegetables nominated, the cabbage and carrots were tops. “What is it about these carrots?” asks Roger B. “So fresh, so sweet, so crunchy—better than all the other carrots.” Find them at the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market or sign up for the farm share.
50. Cinnamon Buns, Awn Kitchen
Awn Kitchen’s cinnamon buns are a thing of wonder—light (if you can call a cinnamon bun light), fluffy and not too sweet. The café may be closed now, but you could take a class to learn how to make these delicious treats yourself.
51. Spicy Crispy Fried Chicken Northern Chicken
“The smells, the crunch, the authentic real greasiness, it’s all made with love!” Keisha W. Sadly, Northern Chicken is now closed. We will all miss this delicious chicken.