Edmonton’s food scene is taking off. From delicious brunch spots to fine dining to the perfect burger, there’s something for everyone in the city of champions. For our list we looked at restaurants in Edmonton and the surrounding areas, and found some great restaurants in nearby St. Albert as well that we had to mention. Here’s a look at our five favorite places to eat in Edmonton.
#1. Cerdo Tacos + Tequila
If you’re looking for great Mexican food, look no further than Cerdo. The restaurant is located in nearby St. Albert, and trust us – it’s worth the visit. Cerdo has great service, a fun atmosphere, and most importantly, great food. Start with the Tres Dip, Street Corn, and Queso Fundido, and try a mix of the tacos. They’re all fantastic.
We recommend going with the Yucatan Pescado (achiote spiced red snapper), Chorizo, and Carnitas tacos, but you really can’t go wrong. If the weather cooperates, be sure to sit upstairs on the patio and sip a few margaritas.
Take it from someone who’s lived in and traveled all across this province – Cerdo is the best Mexican restaurant in Alberta.
#2. PIP
Located in the heart of Old Strathcona, PIP is a small space with big flavors. We recommend checking out PIP for brunch, and implore you to try the Short Rib Eggs Benedict. If braised beef, caramelized onions, and a dill hollandaise sounds up your alley, you’re in for a real treat.
If you have more of a sweet tooth, the Sweet French Toast Bake is what you’re looking for. It’s served with maple cream cheese and a strawberry rhubarb compote. Wash it all down with a Hugo Spritz or a specialty coffee.
#3. Jack’s Burger Shack
The best burger in Alberta, period. We can’t stress this enough. Jack’s is located in St. Albert and in their words, they’re “serving up awesome with a side of badass”. The restaurant supports local businesses by using D’arcy’s Meats and buns from the local Sobey’s, and they make a Daily Burg that’s always something special. Be sure to come early because Jack’s is popular – they’re known to sell out on occasion.
We’ve had most of the burgers on the menu and can confidently say no matter what you go with, you’ll be satisfied. Since you’re sure to make a few trips to Jack’s, here’s our recommended ordering procedure:
First timers: Try the Standard or the The BBQ Crunch, which comes with bacon, cheese, potato chips and orange soda BBQ sauce.
Second timers: ‘Shroom comes with Boursin cheese and garlic sauteed mushrooms, or try On The Cobb which comes with bleu cheese, bacon, and fresh tomato relish.
Hungry folks: The Hangover has a beef patty, mustard, ketchup, and pickles and is sandwiched in between two grilled cheese sandwiches. If that’s not enough the Quebecer comes with fries, cheese curds, gravy, and buttermilk ranch. You won’t leave hungry.
#4. Corso32
This is our favorite Italian eatery in Edmonton. Corso32 has been named one of Canada’s best restaurants so we had high expectations, and we were not disappointed. The restaurant has intimate seating and a great atmosphere, which is only complimented by the quality of food coming out of the kitchen. For a special occasion, be sure to try the tasting menu ($110 per person or choose to include a wine pairing for $180 per person).
The pasta tasting menu ($90 per person) is also highly recommended, as it includes Ricotta Agnolotti, Spring Pea Ravioli, Tagliatelle Verde, Roasted Farro Pappardelle, Mezzi Paccheri (spicy lamb sausage) and Creme Fraiche Panna Cotta.
#5. Biera
Biera is the restaurant inside Blind Enthusiasm brewpub, and the quality of food is far beyond anything we’ve ever tasted at a brewpub. The menu is extremely creative and sources high-quality ingredients from the surrounding area. It’s set by Christine Sandford and introduces diners to foods influenced by her Prarie upbringing and European wanderings. The Grass-Fed Beef Tartare, Sunflower Seed & Rye Risotto, Glazed Alberta Duck Breast, and Broek Acres Berkshire Pork Shoulder are all standouts.
Two important things to note when ordering: leave room for bread (the Biera Sourdough is out of this world and is served with house-made kefir butter, olive oil, and whipped lardo), and leave room for dessert. Where else are you going to taste Sourdough Ice Cream?
