Hidden gems: Best of Edmonton’s Whyte Avenue
Whyte Avenue (82 Avenue) is a long stretch of street that’s constantly filled with activity and festivals, from the Edmonton International Fringe Festival in summer, to Ice on Whyte in winter (not to mention the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market, year-round). It’s full of restaurants, and there is never a dull moment. It’s so busy that some really great restaurants can easily be overlooked – don’t miss out on these hidden gems!
Dadeo
10548A 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2A4Hankering for some great classics from New Orleans? Look no further, because I guarantee that Dadeo’s will have something for you. Check out their jambalaya and gumbo. Or, if you’re looking for some cheap eats, drop by on a Monday or Tuesday for cheap po’ boy night and try one of their famous sandwiches and, of course, their renowned sweet potato fries.
Cafe Bicyclette
4-8627 91 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6C 3N1Café Bicylette is the best place to go for a nice, quiet brunch. It’s located right in La Cité Francophone, right off Whyte. They do both breakfast and dinner, and have really great options. And, if you’re feeling a bit brave or want to practice your French, most of the staff there are fluent, so give it a try! You’ll definitely feel like you’re in a little French city.
Continental Treat Fine Bistro Gluten Free
10560 82 Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2A4Gluten-free? Vegetarian? Meat-lover? If you have any of the aforementioned eaters in your dining party, look no further than Continental Fine Treat Bistro. It has one of the most extensive gluten-free menus that I’ve seen. They use many seasonal ingredients and their menu is fairly dynamic. Their dishes have French, German, and Eastern European influences. This place is always a good choice and never a dull moment!
Kaeng Thai Bistro Ltd
10152 82 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 1Z4If you live around Whyte Ave and are not sure where to go to eat, I definitely recommend giving this place a try. This is one of the best hidden gems in Edmonton. Thai food can be pretty expensive at most places, but this place does it right, and is modestly priced! It’s not much to look at from the outside or inside, but the food is definitely worth it. Give the calamari a try – it’s one of the best that I’ve had.
Meat Barbecue Ltd
8216 104 St Nw, Edmonton, AB T6E 4E6Edmonton’s barbecue scene has definitely gained some recognition since MEAT opened up. It’s located right on 104 Street. It serves authentic barbecue, with homemade sauces, and is definitely great for meat-lovers. And, for vegetarians, they always have a seasonal vegetarian option. Pulled pork and their garlic fries are definitely my two recommendations!
The Next Act Pub & Grill
8224 104 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 4E6Shopping at the farmers’ market or participating in one of the many festivals on Whyte Avenue always works up an appetite for me, and The Next Act is great for all occasions because they serve both brunch and dinner. The atmosphere is great, and they have amazing burgers. They were voted to have the best burger in March of 2015 by Avenue magazine! Try their peanut butter burger!
Bottega Italian Kitchen Bar Off Whyte
10335 83 Ave Nw, Edmonton, AB T6E 2C6Packrat Louie has an immense amount of options on their menu that would satisfy the pickiest of eaters. They serve pizza, steak and pasta. They have lots of plates for sharing, or individual plates. The atmosphere is great and their lounge is really nice and welcoming. They even do group menus for staff parties, and it’s a very versatile restaurant! Give this place a try for a quiet night for two, or a night out with a big group of friends!
New York Bagel Cafe
8430 Gateway Blvd NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 4B4If you’re away from home at university and missing that good, wholesome vibe, and still want great food, New York Bagel Café is exactly what you’re looking for. When you walk right in, you feel as though you’re walking into a home. There is definitely a nice “Mom and Pop” feel to it. If you love eggs Benedict, try this place out. They have more than 20 different varieties to choose from!
Accent Lounge
8223 104 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 4E7Wish you could go on a getaway to a nice restaurant in Europe? This might be the next best thing. Accent Lounge is a quaint little restaurant right off Whyte Avenue. They have really great menu options. Their steak tartar is really good! They have a really large beer menu, and it definitely brings in the crowds in the later evening and weekends. This place is great to share a few bites with friends over some drinks!
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