Edmonton, Canada

Eating out in Edmonton, Canada

Over 2,000 restaurants spice up this city with their culinary delights, offering everything from breakfast bistros to elegant banquet halls. You'll have no problem finding almost any kind of fare, although the most common gourmet dishes revolve around the creative use of game such as duck and quail. With such a well-preserved history and culture, finding a restaurant that specializes in traditional Alberta cuisine is easy.

Gourmet

The Hardware Grill was once a repository of pipes and screws, but now it's a repository of creative chefs and top-notch meals. Small alcoves built into the open-floor brick building lend an ambiance of intimacy to the place. Innovation is the name of the game and with dishes such as applewood smoked salmon with truffled potato perogies, you're sure to be delighted. 9698 Jasper Avenue.

Highly Recommended

La Ronde is a revolving restaurant with the best view in town. It also features a fine, extensive menu of international selections grounded by Alberta Specialties. Favorites include the Wild Rice Crepe with Forest Mushrooms served on a Pimento Basil Coulis. Top off the night with a spin around the dance floor to live music. 10111 Bellamy Hill.

Local Flair

DeVine's overlooks the North Saskatchewan River valley and offers outdoor dining on the deck, as well as a cozy indoor dining room. The food is hearty and pure Canadian. 9712-111 Street.

Romantic

La Creperie claims to have hosted the greatest number of marriage proposals in the city! Cozy tables in a quiet room are hidden away under countless arches and surrounded by racks of quality wines. The menu delights even discerning gourmands, with original dinner crepe combinations, many vegetarian dinners, and a full menu of traditionals like rack of lamb and tender filet mignon. 10220-103 Street.

Going party in Edmonton, Canada

Everything from Canadian comedy to a combination Vegas showgirl Voodoo safari playhouse will keep you occupied once night falls. A city truly in love with the night, you'll find diverse entertainment choices like symphony orchestras and multi-level dance hall raves.

Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium

Home to the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, this theatre hosts various professional theater companies as well as the Edmonton Opera and Alberta Ballet Company.

Citadel Theatre

This performing arts complex houses 4 theaters staging a variety of productions from contemporary local shows to the classics.

Black Dog Freehouse

The three levels of this smoky jazz club impress even the most selective jazz connoisseur. Housed in an early 19th-century building, this popular spot attracts big-name players and popular local performers.

Lush

For a true club experience, it doesn't get better than this. Lush stars well-known DJs every night (except Monday when they're closed). Fresh faces play the downstairs Velvet Underground.

Rum Jungle

Advertised as an "after-hours safari experience," this wild performance theatre housed in an abandoned movie house is an entertainment circus. Fire-breathers, magicians, and acrobats play the opening acts for a far-out main attraction.

The Comedy Factory

North America's top comedians keep you laughing all night.

Common events in Edmonton, Canada

Edmonton Comedy Arts Festival

This festival celebrates Canada's most popular export, comedy, with the best performers from across the country doing everything from sketch to stand-up. Also featured are formal music and theatre shows. January.

Resound Festival of Contemporary Music

The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra presents a 4-day music extravaganza of new performances and classical favorites. Special events often include world premieres. February.

Local Heroes International Film Festival

A week-long celebration of chic new independent films features about 50 screenings along with seminars and other events. March.

Edmonton Heritage Festival

A 4-day celebration of the cultural diversity in Edmonton, past and present. Held at Hawrelak Park, all-day music, food, and competitions entertain while you learn about over 60 cultures. August.

Cariwest Caribbean Arts Festival

A weekend of Caribbean delights, with a newly themed parade each day. There's lots of dancing, traditional costumes, folk cooking and, of course, music! August.

The Fringe Festival

This festival affectionately known as "The Fringe" is probably the region's most popular, featuring contemporary plays "on the edge" of mainstream theatre. Food events and street shows are also on hand. August.