Whether unwinding from the work week or recovering from a rambunctious night out, brunch is the perfect way to start a weekend morning. And Canteen has once again been voted the perfect place to get it. With delicious dishes that straddle that line between breakfast and lunch, it’ll be hard to knock Canteen out of the top spot.
When you go to Canteen for brunch, go with a big group if you can, and order strategically so you can get a little taste of everything. The chicken and waffles is a classic combination, as is the beef brisket and potato mushroom hash. Cheddar, chives and spicy tomato sauce put a great twist on the biscuits and gravy, served with poached eggs and pork-and-leek sausage. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, try the shredded turkey leg meat on thick-cut toast with fried eggs and gravy, or the crispy pork belly with cheesy grits. No matter what you get, though, you can’t go wrong by complementing it with a cocktail and an order of sweet, smoky brown sugar bacon. –Glenn Cook
10522 124 St., 780-485-6125, canteenyeg.ca
The Manor Casual Bistro is tucked away just off Jasper Avenue, but the view of the cozy brick High Street area makes it feel a world away from the bustle of downtown. Enjoy a lazy weekend brunch – mimosas mandatory – as the sun shines through the mature trees surrounding the bistro.
A large chalkboard lists the rotating specials for brunch staples like omelettes and crepes, and there are three versions of the classic eggs Benedict, including a twist with smoked salmon and mascarpone. If you’re looking for a sweet treat to finish off your meal, try the banana bread with pecan maple butter. –Adrianna Szenthe
10109 125 St., 780-482-7577
The decor at Blue Plate Diner is homey and chaotic at the same time; there’s a variety of tables that look like they were pulled from your mom’s kitchen circa 1975. Lighting is provided by a series of mismatched table lamps that could easily come from the infamous eternal Belgravia yard sale. But don’t be fooled by the kitsch; from the kitchen, you’ll get some serious upscale turns on classic brunch items.
Whether it’s the lemon curd in the blueberry pancakes or the duck confit in the eggs “Beneduckt,” the Blue Plate Diner’s offerings are anything but simple. And, whatever you do, don’t forget to order the grilled cornbread, glazed in maple syrup. –Steven Sandor
10145 104 St., 780-429-0740, blueplatediner.ca
