From the blackboard wall to the wooden bar and accents, Three Boars Eatery has a modern, rustic feel that’s hip and trendy. A look at the clientele will only affirm that notion, as this is a spot where young trendsetters and followers are very much at home. The space itself is not unlike visiting someone’s home for a dinner party. There’s a small kitchen, partially open to the bar on the main floor, and a slim stairwell constantly bustling with patrons and staff moving from the main floor to the two master bedroom-size rooms upstairs.
But I’m willing to bet that what makes most feel welcome at Three Boars is the constantly changing menu of shareable small-plate creations. Creatively made up of offal, fresh vegetables and locally sourced farm fare, these plates pack a punch. The assertive flavours at Three Boars are best paired with a wallop of craft cocktail creations, both of which make for evenings best spent with friends. –Cory Haller
8424 109 St., 780-757-2600, threeboars.ca
The category of Best Small Plates hasn’t been around long in Avenue‘s Best Restaurants listing, but Tzin is a proven contender, usually appearing near the top of this list and also as an honourable mention in the Best Mediterranean category in 2014.
There’s good reason for that, though, as the food at Tzin speaks for itself. Big bold flavours are everywhere, like bacon with maple balsamic apple compote, grilled chorizo sausage, spice-rubbed Alberta beef striploin and a classic Spanish paella.
Aside from the food, though, the servers are fantastic, and will have recommendations from the considerable wine list at the ready to go with any dish you choose. That wine list extends to dessert; there may not be a better way to cap off your meal than with a measure of port. –Glenn Cook
10115 104 St., 780-428-8946, tzin.ca
The best way to experience all the Italian culinary delights that Bar Bricco has to offer is to go as a group. Start by poring over the wine list, a compilation of some of the best Italy has to offer, and order a bottle to share. Then, take the opportunity to try a little bit of everything by ordering both the salumi and formaggi tasting plates, along with a condimenti or two.
It takes a bold chef to offer only one dessert option, but when it’s as good as the Tuscan Amadei chocolate truffles, you only need one. They are rustic, decadent and the perfect conclusion to any meal. –Adrianna Szenthe
10347 Jasper Ave., 780-424-5588, barbricco.com
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