My wife may have said it best: “Bistro Praha doesn’t change, and that’s a good thing.” The famed Edmonton eatery is celebrating its 40th anniversary this season. It has survived a fire. Why has Bistro Praha remained a favourite with Edmontonians? In a world filled with food fads, menu changes, new cooking techniques and here-today, gone-tomorrow trends, Bistro Praha remains grounded with a menu that emphasizes the best in Eastern/Central European cuisine. Tender pork hocks, perfectly cooked schnitzels, the delicious, fruit-filled crepes topped with fresh dairy cream. Pair a schnitzel with a fine Czech pilsner and you have a meal that was dynamite 40 years ago, and is dynamite today. –Steven Sandor
10117 101 St., 780-424-4218, bistropraha.com
Bauernschmaus is nestled in an industrial strip near Argyll Road, but, the minute you step inside, you’re transported to Austria. The space is filled with wood, warm colours, and vintage farm tools scattered throughout as decor – a nice nod to the name, which translates to farmer’s feast. And feast you will – Bauernschmaus doesn’t serve up delicately plated European cuisine. Instead, it offers hearty, comforting fare such as goulash and schnitzel. While there are several varieties on the menu, the classic Wienerschnitzel – garnished simply with a wedge of lemon – proves that sometimes, you shouldn’t mess with perfection. And, if you’re looking to truly indulge, the breaded cheese appetizer is an absolute must. –Adrianna Szenthe
6796 99 St., 780-433-8272
There is an unmistakable time-machine vibe at Continental Treat. From the candles jammed into wine bottles that sit on top of the mantel, to the saxophone music, to the waiters in white shirts and dark aprons, this is a reminder of a time when Eastern European cuisine was considered the finest of fine dining. The schnitzels and spaetzle are well-done, but the must-try highlight is the pickle soup, which is exactly as it sounds. It’s got plenty of sour notes, potatoes and little cut up pieces of pickle for a bit of crunch. It’s an opener to a meal that you won’t find anywhere else in the city. –Steven Sandor
10560 82 Ave., 780-433-7432, ctfinebistro.com
