Chartier’s menu of rustic yet refined French cuisine has many classic dishes with a twist, but one in particular can’t be missed – the Poutine de la mer Rosenau, a dish so decadent you might need to see it to believe it. It starts out with a one-pound lobster, sauteed in garlic and butter. Then, the lobster is placed on a bed of poutine with crisp, triple-cooked fries and rich gravy. Finally, the entire thing is drizzled with a creamy lobster bisque. It’s a dish meant for two, but trust us – you won’t have any trouble finding someone to split it with. –Adrianna Szenthe
#102, 5012 50 St., Beaumont, 780-737-3633, dinechartier.com
In the evening, the Marc is an elegant spot for fine French dining, from the famous foie-gras topped steak Entrecte to the luxurious steak tartare. During the lunch hour, it’s bustling with diners eating hearty countryside-inspired stews, chicken dishes and even omelettes. Recently, I had a fish stew Maletot, with clams, shrimp and scallops in a wonderful wine-forward broth. The Marc remains a mainstay of the Edmonton dining scene, and we should heartily applaud a spot that was on the forefront of this city’s culinary explosion, and remains a major influence on our dining scene. –Steven Sandor
9940 106 St., 780-429-2828, themarc.ca
Cafe Bicyclette isn’t the place to go if you want French fare in a stuffy atmosphere – there are no white tablecloths and, in fact, it’s only open for dinner three nights a week. However, if you’re looking for breakfast or lunch with some French flair, you won’t find anything better. The traditional Croque Madame sandwich is a decadent mix of ham, smoked gouda and egg on a rich brioche bread with bechamel sauce.Or, if you’re in the mood for something lighter, a fresh, buttery croissant will always hit the spot. –Adrianna Szenthe
8627 91 St., 587-524-8090, cafebicyclette.ca
