In Edmonton, we really, really, really get excited when we’re validated by outsiders. Call it the “They really liked it here!” complex. So, last August, when The New York Times did a piece on Bistro Praha, raving about this long-standing Edmonton institution, a whole city was chuffed. The thing is, none of what the NYT wrote was hyperbole. The Central European cuisine is first rate; the Wiener Schnitzel is a can’t miss dish. Dumplings, pork hocks — I get excited just thinking about them. There is definitely something wonderfully out-of-style about this place; the old wooden tables and chairs, the fading pictures of European scenes. But, like your favourite album, you don’t care if it’s trending or not — it always speaks to you. — Steven Sandor
Downtown | 10117 101 St NW, Edmonton | 780.424.4218 | bistropraha.com
Whenever I’m at a loss for where to eat with friends, if someone suggests The Next Act, we’re all automatically in agreement. Everyone has a comfort dish here that they dream about: whether it’s the Baked Mac and Cheese that offers a bit of a kick with diced jalapeño and bacon, or the PB&J Burger served with house-made bacon jam and crunchy peanut butter. I always carefully consider the Cameo — its weekly feature burger — or fall back on the delicious donair, made with smoked brisket from MEAT, located next door. — Matthew Stepanic
Strathcona | 8224 104 St NW, Edmonton | 780.433.9345 | nextactpub.com
I actually know a person who goes to this Alberta Avenue main stay… for the Greek salad. And, while the salad is a meal unto itself, you really should be heading to this place for an old-fashioned family steak-house meal, as fading pictures of 1980s Oilers stare at you from the walls. Steak and mushrooms, with a baked potato on the side — it was a classic meal when the Oilers were winning Cups in the old Coliseum next door, and it’s just as good today. While the NHL may have left the neighbourhood and moved downtown, this is still a great place for a pre-game meal, even if you’re only watching it on the TV. — Steven Sandor
Parkdale | 8015 118 Ave NW, Edmonton | 780.474.1640
This article appears in the March/April 2023 issue of Edify
