Every time I visit Brio, I am tempted to buy everything behind the display case. I go in for a loaf of the signature sourdough, but if there are any swirly, pecan-studded cinnamon buns left, then I want one of those too. And if the latest cruffin (croissant-muffin hybrid) flavour sounds appealing? Add that to my order. Maybe I do need one of the perfectly crunchy baguettes for a snack later. And if there are any Garlic Herb Buns left? I simply must get a couple. On Saturdays, I arrive right at 11 a.m. to snag one of the delicious English muffins, baked weekly, only on that day. This is a popular spot and only open four days a week, so pre-order to guarantee your breads and baked goods. A second location is opening later this year on Whyte Avenue. – Breanna Mroczek
Brio Bakery
Wîhkwêntôwin | 12021 102 Ave NW, #104, Edmonton | 780.424.2131
briobakery.com
As the first Chinese bakery in Alberta, Hong Kong Bakery has a long history in the province and in Edmonton’s Chinatown, where it’s been since 1986. In that time, it has remained family-owned and true to its Canadian-Chinese heritage.
The menu features the excellent Green Onion Cakes; that’s a given. But the bakery cases also stock Hong Kong flavours, such as Lotus Paste Pastry and Red Bean Rolls, alongside several types of Mochi Donuts and slices of the bakery’s Black Forest and Vanilla Buttercream cakes.
Like most Chinese pastries, the buns and rolls on offer aren’t too sweet. What sets Hong Kong Bakery apart is its commitment to making everything by hand, down to the red bean paste. Their commitment shines in each delectable pastry. – Caitlin Hart
Hong Kong Bakery
McCauley | 10649 97 St NW, Edmonton | 780.429.3838
hong-kong-bakery.ca
Open Lift Me Up Bakery’s red door on a Saturday and you’ll find yourself joining the long line of shoppers stocking up on pastries and bread for the whole week.
Known for a variety of cinnamon buns, Lift Me Up’s not-so-secret weapon is — you guessed it — bread. The sourdough focaccia is the basis for any great homemade sandwich. I love picking up a loaf for the week, along with a slice of fall-apart-tender banana or pumpkin loaf. Also worth the calories is the tiramisu — fitting, as the bakery is owned by the folks behind the beloved Tiramisu Bistro. It’s the kind of neighbourhood establishment that becomes part of one’s weekly routine, and it is worth a stop for anyone shopping or brunching on 124 Street. – Caitlin Hart
Lift Me Up Bakery
Westmount | 10750 124 St NW, Edmonton | 780.429.3393
tiramisubistro.ca/lift-me-up-bakery
This article appears in the March 2026 issue of Edify
