Latin-inspired El Corazón showcases its authenticity at both locations, not only in its flavours but in its presentation. Framed by stone pillars, the black-walled Glenora space is brought to life by the intimate lighting and trailing plants.
Classic dishes like the Beef Barbacoa Tacos never lose their traditional touch, despite a modern take. Every bite is the perfect blend of braised, juicy beef and the tanginess of lime, pickled onions, serrano peppers and salsa verde. It is important to remember that it is never a crime to experiment a bit with your sauce: if you want chipotle aioli (featured with the Blackened Chicken Tacos) instead of the designated habanero hot sauce, be my guest.
And if you want a perfect drink to pair with your dish, you can’t go wrong with their selection — especially if you like tequila. If you need a nudge, the salty Cadillac Margarita is a classic for a reason, and if you try it, don’t forget to make it spicy — jalapeños never killed anybody that I know of. – Mariana Gutierrez Serna
El Corazón
Glenora | 14101 West Block Dr NW Unit #150, Edmonton
Keswick | 1003 Keswick Dr SW, Edmonton
elcorazonrestaurants.com
When I think of Ávila Arepa, I am pulled back to one afternoon when I was still in high school. I was walking down Whyte Avenue and I discovered this beloved neighbourhood joint. I have since learned that owner Rolando Sandrea prepares his classic arepas in-house from scratch, masterfully replicating all the traditional flavours of these stuffed cornmeal cakes. I never hesitate to pick the Caurimare La Sifrina, an arepa filled with creamy avocado chicken salad and cheddar cheese, because nothing says Latin American culture like avocados. But the Mechada — a traditional flatbread stuffed with juicy, seasoned pulled pork — is a taste of tradition. This meaty arepa is a staple street food and home favourite in Venezuela. – Mariana Gutierrez Serna
Ávila Arepa
Garneau | 10760 82 Ave NW, Edmonton | avilaarepa.ca
Paraiso Tropical feeds you comfort and authenticity with every bite — it’s like going to my grandmother’s house. Paraiso presents itself as a grocery store, but within it hides a kitchen. This detail brings back memories of walking to my favourite corner store when I was a kid in Mexico. Paraiso’s kitchen replicates bits and pieces of the countries that we Latin Americans call home. I lit up the first time my brother pointed out that it sold home-made meals, and we devoured the Mexican tamales — a simple dish of corn dough filled with marinated pork. A bite was all it took to transport us to my grandparents’ dining table. Paraiso is one of few restaurants in Edmonton where you can find Mexican Pozole Soup — a blend of dried peppers, spices, chicken, pork and hominy corn (pozole). Fortunately, there are two locations. Don’t forget to add lots of lime and chili to your soup! – Mariana Gutierrez Serna
Paraiso Tropical
Alberta Avenue | 9136 118 Ave NW, Edmonton
Allendale |6926 104 Street NW, Edmonton
paraisotropical.ca
This article appears in the March 2026 issue of Edify
