Cafe Haven’s savoury brunch crepe.
Sherwood Park’s Caf Haven is a small space in a strip mall, but has a big goal: To not just feed the sleepy suburb quality fare, but quality culture too. Locally made visual art changes every second month and there are regular musical performances from various artists.
Every day, Caf Haven makes a mean cappuccino using Stumptown Coffee Roasters beans and a Mediterranean sandwich that never disappoints. It’s juicy olives, artichoke, sundried tomato, spinach and feta cheese sandwiched by a crunchy ciabatta bun. However, only the locals seem to know about its terrific and constantly changing weekend brunches.
During my August visit, I had crepes stuffed with leek sausage and portabella ricotta cream sauce, rounded out with a small oil-and-vinegar leafy green salad. The crepe was surprisingly sweet, but not overpoweringly so. It was a light brunch, and there was just enough room to order a side of the cafe’s signature chopped potatoes. They’re a must, at least for the seasoning that gives the meal an extra kick.
Another great option is the huevos rancheros, which doesn’t lag just because it’s familiar. Served in a bowl, it’s a heap of warm potatoes,eggs, sweet corn, black beans and fresh cheddar, cooled by dollops of guacamole and mild pico de gallo. It’s so popular, there’s even a gluten-free option.
The food comes fast, but there’s no rush. Relax and enjoy a lazy Sunday in a cool setting. Who says sleepy towns are so bad? (9 Sioux Rd., Sherwood Park, 780-417-5523)
