Best Things To Eat: Linguini Vongole from Chianti

Freewill Shakespeare Festival Artistic Director David Horak remembers his days as a graduate student at the University of Alberta, during which he first discovered the Linguini Vongole from Chianti on Whyte Avenue. After living in New York for a few years, Horak came back to Edmonton with a heart filled with love for the local art scene and a craving for local food.

“I’m always impressed by the food scene in Edmonton, you know, especially considering the size of the city. We have a great number of wonderful restaurants here.”

When not directing Shakespeare productions at Hawrelak Park, Horak is most likely on his way to see art shows around the town and visiting both new and his favourite eateries.

“I often go back to Chianti,” says Horak. “Its menus are always reliable. People at Chianti are really great art supporters, too. They hire a lot of local actors and musicians for the front of the house and in the kitchen. So I love supporting them.”

The Linguini Vongole at Chianti, prepared with baby clams and garlic cream sauce, wins Horak’s heart every time. He says it’s the touch of herbs and fresh lemon juice that lights up the dish.

“Even during the pandemic, I’d order take out almost every week. It has already become a comfort food for me.”