When we think of great dining neighbourhoods in Edmonton, we think of downtown, Whyte Avenue and 124th Street.
But the 156th Street industrial area, by the Yellowhead? A great dining destination?
Yes. We know that El Mero Mero and Smokin’ Barrels Cocina Latina have set up shop amongst the truck bays, warehouses and manufacturing hubs. Siam Thai Kitchen can be found just off of 156th. Now, there’s a majestic pulled pork “burger” that’s worth finding. (And, you’ll need to work to find it.)
4Monsters Diner is located inside the Truck-All Depot just south of where the Yellowhead and 156th Street meet. Yes, it’s the same owners as the 4Monsters burger and pizza spot in St. Albert. Look for the truck bays and you might see the 4Monsters sign. And, once you get to the parking lot, you’ll see the sign advertising the “Monster’s Feast,” which comes with butter chicken, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, tofu stir fry and ginger beef. Yes, it’s an “…and the kitchen sink” offer that can only make you wonder.
But I am here for the pulled pork. When I get to the counter, I am told it’s slow-cooked for 12 hours, then braised. All of it done in-house. And what I get is a hefty helping of pulled pork, with a sauce that’s tangy and slightly sweet. There’s cheese in there, too. And it makes for a big meal. Honestly, it’s one of the best pulled-pork meals I’ve had in this city. In a truck depot. But that’s what’s great about Edmonton, right? You can find great eats in the most unexpected of places.
I can’t see there being enough will out there to have a 156th Street Dining Week or something like that, but, really, we shouldn’t sleep on these great spots to eat. And, well, if you need a truck, you can get that, too.
4Monsters Diner
Hawin Park | 12232 156 St. NW, Edmonton | 4-monsters-diner.com
