Karsten SturmayHave out-of-town friends visiting for the weekend? Chances are, they’ve already asked you the basics: where to shop, what to do, what to eat besides bagels.
They may want to start their day with a laid-back stroll or some people-watching. Perhaps, they’re in the mood for some shopping—unique finds, not the same old chain stores.
But if you really want to leave a lasting impression, here’s what you should do: take them to the best 4th Street restaurants in Edmonton.
When you’re on 4th Street, forget about the touristy spots that only drain your wallet. Instead, dive into this curated list of restaurants that locals swear by—from chic, cozy cafes to upscale Italian dining destinations.
1. XO Bistro + Bar
Media credit xobistrobar
Website: https://xobistrobar.com/home-dt/
Address: 10236 103 St NW
Contact details: +1 780-761-9696
Operating hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM | Friday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 11:30 PM
Price: $$
If you’re craving Vietnamese food, XO Bistro is a must-visit. Their Spicy Sate Pho is everything you could ask for, with a spicy-sweet broth balanced perfectly with tender rare beef and thick noodles.
The oxtail fries are also legendary for good reason. Imagine golden, crispy fries topped with tender oxtail that fall to the bone and finished with a drizzle of rich gravy.
And if you’re in the mood for something lighter, their Bahn mi sandwiches are a steal. On Sundays the sate beef bahn mi and fries are just $10.
But beyond the food, the lounge-like vibe here is super chic. It’s perfect for a casual lunch or an evening out with friends. With TVs scattered around, it’s a great spot to catch a game while sipping on one of their expertly crafted cocktails.
2. Bar Bricco
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Website: https://barbricco.com/
Address: 10347 Jasper Ave
Contact details: +1 780-424-5588
Operating hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Price: $$$
Bar Bricco is Edmonton’s love letter to Italian cuisine. From the moment you step in, the warm, dimly lit ambiance sets the tone. It’s an upscale dining experience, perfect for dates or a special celebration.
But let’s talk about food—this is where Bar Bricco truly shines. Their focaccia has a crisp crust that shatters perfectly to reveal the pillowy bread inside. Then, pair it with their black pepper honey and pepper jam to elevate the flavor.
If you’re in the mood for pasta, the Agnolotti is a customer favorite. Just take note that the servings are small, so it may not be ideal for sharing (not that you’d want to share their pasta anyway!).
And to complete your night, pair your meal with one of their expertly curated wines. If you’re unsure what to choose, ask the staff for recommendations.
3. Braven
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Website: https://www.bravenrestaurant.com/
Address: 10344 102 St NW
Contact details: +1 780-784-8580
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Price: $$$
Known for its sleek, Vegas-style ambiance, Braven offers an upscale yet approachable meal. With free parking for up to 3 hours, it’s easy to enjoy a leisurely meal with a loved one or friend.
When it comes to the food, the steaks are undoubtedly the star of the menu. Grilled over birch for a signature smoky flavor, each cut is tender and juicy. The porterhouse steak, in particular, is delicious and big enough to share.
For drinks, their cocktail menu features plenty of fun options, like the well-loved Lucky 97 and the customizable Blueberry Garden. They have a solid selection if you prefer wine but be prepared for some markup on the bottles.
4. District 102
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Website: https://www.district102.ca/
Address: 10222 102 St NW
Contact details: +1 780-423-9671
Operating hours: Monday – Friday: 6:30 AM – 12:00 AM | Saturday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Price: $$
District 102 combines the charm of a modern eatery with the laid-back vibe of a neighborhood spot. The sleek and stylish interior offers just enough coziness to make you feel at home.
The food is all about those signature flavors we love. Their chuck burger is perfectly portioned, with tender beef that’ll have you coming back for more. Plus, $1 from every burger purchase is donated to the Stollery Children’s Hospital.
Their breakfast is another treat you don’t want to miss. The All Canadian Breakfast is a hearty option that covers all the bases. You’re spoiled for options, from their pulled pork sandwich with a soft pretzel bun to their crispy wings.
5. Bündok
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Website: https://www.bundokyeg.com/
Address: 10228 104 St NW
Contact details: +1 780-420-0192
Operating hours: Tuesday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Wednesday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Saturday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Price: $$$
Bündok’s modern ambiance is perfect for an intimate dinner or a casual night out with friends. If you’re planning a visit, reservations are a good idea since the place fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
As for the food, one dish you can’t miss is the gnocchi parisienne. It’s light, buttery, and served with earthy mushrooms.
For something meatier, I also like fried chicken skins. They’re perfectly crispy and a great match for cocktails.
And if you want something seriously hearty, their roasted pork ribs have this fall-off-the-bone texture and portions perfect for two.
To top it off with dessert, try their citrusy posset or chocolate cake with cherry ice cream—yes, they’re both good.
6. Sorrentino’s
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Website: https://sorrentinos.com/downtown/
Address: 10162 100 St NW
Contact details: +1 780-424-7500
Operating hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM | Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM | Saturday: 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Price: $$$
If you’re craving delicious Italian food with a side of exceptional service, Sorrentino’s should be at the top of your list.
Their menu is packed with mouthwatering dishes, and you can’t go wrong with anything you choose.
Patrons love their seafood stew. It comes with generous portions of fresh seafood in a flavorful broth.
The gnocchi is another must-try. It has a soft, pillowy texture that melts in your mouth.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, the Caesar salad is a good choice. It has crispy croutons and a rich dressing that ties everything together.
Their lasagna is also a nice classic option for something hearty. And don’t forget to try the beef carpaccio—a delicate, thinly sliced beef dish that’s topped with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.
7. BIRDOG
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Website: https://centuryhospitality.com/birdog/
Address: 10181 104 St NW
Contact details: +1 780-540-4868
Operating hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 3:00 PM – 1:00 AM | Friday – Saturday: 3:00 PM – 2:00 AM | Sunday: 3:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Price: $$
The menu at BIRDOG offers a range of mouthwatering dishes. They’re perfect for sharing with friends or indulging on your own.
Not sure where to begin? Start with the sticky ribs. It’s tender, perfectly glazed, and absolutely addictive.
For something cheesy, the Brie and fries are a must-try. The creamy Brie melting over crispy fries—you might wish there was a bit more Brie, but who’s counting?
For mains, you can’t go wrong with the Honey Bunny Pizza. Instead of tomato sauce, it’s topped with sriracha honey sauce that pairs well with mozzarella and a crispy crust.
And if you’re into hearty portions, the steak and frites is the perfect combo.
8. Normand’s Restaurant
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Website: http://normands.com/
Address: 11639 Jasper Ave
Contact details: +1 780-482-2600
Operating hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: $$
Normand’s Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience a premium dining experience without the premium price. The atmosphere is intimate and sometimes a bit loud, but the energy makes it perfect for a nice family meal.
You can start with the escargot or the shrimp and scallop appetizer for something light. Try the bison ribeye and pair it with a nice side like scalloped potatoes or rice for your main course.
For other options, the wild boar ribs are coated in a Saskatoon berry BBQ sauce that adds a unique sweetness.
But if you’re not into meat, their fish is a good option that comes with a creamy dill sauce that ties everything together.
9. Amore Pasta
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Website: https://amorepasta.ca/
Address: 10235 101 St NW
Contact details: +1 780-421-4450
Operating hours: Monday – Friday: 11:30 AM – 8:30 PM | Saturday – Sunday: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Price: $$
If you’re craving fresh, custom-made pasta, Amore Pasta is the place to be. This cozy spot lets you create your own perfect pasta dish by choosing from a variety of pasta, sauces, and toppings.
Try their chipotle rose sauce for bold flavors. It’s creamy with a slight smokiness and pairs well with any protein or vegetables. Skip the extra cheese and stick with their complementary parmesan to save a bit.
Sicilian pasta is another must-try dish at Amore. For under $20, you already get a rich cream sauce, green onions, and corn. Opt for this if you want a generous lunch, as the combination of beef and pasta makes it incredibly filling.
10. Sicilian Pasta Kitchen Downtown
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Website: https://www.spkdowntown.com/
Address: 11239 Jasper Ave
Contact details: +1 780-488-3838
Operating hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Price: $$
Sicilian Pasta Kitchen (SPK) is a great place for, well, Sicilian pasta. But if you’re looking for a flavorful start without the pasta yet, try the Cozze Siciliana. These mussels come in white wine and gorgonzola sauce that’s perfect for dipping with bread.
The Salsiccia and Arancini are also fantastic for appetizers. The sausage has just the right amount of spice, while the crispy risotto balls (that’s stuffed with mozzarella and drenched in tomato sauce) will have you asking for seconds.
If you’re a fan of calamari, SPK’s version is crispy on the outside and tender inside, with a sauce that adds a subtle kick.
And let’s not forget the Caesar Salad, with its crunchy croutons and perfectly seasoned dressing. It’s perfect as a light meal or side.
11. strEATS
Media credit streatskitchens
Website: https://streatskitchens.com/
Address: 11327 104 Ave NW
Contact details: +1 780-988-0044
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price: $$
What sets strEATS apart is its playful menu. They have the mango shrimp burrito that’s perfect for a tropical flavor.
For a side dish, they have delicious cajun poutine, made with crispy fries smothered in spicy gravy and toppings.
StrEATS also offers a great deal with a 10% discount for students who show their ID. But even if you’re not eligible, the value for money remains good. On Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, you can also enjoy specials at a lower price.
If you don’t mind spending a bit, though, go for their smash burger. For the average eater, the portions might be a little too massive. But if you’re not getting any other dishes (or planning to share with friends), this and a drink will fill you up quickly.
12. Cafe Amore Bistro
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Website: https://www.cafeamorebistro.ca/
Address: 10807 106 Ave NW
Contact details: +1 780-477-7896
Operating hours: Monday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Friday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Saturday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Sunday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: $$
If you’re on the hunt for mouth-watering Italian dishes, Cafe Amore Bistro is a place you’ll want to bookmark immediately. The menu is packed with flavorful options, from creamy lobster ravioli to savory pancetta bucatini.
Their portions are incredibly generous, so they’re perfect for sharing—or enjoying solo if you think you can handle it.
The cocktails here are worth mentioning too, with the coconut margarita being a surprising hit. It’s perfect if you want that tropical touch to your dish. Pair it with their mista salad or tender meatballs, and you’ve got yourself a nice, light meal.
For dessert lovers, the panna cotta and tiramisu are absolute must-haves. Have one—or both—if you have a sweet tooth.
13. The Harvest Room & Terrace
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Website: https://www.fairmont.com/macdonald-edmonton/dining/harvestroom/
Address: 10065 100 St NW
Contact details: +1 780-429-6495
Operating hours: Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM | Saturday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM – 4:30 PM, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Price: $$$
Fine dining, you say? The Harvest Room will give you just that. Step inside and you’re greeted with a grand ambiance. From its classic decor to its inviting outdoor patio with breathtaking views of the river valley, the setting feels both luxurious and intimate.
The food options here are as varied as they are delicious. You can kick off your day with a hearty breakfast board filled with fresh pastries, savory meats, and perfectly cooked eggs.
For afternoon tea, you can get their freshly baked scones paired with mixed berry compote and Earl Grey tea.
When it comes to the mains, their tenderloin steak served with buttery buttermilk mashed potatoes is as dreamy as it sounds. The prices are higher than usual, but the generous portions and exceptional experience make it worth every penny.
