Karsten SturmayDowntown has no shortage of restaurants, but figuring out which ones are actually worth it? That takes some trial and error. Not everything lives up to the Google reviews—and no one wants to waste time or money on a meal that’s just “meh.”
But once you get to know the area, you start finding spots that are actually worth going back to. Places with solid food, good vibes, and no pressure to dress up unless you want to.
If you’re tired of playing restaurant roulette, this list should help. These are downtown Edmonton restaurants that we locals go back to.
SABOR Restaurant
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Location: 10220 103 Street Nw Suite 109
Contact: +1 780-757-1114
Operating hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 4:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
- Sunday: Closed
I finally checked out SABOR in Philly after a few people recommended it. It’s a small spot, but it has good energy and feels pretty laid-back when you walk in.
I tried the chuleta with yellow rice and the crowd-favorite mofongo con carne frita. The mofongo was flavorful, and the carne frita was tender. As for the chuleta, the yellow rice had a nice garlic kick.
The staff were friendly and helped explain a few things about the menu I didn’t know. I liked how comfortable it felt.
Pro Tip:
The menu doesn’t list prices, so be sure to ask or check ahead if you’re on a budget to avoid surprises when the bill comes.
La Ronde Restaurant
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Location: 10111 Bellamy Hill
Contact: +1 800-661-8801
Operating hours:
- Monday – Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday – Saturday: 5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Sunday:
10:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
What I love about La Ronde is that the restaurant is on the 24th floor of the Chateau Lacombe Hotel, offering a full 360-degree view of the city while you eat. The rotating feature is a fun touch, giving you a constantly changing perspective without making you dizzy.
As for the food, the menu offers a good mix of local and traditional fare. I had the Alberta beef, cooked medium-rare with a warm, pink center and a tender texture. I paired it with a traditional, Old Fashioned, which was well-balanced and not too sweet.
Finally, I would unquestionably suggest their Tanzanian Chocolate Tart. It’s the ideal way to finish a meal because it’s rich, indulgent, and has the ideal amount of chocolate bitterness.
Pro Tip:
The menu here is on the pricier side, so it’s better suited for special occasions than casual outings. And if it’s your first time at a rotating restaurant, give yourself a few minutes to get used to the movement.
Tzin Wine & Tapas
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Location: 10115 104 St NW
Contact: +1 780-428-8946
Operating hours:
- Monday & Sunday: Closed
- Tuesday – Thursday: 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Friday & Saturday: 4:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Tzin is one of those small, cozy spots that fill up fast. I went on a weeknight, and the vibe was relaxed but still lively. The place only has a handful of tables, so it’s quiet enough to actually have a conversation.
I tried the bison meatballs and patatas bravas—both were solid choices. The meatballs were tender, and the sauce had just enough depth. The potatoes had a little heat to them, which I liked.
Their “feed me” option was fun too. The chef picks a mix of dishes for you, and it’s a good way to try stuff you might not normally order. It’s something I’d go for again next time.
Pro Tip:
The space is small, so it’s best to book ahead, especially if you’re planning a night out with a group. It’s not ideal for walk-ins or larger parties.
Sorrentino’s Downtown
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Location: 10162 100th St
Contact: +1 780-424-7500
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 3:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
I liked how relaxed Sorrentino’s Downtown felt. It’s not overly fancy, but it’s warm and welcoming, especially with the fireplace going. It’s a good spot for a slower evening with good company.
I went with the mushroom risotto, and it was solid—creamy, not too salty, and the portion was just right. One of my friends had vegetarian ravioli and said the filling had a nice, fresh taste. They’ve got a few veggie-friendly options, which is great for those with dietary restrictions.
They also helped us pick a red wine to go with everything, and it was a good match. The service was friendly, and you can tell they want you to be able to enjoy the whole experience.
Pro Tip:
It’s a bit pricey, so maybe save it for a special night out rather than a quick bite.
Harvest Room – Fairmont Hotel Macdonald
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Location: 10065 100 St NW
Contact: +1 780-424-5181
Operating hours:
- Breakfast: Monday to Friday: 6:30 AM – 10:00 AM
- Lunch: Monday to Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM
- Dinner: Monday to Sunday: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
- Weekend Brunch: Saturday & Sunday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Afternoon Tea: Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 PM – 4:30 PM
The Harvest Room is one of those places that feels like a step up in dining. The views of the river valley are stunning, especially if you’re seated by the window.
The menu has a lot of local ingredients. I tried their sablefish, and it was great. The fish was tender and flaky, with a subtle sweetness that paired beautifully with the Meyer lemon sauce.
I also couldn’t help but order their Lobster Risotto, and it did not disappoint. The lobster’s freshness truly shone through so that each bite tasted luxurious.
It’s a great spot if you want to enjoy a relaxed meal with a bit of elegance.
Pro Tip:
If you’re visiting during warmer months, try to snag a seat on the terrace. The outdoor seating offers a great view of the river valley and adds a nice touch to your dining experience.
Sofra Authentic Turkish Cuisine
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Location: 10345 106 Street NW
Contact: +1 780-423-3044
Operating hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday – Sunday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Sofra Authentic Turkish Cuisine presents a wonderful dip into Turkish tastes. I had their mixed grill platter, which came with lamb, chicken, and beef kebabs—each juicy, smoky, and seasoned with a nice balance of spices. It’s definitely worth a try if you’re a grilled meat fan!
Their mezze selection is also a standout. The hummus was creamy, and the baba ganoush had the perfect smokiness to complement the fresh pita. It was the ideal start to the meal, giving a taste of authentic Turkish fare.
The restaurant itself has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with traditional Turkish decor that adds an authentic feel, making it a great place for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
Pro Tip:
Ask about the daily specials—some dishes aren’t on the regular menu and sell out fast.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
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Location: 9990 Jasper Avenue
Contact: +1 780-990-0123
Operating hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday – Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
If you want a good steak dinner, Ruth’s Chris certainly provides. I ordered the filet, and it was served sizzling—actually, on fire. The steak had a solid sear and was cooked just how I like it, with that warm pink center.
Out of the sides we tried, the creamed spinach hit the mark. It was warm, flavorful, and worked well with the steak. The garlic mashed potatoes were also good—nothing too fancy, but comforting.
The place feels upscale but not too stuffy. The lighting is low, the service is polished, and it’s quiet enough to hold a conversation without shouting. Felt like a good pick for a birthday dinner or something similar.
Pro Tip:
If you like your steak sizzling hot, it’s worth noting that they serve it on a 500° plate—so don’t touch the plate and eat quickly if you prefer it to stay medium rare.
Select Restaurant
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Location: 10018 106 Street NW
Contact: +1 780-428-1629
Operating hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
What I like about Select Restaurant is that they let you customize your meal—from appetizers and entrées to seasonings and sides—so it really feels tailored to what you’re in the mood for.
They have a diverse menu that caters to a range of tastes, which makes it easy to find something you’ll enjoy. I went for the duck breast, and it definitely met my expectations. The skin had a nice crisp, and the sauce wasn’t too sweet. It’s the kind of dish you don’t rush through.
I also went for one of their mezcal cocktails, and it was smoky in a good way. It paired well with the food without being overpowering. It’s not too heavy, just balanced.
Pro Tip:
The menu is customizable, so don’t be shy about mixing and matching. Try different seasoning combos with your entrée—it’s one of the fun parts of eating here.
Old Spaghetti Factory
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Location: 10220 103 Street NW
Contact: +1 780-422-6088
Operating hours:
- Monday – Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
The Old Spaghetti Factory is one of those places I go to when I just want something easy and familiar. I had dinner there last weekend and sat on the old trolley car in the middle of the restaurant, which made it feel a bit more fun than the usual booth.
I tried the spaghetti with mizithra and browned butter, which they’re kind of known for, and it was exactly what I was craving. The pasta was soft but not mushy, and the nutty flavor of the browned butter paired nicely with the salty mizithra cheese.
The meal comes as a full package—starter, bread, and a sweet finish. I picked the minestrone and then tried the spumoni. It was not something I’d usually go for, but it rounded out the meal well.
Pro Tip:
It can get pretty loud and busy on weekends, so if you’re after a more relaxed vibe, aim for a weekday visit instead.
Bistro Praha
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Location: 10117 101 Street NW
Contact: +1 780-424-4218
Operating hours:
- Monday – Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – Midnight
- Saturday: 11:30 AM – Midnight
- Sunday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
I went by Bistro Praha recently, and it’s really one of those places that you just kind of want to linger in. The atmosphere is really relaxed with that homey European bistro vibe.
I decided on the goulash, and I absolutely enjoyed it! The flavor was bold, rich, and balanced with just the right amount of heat. It comes with fresh bread, which is great for dipping, so I was in heaven. If you enjoy old-school Czech cuisine, this is certainly a place to visit.
I also observed that their menu features a good selection of dishes, from other meat-intensive choices to light options, so there is something for everybody.
Pro Tip:
Leave some space for dessert – their strudel is the perfect way to wrap up your meal.
