Karsten SturmayLet’s rewind to a chilly evening in Edmonton. I was wandering around, stomach growling, when I stumbled upon this cozy bistro. The smell of garlic and butter pulled me in, and before I knew it, I was seated at a table by the window.
I ended up going with the waiter’s suggestion – a hearty coq au vin. As I dug in, it got me thinking about all the great French spots in town. There are so many amazing ones here!
So, I decided to put together this list of the best ones. But to be sure I didn’t miss any options, I also went on a little search first (pulling the entire team, whether they liked it or not!), to find the best French restaurants and cafes in the city. Here are our top picks at the end of all that!
The Marc
Website: http://www.themarc.ca/
Address: 9940 106 St, Edmonton, AB T5K 2N2, Canada
Contact details: +1 780-429-2828
Operating hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM and 5:30 PM – 9:15 PM | Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 9:15 PM | Saturday: 5:00 PM – 9:15 PM
Price: $$$
We know what makes a good French restaurant experience: class, elegance, great food, and a feeling like you’re just right in Paris or Nice. Marc delivers exactly that and just a bit more.
Their menu’s all about those hearty, traditional French dishes, delicious and totally Instagram-worthy. Whether you go for the grilled veggies with crispy zucchini and deep-fried cheese or the yummy mushroom toast with asparagus, every bite is a treat.
Don’t skip the steak – it’s a game-changer! Plus, they have a splendid collection of local wines and esteemed vintages in their cellar.
When dining in such a gorgeous place, you might be expecting high prices. However, this restaurant is reasonably priced for the food and service you get.
Just a heads-up, reservations are important here. Also, don’t hesitate to bring your kids along as it’s a family-friendly spot – just make sure they don’t bother the couple at the next table!
Reinette Cafe And Patisserie Ltd
Website: http://chezreinette.wixsite.com/home
Address: 301 Woodvale Rd W, Edmonton, AB T6L 3Z7, Canada
Contact details: +1 780-577-0974
Operating hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Price: $
You have the option to dine in or get takeout at this delightful French patisserie and cafe in Edmonton. Regardless of your choice, you’ll be impressed by how much care Reinette Café & Patisserie puts into wrapping up your treats.
We first came for the tempting menu, but what really kept us hooked was the cozy French café atmosphere. Their decorations alone made us feel like we had stepped right into a café in France.
But let’s get back to the food. The macarons, for instance, with their crispy shells and flavorful fillings, are a real treat for your taste buds.
And the tarts and pastries? They’re just exquisite, with flavors that melt in your mouth and show off the bakers’ skills.
On top of that, Reinette Cafe also does this adorable afternoon tea setup with mini-berry macarons, mini-apple cheesecakes, madeleines, and financiers. They serve it up with warm tea and sweet tunes.
Partake
Website: http://ouipartake.com/
Address: 12431 102 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5N 0M2, Canada
Contact details:
Operating hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Friday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Sunday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: $$
There’s something special about Partake that you won’t want to miss when it comes to French spots in town. It’s because they blend hearty, rustic French food with a warm and friendly atmosphere.
For instance, their main dishes are served with spaghetti squash, green beans, sauce soubise, toasted almonds, and potato dauphinoise (which is basically French-style scalloped potatoes).
It’s so good that you’ll forgive them for having just a 25-seat space. The good news is they take reservations for parties of 4 to 6, so no worries about finding a spot. However, if you’re a party of 2, you might end up at the bar, which can be a bit uncomfortable.
But hey, it’s not a big deal if you’re here for the drinks. Speaking of that, they have a lovely ever-rotating wine selection and cocktails.
Normand’s
Website: http://normands.com/
Address: 11639 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB T5K 0M9, Canada
Contact details: +1 780-482-2600
Price: $$
Feeling like French cuisine all day long? Normand’s Restaurant is the place to be – they serve breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner!
You might think a restaurant specializing in country French food would be a bit fancy, but not Normand’s. Here, the chefs are all about rolling up their sleeves, which feels a lot less intimidating than most French restos.
And if you’re into French tradition, Normand’s has nailed it with their menu that’s pretty, well – wild. Expect dishes featuring ostrich, elk, musk ox, and caribou.
Now if mussels are more your style, swing by on Mondays for mussel night, which features all-you-can-eat mussels with four sauces for around $16.95 per person.
If the food and drinks aren’t reason enough to try them out, the service is also top-notch. Normand’s goes above and beyond to make you feel at home – this was actually a top pick for our team service-wise.
Brasserie Bardot
Website: https://brasseriebardot.com/
Address: 10109 125 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5N 1S7, Canada
Contact details: +1 780-757-8702
Operating hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Price: $$
Brasserie Bardot is another charming French restaurant nestled in the heart of Edmonton. The quiet and serene atmosphere sets the perfect tone for a memorable meal – obviously better for dates than for family outings, though.
Now, onto the good stuff – their French specialties. The French onion soup is a crowd-pleaser, and their Chateaubriand is cooked to perfection every time. We had two visits and the food quality was the same.
But honestly, what steals the show for us is their impeccably curated cheese selection. You can’t miss it out while you’re there (sorry in advance for our lactose-intolerant friends!).
For those who prefer outdoor dining, you’re in luck as Brasserie Bardot offers a beautiful patio area surrounded by trees and flowers. But don’t worry, the indoor dining area is equally charming, housed in a historic two-story house that adds to the restaurant’s unique appeal.
The French Crêperie
Website: https://www.thefrenchcreperie.ca/
Address: 20031 46 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6M 0E6, Canada
Contact details: +1 306-201-6841
Operating hours: Saturday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 2:30 PM – 10:00 PM | Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price: $
If you’re a fan of those thin pancakes known as crepes, then The French Crêperie is the spot for you.
Locals, including us, swear by how delicious their crepes are. They’re authentic French crepes – paper-thin and bursting with flavor.
You can choose between savory options, filled with ingredients like ham, cheese, and vegetables. You can also go for meats like steak or chicken, and sweet options, with spreads like Nutella, jams, fruits, or whipped cream.
And to answer the questions in your head: are they big? Yes. Are they very filling? Absolutely. Affordable? Definitely.
While they do offer vegetarian dishes, (in case you’re not filled up with just crepes), the downside is that they’re not open every day. So, unfortunately, you can’t enjoy crepes just whenever you want.
Café Bicyclette
Website: http://www.cafebicyclette.ca/
Address: 8627 91 St, Edmonton, AB T6C 3N1, Canada
Contact details: +1 587-524-8090
Operating hours: Tuesday and Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Wednesday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price: $$
They have loads of brunch options here! If you’re feeling like a light brunch, they have pastries to go with your coffee. Craving something more filling? They have beef dishes bursting with flavor and tasty arctic char.
The fish was seriously good too (though there were better options more remarkable to me). Plus, they have a pretty big selection of beers for a “cafe.”
On top of that, if you have dietary restrictions, the cafe has a bunch of gluten-friendly options, like their must-try Smoked Meat Sandwich.
Pro-tip: Feel free to bring your furry friend along. This French spot in Edmonton is totally cool with dogs at their outdoor tables.
La Petite Iza
Website: http://www.lapetiteiza.com/
Address: 10926 88 Ave NW 3rd floor, Edmonton, AB T6G 0Z1, Canada
Contact details: +1 780-435-0083
Price: $$$
Longing for cozy meals in a warm, old-fashioned dining room? Well, La Petite Iza is the spot for you.
Imagine dark wood paneling, pretty tiles, and elegant lamps hanging from the bar (the ones you see straight out of a French bistro). The ceiling is adorned with beautiful murals. The handsome patio at the back of the room is the only reminder that we’re still in Edmonton.
Plus the place has all your Parisian favorites covered. You can start your day with pastries and coffee, or maybe a martini. For lunch, you can enjoy classic French starters like pâté, smoked mussels, or escargots. Feeling fancy? Treat yourself to champagne and oysters!
Dinner is where it’s at for most of us, though. You can enjoy our personal favorites like the steak tartare or French onion soup. Pair it with a glass of Gewürztraminer, rosé, or Pinot!
Macarons & Goodies French Bakery
Website: http://www.macaronsgoodies.com/
Address: 10548 101 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5H 2R8, Canada
Contact details: +1 587-473-6400
Operating hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Price: $
Into French sweets? We couldn’t think of anywhere better than Macarons & Goodies. This place is amazing, with all the authentic French vibes and decorations.
You’ll find the real deal macarons here. They have so many flavors, and yes, they’re cheaper by the dozen!
But that’s not all. Their occasion cakes are also incredible and reasonably priced – and delicious of course! Took one home for my partner and he loved it!
Other must-tries include croissants, raspberry chocolate mousse, macadamia nut cookies, and assorted chocolates.
While many people enjoy their treats on the go, don’t miss out on the charming and cozy interior of the café. You won’t regret spending time there until closing – just make sure you place your order before then!
Café Linnea
Address: 10932 119 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5H 3P5, Canada
Contact details: +1 780-758-1160
Operating hours: Wednesday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Saturday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Sunday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Price: $$$
The French-inspired meals at Cafe Linnea are the best things about this spot. Their menu is impressive, with delicious flavors, local ingredients, and hearty portions.
We highly recommend trying their Oeuf-en-Cocotte for its layers of tasty goodness. Each bite is packed with flavor! And don’t forget to pair it with their sourdough bread – it’s perfect for soaking up all the delicious sauce.
Another standout is the London Fog Panna Cotta, which nails those distinct London Fog flavors without being too overpowering. Plus, it’s beautifully complemented by the orange shortbread and the tanginess of the orange crisp.
Quick tip: The entire experience wouldn’t be complete without pairing your dish with their perfectly steeped tea, with many options to choose from.
The Creperie
Website: www.thecreperie.com
Address: 111, 10220 _ 103 Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta T5J 0Y8 Canada
Contact details: +1 780-420-6656
Price: $$
Another crepe paradise in Edmonton is The Creperie, nestled downtown. But beyond their delicious crepes, it’s the service that steals the show for us.
The staff go above and beyond, making sure every guest feels right at home. This adds to the cozy and inviting atmosphere, making it a memorable dining experience.
Of course, the menu at The Creperie is outstanding, offering a wide variety of options to cater to all tastes and dietary preferences.
From mouthwatering crepes to tasty appetizers and desserts, every dish is a treat for the taste buds. Their three-course options are a hit too, showcasing the chef’s skill in combining flavors and textures.
With all that said, it’s no wonder they’ve been in the business for 48 years and counting. We’ve discovered them recently, but we sure are coming back!
Chocorrant Pâtisserie + Cafe
Website: http://www.chocorrant.com/
Address: 10328 124 St, Edmonton, AB T5N 1R2, Canada
Contact details: +1 780-908-2253
Operating hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 9: 00 AM – 4:00 PM
Price: $
Whether you’re a croissant lover or just enjoy high-quality French pastries at affordable prices (gourmet croissants are all priced under 5 bucks), look no further! When in Edmonton, the Chocorrant Pâtisserie + Cafe is the perfect spot to indulge in a delicious, authentic croissant.
The vibe is fantastic, with a cute space and friendly staff who are always ready to suggest the best options. They even let you know about the deal of the day, which we always like.
Of course, the crowd favorite is the butter croissant, but if you’re craving something more unique, you’ll love their variety of options like butter almond, lemon meringue, matcha, and strawberry almond.
As for their cakes, we’d recommend trying the Earl Grey opera if it’s your first time here. The texture of the cake is soft, with some crunchy bits in the filling that add a delightful contrast.
By the way, you’ll find this café on 124th Street in Edmonton’s Art District, which is pretty convenient. Just be ready to shell out for street parking or hit up one of the nearby paid lots.
