by Jana Lee
Garneau is one of Edmonton’s oldest neighbourhoods, famous for its award-winning restaurants, local boutiques and trendy neighbourhood pubs. Its central location and proximity to the University of Alberta make it a high-traffic area bursting with cool places to check out whether you’re looking to eat, shop or play. [Photo credit: YP Contributor]
As a dining hotspot, Garneau is home to restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world. No matter your budget, you’ll be sure to in the area to feed your cravings.
For casual comfort food, consider the Sugar Bowl or Highlevel Diner. Both serve such amazing cinnamon buns and comfort fare, it’s impossible to decide on a favourite! The restaurants are next door to each other, so if you can’t decide, go with whichever has the shortest wait!
If it’s pizza night, visit Rosso Pizzeria across the street and indulge in delicious hand-tossed pizzas topped with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Considered one of Edmonton’s best pizza spots, snag a table at Rosso before the lunch and dinner rush.
For those looking to splurge on a meal, Three Boars Eatery is where it’s at. Treat yourself to locally inspired small plates and craft cocktails in an intimate (less than 40 seats) environment.
Garneau is also home to conscious eateries serving plant-based dishes. Whoever said a vegetarian diet is bland has never been to Noorish Cafe or Cafe Mosaics. They do veggie so well, you won’t even remember, or care, that it’s meatless. Best yet, you’ll be leaving full and happy you’ve made a conscious decision to go meatless for a meal.
For Asian cuisine, nothing beats fresh sushi at Tokyo Noodle Shop or Kyoto Japanese Cuisine. If you’re a fan of spice, be sure to check out The King & I Thai Cuisine for tasty Southeast Asian fusion grub.
Garneau is home to a collection of independently owned boutiques. The community shop of Edmonton-based design studio Workhall features locally crafted apparel. And if you’re looking for custom footwear worth the investment, drop in at the Poppy Barley flagship store to pick out designs and get custom measured for the perfectly fitting shoe for you. Looking for off-the-rack finds? Check out Bamboo Stock Room for the latest and greatest in today’s fashion trends.
For those on the hunt for previously owned goods, Red Pony Consignment is your one-stop shop for gently used designer apparel and accessories. For vintage finds, check out Black Swan Antiques & Collectibles for one-of-a-kind estate jewellery.
Looking for gifts or things for your home? Wild Prairie Soap Co makes bath and body products with natural ingredients you can pronounce. The Silk Road Spice Merchant is a must-visit spot for premium spices and herbs, and Knifewear features hand-crafted knives that are as much a piece of art as they are a tool.
Garneau is one of Edmonton’s most popular arts and entertainment hub. Exercise your creative skill with an Art Night class at City Arts Centre. For a night of ceramics, paint, glaze and see your creation come alive from the kiln at Crankpots Ceramic Studio.
For those that like to sit and watch, consider a film at Garneau’s Metro Cinema or cozying up at Remedy Cafe with a mug of Edmonton’s best chai latte and a window seat for great people-watching.
To partake in the occasional libation, consider Garneau Pub or Devaney’s Irish Pub. With its proximity to the University of Alberta campus, you’re likely to find deals that cater to student budgets. Between drink specials and a student crowd, expect it to be busy on weekends.
Part of what makes Garneau such a vibrant community is its diversity and location. Equal parts bustling, calm and welcoming, be sure to see what Garneau has to offer on your next YEG adventure.
