Sanyukta SrivastavaLast weekend, my friends and I took a trip to the Edmonton Zoo. We were all excited to see the animals, but let’s be real—we were just as eager for the food! After hours of wandering through the exhibits, we needed a good refuel.
Fortunately, many restaurants near the zoo offer a great selection of food that hits the spot. From quick snacks to hearty meals, I tried a bit of everything, making sure the fam only ate meals worth the penny.
Let me take you through these new favorites!
1. Sabor Restaurant
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Website: https://www.sabor.ca/
Address: 10220 103 St NW #109
Contact Details: +1 780-757-1114
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Friday – Saturday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Price: $$$
Sabor is the best stop for those who want to try Iberian flavors. There are private dining rooms that are perfect for groups and even for those who need a quiet space to get things done. I had a work event there once, and the service was impeccable!
The food at Sabor is simply amazing. They serve perfectly seared prawns and a melt-in-your-mouth beef tenderloin. Plus, their halibut is hands-down one of the best I’ve ever had, even though it’s slightly pricey.
What’s nice is that the surroundings have a rustic vibe, which enhances the rustic charm of a zoo trip. And with a diverse menu that’s perfect for a sophisticated day out, it’s definitely a must-visit.
2. Memphis Blues Barbeque House
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Website: https://www.memphisbluesbbq.com/
Address: 222 Baseline Road Sherwood Park
Contact Details: +1 780 467-7427
Operating Hours: Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Tuesday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Saturday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Price: $$$
If you’re looking for a flavorful, down-home southern BBQ experience, Memphis Blues Barbeque House is the place to go. The moment I walked in, the smoky aroma of slow-cooked meats made my mouth water—perfect after a tiring zoo day!
I had to try their brisket, and while it was a bit dry, the smoky flavors still came through. Their BBQ sauce, on the other hand, stole the show! I couldn’t get enough of the tangy mustard sauce—it was so good I had to take a bottle home.
Even the sides impressed me, especially the fresh arugula and the slightly spicy jambalaya.
While the place is definitely on the expensive side, it’s still a great spot for dining out with a big group.
3. Anejo Restaurant
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Website: https://www.anejo.ca/
Address: 11954 104 Ave NW
Contact Details: +1 780-665-6350
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Friday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM
Price: $$
If you’re looking for a fun, lively dining experience, Anejo Restaurant is the place to be. With over 200 tequilas to choose from, it’s the perfect spot for those who love a quick drink. They even have a rooftop patio that offers a great spot to unwind.
If you want to save a bit, aim for their happy hour specials from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM and again at 9:00 PM.
Beyond the drinks, the food is just as good. Their coconut shrimp is a must-try, with a perfect balance of crunch and sweetness. If you’re in the mood for a light meal, you’ll also love their tacos—the flavors aren’t too overpowering.
4. Darling
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Website: https://darlingrestaurant.ca/
Address: 9616 Whyte Ave NW
Operating Hours: Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Monday – Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Friday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Price: $$
Darling has a cool, chic vibe that instantly puts you in a great mood for a good meal. The charming ambiance, paired with a cute little patio with plants, is a treat—best enjoyed when dining solo or with a partner.
Their menu features beloved dishes like carpaccio and sablefish, with portions just right for a filling lunch. But if you prefer a light meal, the anchovy toast is the right choice, thanks to its umami-packed bite that delivers bold flavor.
5. Chianti Cafe & Restaurant
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Website: http://www.chianticafe.ca/
Address: 10501 Whyte Ave NW
Contact Details: +1 780-439-9829
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Price: $
For those who love the classic cafe options after a full day at the zoo, Chianti Cafe and Restaurant won’t disappoint.
Their spaghetti carbonara is one of the best, with their in-house pasta that has the perfect bounce and texture. And with the creamy sauce, it’s a savory meal that’s satisfying enough for lunch.
Don’t overlook their tiramisu for dessert—it’s light, fluffy, and perfectly sweet. As for drinks, their wine selection isn’t very extensive, but the bottles are affordable enough to indulge in.
Just note that the restaurant’s vibe feels a bit dated, so younger diners may feel out of place. However, for those who appreciate great service, it’s an amazing spot to sit down and dine.
6. Zuppa Cafe & Pizza
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Website: https://zuppacafe.ca/
Address: 9843 110 St NW
Contact Details: +1 780-482-1741
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Price: $
Zuppa Cafe & Pizza is a go-to for those craving comfort food. But if I had to pick a favorite, it would be their awesome salmon wrap—the tangy feta with a hint of sweet maple pairs perfectly with the smoky salmon.
Their Zuppizza is also a fun choice, loaded with toppings such as ham, pepperoni, and mushrooms. The crust is crispy, and the cheese is gooey, making it the perfect savory meal for groups.
Plus, the vibe is cozy and relaxing, perfect for enjoying a chai latte on a quiet afternoon. It’s also reasonably priced, so you can splurge a little and try a variety of dishes.
7. Sweet Pea Cafe and Playhouse
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Website: https://sweetpeacafeandplayhouse.com/
Address: 14238 85 Ave NW
Contact Details: +1 825-201-8242
Operating Hours: Sunday – Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Price: $
Sweet Pea Cafe and Playhouse is the perfect spot for families visiting the Edmonton Zoo. If you’re looking for fun activities for kids, you’ll absolutely love the spacious and clean play area, where they can stay occupied while you enjoy a meal.
There’s also a reservation system for the playhouse, which limits the number of kids per session. This keeps the space less crowded and much safer for them to run around.
While the kids are entertained, parents can relax with a drink or snack at the cafe. I can’t recommend the butterfly pea latte enough—it’s sweet, creamy, and has just the right aroma to complement any meal.
For meals, their best-selling cinnamon bun and BBQ-pulled jackfruit burger are must-tries. If you prefer a healthier option, they also offer meal-size salads and nutritious food bowls.
8. On the Rocks
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Website: https://ontherocksyeg.com/
Address: 11740 Jasper Ave
Contact Details: +1 780-482-4767
Operating Hours: Sunday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
Price: $$
If you’re heading to the Edmonton Zoo, be sure to add On the Rocks to your must-visit list. This spot is perfect for music lovers, featuring a stage where some of the best cover bands rock the house every weekend.
If you’re looking for a casual yet tasty meal, On the Rocks serves up a range of hearty pub classics. But if you’re in the mood for something different, you can try their crab boil—it comes with potatoes and a side of corn.
A quick note: Thursdays can get a bit loud with salsa lessons, so be prepared for the noise if dancing isn’t your thing. But if it is, let loose and have fun!
9. Braven
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Website: https://www.bravenrestaurant.com/
Address: 10344 102 St NW
Contact Details: +1 780-784-8580
Operating Hours: Sunday – Saturday: 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Price: $$$
Braven will definitely blow you away with their perfectly cooked steaks and fresh seafood. I ordered the ribeye, and it was one of the best I’ve ever had—juicy, perfectly seared, and each bite melted in my mouth.
You can pair it with their buttery garlic bread to enhance the rich, smoky flavors. Definitely consider ordering one if you’re in the mood for a big meal.
The atmosphere here is cozy yet leans upscale. The service is top-notch too, which isn’t surprising. However, Braven isn’t cheap, so pace yourself unless you’re ready to splurge.
10. The Keg Steakhouse + Bar
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Website: https://www.thekeg.com/
Address: 9960 170 St NW
Contact Details: +1 780-414-1114
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Friday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Saturday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Price: $$$
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar is a must-visit for steak lovers. During my visit, I ordered their filet mignon, and it was perfectly seared on the outside—juicy inside and infused with a deep, smoky flavor. Every bite was so tender it practically melted in my mouth.
Their garlic mashed potatoes were insanely creamy and buttery, making them the perfect side dish. The texture was smooth with just the right amount of fluffiness, so it wasn’t too heavy on the stomach.
To end the meal, go for their caramel cheesecake. It has a subtle hint of butter, topped with a warm caramel drizzle that makes each bite indulgent.
11. Earls Kitchen + Bar
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Website: https://www.earls.ca/
Address: 11830 Jasper Ave
Contact Details: +1 780-488-6582
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Price: $$
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a delicious meal in a relaxed yet vibrant setting, Earls Kitchen + Bar is the spot. Their Cajun-blackened chicken is often the best choice here—a favorite for its crispy skin and juicy meat.
Their citrus noodle bowl is another favorite among regulars. The tuna is fresh, and the citrusy dressing adds a bright, zesty punch.
If you’re visiting for brunch, don’t miss the crab cake Benedict. Paired with poached eggs and creamy hollandaise, it’s a rich, satisfying dish that’ll refuel you after a day at the zoo.
12. Belgravia Hub
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Website: https://www.belhub.com/
Address: 7609 115 St NW
Contact Details: +1 780-756-3344
Operating Hours: Monday – Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Price: $$
Belgravia Hub is a new favorite, thanks to their kitchen burger. It’s juicy and well-portioned for one person (though it may be a bit small for some) and comes on a soft, surprisingly gluten-free bun.
Paired with their roasted red pepper soup, it’s the perfect choice for colder months.
Apart from the mains, the desserts are fantastic. Their chocolate almond skillet cookie, served warm with ice cream, is a real treat. If you’re with the kids, be sure to grab one for them—they’ll love it!
13. Dadeo Diner and Bar
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Website: http://dadeo.ca/
Address: 100548 A Whyte Ave NW
Contact Details: +1 780-433-0930
Operating Hours: Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Monday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM | Thursday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Price: $$
Dadeo Diner and Bar is a fun spot if you’re craving authentic Cajun food. I loved the blackened catfish Po’boy—the fish was perfectly seasoned and crispy. Their sweet potato fries were flavorful too, making them the perfect companion to the meal.
Their gumbo was hard to resist, with just the right level of spice. But if I had to pick the best, I’d definitely recommend their jambalaya. It’s packed with tender chicken, sausage, and just the right amount of heat.
The best part? The portions are generous, making it easy to share—especially if you’re coming from the zoo with family.
