Edmonton’s Culinary Gems: A Weekend Journey Through Tony’s Pizza and Culina Mill Creek

Edmonton, Alberta, a city known for its vibrant arts scene and beautiful river valley, also boasts a surprisingly diverse and thriving culinary landscape. My recent weekend trip to this dynamic city, initially for an Iron Maiden concert (a story for another time!), turned into an unexpected and delightful gastronomic adventure, thanks in no small part to the power of social media. Unsure of the best dining spots, a quick query to my Twitter followers for #yeg dining suggestions yielded an immediate and enthusiastic response. The digital grapevine, it seems, is an indispensable tool for uncovering local favorites, and it certainly came in handy for our family’s exploration of Edmonton’s food scene.

Discovering Tony’s Pizza Palace: An Authentic Italian Experience

Among a flurry of recommendations – including the chic patio at the Hotel MacDonald, various international cuisines, and cozy coffee shops – one particular suggestion stood out: Tony’s Pizza. A quick Google search revealed its prime location, nestled conveniently between our hotel and Rexall Place, making it the perfect pre-concert dinner destination. With hunger pangs setting in early, we made a swift decision and headed straight for Tony’s, securing a coveted spot on their bustling patio. From the moment we arrived, it was clear we had stumbled upon a true Edmonton institution.

A Warm, Unpretentious Atmosphere

Tony’s Pizza Palace instantly enveloped us in its old-school charm. This wasn’t a place for fancy pretensions; it was a comfortable, inviting Italian pasta-and-pizzeria that felt like home. The atmosphere was vibrant yet relaxed, with every table occupied and a cheerful buzz of conversation filling the air. It was a full house, predominantly families who, by their easy demeanor and familiar chatter, were clearly regulars. This sense of community and long-standing patronage immediately put us at ease. For this particular trip, my main goal was relaxation, meaning I had no intention of “being presentable.” I’d happily slipped into flip-flops and a t-shirt, and Tony’s welcomed my casual attire with open arms, reinforcing its genuine, unpretentious spirit. It’s the kind of place that makes you yearn for a big plate of garlicky pasta, shared amongst a long table of boisterous friends and family, all digging in with voracious appetites.

Savoring Authentic New York Style Pizza

Our culinary mission at Tony’s was clear: pizza. We opted for a classic New York style pie, served extra large and thin, generously slathered with a spicy tomato sauce and perfectly melted cheese. To complement this, we also indulged in Sal’s Deluxe, a masterpiece featuring savoury prosciutto, flavourful capicollo, juicy marinated tomatoes, and creamy bocconcini. The pizzas arrived, each slice a testament to traditional craftsmanship, promising a symphony of flavors. They were so substantial and delicious that we had more than enough to take back to the hotel, ensuring a delightful breakfast and lunch for the following day. This abundance only added to the value and enjoyment of our meal, making Tony’s an even more memorable stop on our Edmonton dining tour.

The Art of Pizza Making: A Mesmerizing Experience

What truly elevated our Tony’s experience was witnessing the culinary artistry of Sal himself. In the kitchen, visible through an open window, Sal was a whirlwind of motion, flipping dough high and wide into the air with a practiced grace rarely seen in modern pizzerias. This traditional method, a true spectacle, completely captivated my four-year-old, W. His awe was so palpable that Sal (and we assume it was Sal, as everyone in the kitchen seemed to be called Sal!) graciously invited W to step closer and watch the magic unfold. Within arm’s reach, W observed Sal patting, tossing, and expertly topping the dough before sliding it into the blistering hot oven. In a wonderfully generous gesture, Sal even gave W a small wad of dough to toss about himself. It was a moment of pure joy for W, a budding pizza enthusiast in heaven.

And so was I, albeit from the other side of the glass door, comfortably seated on the patio. Sipping on a generously poured $4 glass of house red wine, I savored wide slices of New York-style pizza – the kind you can authentically fold in half to enjoy every bite. The combination of delicious food, a relaxed atmosphere, and the joy of watching W’s captivating experience made for an unforgettable start to our Edmonton weekend.

Culina Mill Creek: A Bright Brunch Spot in Old Strathcona

The next morning, after what was optimistically planned as a long, leisurely sleep-in (quickly curtailed by W’s insistent 6:20 AM wake-up call for “the pool!”), our culinary journey continued. We headed to Culina Mill Creek for brunch, another highly recommended spot. Located in the charming Old Strathcona district, Culina Mill Creek is a teeny, intimate establishment that exudes a bright and welcoming ambiance. The space is thoughtfully designed with rustic wood chairs, chilled wine bottles repurposed for cold water, and an abundance of natural sunlight softly filtered through delicate gauzy curtains. It’s the kind of place where you immediately feel a sense of comfort and understated elegance, perfectly setting the stage for a delightful morning meal.

Charming Ambiance and Inviting Atmosphere

The moment you step into Culina Mill Creek, you’re greeted by an atmosphere that strikes a perfect balance between cozy and chic. Its small footprint contributes to an intimate dining experience, making every guest feel personally attended to. The décor is simple yet sophisticated, with warm wood tones and thoughtful touches like fresh flowers. The filtered sunlight creates a soft, inviting glow, enhancing the rustic charm. It’s a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, an ideal spot for a relaxing brunch with friends and family. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, adding to the overall positive vibe of the restaurant. Old Strathcona itself is known for its historic buildings and vibrant arts scene, and Culina Mill Creek fits seamlessly into this eclectic neighborhood, offering a modern culinary experience rooted in a welcoming community spirit.

A Brunch to Remember: Culinary Delights at Culina

Our brunch began with a tempting order of grilled cornbread, served alongside a rich and fragrant blueberry butter – a truly irresistible combination of sweet and savory that perfectly whetted our appetites. For our main courses, I chose an exquisitely prepared egg, bacon, tomato, and edam panini, a warm and satisfying start to the day. Mike opted for the mushroom frittata, enhanced with the subtle kick of spicy braised bacon, offering a robust and flavorful experience. Our friend Jen delighted in eggs swimming in a creamy basil sauce, generously topped with crispy bacon, a dish that promised both comfort and sophistication. Each plate was a testament to Culina’s commitment to fresh ingredients and creative culinary execution, turning simple brunch staples into memorable meals. Even W was catered for with a perfectly cooked single egg, over-easy, showcasing the restaurant’s family-friendly approach.

Beyond Brunch: Anticipating Dinner and Bibo

Our brunch experience at Culina Mill Creek left such a positive impression that I am already eagerly anticipating a return visit for dinner. The depth of flavor and quality of ingredients suggested that their dinner menu would be equally, if not more, impressive. Adding to the allure of this culinary hub, nestled next door and buffered by a quaint barber shop, is Bibo – a new wine bar and charcuterie. Owned by the same passionate individuals behind Culina, Bibo promises an exciting extension of their culinary philosophy. It’s an enticing prospect for further research and undoubtedly another fine addition to Edmonton’s growing collection of sophisticated yet accessible dining and social spots. The thought of pairing exquisite wines with carefully curated charcuterie boards in such a charming setting is certainly enough to warrant another trip to Old Strathcona.

Edmonton’s Vibrant Food Scene: A Weekend of Delightful Discoveries

Our weekend in Edmonton proved to be far more than just a concert trip; it was a journey of delightful culinary discoveries, guided by the invaluable recommendations of the local community. From the authentic, family-friendly charm of Tony’s Pizza Palace, where traditional pizza-making is an art form, to the bright and sophisticated brunch experience at Culina Mill Creek in the historic Old Strathcona district, Edmonton showcased its impressive gastronomic diversity. These establishments not only delivered exceptional food but also provided memorable experiences, reflecting the warm hospitality and vibrant spirit of the city. Such encounters remind us of the simple joy of good food, shared company, and the unexpected treasures found when exploring a new city through its local flavors. If you find yourself in Edmonton, I highly recommend seeking out these culinary gems, and perhaps even venturing into the enticing new world of Bibo next door. The city’s food scene is clearly flourishing, offering something wonderful for every palate.