When I first arrived in Edmonton, I wasn’t just excited about the sights and the experiences. I was also looking forward to trying the city’s local cuisine, as Alberta is known for its vibrant food scene and unique culinary traditions. Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, offers a remarkable blend of both traditional Canadian dishes and contemporary takes on global flavors, making it a gastronomic destination for all kinds of food lovers. After spending several weeks here, I’ve discovered that the city’s culinary offerings are more diverse and delicious than I could have ever imagined. In this guide, I’ll share with you the must-try local foods of Edmonton and where to enjoy them.

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1. Alberta Beef – The Heart of Canadian Cuisine

Where to Try: The Butternut Tree, 10205 97 St NW
Dish to Try: Steak and Alberta Beef Cuts

Being in Alberta, known for its cattle ranching, you can’t visit Edmonton without trying some locally raised beef. I headed straight to The Butternut Tree, a rustic yet elegant restaurant that specializes in locally sourced ingredients. Their Alberta beef steak is a true reflection of the province’s pride in its cattle industry.

The steak, cooked to perfection, was incredibly tender, juicy, and full of flavor. I highly recommend the rib-eye or the filet mignon, which were cooked exactly how I ordered them – a rare feat for many restaurants. The Butternut Tree offers a cozy yet refined dining experience with a focus on using sustainable and local produce. Their beef is grass-fed, which makes the flavor even richer and more intense than regular beef.

Cost Estimate: Expect to pay between CAD 40-60 for a steak entrée.
Booking Tips: Make a reservation through OpenTable or by calling ahead, especially on weekends as it tends to get busy.

Why It’s Special: Alberta beef is world-renowned for its exceptional quality, and tasting it in its home province truly feels like an experience. The Butternut Tree elevates this with its rustic charm, making it a must-try for anyone visiting Edmonton.

2. Poutine – A Canadian Comfort Classic

Where to Try: La Poutine, 10614 82 Ave NW
Dish to Try: Traditional Poutine or Pulled Pork Poutine

Poutine, one of Canada’s most iconic dishes, is a must-have in Edmonton. It consists of crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. It’s hearty, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. I found the perfect spot at La Poutine, a cozy eatery known for offering both traditional and creative takes on this Canadian classic.

Their Pulled Pork Poutine was the standout, with tender, slow-cooked pulled pork complementing the crispy fries and cheesy curds. The gravy was rich and flavorful, soaking into the fries without making them soggy. This poutine was indulgence at its best!

Cost Estimate: A serving of poutine ranges from CAD 8-15, depending on toppings and portion size.
Booking Tips: Walk-ins are usually welcome, but for larger groups, I recommend making a reservation through Yelp to avoid waiting during peak hours.

Why It’s Special: While poutine originated in Quebec, this version at La Poutine adds a unique Edmonton twist with the pulled pork, making it an exciting variation to try while in the city.

3. Bison Burger – A True Taste of the Wild West

Where to Try: The Blue Plate Diner, 10145 104 St NW
Dish to Try: Bison Burger with Bacon and Avocado

When it comes to experiencing the wild and untamed flavors of Canada, nothing beats a bison burger. As a true Edmontonian food lover, I can confidently say that the Bison Burger at The Blue Plate Diner is one of the best ways to experience a truly Canadian, prairie-inspired meal. The diner, a cozy gem located in Edmonton’s vibrant downtown, has perfected the art of comfort food with an elevated twist, and their bison burger is a shining example.

The burger starts with a perfectly seasoned bison patty, which is leaner than beef but full of rich, earthy flavor. Unlike traditional beef, bison provides a subtle sweetness and a depth of taste that instantly tells you you’re in for a unique experience. It’s cooked to your liking (I always go for medium-rare), and the tenderness and juiciness are absolutely spot on.

But it doesn’t stop there. The bacon, crispy and perfectly smoked, adds a salty crunch that complements the bison beautifully. The avocado provides a creamy, buttery texture that balances the richness of the meat and the smoky bacon. And of course, the house-made sauce ties everything together, adding a zesty kick that makes each bite even more satisfying.

Pairing this indulgent burger with a side of freshly prepared local fries is the perfect way to round out the meal. The fries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, just how I like them—another great example of how The Blue Plate Diner elevates comfort food to new heights.

Cost Estimate: Expect to pay around CAD 18-22 for the bison burger, depending on the toppings you choose. The fries are an additional cost, but totally worth it.

Booking Tips: If you’re planning to dine here during the weekends, especially on Friday or Saturday nights, I recommend calling ahead or checking availability on Resy. This spot gets busy due to its popularity with locals and visitors alike. Alternatively, making a reservation through Yelp can also help ensure you get a seat without much wait.

Why It’s Special: The bison burger at The Blue Plate Diner is more than just a meal—it’s a journey into the heart of Canada’s culinary traditions. It’s an authentic taste of the Canadian prairies, offering a lean yet rich flavor that’s distinctly different from a typical beef burger. If you’re in Edmonton and looking to explore the local cuisine, this is a must-try dish that embodies the spirit of Alberta. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or someone new to the bison experience, I’m sure you’ll leave feeling satisfied and excited about the food scene here.

4. Maple-Glazed Salmon – A Sweet Canadian Delight

Where to Try: Sabor Restaurant, 10344 82 Ave NW
Dish to Try: Maple-Glazed Wild Salmon

No visit to Canada is complete without tasting maple syrup, and in Edmonton, one of the best ways to experience this sweet Canadian delicacy is through the Maple-Glazed Wild Salmon at Sabor Restaurant. Situated in the heart of Edmonton, Sabor focuses on fresh, local ingredients and expertly prepared seafood.

The maple-glazed salmon was an absolute highlight. The salmon was perfectly cooked with a crispy skin, and the glaze added a sweet, caramelized flavor that enhanced the natural richness of the fish. It’s a perfect combination of savory and sweet, with the maple syrup giving it an unmistakable Canadian twist.

Cost Estimate: The maple-glazed salmon is priced at approximately CAD 26-32.
Booking Tips: Reserve a table via OpenTable, especially if you want to secure a spot during dinner rush hours.

Why It’s Special: The maple syrup used in this dish is locally sourced, making it a true Edmonton experience. It’s a beautiful fusion of Canadian flavors and fresh seafood, and a perfect dish to try if you’re visiting in the cooler months when salmon is at its best.

5. Prairie Oysters – A Dare for the Brave

Where to Try: The Selby, 10811 124 St NW
Dish to Try: Prairie Oysters (Rocky Mountain Oysters)

For the adventurous eater, Prairie Oysters—also known as Rocky Mountain Oysters—are a quintessential Alberta dish that you absolutely need to try. These are not oysters from the sea, but rather deep-fried bull testicles. Yes, you read that right! The Selby, a quirky, rustic bar known for its bold takes on local cuisine, offers a memorable plate of prairie oysters for those willing to take the plunge.

The bull testicles are tender, coated in a crispy batter, and served with a zesty dipping sauce. It’s a strange delicacy that has become a part of the region’s culinary history.

Cost Estimate: Prairie oysters cost around CAD 10-15 for an appetizer portion.
Booking Tips: This is a walk-in kind of place, but it’s always best to check with Yelp or Tripadvisor for any wait times, especially on weekends when the place gets busy.

Why It’s Special: Prairie oysters are an authentic piece of Alberta’s culinary history, and though they might be intimidating, they’re definitely worth trying if you want to push your culinary boundaries.

Final Thoughts on Edmonton’s Must-Try Local Foods

Edmonton’s food scene is incredibly diverse and offers both classic Canadian dishes as well as daring culinary experiments. From hearty Alberta beef and bison burgers to the sweet delight of maple-glazed salmon, and even the bold challenge of prairie oysters, Edmonton offers a food adventure like no other. Each meal I’ve had in this city has brought me closer to understanding its rich history, its culture, and its pride in locally sourced ingredients. If you’re planning a visit, make sure to add these local favorites to your culinary bucket list.

Booking Platforms to Enhance Your Trip
For your next trip to Edmonton, whether you need a place to eat, stay, or explore, there are great platforms to make your bookings easier:

  • OpenTable for making restaurant reservations.
  • Hotels.com and Expedia for finding the best accommodation deals.
  • TripAdvisor for reviews and recommendations on attractions, restaurants, and things to do.

These platforms will ensure that your trip to Edmonton is as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Enjoy the local cuisine, and don’t be afraid to dive into the unique flavors that Edmonton has to offer!