Intimate Eateries

By Diana Stabel

TWO ROOMS RESTAURANT
This intimate, newly-renovated restaurant is located in one of the most attractive buildings on historic Whyte Avenue, the old Dominion Hotel, circa 1907. Known for its made-from-scratch desserts, freshly made soups, and unique sandwiches, melts and paninis, the Two Rooms' menu also caters to vegans, such as the spicy house specialty, Curried Lentil Soup, which is 100% vegetarian. The weekly Saturday morning breakfast, featuring a variety of freshly baked muffins, is a huge hit among locals, especially those who pay a weekly visit at the neighbouring Old Strathcona Farmers' Market. The décor, with its coffee-coloured ceilings, Mediterranean-style vases, framed black and white photographs of Venice, light brown leather booths, and wall panels that resemble inverted triangles, draw comparison to a European café.

4TH & VINE WINE BAR
This classy yet casual 45-seat wine bar and bistro is truly unique to Edmonton. The menu, matched by an exclusive wine list, is a creative take on Alberta cuisine, such as the Smoked Salmon and Brie Bruschetta. In the event you're struggling to choose a vino from the fantastic wine list, each entrée comes with a suggested pairing. On top of the fabulous fare and wine, 4th & Vine holds weekly functions, such as the Tuesday night wine tastings where one can sample up to eight wines accompanied by four food pairings; while on Sundays, they hold a weekly Movie Night, with a different film chosen each week. The room's décor, with its exposed ceilings, taupe and deep maroon walls, and wooden wine case tops embedded into the bar, is complimented by the striking artwork of a featured bi-monthly local artist.

MANOR CAFÉ
Manor Café presides in the High Street area in a glorious building circa 1929-at one time the residence of former Alberta Attorney General John Farquar Lymburn. The transition from home residence to fine dining destination seems like a natural progression, because the structure of the building provides an intimate dining setting yet is still able to accommodate private functions or corporate business dinners. While the structure provides a feeling of seclusion, the homey yet upscale décor provides comfort. Their delicious desserts, as well as their fresh baked breads, are made-from-scratch on the premises. The menu pairs interesting ingredients as demonstrated in the Seared Alaskan Scallops, which is comprised of mascarpone polenta, sambuca cream, and cracked espresso beans.

WHERE Listings Editor Diana Stabel regularly dines out in Edmonton, her frequent and varied culinary travels throughout the city, as well as Europe and North America, having turned her into somewhat of a food, wine (and coffee!) connoisseur.