There was a time when my friends and I would walk past Bridgeland every day. Without fail, my stomach would start growling as we walked past the streets lined with delicious-looking restaurants.
It didn’t take long for them to hear that familiar rumble and decide to check one out. We started making it a weekly thing, and we tried a new spot each time we passed by.
Before we knew it, we’d discovered a whole bunch of hidden gems, each with its own unique twist on food.
Now that we’ve rounded up our favorites, of course, it’s only fair to share them with you. So, if you ever find yourself in the area, trust me, these places will fill that stomach.
Table of Contents
1. JINBAR
Media credits: jinbaryyc
Website
Address: 24 4 St NE
Contact details: +1 587-349-9008
Operating hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Thursday: 4 PM – 10 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 4 PM – 11 PM
- Sunday: 4 PM – 10 PM
Price: $$
JINBAR is tucked inside the De Waal building, so it’s easy to miss from the outside. But once we were in, the chic decor and open kitchen made the atmosphere very homey. We saw how Chef Jinhee Lee’s influence was everywhere, not just in the food.
We started with their famous double-fried chicken. We tried a few sauces, but the Korean chilli stood out for its bold flavour and slow-building heat. The honey butter version was also tasty—sweet, savory, crispy, and not greasy at all.
For the mains, the Brussels sprouts were nicely charred with a good crunch, though one of us pointed out the seeds were a little stale. The bulgogi pizza was a hit too. It was chewy and crispy, and the marinated beef was very delicious.
Pro tip:
There’s an automatic 16% tip added to the bill, so just keep that in mind when settling everything up.
2. Villa Firenze
Media credits: villafirenze
Website
Address: 610 1 Ave NE
Contact details: +1 403-264-4297
Operating hours:
- Monday: 5 PM – 9 PM
- Tuesday to Friday: 11:30 AM – 2 PM, 5 PM – 10 PM
- Saturday: 5 PM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 5 PM – 9 PM
Price: $$$
Dining at Villa Firenze felt a little fancy in the best way, thanks to the warm lighting and the classic touches. It’s the kind of place that works equally well for a romantic date night or a family celebration.
We took a cue from the regulars and kicked things off with the famous Portobello Mushroom appetizer. The cream sauce was rich without being overwhelming, and it paired perfectly with a glass of Pinot Noir our server suggested.
I had the Braised Beef Short Rib Radiatori as my main. It’s a good comfort food with a gourmet twist. The beef was tender and deeply savory, and the mix of parmesan and fresh basil brought everything together.
Pro tip:
If you’re a wine lover, don’t miss their extensive wine list. The staff know their stuff and are more than happy to recommend the perfect pairing for whatever you’re having.
3. OEB Breakfast Co.
Media credits: oeb_breakfast
Website
Address: 825 1 Ave NE
Contact details: +1 403-278-3447
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 7:30 AM – 2:45 PM
Price: $$
If you have dietary needs, we recommend dining at OEB Breakfast Co. They offer thoughtful vegan and gluten-free options. They’re also great at accommodating allergies and preferences without compromising on flavor.
We’d describe their menu as elevated brunch fare with bold, creative tastes. Their Tuna Crudo breakfast poutine had a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
The tuna was well-seasoned, the eggs were perfectly cooked, and the cilantro crema added a nice, subtle contrast.
We also tried the iced caramel latte, which paired beautifully with the meal. It was rich, not overly sweet, and served in generous mugs.
Pro tip:
Since OEB Breakfast is usually busy, download the NoWait app to check the live waitlist. It’ll tell you how many parties are ahead of you and give you a rough estimate. Head over when you’re 1-2 spots away so you’re not just standing around.
4. Lil’ Empire Burger
Media credits: lilempireburger
Website
Address: 1105 1 Ave NE
Contact details: +1 403-455-4007
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9 PM
Price: $$
Lil’ Empire Burger is a good spot if you want some laid-back atmosphere. The menu is short and sweet, which we always take as a good sign. They focus on doing a few things really well, rather than stretching too thin.
I personally tried their smash burger. It had crispy edges, a juicy center and a sauce that ties everything together. The potato bun was soft but held up well, and it also came with house-made pickles.
They don’t just serve burgers here too. Their chicken nuggets came with an addictive honey mustard dip, and the fries are crispier and better-seasoned than the ones in McDonald’s. Pricing is a little steeper than some fast-food burger joints, though.
Pro tip:
If the weather’s nice, the heated patio is your best bet since there’s also limited seating inside. It’s more spacious, dog-friendly, and a lot quieter than inside, where the music can get pretty loud.
5. Blue Star Diner
Media credits: bluestar_yyc
Website
Address: 809 1 Ave NE
Operating hours:
- Monday: 8 AM – 3 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday: 8 AM – 9 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM – 3 PM
Price: $$
Blue Star Diner had very tight quarters, but their decor made the place look cozy. We showed up before 9:30 AM, but we still had a short wait. If you’re planning to go during the breakfast rush, get there early or consider a reservation.
Their dishes made our visit worth it, though. The Huevos Rancheros had perfectly cooked eggs, nicely seasoned potatoes, and a salsa-taco combo. Their mushroom omelette (which apparently is a regular favorite) is also a good option.
We also like that they cater to those with dietary restrictions. Their gluten-free fried chicken and waffles tasted good. The waffles, in particular, had a subtle sweetness that complemented the savory chicken.
Pro tip:
If you’re dining with kids, ask about the kids’ menu and portion tips. The staff are super helpful and often suggest splitting dishes between kids to avoid over-ordering. It’s a smart way to keep the little ones satisfied without the leftovers.
6. LaBrezza Ristorante
Media credits: labrezzayyc
Website
Address: 990 1 Ave NE
Contact details: +1 403-262-6230
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 5 PM – 9 PM
Price: $$$
LaBrezza Ristorante is an Italian restaurant that has an intimate vibe. There’s a fireplace inside and a lovely pet-friendly patio outside, which we’ll definitely be back for when the weather’s warmer.
We loved how the staff set the tone from the start. Our server was friendly, walked us through the menu, and gave honest recommendations.
Their calamari was the star of the night—it was crispy but not greasy and seasoned beautifully. For mains, we ordered the pasta platter, which is a smart option if you’re indecisive. You get to pick three different pastas.
We chose fettuccine alfredo with tender chicken, spaghetti and meatballs, and a zesty penne arrabbiata. Each dish came in generous portions, and the pasta was cooked perfectly with its own unique sauce.
Pro tip:
Make sure to save room for dessert. Their homemade tiramisu is a must-try. It’s just as good as the ones you’d find in Italy.
7. UNA pizza + wine
Media credits: unapizzaandwine
Website
Address: 69 7a St NE #110
Contact details: +1 403-453-1183
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 11:30 AM – 11 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
Price: $$
UNA pizza + wine is a great spot for both families and groups. They have high chairs, a kids’ menu, and are close to Murdoch Park, making it easy to go for a walk after your meal.
The menu offers a little something for everyone. It has plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
Our server recommended the Caesar kale salad and we loved the delicious mix of fresh greens with creamy dressing.
Their Bridgeland pizza is also a must-try. It’s perfect for people who want a balance of sweet and savory flavors. With the chili oil and chili flakes they offer, you can add a bit of spice to kick it up a notch.
Pro tip:
If you’re unsure which wine to pair with your pizza, ask your server for a recommendation from their curated list!
8. Mondays Plant Cafe
Media credits: mondaysplantcafe
Website
Address: 208 4 St NE
Contact details: +1 825-222-9080
Operating hours:
- Monday: 10 AM – 5 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Price: $$
If you’re into plant-based meals or just want to explore something different in the vegan scene, you should definitely visit Mondays Plant Cafe. There are board games, pillows, and even blankets inside if you want to get extra comfy.
The Rainbow Pad Thai we tried was more than just a pretty plate. The peanut sauce had a gentle kick, and the veggies were super fresh and crisp. The kale salad, on the other hand, had that bright, zesty flavor.
One of us doesn’t eat onions and garlic, and we appreciated that the staff customized the dish without any hassle. That’s not something you find at every plant-based place, so major points there.
Pro tip:
The seating inside is quite limited, so try to visit earlier in the day if you want to dine in and chill. Otherwise, their takeaway setup is efficient.
9. Komorebi Brunch
Media credits: komorebi_yyc
Address: 725 1 Ave NE
Contact details: +1 825-962-7779
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 3:30 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 8 AM – 3:30 PM
Price: $$
We really loved Komorebi as a brunch spot. The menu blends Japanese flavors with classic brunch staples in a thoughtful way. The space itself was calm and beautifully designed, with clean lines and soft natural light.
The Chicken Croffle surprised us with how satisfying its texture was. It’s a mix between a croissant and a waffle, with buttery layers that pull apart like pastry but still have a nice crunch. The light honey glaze did a great job of making everything cohesive.
For something sweet, we shared the matcha pancakes. They were soft and airy inside, with slightly crisp edges. The matcha flavor was bold, which we loved, although it might be a bit too strong for some people.
Pro tip:
Ask about the cake selection at the counter since not everything is always listed on the main menu. If you’re into subtle flavors, the black sesame cake is a quiet star.
10. Shiki Menya
Media credits: shikimenya
Website
Address: 824 1 Ave NE
Contact details: +1 403-454-2722
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 11 AM – 3 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Price: $$
You’ll want to show up early at Shiki Menya. The place doesn’t do takeout, and once they run out of broth for the day, they close. That exclusivity adds to the vibe, though it also means you’re basically committing to a bit of a wait.
Their Tonkoysu Black had a creamy broth with a slightly smoky undertone. The pork belly slices were slow-cooked and sweet. The noodles, while tasty, were a little softer than expected—nothing major, just a personal preference.
One of the surprise favorites was the char siu tacos. These had a crispy shell, juicy pork, and tangy slaw that gave them a nice crunch. It wasn’t just a novelty dish; they were seriously good.
Pro tip:
Some broths can be on the saltier or richer side, so if you’re sensitive to that, mention it when ordering. Then might be able to guide you toward something lighter.
11. Roma’s Pizzeria
Media credits: romas.pizzeria
Website
Address: 931 General Ave NE
Contact details: +1 403-515-0075
Operating hours:
- Monday: 11 AM – 8 PM
- Tuesday to Friday: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 8 PM
Price: $$
When our team first visited Roma’s Pizzeria, we quickly saw why it’s a local favorite. The owner was super friendly and made us feel at home right away. He even gave us a free sample of their sweet mushroom pizza, which wasn’t listed on the menu yet.
We dove into their signature donair pizza, and it did not disappoint. The crust was crispy on the outside and soft in the middle, with tasty toppings like seasoned lamb, fresh veggies and a tangy sauce. It had just the right mix of savory and a little spice.
Pro tip:
If you’re nearby (within 3 km), take advantage of the free delivery. The pizza holds up well in transit with its crispy crust and fresh toppings still intact upon delivery.
12. Ikusa Izakaya & Tokyo Market
Media credits: ikusa_izakaya
Website
Address: 903 General Ave NE
Contact details: +1 587-352-3288
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM
Price: $$
Right from the entrance of Ikusa Izakaya & Tokyo Market, it feels like we’ve all stepped into a corner of Tokyo. That playful nod to street-style shopping added a fun twist to our visit. The space is modern, with an open kitchen that gave us a peek into the action.
We started digging in with the truffle prawn roll, which had a rich aroma and a buttery texture. It paired with the sweetness of the prawn. On the other hand, the creamy scallop roll came topped with generous pieces of plump scallops, with a light sear.
The fried rice also had that signature wok hei flavor. It came packed with egg, scallions, and a light soy-based seasoning. With daily specials and lunch deals, we’d come back here not just for the food, but for the whole, immersive experience.
Pro tip:
Go after 8 PM for yakitori deals since their skewers are 30% off. It’s a game-changer if you’re ordering a few rounds, and the perfect time to try a variety, like the scallop, pork belly, and chicken skin.
