It’s been a whirlwind few weeks at work, so a weekend getaway to Jasper was just what I needed to relax. Though I always look forward to periodic planned vacations, it was a good reminder that even a day or two away can be rejuvenating. On to this week’s food notes:
- The biggest news this week is an unfortunate item – amongst the Postmedia staff laid off on Tuesday was Liane Faulder, the Edmonton Journal’s food writer. To say this is a loss for #yegfood is an understatement, as there are few local writers who profile our food community in the way that Liane has over the last eight years. She will be missed in that role, but I have no doubt she will be on to another exciting chapter.
- North 53 will be opening up a sister restaurant in Mercer Warehouse, and even more exciting, they’ll be trying out a different concept.
- Careit Urban Deli is the first confirmed business for The Fox’s retail level. I’m looking forward to having a deli in the neighbourhood!
- There’s a new tea purveyor in town called Blue Hour Tea, and they’re open in Vacancy Hall (the basement of Mercer Warehouse on 104 Street & 104 Avenue).
- Edmonton will soon be home to another local brewer called Polar Park Brewing! They’ll be opening up in the former Bee Bell Bakery (80 Ave & 104 Street), and though they’ll have a tap room, a full-service restaurant isn’t in the plans.
- There’s also a new distillery based out of Nisku, called Big Rig Craft Distillery.
- Christine shared her Sunday brunch experience at Yellowhead Brewery (where they serve $2 beer mimosas).
- Speaking of brunch buffets, Linda checked out Fort Edmonton Park’s Hotel Selkirk brunch, and is offering the chance to win brunch for two.
- The Journal also featured a brunch review of Café Bicyclette last week.
- I hadn’t heard of Lan Phu Thai until seeing it on Jonny’s blog – it’s about a year old in the former Café du Sol space.
- Also from Jonny – he revisits Mama Lee’s Kitchen and finds some unfortunate changes.
- The Edmonton Food Council is interested in learning about your thoughts and perceptions about the local food system. The survey will be open until February 15, 2016.
- It’s never too early to start thinking about summer: Reclaim Urban Farm just opened up their Community Supported Agriculture shares for 2016.
Only Here for the Food 