November 15 | 124 St & between 107 Ave & 109 Ave | 4 pm – 8 pm

Kick off the season with a night of winter celebration—live music, winter activities, food, and community magic.

🌟 The celebration continues! 🌟 | November 15-22
From Nov 15–22, explore illuminated art installations lighting up 124 Street & Area  windows, every night from 4 pm to 8 pm. See below for all the locations!

One Night to Celebrate. One Week of ART.

Come down and check out some local 124 storefronts for this year’s Storefront Light-Up Contest! Vote for your favourite Business on 124 Street & Area with the best Storefront Light-up for the Holidays! Voting ends on November 15th at 5pm. They’ll have the chance to WIN a $250 gift card for a staff party!

Click here to vote!  https://forms.gle/Pr8ZkQ3QyyQSENCs6

Storefronts in this year’s contest:

• The Prints and the Paper

Located on: 10725 124 Street

• Shop Harrow

Located on: 12547 102 Ave

• Tiramisu Bistro

Located on 10750 124 Street

• Hair Classique

Located on: 10834 124 Street

• History Ink Tattoo LTD.

Located on: 10443 124 Street

• Swish Vintage

Located on: 10826 124 Street

Sabor Restaurant is a Portuguese- and Spanish-inspired seafood restaurant located in downtown Edmonton, Alberta. Known for its emphasis on fresh, sustainably sourced ocean fare and Iberian flavors, the restaurant combines fine dining with a relaxed, warm atmosphere suited for both special occasions and casual gatherings.

Culinary Style and Menu

Sabor is celebrated for its focus on coastal European cuisine, blending Portuguese and Spanish influences with local ingredients. Signature dishes often feature fresh fish, shellfish, and house-made tapas. The menu also includes paella, grilled meats, and vegetarian options, complemented by an extensive wine and cocktail selection.

Ambiance and Experience

Set in a refined yet welcoming space, Sabor offers an intimate dining experience with soft lighting, rustic décor, and live music performances that enhance its European charm. Its adjoining venue, Bodega, provides a more casual tapas-focused environment for guests seeking lighter dining.

Recognition and Community Role

Since its founding by chefs Christian Mena and Lino Oliveira, Sabor has earned recognition as one of Edmonton’s premier dining destinations. It is frequently highlighted for its commitment to sustainable seafood practices and its role in advancing the city’s culinary scene.

Situated just north of Bay Enterprise Square LRT station, Fawkes isn’t your typical, modern, minimalistic coffee shop: in fact, it’s the complete opposite. Stepping through the door, the dark green walls, Baroque-inspired silver tin ceiling, and eclectic decor, calmed my anxiety—like a warm hug from a wise friend. You can definitely see hints of Block 1912’s industrial aesthetic here too. That’s because the owners used to own Block 1912 pre-COVID.

The details in the decor are what keep pulling me back. Since it opened a month ago, I’ve been here four times, and each time I spot something new and try to guess its symbolism. Honestly, it gives me a dopamine rush stronger than scrolling through Instagram Reels.

There’s the peacock door handles, petite fleur-de-lis symbols on the ledge of the wall, marble statues of Aristotle and the Discobolus, lots of clean mirrors, paintings in vintage frames, and exactly 18 Persian rugs (yes, I counted). It’s all so intellectual aesthetic—I can’t help but feel smarter just being here. The bookshelf at the back? Total magnet for creative juices. I ended up writing while sipping my coffee, as you do when you’re in a place like this.

Maybe I was high on caffeine, but the people here seemed genuinely happy, and that vibe is contagious. I couldn’t stop smiling.

Now, onto the coffee. I’ve been sticking to my go-to Americano ($4.50) because, well, it slaps. My other favorite, the dirty chai latte ($5.75), was a little meh. It lacked the essential spices of the chai. My friend tried a matcha latte ($5.75), which ended up tasting more like hot chocolate than an actual matcha. It was good, but not quite what she was expecting. The latte art, though? Beauty. As for the matcha, it was way too milky and could use a bit more matcha for that bold, earthy flavour.

And then, there are the doughnuts which Fawkes is famous for. Drumroll 🥁 They’re all vegan (variety box of four doughnuts, S14.50). Some people say they’re too sweet, but hey, they’re supposed to be. If you don’t like sweetness, maybe skip the doughnuts and go for a muffin or something (don’t be a hater). I had the orange cranberry doughnut, and while it wasn’t the pillowy, spongy texture I was expecting, I loved the sugar rush and the slightly soft, moist texture. The icing made it feel more like a cake than a classic doughnut. Definitely a surprise in a good way.

They also have gluten-free doughnut options on the menu for those who prefer it.

For food, we tried a few things: grilled cheese with soup ($13), green onion cakes ($10), and a chicken pesto sandwich ($15). The grilled cheese was a bit bland for our taste, but the tangy, dense tomato soup was a total soul-satisfier. The grilled green onion cakes with sriracha sauce? Actually pretty good. The chicken pesto sandwich was a bit dry though. My friend was expecting fresh-cut chicken, but instead, she got deli meat—bit of a letdown there.

To top off my love for this place, I found a little treasure inside one of the tables’ drawers. Not gold, but a collection of handwritten notes and the kind of serendipitous connections that make a place feel special. Naturally, I left a paper airplane behind to add to the riches. All in all, I’ll definitely be back—for the vibe, the coffee, and the little bursts of creativity that this place seems to inspire. As for the food? Not so much. Fawkes is the new popular kid on the block, and trust me, it’s going to charm all of u!

For reference please see https://www.edmontonscene.com/2025/01/18/fawkes-is-the-new-cool-kid-on-the-block-food-review/

A Fresh Look at Sea Change Brewing Co.

In the vibrant craft-beer scene of Edmonton, one brewery stands out not just for its beers but for its spirit and story: Sea Change Brewing Co. (SCBC). Nestled on Happy Beer Street in Edmonton (and with a second location in Beaumont), this is a brand that blends art, music and beer into an unpretentious brew-house experience.

Origins & Identity

Sea Change Brewing Co. was founded by a group of musicians, artists and seasoned craft brewers who wanted to create something that reflected their creative roots and love of beer. The name itself hints at transformation — a “sea change” in more ways than one.

What sets them apart:

• A strong emphasis on creativity and design in branding, packaging, and outreach.

• A variety of beers that are “diverse, unpretentious … crafted with care, true-to-style, and most importantly, great tasting.”

• Community and culture: they don’t just brew beers, they bring art, music and local collaboration into their ethos.

Location & Taprooms

Their main taproom is at 9850 62 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB. There’s also a second location in Beaumont, Alberta. This gives locals the convenience of visiting or ordering directly from the brewery.

Visiting the taproom gives you more than just a beer — the setting is casual, creative, and welcoming. If you’re in Edmonton, it can be a great stop for locals or visitors alike.

Beer Lineup & Notable Releases

The beer roster at SCBC is wide-ranging, covering everything from ultra-dry lagers to fruity sours. Some highlight beers:

• “SCUD – Sea Change Ultra Dry”: A clean, crisp 5.0% ABV lager, without gimmicks, brewed for refreshment.

• “Siren Sour IPA”: A 6.0% ABV sour IPA, merging sour-beer tartness with IPA hop character (no added fruit). “Man Crush Mandarin Ale”: 4.0% ABV, orange-forward juice bomb, light and clean.

• “Death Wave Non-Alc Lager”: 0.5% ABV, beer flavour without the alcohol—nice for inclusivity and responsible drinkers.

The breadth of styles means they appeal both to traditional beer drinkers and folks looking for something more adventurous.

Why It Works – What Works Well

• Cultural integration: Because the founders come from artistic backgrounds, the brewery has a unique identity—craft beer meets creative community.

• Local roots: They are firmly based in Edmonton/Alberta, engaging with the local market, using Alberta malts/barley in some cases.

• Quality + accessibility: Their beers are approachable, not just for “beer geeks,” but for people who want something flavourful without being overly intimidating.

• Responsive and adaptive: Their story mentions how they adapted when COVID-19 hit—moving into canned packaging and direct fulfilment.

A Few Things to Note / Useful Tips

• If you plan to visit the taproom, check hours because taproom times may differ (even between Edmonton & Beaumont).

• With craft breweries, availability of specific beers can change quickly—if you’re looking for a particular release, you might want to call ahead or check their social media.

• For buyers (bars/restaurants) or for home consumption, the canned formats are useful—if you’re in Edmonton you might find seasonal or collaborative beers.

• If you’re more of a lager or lighter beer drinker, don’t count this place out—while many craft breweries focus on heavy IPAs, SCBC has lighter and more varied options.

• The hotel was built by the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway (GTP) as part of a strategy to establish luxury railway-hotels in Canada’s west.

• Construction began around 1911 (some sources indicate September 1912) and it opened on July 5, 1915.

• The cost of construction and furnishings was about C$2.25 million at the time (equivalent to tens of millions today).

• It was designed by the architectural firm Ross & Macdonald (or Ross & MacFarlane in some sources), and built in the Châteauesque (“Canadian château”) style, often used for grand railway hotels in Canada.

• The building features materials and design cues to match that style: Indiana limestone façade, copper roofing, turrets/finials, steep dormers, turrets and a commanding view over the North Saskatchewan River valley.

Naming & Early Significance

• The hotel was named after Canada’s first prime minister, Sir John A. Macdonald.

• From its opening it became a social and architectural landmark in Edmonton: a place for high-end guests, rail travellers, and civic functions.

Mid-Century Changes

• In 1939, the hotel hosted a tour by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (The Queen Mother), leading to Edmonton’s first traffic jam as people lined up to see them.

• In 1953, to meet growing demand, a large 16-storey addition (about 292 rooms) was built next to the original building. However, its modern, boxy design contrasted sharply with the original Château style, and locals dubbed it “the Mac and the box it came in.”

Decline, Heritage Designation & Restoration

• By the early 1980s, the hotel had fallen into disrepair and the extra wing (the “box”) was seen as a misfit. In 1983 the hotel was closed.

• On January 8, 1985, the City of Edmonton designated the hotel as a Municipal Heritage Resource — the first building in the city to receive that designation.

• The historic value of the building was noted: its architecture, its role in Edmonton’s social life, and its landmark position overlooking the river valley.

• In 1988, Canadian Pacific Hotels purchased the property (through acquiring the chain) and launched a major restoration. It reopened in 1991, restored to much of its original grandeur while modernizing amenities.

Contemporary Era

• Today the hotel is managed by Fairmont Hotels & Resorts and remains one of Edmonton’s premier luxury hotels, blending historic architecture with modern luxury.

• It continues to be a feature of Edmonton’s skyline and a venue for significant social, cultural and civic events.

Significance for Edmonton Real Estate & Heritage

Given your interest in real-estate and home-markets (especially in Edmonton), here are a few relevant points:

• The hotel’s prominence and heritage status have helped anchor the surrounding area’s prestige (river-valley view, downtown location).

• Heritage designation prevented demolition of the original structure and ensured restoration, which enhances the value of the locale’s architectural heritage.

• Such landmark buildings can influence nearby property values (views, heritage cachet, neighbourhood identity).

• For buyers/sellers, being near a landmark like the “Mac” can be a selling point: views, proximity to amenities (downtown, river valley parkland), plus often good walkability and cultural value.

• Conversely, heritage zones typically mean stricter regulations for development or changes — important for investors or developers considering the area.

Gordon Ramsay to open first Canadian Hell’s Kitchen restaurant in Edmonton

The first Canadian location of Gordon Ramsay’s iconic restaurant chain Hell’s Kitchen is opening up right here in Edmonton, announced River Cree Casino and Resort.

The location, sharing a name with Ramsay’s intense cooking television show, features locations in Las Vegas, Miami, Hollywood, New Jersey and more. This will be the first location to not be within the United States. 

Hell’s Kitchen will be opening in the River Cree Casino and Resort and is aiming for a launch early in 2026. 

“I think it’s excellent news for Canada, for everybody, for our community to get that kind of name added onto the River Cree,” said Vik Mahajan, CEO of River Cree Resort and Casino.

This will be the eighth location of the restaurant. 

Here’s a breakdown of the popular Halloween experience at Grande Boulevard in the Summerside neighbourhood of Edmonton — useful if you’re planning to visit or just curious:

🎃 What is it?

• The street has become a major Halloween destination: every year, many homes on Grande Boulevard go all‑out with decorations and lighting, turning the stretch into something akin to a “Candy Corn Lane” for Halloween.

• It attracts thousands of trick‑or‑treaters each Halloween night (in one article more than 3,000 children for one year).

• It’s not just about candy — the visual spectacle (decorated yards, lights, puppets, scenes) is a big part of the draw.

📍 Where exactly?

• In the Summerside neighbourhood, south Edmonton, Alberta.

• Specifically on Grande Boulevard (between roughly 88 Street SW and 70 Street SW) according to one source.

🕗 When to go & tips

• Many of the decorations are up in the week(s) leading up to Halloween, so you don’t necessarily have to go only on the night of October 31.

• On actual Halloween night things can get very busy (parking, children, crowds). A few tips:

  • Go early (right at dusk) or a little before peak crowd time.

  • Consider walking instead of driving — easier to soak in details.

  • Dress for the weather (late October in Edmonton is chilly).

  • Bring patience & maybe a flashlight.

• If you want candy and trick‑or‑treating: plan to visit houses that participate (many do).

• For photo opportunities: you’ll get better light just after sunset before full dark when decorations are prominent.

✅ Why it’s popular

• It’s essentially become the Halloween street in Edmonton for spectacle and family fun.

• Houses are highly decorated and many residents treat it as a block‑party / community event.

• It’s free to visit (just your time and maybe travel).

• Great for families, for capturing festive photos, for getting into the Halloween spirit.

⚠️ A few caveats

• Because of the crowds, traffic and parking can be a hassle.

• Some houses may run out of candy if the influx is large. Reddit posts mention variability in participation year to year.

• If you only want candy and less spectacle, there might be less decorated streets but more candy‑efficient.

• Respect private property and set boundaries: watching from sidewalks is fine, but going onto yards should be kept to what's allowed.

• Nero is tucked into the historic Molson Brewery Building at 12068 104 Ave NW, in Edmonton’s Brewery District.

• The design and ambience get serious praise: rich decor, chandeliers, marble bar, heritage building turned into upscale Italian dining.

• The restaurant is from the team behind local Italian spots Rosso Pizzeria and Bianco, so there’s already some credibility in the local food scene.

• The menu is Italian‐inspired with high quality: shareable antipasti, house‑made pastas, wood‑fired pizzas, seasonal mains, creative takes on classics.

• Service tends to be well‑reviewed. For example: “From the second we walked in we were floored … our server … was super knowledgeable and helpful.”

⚠️ Things to consider

• The ambience and decor are formal‑elegant, which is great if you’re going for a special night out, but perhaps less suited for a casual, low‑key dinner.

• Portions may skew a bit smaller than expected, and prices lean toward the upscale side. One review notes: “Portions tend to skew on the smaller side, so consider adding a side or two.”

• It’s popular — busy on a Monday night according to one Yelp review, so making a reservation is a good idea.

🍽 Menu highlights

• A standout dessert: the budino — described as “stovetop custard of Bernard Callebaut chocolate and fresh‑ground espresso … topped with tea‑smoked almond and mascarpone Chantilly cream.”

• A pasta example: Rigatoni all’Amatriciana gets a creative tweak here with roasted miso in the tomato sauce for added umami.

• Wood‑fired pizzas and share plates like arancini (fried rice balls) get mention in early reviews.

🎯 Who it’s ideal for

• Romantic dinners or special occasions — the ambience supports that.

• Groups looking to share multiple dishes and enjoy a variety rather than just one main each.

• Food‑lovers who don’t mind spending a bit more for elevated Italian fare.

🧐 Who might want to skip or adjust expectations

• If you’re after very casual or budget dining, this might feel too polished and pricey.

• If you prefer large portions or simpler fare, this might not hit that mark as well.

• For a quick lunch or casual meet‑up, the style might feel a bit formal.

✅ My verdict

Nero delivers an impressive combination of atmosphere, design, and cuisine. If you’re looking for a standout Italian dining experience in downtown Edmonton and are willing to invest a bit more — it’s absolutely worth going. For the casual pizza‑and‑beer crowd, it might be more formal (and priced) than needed.

Scandinave Spa Coming to Edmonton, Backed by Former NHL Star

Vincent Damphousse, co-founder and board chairman of the Scandinave Group, played for the Edmonton Oilers in the 1990s and says the city still holds a special place in his heart.

"I'm excited to see Scandinave Spa become part of Edmonton’s dynamic future," Damphousse said. "This project means more to me than just development—it’s a way to give back and help position Edmonton as a leading wellness destination."

The new Scandinave Spa is scheduled to open in 2028. According to Travel Alberta, the facility is expected to generate approximately $121 million in total economic impact over its first decade. Tax revenue over that period is projected to reach $18 million.

While specific details about the size and amenities of the Edmonton location haven't been released yet, other Scandinave Spa facilities range between 25,000 and 72,000 square feet. They typically feature hot and cold pools, massage services, saunas, steam rooms, and outdoor relaxation areas with fire pits.

Economic and Job Impact

Construction of the facility is expected to create around 330 temporary jobs, and once operational, the spa will employ 52 full-time staff, according to Travel Alberta.

“This exciting development won’t just create jobs and stimulate the local economy,” said Malcolm Bruce, CEO of Edmonton Global. “It will also improve quality of life for residents and visitors alike, and help create vibrant, livable communities that attract global investment.”

Bruce added that the spa will enhance the region’s profile and boost the visitor economy, unlocking further opportunities for investment and development.

Public and Private Support

The project is receiving support from Travel Alberta’s new Investor Concierge program, which offers strategic market insights, data access, and financial incentives. Additional backing is coming from the Government of Alberta’s Investment and Growth Fund (IGF), the City of Edmonton, Edmonton Global, and Explore Edmonton.

The IGF is designed to help close investment deals by addressing late-stage barriers that might otherwise prevent companies from choosing Alberta.

Site and Background

Earlier this year, Edmonton city council approved rezoning for the 10.5-acre site in Brander Gardens, located just west of Whitemud Drive near 53rd Avenue. Known as Soaring Lands, the gated property was donated to the University of Alberta in 2010 by the late Sandy Mactaggart and his wife, Cecile.

Mactaggart, a co-owner of Maclab Enterprises, was instrumental in Edmonton’s post-1949 residential development boom. However, the university determined the grand mansion on the site, built in the 1950s, was not suitable for academic purposes. The house was eventually decommissioned, and the land cleared for future development.

A Long-Awaited Vision for a Nordic Spa

While Alberta is already home to the 50,000 sq. ft. Kananaskis Nordic Spa, which opened west of Calgary in 2018, this will be Edmonton’s first successful Nordic spa project.

Previous attempts to bring a spa of this kind to the area fell through. In 2019, a proposed spa near Fort Edmonton Park was cancelled after the partnership behind it dissolved. That same year, Groupe Nordik, a Quebec-based company, announced plans for a $50-million spa in Parkland County, but the project was never realized.

With support from multiple levels of government and private investors, the new Scandinave Spa is poised to become a cornerstone in Edmonton’s growing wellness and tourism sector.

Graham Construction Celebrates Official Opening of the Edmonton-Strathcona County Footbridge

EDMONTON, AB – Graham Construction is proud to announce the official opening of the Edmonton-Strathcona County Footbridge, now formally named Amisk Wâciw Âsokan, meaning Beaver Hills Bridge.

The name was unveiled during a grand opening ceremony held at the site, recognizing the cultural and environmental significance of the region.

Construction of the footbridge began in June 2023, following extensive engagement with stakeholder groups committed to sustainable development within the North Saskatchewan River Valley. The new pedestrian and cyclist crossing strengthens the connection between northeast Edmonton and Strathcona County, while linking to over 100 kilometres of trails throughout the valley — including a continuous corridor from Devon to Fort Saskatchewan.

Designed with both function and experience in mind, the bridge features concrete gathering spaces at each end, shared asphalt pathways, and a concrete deck finished with a flexible wearing surface for enhanced durability.

Additional amenities include scenic lookout points above each pier, complete with canopy structures and precast concrete benches, offering visitors a place to rest and take in panoramic views of the river valley.

Graham Construction is honoured to have delivered this important piece of infrastructure that enhances regional connectivity, supports active transportation, and reflects the area's natural and cultural heritage.

• RGE RD is a farm‑to‑table / prairie cuisine restaurant founded by Chef Blair Lebsack and Caitlin Fulton in 2013

• The food philosophy emphasizes local, sustainable, ethical sourcing. They do wood fire cookery, whole‑animal butchery, seasonal ingredients.

• They also run The Butchery by RGE RD, a market‑style shop next door, offering house cured meats, sausages, custom cuts, etc.

• Ambience & Dining Experience

  • Rustic, 60‑seat restaurant just outside downtown core.

  • Known for wood‑burning oven (birch and maple), smoke, etc. They use “Questionable Bits” for their nightly special — the parts of the animal less common but creatively used.

  • They offer private/semi‑private dining spaces: The Farmhouse, The Butcher’s Table, The Larder.

  Cuisine & Menu Highlights

  • Expect ingredients like wild game, sustainable seafood, local vegetables and grains.

  • Examples: Elk tartare, Alberta boar, Pilatus Farms bison, duck breast from local farms.

  • They change the menu often to reflect season and availability. Whole‑animal programs are core to their menu.

  Recognition & Price Range

  • RGE RD has won various awards and accolades: named among Edmonton’s best, included in Canada’s Best 100 Restaurants.

  • It is on the more expensive side. Based on reviews, expect ≈$80‑120+ per person depending on drinks, how many courses, and special tasting (or the “Road Trip” tasting menu) if you go that route.

Experience Authentic Mexican Flavours at Julio’s Barrio on Whyte Avenue 🇲🇽

Located in the heart of Edmonton’s historic Whyte Avenue district, Julio’s Barrio has been a cornerstone of vibrant Mexican cuisine and hospitality since 1993. Known for its warm atmosphere, diverse menu, and signature cocktails—including the iconic Bulldog—Julio’s offers a welcoming space for casual lunches, evening dinners, and group celebrations alike.

Guests can enjoy a wide selection of dishes, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, all served in a lively, yet inviting setting. Whether you're joining for Taco Tuesday, a weekend patio gathering, or simply craving fresh, flavorful food—Julio’s Barrio delivers a memorable dining experience rooted in community and culture.

📍 10450 82 Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB
🔗 juliosbarrio.com

#EdmontonEats #JuliosBarrio #WhyteAvenueDining #MexicanCuisine #YEGRestaurants