Entice your taste buds with our famed regional cuisine: the best of home-grown beef and bison
BY JAN HOSTYN
Here in Alberta we’re slightly spoiled. Our summers are full of festivals, outdoor farmers’ markets and crazy and unpredictable weather. Once winter blows in we’re treated to even more festivals and farmers’ markets – warm indoor ones – and yet another helping of wild weather. Maybe the best part of calling Alberta home, though, is our proximity to some of the best beef in the world – Alberta beef, of course. And while we’re talking beef, we’ve got to include the equally stellar Alberta-raised bison. Stepping up to cook that beef and bison are a number of talented and innovative Edmonton chefs. These culinary wizards seek out the best of the best and then unleash their magic touch – with panache galore. Rest assured that whatever these chefs are whipping up with Alberta beef and bison, from simple to intricate, there’s always a bit of “wow” hovering nearby. This is truly a partnership to be savoured. Check out these Edmonton eateries that proudly – and oh-so-deliciously – serve Alberta beef and bison.
Image courtesy of Yang Gao
Lux Steakhouse + Bar
‘Lap of LUXury’
Yes, LUX is a steakhouse. But banish those old-fashioned steakhouse images that immediately pop into your head. Instead, think suave, sophisticated and downright dignified. Warmth and richness radiates throughout LUX and everything here, from the decor to the service to the food, exudes oomph. Because it is still a steakhouse, LUX does do steaks – killer steaks, in fact, cut from the very best Alberta beef. And nothing showcases the best of the best like LUX’s ‘Lap of LUXury.’ A tender grilled 24 ounce ribeye is truly the star on this loaded plate, but the sides are nothing short of extraordinary. Savour the steak, but do not ignore its plate- mates: decadently rich truffled lobster mac n’ cheese and creamy potatoes au gratin. And if that’s not extravagant enough, the ‘Lap of LUXury’ also comes with little pots of hollandaise and cabernet demi- glace. Pour them on whatever you want – with or without abandon. Just a warning, though: this dish is probably best shared. You’ll have no problem demolishing the house-made Bison Gyoza, though – you definitely won’t want to share that. Commerce Place, 10150-101 St., 780.424.0400.
Image courtesy of Michael Kennedy
Bistecca
The “Bistecca”
Yes, Bistecca is also a steakhouse but again, there’s nothing ordinary about it. The twist here – apart from the elegant surroundings, creative kitchen and thoughtful wine selection – is that this is an Italian steakhouse. What does that mean, exactly? Well, it means Bistecca, led by its passionate Corporate Executive Chef Sonny Sung, uses only the very best of ingredients. And, because those top-quality ingredients are already bursting with flavour, they’re treated simply and respectfully – with magnificent results. Two of those ingredients really shine: hormone and antibiotic free premium Alberta beef and Alberta bison. Bistecca means “beef steak” in Italian, and there’s no better way to experience the magic of this eatery than by digging into its namesake, The Bistecca. The kitchen takes a spectacular 14 ounce ribeye, brushes it with a herb-infused olive oil and then rubs it with sea salt and black pepper. A quick sear and grill and voila, The Bistecca. Simple? Perhaps. Stunning? Undoubtedly. And since it’s a privilege to share the plate with such a magnificent piece of beef, the sides change almost daily, but rest assured: they’re far from ordinary. Expect fabulous veggies and innovative creations such as red quinoa with gorgonzola and golden raisins. If you can’t set foot in an Italian restaurant without doing the pasta thing, try the Bison Cannelloni. Alberta bison, pasta and a wild mushroom cream sauce. 2345-111 St., 780-439-7335.
Image courtesy of Michael Kennedy
Creations
Country Style Bison Meatloaf
Stunning, impressive and downright gorgeous – that pretty much sums up this south-side dining room. As for the food, everything that comes out of this kitchen seems to have that extra bit of, well, something. Canadian cuisine is taken seriously here, and everything from homey to inspired makes an appearance. And of course, Alberta beef and bison are featured prominently. Lean Alberta bison takes a starring role in Creations’ Country Style Bison Meatloaf, and it just might be the perfect comfort food for a chilly Edmonton evening. Hints of garlic and herbs tease your tongue, but really, it’s the bison that steals the show. It’s lovely on its own, but when you scoop up some of the garlic mashed potatoes along with it and give everything a quick dip in the wild mushroom sauce, saying it’s phenomenal might not even do it justice. Although the menu changes frequently, something featuring Alberta beef or bison is sure to tempt you. Glazed Beef Ribs, anyone? 4235 Gateway Blvd. (in Sawridge Hotel), 780-989-4439.
Image courtesy of Michael Kennedy
The Keg Steakhouse & Bar – West End
Pecan Sirloin
Everyone knows The Keg – after all, this chain of restaurants is just about everywhere. So much so, in fact, that the Keg has practically evolved into THE steakhouse for many of us. And while each location has its own unique personality, one thing never changes: Kegs everywhere know exactly what do with a steak. And yes, if you pop into the west-end Keg, those steaks are cut from premium Alberta beef. When you walk through the door of a Keg, you know you’re in for one great steak. For great and exotic, though, you might want to order the Pecan Sirloin. This succulent 8 ounce sirloin is definitely dressed up to dazzle. Not only do the crushed pecans and bold barbeque sauce add layers of flavour, but the smattering of goat cheese gives it a luxuriously seductive richness. That’s not all, though. The finishing touch? A divine red wine herb au jus. For something a bit more traditional, try the Filet Mignon wrapped in applewood smoked bacon. Steak and bacon together on the same plate…need I say more? 9960-170 St., 780-414-1114.
Stay, Dine, Do
