Athena Raypold

When you’re on a restricted diet, it’s not always easy to find a place to eat out or grab goodies. Luckily, Edmonton has a lot to offer to those seeking great food that fits a variety of diets: vegan (egg and dairy free), vegetarian, ketogenic (high fat, low carb, no sugar), paleo (high fat, low carb, no dairy), diabetic (low sugar) or gluten free.

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a good, well made pie: light, buttery, flaky crusts paired with delectable, fruity or creamy fillings – a heavenly culinary adventure. Between its world-class bakeries, local niche restaurants and made-from-scratch farmers’ market pies, Edmonton has some spectacular pie offerings.

There’s something about a good lasagna that’s so comforting: Saucy, cheesy, goodness layered between hearty, tender noodles and then baked so it perfectly browns that top layer of delicious mozzarella. The delectable textures, the savoury sauce, the way it warms you up from the inside out – lasagna is definitely comfort food.

There’s nothing quite as satisfying, or as comforting, as good barbecue. Whether it’s pulled pork, smoked ribs, barbecue brisket, fried chicken, or po’ boy style sandwiches, there’s something mouth watering just thinking about barbecue. In the cold of winter or heat of summer, Edmonton has delicious barbecue restaurants to kill your craving.

Pasta is always a simple dish, but one that comes in a multitude of varieties. Whether your preference is lasagne, gnocchi, ravioli, linguini or penne, pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Filling and flavourful, pasta is a great dish year round and Edmonton has some amazing Italian pasta places to suit your palate. [Photo credit: iStock.com/AlexPro9500]

Cheesecakes are the unparalleled dessert for cheese aficionados … no other dessert can even touch a cheese lover’s heart. A good cheesecake causes intense cravings; it has a distinct mouth feel and flavour and comes in many delightful varieties. From simple cheesecake with a graham crust to complex cheesecake flavours like turtle, strawberry champagne or salted caramel apple, Edmonton has a cheesecake to satisfy your craving.

Canada Day takes place on a Friday in 2016, so take advantage and stay up for the traditional fireworks show that happens over the gorgeous North Saskatchewan River. Celebrate Canada’s birthday with a pint or two, and a bite to eat at these Edmonton restaurants, all with great views of or close proximity to the 11 p.m. fireworks spectacular. [Image credit: iStock.com/ValaGrenier]

A patio doesn’t have to be big to be great; it only needs good food, music, beer and company. Edmonton has a ton of awesome patios – ranging from big and small – to choose from to enjoy the beautiful weather this spring and summer. Take your pick! [Image credit: iStock.com/georgecosminmarin]

Cinco de Mayo (the fifth of May) is a Mexican celebration often confused with Mexican Independence Day. The day honours Mexico’s unlikely triumph over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. While only really celebrated in Puebla, Mexico, Cinco de Mayo has become a North American fête of Mexican culture. Edmonton’s rich restaurant scene offers many places to go for the party. [Image credit: iStock.com/Robert Ingelhart]

While women are frequently the ones cooking at home, more often than not, restaurant kitchens are run by men. In honour of International Women’s Day, we’re putting the spotlight on women-led kitchens. Some of Edmonton’s best restaurants feature the culinary expertise of female executive chefs. [Feature photo: Kathryn Joel of Get Cooking]