Canteen was one of the well-loved restaurants on 124 Street in Edmonton. It operated from approximately 2012 until its permanent closure on September 18, 2022, earning a strong local following for its approachable food and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant was launched by Frank and Andrea Olson, the team behind Red Ox Inn, a name already well known in Edmonton’s dining scene.
For 10 years, it stood out among the best restaurants in the area. It became a top choice for people looking for brunch in Edmonton, as well as a great spot for dinner and drinks. Whether customers wanted a casual breakfast, a weekend brunch, or a night out, Canteen offered something special.
In September 2022, Canteen closed its doors for good. The owners expressed their gratitude to loyal customers and staff, reflecting on a decade of great food and community. They also revealed plans for a new restaurant in Crestwood, set to open in 2023, sparking curiosity among Edmonton’s food lovers.
While many regulars looked ahead to what would come next, some Alberta guests reflected on how Canteen fit into their weekend routines – especially those who paired long brunches with casual mobile entertainment, including online casino play.
Favourite Brunch Spot for Online Casino Players
Canteen wasn’t just a place for great food – it was also a favourite spot for online casino players. Many guests enjoyed playing casino games on their mobile devices while relaxing over brunch, making it a perfect weekend routine. Whether it was a casual Saturday brunch in Edmonton or an evening out, Canteen’s welcoming atmosphere and free Wi-Fi made it easy for players to enjoy their favourite online gambling platforms while dining. The restaurant’s cozy setting, signature cocktails, and brunch specials created the perfect mix of entertainment and comfort for those who liked to place bets between bites.
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Top Reasons Why Brunch and Online Gaming Are a Perfect Pair
For many online casino enthusiasts, brunch is more than just a meal – it’s an opportunity to unwind, enjoy good food, and indulge in their favourite digital gaming experiences. Here’s why spots like Canteen became a go-to for players looking to mix relaxation with a bit of excitement:
- A Laid-Back Atmosphere for Strategic Play – Brunch settings provide a comfortable and social environment, making them ideal for placing a few calculated bets between bites.
- Access to the Best Ontario Online Casinos – With free Wi-Fi and a relaxed ambiance, brunch-goers could easily explore a full-scope informational tool to reach top Ontario online casinos. This site provides essential insights on choosing reputable online casinos in Ontario, understanding regulations, exploring casino apps, and comparing online vs. land-based gaming, along with expert tips on responsible gambling and a detailed FAQ section.
- Perfect Timing for Casino Promotions – Many online casinos offer exclusive weekend bonuses and promotions, allowing players to take advantage of extra spins or deposit matches while sipping on their morning coffee.
- A Social Yet Private Gaming Experience – Unlike crowded casino floors, playing from a cozy brunch spot lets players enjoy the thrill of gambling at their own pace while still being part of a lively setting.
- Great Food, Great Wins – There’s something uniquely satisfying about pairing perfectly cooked eggs benedict with a lucky spin on your favourite slot game.
Whether you’re a casual player enjoying a quick poker session over coffee or a more seasoned gamer looking for the best gaming options in Canada, brunch provides a perfect mix of leisure and entertainment. Just like a consumer handbook helps players choose the best online casinos, reviews played a big role in making Canteen a top choice for food lovers and gaming enthusiasts alike. Many guests shared their experiences online, highlighting both the food and the friendly service. Let’s look at what diners said about Canteen’s reputation and ratings over the years.
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What the Ratings Say: (Historical Snapshot)
Canteen had consistently high ratings from customers. People loved the food, service, and atmosphere, making it one of the most popular 124 Street, Edmonton, restaurants.
| Platform | Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| ⭐ 4.5/5 | 448 reviews | |
| OpenTable | ⭐ 4.3/5 | 1,100 reviews |
These ratings are preserved here as historical context only. Review platforms often freeze or archive listings after permanent closure.
Consumers often mentioned the Canteen brunch in Edmonton as one of the best in the city. Dishes like Dutch baby pancakes, pork belly, and chicken & waffles were among the most praised items. David Yue, a local guide, shared his experience:
“Super chill and laid-back atmosphere. Both the servers were great and smiling! Food was amazing, really clean flavours and unique! The fried cauliflower is definitely a must-try!”
The Canteen menu also had a strong dinner selection. Reviewers highlighted the restaurant’s creative small plates, flavourful main dishes, and excellent cocktails. Joy C, another reviewer, wrote:
“Great for brunch! I ordered the pork belly and it was delicious. The braised ribs were good with the eggs and potato. We also ordered their take on chicken and waffles.”
The service was another reason why customers kept coming back. Many reviews mentioned how friendly and helpful the staff was. Whether it was a casual meal or a special celebration, people felt welcome. Tyrone Herbert Cole reflected on his visit:
“Just loved it. The service was great, atmosphere was nice, and dining with a person with many allergies sometimes is difficult, but they made sure everything was looked after. Loved the spinach salad and the chicken and waffles was fantastic!”
Menu Built for Food Lovers
The Canteen restaurant menu offered a mix of classic dishes and creative new flavours. Consumers looking for good lunch places in Edmonton or a relaxed weekend brunch found plenty of options here.
Canteen Brunch Menu
Canteen became one of the most popular brunch places in Edmonton because of its unique dishes. Some of the best-loved options included:
- Dutch Baby Pancake – A light, oven-baked pancake with berry compote and almonds.
- Chicken & Waffles – Crispy fried chicken with waffles, lime slaw, and hot sauce.
- Pork Belly – Served with baked polenta, fried eggs, and crispy Brussels sprouts.
- Shrimp Toast Benedict – Poached eggs on shrimp toast with Thai hollandaise and hash browns.
Brunch drinks were also a highlight:
- Mimosas – A brunch favourite.
- The Marty – Cold draft beer with a bacon garnish.
- Spicy Caesars – A classic Canadian cocktail with vodka and Clamato juice.
Dinner Offerings
The Canteen menu for dinner included a mix of small plates and full meals.
Popular appetizers:
- Crispy Cauliflower – Tossed in sweet Korean glaze with sesame and scallions.
- Pork Belly Sliders – Served in banh mi eclairs with pickled vegetables and hoisin glaze.
- Pork Shoulder Tacos – With black beans, grilled pineapple, and lime slaw.
Top dinner entrées:
- Duck Breast – Served with green coconut curry, vegetables, and udon noodles.
- Grilled Sirloin – With Gruyere cheese toast, caramelized onions, and mushrooms.
- Arctic Char – With Israeli couscous, fennel-braised cabbage, and Moroccan glaze.
- Baked Polenta – A vegetarian dish with wild mushroom bolognese and onion marmalade.
Wine List & Cocktails
The Canteen restaurant menu also included a carefully selected wine list. Wines came from Canada, Italy, France, and California. Some of the popular choices included:
- Grey Monk Gewürztraminer (Canada)
- Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand)
- Cordero Di Montezemolo Barolo (Italy)
Cocktail options included both classic drinks and original creations. Many customers loved the Spicy Caesars and sparkling cocktails.
Saying Goodbye to a Local Favourite
Canteen officially closed on September 18, 2022. The owners expressed deep gratitude to their customers and staff. They acknowledged the loyalty of the community, and the memories created over the years.
While Canteen itself did not reopen, its culinary legacy continued through the opening of Happy and Olive in Crestwood in July 2023. For many former regulars, this new restaurant became the next chapter rather than a replacement.
The Last Visit: What Consumers Will Miss
Canteen was a consumer favourite for 10 years. Visitors shared their final visits on review sites, recalling brunch gatherings with family and friends, date nights spent over shared plates and wine, and casual lunch meetups at one of the best 124 Street restaurants.
Though the restaurant has closed, its impact remains. For many, Canteen was more than just a place to eat – it was woven into their routines and special moments, making it a spot they will always remember.