Just got back from Edmonton. Went to The Underground Tap & Grill, Beer Revolution, Craft Beer Market, and the outstanding Three Boars Eatery. Wanted to hit Sugarbowl before leaving town but time didn't permit. As usual the recos and comments on here were very helpful and mostly aligned with my experience at each of the bars.
I took a group of work colleagues to
The Underground for dinner and drinks on Friday and it was well received by everyone. Music was hip-hop focused and louder than I prefer for a pub, but the food was excellent and there were lots of tasty local beers on offer. Waitress did a commendable job of making recos for the macro drinkers in our group and I enjoyed the laidback, casual atmosphere. Would definitely go back.
Beer Revolution was a letdown. If I was there with a group and sat at one of the tables I might've had a better impression of the place, but my experience at the bar left a lot to be desired. Bright screens greet you at an awkward U-shaped bar where you're forced to either stare at the screens or the people sitting across from you. Good conservation could've made up for that, but unfortunately I was sitting beside some creep who was only concerned with hitting on/harassing the waitresses. What else? The bartenders weren't willing to engage, the Wild Boar skillet was just okay, and two beers and an entree came to $50 with a 15% tip. This in a province with no sales tax. On the positive side, the
Dawn of the Red that I ordered was one of the better pints of my trip (the Alley Kat Red Dragon, not so much).
Craft Beer Market was more up my alley with an impressive, gargantuan beer list, vibrant atmosphere, and solid food. Service was slow but amicable and my work friends were happy with their experience. While I wanted to go with something local, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to try
Fresh Squeezed on tap, and it didn't disappoint. The Black Butte Porter was in equally fine form. Sure there's a bit of a corporate/chainy vibe to this place, but I would still come back. Another worthy spot.
Three Boars Eatery was far and away the highlight of the trip. I would even go so far as to say it was one of the best drinking and dining experiences I've ever had. Awesome cozy little bar downstairs with six well-selected taps, 10 or so bottles, and a robust cocktail menu. Servers look like hipsters, so at first I thought this might not be the place for me, but they were friendly and engaging (bartender Riley in particular). Food is obviously the focus here, and it delivered in spades. Had the Brussel Sprouts, Alberta Quail, Apple & Cheddar Empanada, and Cured Meat Plate, all were delicious.
The beer selection is limited, but what they have is stellar. The pints that I quaffed throughout dinner – a chocolate porter, an American IPA, a black saison - ranged from good to great. By the time I ordered the saison, the bar was packed. Had some interesting conversations with the patrons and the barkeep was kind enough to make me a custom cocktail (Jack Rose) not offered on their regular menu. Overall, a very fun and memorable night out, and I can’t say enough good things about this place.
