A familiar face in the Canadian folk music scene, Edmonton's Chloe Albert has been receiving rave reviews for her music since her award-winning debut album Dedicated State was released back in 2008. A few years later, the singer's sophomore album Dreamcatcher (released in 2013) garnered her a Juno Award nomination in addition to a Western Canadian Music Award nomination, and multiple Edmonton Music Awards.
It was then that Albert decided to take a break from her career to focus on raising a family and has stayed plenty busy with three young boys.
Now, after her eight year hiatus, Albert is back and sounding just as captivating as ever. Earlier this year she released her new single "Die Trying" featuring T. Buckley and a few weeks later she dropped the title track of her upcoming album Come Around Again–which comes out on Friday, April 23.
Recently, the talented folk singer took some time to chat with us about her favourite spots for eats and drinks in her hometown of Edmonton. Here's what she had to say.
Breakfast
Under The High Wheel is a small space on Whyte Avenue–Edmonton’s main, central eclectic shop and food and beverage strip–and there is usually a line-up on weekends for breakfast, but it has such a warm, cozy atmosphere.
They focus on locally-sourced and seasonal products which I love, but most importantly, their food and coffee is made with care, and is so incredibly delicious! I love the Mediterranean gluten-free crepe and my hubs usually goes for the traditional breakfast!
Lunch
Sugarbowl is a classic, sweet spot in Edmonton’s University area that has been around since I can remember. It's dubbed "the sweetest place in town" for a reason!
Sugarbowl really has everything you could ever want for lunch; they have perfect balance of menu options –not too overwhelmingly big, and not too limited–vegan options, a quaint patio, great coffee, craft beers, and traditional bistro fare. I’m a sucker for their mac 'n cheese.
Dinner
I love Friends and Neighbours Cafe, the anomalous casual, cozy Vietnamese restaurant/old-fashioned diner combo on Whyte Avenue. Much like Sugarbowl, they’ve been in business for as long as I can remember, and they have my favourite salad rolls in town! I also love that they have a lot of vegetarian and gluten-free options.
It's tried and true, trusted and beloved by many regulars in Edmonton over the years.
Drinks
Anvil Coffee House has my favourite Americano in town! This is the perfect neighbourhood coffee shop, in my opinion...and it also happens to be owned by one of my best friends.
I love Anvil because it's family-owned by Lesley and Tony Gruh–who also live in the neighbourhood–so they are really invested in the community, and it shows. They support and display art created by locals, from paintings to pottery, and before covid, they regularly hosted events. They have delicious snacks to go or stay with gluten-free and vegan options and the friendliest staff too!
