One Day in Edmonton: singer Ellen Doty

The talented singer-songwriter shares her favourite places to dine in Edmonton

Photo by Brendan Klem, provided.

A recognizable name in Canada and beyond, Edmonton's Ellen Doty is a soulful singer-songwriter that has captured the attention of listeners around the globe with music.

With music that pulls from a myriad of genres as well as her background in traditional jazz, it's easy to be mesmerized by the performer's soothing, emotive vocals. Her brand-new album Every Little Scene, which was released on June 14, 2024, is no exception to that statement.

The 12-track collection was largely written and recorded while Doty was pregnant with her first child throughout 2023. The album's lead single “Coming Back to Me” is a self-reflective and touching tune—co-written by JUNO Award-nominated artist Nuela Charles.

"As an artist, there are often expectations to sound and look a certain way in order to fit into the correct 'box'. This song is really about letting go of all of those expectations, and being yourself. Returning to who you are after a period of feeling lost," explained Doty.

Born and raised in Southern Alberta, she currently (and happily) calls Edmonton home. Over the past few years, she's become enamoured with the city's diverse food scene.

From a delicious weekend brunch at a cool natural wine bar to indulgent poutine at beloved pub, Ellen Doty's picks on where to dine in Edmonton do not disappoint!

Brunch

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by darling (@darling.yeg)

Darling is such a hip and cozy spot nestled in the heart of the Millcreek neighbourhood.

The weekend brunch here is fantastic, and I highly recommend the Spanish Potato Omelette or the Brioche French Toast. They also have a great selection of natural wines too!

Lunch

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by The Next Act (@nextactpub)

The Next Act is a classic spot to stop in at any time I find myself cruising around Whyte Ave.

The spot boasts warm and welcoming vibes, and it has some great comfort food. The burgers are always good (be sure to try the feature "Cameo" burger if you get a chance), and the poutine is super tasty.

Dinner

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Bar Bricco (@barbricco)

Bar Bricco is my favourite place to go to for a date night because it has amazing Italian food that never disappoints.

The hand-made pastas are here are all delicious, particularly the fonduta agnolotti, and the foccacia with the whipped ricotta is *chef’s kiss*. The cocktails are great too!

An all 'round excellent spot with a great atmosphere.

Drinks

Fu’s Repair Shop is such a cool spot because it's got inventive cocktails and a lively atmosphere.

Be sure to try the Black Tea Old Fashioned or the Yuzu Margarita when you pop by. It's a great destination for a night out on Jasper Ave!

Watch: Ellen Doty - Starting to Understand