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Sugar Bowl
Categories: Food Coffee & Tea Restaurants Canadian (New) Restaurants Breakfast & Brunch Coffee & Tea, Canadian (New), Breakfast & Brunch [Edit]
10922 88 Ave NWEdmonton, AB T6G 0Z1
(780) 433-8369
- Hours:
Mon-Thu, Sun 8 am - 12 am
Fri-Sat 8 am - 1 am
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Late Night, Lunch, Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
69 reviews for Sugar Bowl
Review Highlights
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"cinnamon buns I've ever eaten." In 17 reviews -
"The lamb burger with goat cheese will be the death of me." In 11 reviews -
"They have an extensive beer list and the food is always..." In 7 reviews
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69 reviews in English
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Review from Kristina V.
Edmonton, AB
5/17/2012
The Sugar Bowl is my go-to, default stop for drinks and food whenever I'm in the Garneau area. Got an couple hours before yoga? Go to the Sugar Bowl. Can't get into Three Boars or Noorish? Go to the Sugar Bowl. A friend from Calgary is in town for the weekend? Take her for brunch at... you get the idea.
Sugar Bowl is located just south of the High Level Bridge, at that weird intersection where Saskatchewan Drive, 109th Street, and Walterdale Hill converge. The modern comfort restaurant is always bustling, and at times you may need to wait to be seated, or to find a table that will accommodate your party. But with 11 drafts on tap, and over 50 international bottles available on the menu, the wait is worthwhile. If I had to recommend one from the menu, it would be the Hoegaarden: for $7.75, you're served a generous pouring of Belgian wheat beer in a giant hexagonal glass.
The restaurant is famous for its cinnamon buns, and I know friends who will visit the Sugar Bowl just for a taste of that sticky, sweet goodness. I'm a fan of chicken and waffles with maple butter. Sounds strange, but it's surprisingly delicious, a lovely blend of salty, sweet, and savoury. Same goes for Sugar Bowl's popcorn: it's a blend of paprika, lime, salt, and sugar - a harmonious blend of spicy, sour, salty, and sweet - and you experience a taste explosion with every kernel.
Sugar Bowl is a hot spot, and it's common (at least for me) to run into friends who also had the brilliant idea to stop in for a drink or snack. There are a few parking lots available to customers of Sugar Bowl. Otherwise, there's parking available on the street. I find that Sugar Bowl is a great stop after a long walk or bicycle ride in the river valley, or a workout at the Butterdome. Prices are moderately high, but fitting for the quality selection of beers and food. -
Review from Ardy S.
Edmonton, AB
5/2/2012 13 Check-ins Here
It use to be my favorite place for a pint. However, these days it is really hard to find a seat and I don't like to wait for 20 minutes to have a drink. Probably the best place for drinking beer in Edmonton. The food is okay nothing special.
I recommend the popcorn. It is very different compared to typical popcorn. -
Review from Jenna K.
Edmonton, AB
4/30/2012
This is a great cozy place to check out either for lunch or dinner. I love the wood flooring and no-fuss furniture that makes this casual place all the more inviting. I had the jerk chicken and avocado burger (scrumptious!) and my boyfriend had the baked mac and cheese. Its the perfect place for comfort food.
other than the tables being too close together, I recommend this place to grab a bite. it can however get loud, so I don't suggest going there if you plan to carry extensive conversation. -
Review from Jeremy F.
Edmonton, AB
5/10/2012
I like coming here. I've never had a bad experience but only once was it a great one. Almost everytime I order the pulled pork and its different each and everytime. There's no consistency of flavor or, portion size of the pork itself. I've never had one I didnt really like but it would be nice to have a set recipe and portion. I get the soup EVERY time I go in but, not once has it been hot. It's always luke warm which is wierd since the kitchen is no more than a 10 second walk anywhere in the restuarant.
Sum it up- Great Flavours and atmosphere but it would be nice to see consistency and hot food. -
Review from Lea A.
This is going to be long, so if you're too lazy to read, here's the Cliff's Notes version: food is fantastic, ambiance is hip and young, service is good, and prices are actually reasonable. What else do you need for five stars?
Meanwhile...
How have I lived in Edmonton 20+ years and never, truly, gone to Sugar Bowl? Back in my college years, I went during a cask night and as a non-drinker (well, I just don't drink MUCH), it didn't really leave me with much of an impression. Also, as a "North Sider" I guess it wasn't top of my list when going out to town.
Fast forward to 2012, and one bored Saturday morning, my husband and I decided to go to Sugar Bowl to try their brunch. I wanted to compare their cinnamon bun to High Level Diner's cinnamon bun and just have a chance to try their food in general.
Let's just say we left so impressed, my husband was non-stop talking about the perfect beer pour he had to our friends (and the fact they served alcohol at 11am), and of course, we absolutely loved the ambiance of brick walls, nice patio, and a view of nice trees, buildings and houses (also, nice to see well dressed and attractive patrons of all ages!)
The brunch was tasty, and I enjoyed my poached egg with bison "bratwurst" but honestly, brunch is something that normally doesn't make me go "wow." So, we endeavoured to return to Sugar Bowl for the eve.
So come back we did. Rob ordered the famous lamb burger and was again, so impressed, he urged me to write this review ASAP. I took a few bites of the burger and it's hard not to agree -- lamb burger was cooked to perfection, and the goat cheese just melded so well with the meat. Great amount of veggies with the burger, too. What was ALSO cool was that we told the waitress that we were going to share the burger order and when the food finally came, they served it in two plates, cut in half. Awesome service!
Frulli on tap, by the way, is a revelation. YUM!
In addition, we ordered the smoked paprika popcorn and bread pudding for snacks and dessert and for something so simple, it was executed so well. Tasty!
Prices? For two, it was about $25-30. That includes the beer!
We're definitely going to go back. More and more. -
Review from Keaton S.
Edmonton, AB
4/17/2012
This place is does it right in my opinion. The large drink menu with the small food menu is something I would aim to replicate if I were to get into the restaurant industry. I have spent many a' bunches in this joint by the U of A and never had a bad experience.
The only issue with Sugar Bowl is finding a seat. It's popularity has seemed to grow exponentially over the past 5 years. Don't worry, it's worth the wait. Good luck. -
Review from Laurel P.
4/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
I looooooove a good eggs Benedict. Every time I go out for breakfast, it's always my first choice. I could care less about how terrible it is for you. Sometimes you just need to treat yourself. I was ecstatic when I saw that the Sugar Bowl had it on their menu. However, when I saw it was served with a béchamel sauce rather than a traditional Hollandaise, it instantly raised a red flag for me. How dare they call this eggs Benedict!? Regardless, I decided to chance it and I'm glad I did.
When I asked for my meal to be made without back bacon, I was really happy that our server offered to have it made with spinach instead. It's always nice when someone goes an extra mile to help a vegetarian enjoy their meal. It was delicious. I honestly think the béchamel was way better than Hollandaise would have been with the corn bread and spinach. It was a really interesting take on an old favourite.
I'm also really impressed with the Sugar Bowl's beer menu. It went on for a number of pages which was kind of funny considering the breakfast menu fit within a single column.
Overall I really enjoyed my first visit to the Sugar Bowl. It manages to be both familiar and trendy. The wait for a table at noon on a Sunday is a bit of a pain but totally worth it once you get seated. -
Review from Linda N.
3/12/2012
One of my favorite places in Edmonton. Particularly nice in summer when they open the place up and let the fresh air in and also have tables on the patio. My favorite feature is the beer menu combined with their happy hour before 7 pm. They usually offer my favorite beer (Erdinger), which they have on tap(!), at a very good price during happy hour. Now that I think about it, I should go there for a pint of Erdinger more often. Especially now that they have the Weiss bier on tap!! Mmm...!
They have pretty good food too. I don't love every item on the menu, but there is always something that is good. The other day I had a lovely salad with goat cheese and smoked salmon. What I really wanted was a burger with fries, but since I had been eating out several nights in a row, I decided to be sensible and have a salad. Interestingly, I forgot about my burger-and-fries craving as soon as I started on the salad. It was really tasty! Nice staff too, always friendly and helpful. Only problem is that I'm not the only one who like the place so there is often a bit of a wait to get a table. It's worth it though! -
Review from Jo-Ann S.
3/3/2012
I like it but I don't love it. At this place, you pay for beer selection and being on trend.
I've been there many times and always had an alright experience so it has that going for it. The last time I went, my husband ordered the cream of broccoli soup. He said it was too salty and didn't finish it! WHAT?! My husband not finish food? Wow! I ordered the goat cheese burger which normally comes with lamb but they substituted with a portobello burger. Nice! It was good but a little bland and they put my mixed greens on a warm plate so they were warm by the time I got them. Also, that`s all you get. Mixed greens...nothing more. The dressing was good though. I also have never been disappointed by their paprika popcorn. My delirium beer (which comes in a glass adorned with pink elephants) was great as always! Service was good.
Overall, it's a staple. I like it a lot. I do wish they would take a bit more attention with their food however. -
Review from S J.
Edmonton, AB
2/26/2012 2 Check-ins Here
This place is the other end of the spectrum from Cora or Humpty's and that is a good, good thing. Everything is fresh and made on site. When you come in, a wonderful aroma of cinnamon buns and coffee greets you and sets the stage for a great breakfast or brunch.
The cinnamon buns are legendary and actually live up to the hype. The coffee is great and is often refreshed during your meal to keep it hot. The breakfast options are numerous enough to satisfy most of us and there are usually a few specials making use of what is found at the market that week. If there are enchiladas on offer, have them.
The staff are usually really fun and just the right amount of friendly. And I love that the art rotates to show off local painters or photographers.
Only real issue is parking. BEWARE, read the signs on the street, about 25 feet from their door is regulated neighbourhood parking and you will be ticketed. -
Review from Cory C.
Vancouver, BC
5/9/2012
It was alright. ordered the Lamb/Bleu cheese burger or something. it was great! loaded with fries. tons of beer to choose from. ordered the strawberry one and it was very refreshing. However, when we were hanging out we ordered the yam fries and they were disappointing because it wasn't crispy and it was soggy and undercooked. would go there again for beer and stuff though. must go early, lined up for 20minutes when we were there last time.
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Review from Arlette K.
Edmonton, AB
Updated - 2/14/2012 4 Check-ins Here
Well I've been back a couple of times since my first review, this time I figured I should probably try something other than the Cinnamon buns. I ordered their version of an Eggs Benny with the Bechtel on the side. I'm so glad I did! Good Heavens the sauce was in a soup bowl and would have drowned my poor little eggies! I asked the server if that was the normal amount used and was told yes! Eeek! Not withstanding the shocker of the sauce, the eggs were great, warm and soft and broke nicely over the hash browns. The cornbread wasn't my favourite though, too sweet against the savoury flavour of the potato's and eggs.
A small tip as well - always check you cream! I had asked for some with my coffee and well what I got was a congealed layer of goop on top in what appeared to be a dirty container. Now stuff happens and the server quickly agreed with me and brought me a new container of cream, but shouldn't they be checking first?
So for the die-hard Cinnamon bunners out there - try something else! You might find another reason to visit besides the ultimate sugar hit! -
Review from Peggy L.
11/16/2011 2 Check-ins Here
This first time I came to the Sugar Bowl I was utterly underwhelmed. I went again recently with a few friends though, and the food was much better. My boyfriend got a whisky sour and I got a soho citrus, and they were good and really prompt.
For food, he ordered the lamb and goat cheese burger which was average, but the fries were really great - crispy and seasoned well. I had the smoked salmon linguine, and it was just so delicious. We both really enjoyed it. My other friend had the creme brulee for dessert and it was pretty tasty as well (funny story: boyfriend thought you were supposed to take the sugar off to eat the 'creme').
Although I enjoyed the trendy atmosphere and quick service, I really couldn't bear the long wait, and I hated how loud the music was, especially with all the chatter.
Next time I'm going to try the smoked paprika popcorn! -
Review from Jenna-Marie L.
Edmonton, AB
The Sugar Bowl is probably one of my favorite pub/restaurants in the University area. I have never had a bad meal and I love the casual/trendy atmosphere. The cinnamon buns are definitely a must for breakfast, probably the best I have had! Even anything I have tried off the dinner menu has been great, the Mac & Cheese is delicious although very very filling and if you're not super hungry you can easily share this dish. Also one of my faves is the portobello mushroom burger, so yummy although a little messy but then good burgers (note: the mushroom is the patty, no meat) usually are!
As a huge beer fan this place has an amazing selection, it's hard not to branch out from the familiar and sample some interesting beers from around the world.
The only reason I give this place 3 stars was service, although my previous visits have had great service this last visit was brutal. Maybe we shouldn't have sat outside but the inside was full and there were others outside so it really isn't a good reason for taking 25min to take our drink orders and the server didn't seem to care that we had been waiting so long. Plus my hot chocolate and bailey's came w/o the baileys, she did bring me a another one but at the end of the meal I was pretty full and usually one hot chocolate is more than for me. To be honest we were very close to leaving as we could see our server inside visiting with other people/staff and we were outside starving.
Hopefully this doesn't happen again as I really do like this place but it's hard to want to go back when service sucks. -
Review from Jamie T.
9/4/2011 3 Check-ins Here
A friend of mine wanted to go for a beer, and suggested this place. Since she had me at "beer", I didn't much care where we went.
I hate to use a cliche, but this place was Beer Heaven. The sheer number of choices left me looking like a slack jawed yokel, and I'm not usually the type to be easily impressed.
The food was fairly decent, too. I tried the pulled pork sandwich, which was drenched in BBQ sauce, and came with a side of sweet potato fries that were so good, I would kill a man for a plate of them. The only issue I had with the meal was that the sandwich (served on a giant kaiser bun) was a little too messy to be eaten with your hands. Think sloppy joe, and you'll know what I mean.
Service was ok, waitress seemed a little ditzy, and she never did bring me the knife and fork I asked for in order to eat the aforementioned messy sandwich.
Parking is a pain in the ass, too. In the summer, it's nice to take a stroll in the area in order to get to this spot, but I doubt I would do the same in winter.Listed in: Watering holes
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Review from Mark L.
8/31/2011
Sugar Bowl has a somewhat impressive beer list; somewhat less impressive is that the first three beers I tried to order were unavailable. At least the waitress knew of the unavailability and was able to give me the bad news right away. I tried to order 3 similar beers so it would have been nice if the waitress had proffered a recommendation.
Anyhow, I was able to find a more than acceptable beer and, not being a big baby, had a great time. I had the bacon beer (aka Shakespeare Stout) and it complimented the mac and cheese well. What a wonderful late night snack. The cheese used is smoked and delicious.
Sugar Bowl has a chiller atmosphere than other bars nearby. Proximity to a campus probably does that. I'll definitely be back to try some more beers and sample more of Sugar Bowl's food.Listed in: 30 day challenge
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Review from Jenny B.
Edmonton, AB
2/11/2012
This place is always packed which shows that it must be doing something right. I always enjoy my food and their beer selection is one of the best in the city. The service is good considering how busy the place is. It sucks that you have to wait so long for a table but it's still one of the best places to hang out in the city
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Review from Carina Z.
8/10/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Every item I have ever had is absolutely delectable! Breakfast is scrumptious - my favorites are the French toast and, of course, the amazing, enormous cinnamon buns. Lunch/afternoon drinks are wonderful sitting on the patio. I cannot rave about the selection of alcoholic beverages enough - I think the list is twice as long as the actual menu. Evening has its own unique ambiance that is only created with the right clientele, in the right neighborhood, and a touch of magic.
I will not say too much because this is a place that needs to be experienced to be truly appreciated. This is an absolute MUST to go to and remains on my elite list of 5 star establishments.
PS. They have parking in the back! -
Review from Angela E.
7/28/2011 5 Check-ins Here
Nice, authentic setting - my table noticed the photo and old news clippings of the history of the place. Interesting read if you have a chance. Sugar Bowl's been around since the '40s.
The beer list is one of the best in Edmonton, they have veggie options, and very savoury dishes. If you're not too hungry, try the chili lime popcorn. In my experience, the food always delivers (enough to bring me back), but the service is sometimes flakey. -
Review from Patricia M.
Edmonton, AB
7/7/2011
Sugar Bowl is so close to a 5 star rating.
The food is amazing. I had a vegetarian burger/sandwich of some kind with sweet potato fries (my token meal). My other half had the chilli and said it was delicious. The food is fantastic.
I have two main complaints:
The parking situation is horrendous. When I say horrible, I mean the worst possible parking situation ever imagined. The residential area close to Sugar Bowl is always packed (sardine packed) so there is no where to park on the residential road. There is no free parking anywhere because DPS Parking Service owns every lot.
The sitting arrangement inside is horrible. The tables are too close together and there is no privacy. -
Review from Phil W.
8/11/2011
The Sugar Bowl is a University area staple.
The place has a nice, energetic vibe, and is often packed.
Most of the food was in my opinion average... nothing too out there or memorable on the dinner menu.
Except... The Lamb Burger.
Oh my, put this thing on your list of must try's. It's sooo juicy, and I swear it's got about a 60-40 ratio of meat to goat cheese. It's worth going if only for this burger.Listed in: 30 day challenge
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Review from Ed L.
Edmonton, AB
7/30/2011
A good location and that's about it. The food is NOT amazing... contrary to what others may say.
We went for an early afternoon lunch and were disappointed with the Sugar Benny (modified eggs benny on corn bread) and the Belgian waffle.
Although it was my decision... why on earth would you mess with hollandaise sauce and undercook the back bacon?
If you're a trendy university hippie, this is the place for you. -
Review from Natalie C.
Halifax, NS
6/16/2011
Sugar Bowl is one of my favorite Edmonton hang-outs. It's got great music, local art work and fantastic serving staff
I usually stop by on Sunday morning for brunch (love their Huervos Rancheros), as their cinnamon buns are nothing short of legendary. However, if you're going to do this I recommend going in early, or you will be waiting in line.
Sugar Bowl is also great for late evening eats... Their beer menu is phenomenal and let me personally recommend the Frulii Margarita, best idea EVER.
In short, Sugar Bowl is perfect for all times of the day. I bring all my out-of-town guests here. -
Review from Kaylee L.
3/11/2011 ROTD 3/26/2011
We came here after a late night of reno's and not feeling the great urge to cook (lazy us) but sooo glad we chose this little Edmonton jewel to perch for a little while. It was pretty packed with the university crowd when we got inside, but luckily spotted a table near the window and got asked immediatly what we'd like to drink. This would be a good time to mention that this place has every type of GOOD beer and cider imaginable, with the glass to match it too!
Anyways, we got a Bolmers cider and a Fruli and then scoped our sights on the paprika popcorn. So good.
For meals, they have a pretty good selection, and my partner got the ol' fashioned Mac&Cheese and I tried the Red Curry Seafood Laksa. Both came in gigantic portions (Left overs for lunch!)
If you like a good (not too much-but perfect) kick to your food, then I highly recommend it.
^__^
Before I bored you to tears, it was all in all a great night out, and I'll be back soon enough to try desserts!
Also,
Where else in the city can you have dinner on a Sunday after 10pm?! -
Review from Adam R.
4/24/2011 2 Check-ins Here
The Sugarbowl has one of the best beer selections in Edmonton. This place is always bustling, so if you want to get a table with a large group of people (4 or more), get there earlier than peak hours or be prepared to wait a bit.
If you're there for supper, grab yourself a beer. Once you've settled on a beer, check out their food menu, which has some good variety to it. One of my favorites there is the Baked Mac & Cheese. Oh, and this is one of the only restaurants in Edmonton that I know of that has chicken and waffles on its menu consistently.
If it's a lovely summer's evening, Sugarbowl has a terrific patio, ideal for people watching, or relaxing under the hot sun.
And if you're there for breakfast, make sure you try their cinnamon buns. So. Tasty.
I really enjoy the Sugarbowl, and recommend to many out of towners so they can experience something that's not so run of the mill in this great city.Listed in: On the regular
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Review from Farees K.
Updated - 6/10/2011 10 Check-ins Here
Oh my Sugar Bowl, how you have forsaken me.
This used to be my favorite watering hole until I went after a 2 month hiatus last night. The vibe, food and service are still good but my gripe is with the beer.
I understand that everyone needs to make money, but the ridiculous prices they now charge for their beer's on the board is just gauging. A goblet of Seattle Pike IPA (12oz) is now 8.50. 3 months ago I had a pint there (20oz) for 6. Wild Rose, a local brewery goes for 7.50 on tap now.
Time to find a new spot.Listed in: Edmonton Craft Beer drinkers
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/18/2011
As I stumble home... I know what you are thinking. I start every review this way and must have… Read more »
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Review from Aditya R.
The Sugar Bowl is a "mature" campus haunt, if you know what I mean. While almost every university student has been here, it's a bit of a classed up place to come to (and on a side, I certainly don't consider Earl's to be a "mature" campus haunt).
With an exceptional selection of beers which is far from a boring list of Stella, Grasshöpper, Blue Moon and others that seem prevalent on Whyte, Sugar Bowl has a lot of respect for their beer choice. I might be wrong, but they have about 40-50 beers with a frequently changing chalk board of drafts that come and go. The food is decent with a few surprises like the lamb burger, some Indian curry influenced stuff and of course, their tasty bbq flavored popcorn. Although a strange choice for an appetizer, it really does justice to its name. Their popcorn is perhaps the healthiest appetizer I've had at a bar!
They have interesting stuff on their wall which periodically changes too. The morning coffee is good and I'm not big on cinnamon buns, so I haven't really tried it. Do go for their omelette of the day. It's always a nice surprise if you're someone who likes surprises. Else at least ask them what the omelette of the day is on that day. -
Review from Karlie M.
1/21/2011
I visited Sugar Bowl last weekend for dinner with my husband and a girlfriend. The last time I had been there was about 9 years ago, when it was more of a coffee shop, less of a restaurant place. I used to while the days away at a table outside, drink coffee and play chess with a friend . Those were the days.
All three of us were quite happy with our experience. We went on Friday night at 6pm. It was very busy, but we only had to wait about 2 minutes for a table. I did notice later on that there were more people waiting a little bit for a table. Our waiter was a nice young guy, no problems with the service at all. He was friendly and timely, but not overbearing at all. The beer list is amazing, and it makes me very happy that they carry one of my favourites, Desperados. Another perk about the beer list is that the prices are reasonable. They don't gauge people for the rarities, but charge appropriately for them.
I ordered the paprika and lime popcorn ($4) to start off with, which my companions thought was hilarious and strange. They tried to convince me not to, but once it arrived they changed their tune. I never knew popcorn could be so tasty, and I will definitely be trying this combo at home. For my main I had the lamb burger, my husband had a red Thai curry dish (only $13!) and my friend had some kind of creamy pasta with salmon (for some reason the online menu isn't listing these two things, so I can't remember exactly what they were called). The goat cheese on my burger was friggin' delicious, and the salad that came with it was fresh and yum. My husband's curry was excellent, lots of veggies and big shrimp. I will be ordering that the next time I go. My friend liked her pasta as well.
The ONLY thing I didn't like about this place was that the music was way too loud for dinnertime. I get that it's a hip place, near the university and all that jazz. I wanna jam as much as the next person, but I had to continually raise my voice to talk to my friend across the table. It's fine for a bar, but I thought it wasn't quite appropriate for dinner time. We were there for about two hours, and they did seem to turn the music down later into our visit, so I don't really know if it's always loud like that or what. Also, the ladies' bathroom was extremely freezing cold! I should also add that there is mostly only street parking, which can be very hard to find. You might have to drive around the block a few times. There is a dentist office across the street that you can park at once the office is closed for the night.
Overall, great beer list, really good food, good atmosphere and impressive pricing. I'll be going to Sugar Bowl more often. -
Review from Jason L.
Edmonton, AB
5/26/2011 12 Check-ins Here
If you can't tell from the pictures, this is the North Garneau hipster hang-out. If that's your scene, then your in the absolute right place to look like you're writing the great Canadian novel or hang out inside with your Raybans half-way down your nose. Wear black. That's the vibe; it's not oppressive or really off-putting, but that's the vibe.
It's also a bar, a coffee shop and a bistro, and respectively, it's got a strong beer selection (lots of premiums and micros with the usual suspects on tap), a nice strong brew - barista pressed and a quirky but tasty menu (lamb burger, baby).
It's not the only place to have a beer or a coffee or a bite in the area. No by no means, is there a shortage of suds, beans or ciabatta in Garneau, but this place has atmosphere, vibe, kick and often tunes. There's a be here, be seen aspect to it that makes it a nice night out. -
Review from Brittany K.
Edmonton, AB
Just visited Sugarbowl for a dinner/dessert night out with friends, and I could NOT believe we were able to get a table on a Saturday night. Whether for breakfast, dinner, lunch, or late night drinks, a table at the Sugarbowl is hard to come by without a minimum wait time.
I usually come by for the cinnamon buns (they are famous 'round these parts!) but last time I tried the new chai cheesecake. It was a wondrous creation that I would recommend to everyone (or, no one, to save it all for myself).
Sugarbowl staff can be a bit scattered, especially during peak hours, but food is always well-made and piping hot. Music here is very indie - the whole vibe of the place is pretty hipster, but friendly.
Come back often to check out the rotating art. Local artists are featured on the walls, with styles ranging from stark B&W photography to soft acrylic landscapes. One of my favourite features of the SB! -
Review from Paula K.
12/12/2010
I paid my first visit to the Sugar Bowl for brunch and I cannot believe it never occurred to me to try the place before. The selection of brunch items are mouth-watering in their descriptions, affordable at around $12, and include unique ingredients like avocado and non-standard items like a chicken waffle.
I had the special, which was an avocado and smoked salmon omelet - the combination may have seemed strange at first, but these are two of my favourite things and they tasted great together. The accompanying potatoes were moist without being greasy, but they weren't all that hot and a few were hard.
The bacon and cheese omelet my friend ordered was equally appreciated. We also shared a cinnamon bun to start, and it was arguably the best I have ever had - huge, crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, with lots of oozing, buttery cinnamon.
I was very impressed with the selection of beer. There were about twelve beers on tap, including ones not typically seen such as a microbrew from Quebec. There were so many bottled choices, I lost count. It almost seemed like too much.
I liked the bohemian atmosphere and location. I definitely want to come back to try a meal at another time of the day, as well as return for brunch. -
Review from Joanna F.
12/1/2010
Feeling a craving for a lamb burger, eggs benny or an imported beer? Sugar Bowl has you covered on all fronts!
A perennial favourite with the university crowd, this hip and happening restaurant and bar is always packed to the gills yet manages to put out consistently great food and service. I've walked in here for an early dinner with a dozen people and not even had the staff bat an eyelash as we kept them busy by ordering more and more dishes and drinks over the course of two hours.
The incredibly juicy and flavourful lamb burger with goats cheese is my favourite dinner here, while the sweet potato fries and cornbread are must-have additions to either your dinner or breakfast.
Don't forget to check out the drinks menu: Sugar Bowl has a wide selection of delicious and exotic beers, martinis and other mixed drinks. There's even a selection of socially acceptable daytime drinks for those who feel like washing down their omelet or cinnamon bun brunch with sangria or a mimosa.
My only complaint with the place is that the juice is bottled Everfresh junk and there aren't many coffees available. I'd also avoid the place on a Sunday morning, as the quality of the food isn't so good that day as the rest of the week (different chef perhaps?).
overall, however, SugarBowl is a consistent and satisfying favourite that's a great place to hang out with friends if you don't mind some noise!
PS: Just tried the Cinnamon Buns are they truly are worth ALL the fuss! Also, they're absolutely massive - these are a full (and very filling) meal all on their own! -
Review from Jeff M.
Sherwood Park, AB
2/28/2011
Now, I will come right out and admit, that I haven't been to Sugar Bowl any other time than in the morning. "Why would he only go to Sugar Bowl in the morning?", you ask? It's simple...
Sugar Bowl has the BEST (and I mean BEST!!!) cinnamon buns I've ever eaten. There is something about these doughy monsters that is truly magical. The dough is soft and well, doughy (which is a huge plus) and the cinnamon/sugar mixture is spot on. I'm convinced, also, that the baker sprinkles the top with a little salt that adds a whole new dimension to these buns. They are a perfect size for breakfast (at least for me) and are really reasonably-priced.
At this point, I have to sheepishly say that I've not tried anything else at the establishment (perhaps it's time to do that). I will say that the interior is nicely decorated and has a cafe/pub feel to it. And, while glancing around during my last visit, I noticed a pretty hefty selection of beers on tap (a definite plus).
So, if you are looking for THE BEST cinnamon bun in the Edmonton area, you MUST go to Sugar Bowl, hands down... no don't ask questions, just go. You'll thank me... well actually you'll thank the baker... and maybe me... -
Review from Emily-Anne P.
Vancouver, BC
5/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
Sugar Bowl was great. They had a lovely patio and decent prices.
Their coffee was good and their benny was really delicious. I am not normally a fan but on a nice corn bread with a very light hollandaise sauce, ham and tomato it was a filling but not overwhelmingly rich breakfast. I highly recommend it for hang over or any brunch treat.
The only thing that I found disappointing was the service. Our server was not overly interested in paying attention to what we needed and the other servers didn't clean up or refill coffee or water when they clearly saw we were done.
Service aside I still strongly recommend heading their for the great food and awesome patio. -
Review from Michael J.
Edmonton, AB
5/4/2011 8 Check-ins Here
I spent most of my undergraduate classes here. Late night conversations over many a foreign brew backlit by tea candles and some classy beats. The patio is busy all the time, but if you can get a seat, take it in. The local art displays are always fun to check-out. It's casual but very tasty dining.
If you are a first-timer: Breakfast sandwich and a latté, and the lamburger are my favorites and can do you no wrong. When it comes to the beer menu, try working your way down one-by-one or do the old "close eyes and point" move.
Parking is impossible but there are plentiful bus, bike and LRT access. Wifi is strong but don't expect to work at a table at peak times. -
Review from Janine E.
Edmonton, AB
8/7/2011 2 Check-ins Here
The beer list (2 full pages) at this restaurant is out of this world! You can get anything from fruity beers to dark beer and I swear I would go just for the beer. The food was good as well, I tried the Mac and Cheese and although not as good as my mom's whole-made Tomato Mac & Cheese it was still very good. The atmosphere was was the kind of place your parents would say "this is where we went on our first date!" Definitely a great location (right next to campus) and the price range was pretty decent too! I highly recommended it, I know I'll be going back for more beer!
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Review from Melanie L.
Edmonton, AB
12/29/2010
Not enough mention has been made of the amazing beer selection! I have not seen a better list anywhere in the city. If you've visited enough times that you've tried all or close to all they have to offer, do not fear, there are unlisted offerings. One of my current off-list faves: Red Racer. Awesome that there are so many microbrews.
The food is solid. Not mindblowing but not just average. Whether you're looking for a snack to offset your beer intake or a full meal (I recommend the chicken and waffles), there's a good selection of both meat and vegetarian options.
Great for any occasion. -
Review from santo c.
Edmonton, AB
Updated - 9/20/2011
I eat here more often than home. Mostly at the bar stools. If this place became vegetarian I would become vegetarian .
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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9/17/2010
AWESOME. I just had a late breakfast at the Bowl today and realized i didn't comment on the… Read more »
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Review from Char D.
Edmonton, AB
5/6/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I love this place. It is the perfect cafe for breakfast or lunch and the perfect lounge/restaurant for dinner or late night drinks. They have an extensive beer list and the food is always tasty.
The fruli beer is one of my staples,more sweet and fruity than beer though. I usually get one of the ever changing specials but their baked Mac and cheese and their bison burgers are two of my favorites.
There is usually a wait on most nights and definately a wait for brunch but this is one of the only places where I don;t mind waiting half an hour. Late nights there is usually a DJ and there is alway new local art on the walls to keep you distracted while you wait for a table. -
Review from Jennifer P.
Edmonton, AB
Updated - 9/26/2010 1 photo
I saw an ad for Sugarbowl in Edmonton's weekly alt-mag Vue last week.
It claimed the hip, local fixture bakes up the city's best cinnamon buns - so I had to see and taste for myself.
I wandered in there Sunday, mid-morning, and the brunch crowd had the place packed and humming with coffee-fuelled conversation, clanking cutlery and lots of greasy, hungover smiles with mouthfuls of smoked salmon and avocado omelettes, home fries and eggs benny.
I stood at the bar, where several patrons sat on high stools sipping cappuccinos from tall glass mugs, and ordered my cinnamon bun.
As I waited, I caught a glimpse of one of the sugary treats on someone else's side plate (it needs its own plate!!) and it looked sugar-rush worthy.
When my own bun came, still warm, and wrapped in cellophane, I cradled it in two hands (it was bigger than my one hand!) and immediately started salivating at smells emitting from whirlpools of rolled and layered cinnamon and doughy goodness, destined for my mouth.
Grandmas who are permanently dusted in flour, and have clocked a lifetime of kitchen hours and have pudgy, little grandchildren, bake cinnamon buns like these. Sugarbowl's buns are big and yeasty, with the right amount of cinnamon and sugar, crusty crunch and soft melt-in-your-mouth gooey morsels.
Huh ... advertising that's actually dead honest - I like it. These ARE the best cinnamon buns in E-town!
Someone's grandma's spirit must live in Sugarbowl's kitchen.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/9/2008
I've been to the Sugar bowl a couple of times because I enjoyed the ambiance of the place. It's… Read more »
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