Nomiya | 11160 Ellerslie Rd., 780-988-0989 | 3803 Calgary Tr., 780-462-1300.
With that wintry chill in the air, nothing can warm you up quite like a steaming bowl of soup. Grab some authentic Japanese ramen from the family-owned Nomiya, which uses the techniques and components of the traditional dish. Their homemade broth—made fresh every day with pork bone broth and simmered for eight hours—is the family’s secret recipe. Try the peanut-y Tan Tan Ramen or, if you’re in the mood for something different, opt to sample the variety of fresh sushi.
Ávila Arepa | 10760-82 Ave., 780-328-7887.
You may not be sure you’re still in Edmonton after you’ve stepped inside Ávila Arepa, a lively Whyte Ave. eatery. From the energetic Latin music to the replica of the multi-coloured floor of the Caracas airport, you’ll think you’ve arrived in Venezuela! Ávila Arepa specializes in traditional arepas: grilled corn flour or meal discs that are stuffed with meat, cheese, and vegetables. Go classic with the Pelua—pulled beef and cheddar cheese—or try the signature Palo Verde with avocado, queso e’ mano, and roasted peppers.
