Best Bar None Edmonton Food Tour

12/12/16 1:11 PM



“What the heck is Best Bar None, anyway?” That was my question when Dave Young invited me to attend a walking tour of 4 BBN accredited downtown Edmonton bars. At first, it seemed odd to invite a straight-edge guy to a series of bars, although it didn’t take long for me to see the wisdom in this. The point is, bars who strive to obtain BBN accreditation will be ideal for designated drivers and non-drinkers alike, because they adhere to strict standards of safety, compliance with local authorities, and health codes. If an establishment is willing to meet these requirements, then I think they are worthy of our patronage because they take our safety seriously. If you’d like to read the full list, click here.

Here are some of the mandatory requirements:

  • Have a written policy in place to make staff aware of and prevent drug facilitated sexual assault.
  • Have a written policy on prevention of illegal drug sales and use on the premises.
  • Have a written glass collection policy (i.e., that bottles and glassware are removed from tables frequently and broken glass is cleaned up promptly).
  • Support a Designated Driver transportation program with posters displayed in view of patrons and/or business cards available to patrons.

Here’s a sampling of the bonus requirements that can earn establishments awards for high standards:

  • Have a written policy empowering and encouraging staff to offer free, or reduced cost, non-alcoholic beverages to pregnant women.
  • Have a written policy empowering and encouraging staff to offer free, or reduced cost, non-alcoholic beverages or food to designated drivers.
  • Have a policy in effect for “soft closing” (i.e., lights gradually go up and music / entertainment ceases at last call).
  • Have a written policy requiring surveillance camera images and data from cameras be provided to a Police Officer immediately upon demand in order to assist in an investigation.

I especially like the bonus parts that take care of pregnant women and DDs like me.

Now, I’d like to chat a bit about the food scene in Edmonton’s bars. While I freely admit to enjoying a juicy hamburger and pile of fries with ketchup as much as the next guy, there does come a point where something a bit more sophisticated is called for. Fortunately, that is exactly what I experienced on this tour of 4 BBN accredited bars, including The Hat Restopub, Kelly’s Pub, Denizen Hall, and Mercer Tavern

The Hat

The Hat Edmonton The Hat Edmonton The Hat Edmonton

These folks have delicious ribs, and the crab cakes were also a hit. Never got a photo of them, though. Love the classy style of the architecture and decor. There is a perfect balance between old and new, with exposed brick and tin ceilings, as well as comfy booths and nice bathrooms.

Kelly’s

Kelly's Pub Edmonton 104 St Kelly's Pub Edmonton 104 St Kelly's Pub Edmonton 104 St

Tasty sandwiches and whatnot at Kelly’s. Not the best food of the lot. Decent, though.

Denizen Hall

Denizen Hall Food Edmonton Denizen Hall Edmonton

Did you know that Chef Nathin Bye, formerly of Lazia/Wildflower Grill/East, and most recently of Ampersand 27 is now the head chef at Denizen Hall and the adjoining Crash Hotel? What an awesome move for the owners to bring him on board. Denizen is definitely a place to watch for some awesome eats. It’s also the most fun place to be, because it comes with a huge arcade, and they even have trivia nights. Good times.

Mercer Tavern

Food at Mercer Tavern Edmonton View of Rogers Place from Mercer Tavern Edmonton Mercer Tavern Edmonton

Mercer also has good eats, and is probably the most impressive in terms of BBN principals. With the opening of Rogers Place across the street, their business has changed significantly, and not just in terms of sales volume. They have a really good relationship with Rogers Place staff and security, and recently saved a man’s life (with the help of some guests who were nurses) when he biffed it down the stairs face first and needed CPR. ‘Twas a happy ending.

 

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