MRKT

MRKT

10542 Jasper Avenue

Edmonton, AB T5J 1Z7

(780) 757-6758

Since opening on Jasper Avenue in 2010, MRKT (pronounced like market, not Mr. K.T.) has offered their flavourful yet speedy take on lunchtime favorites to downtown. They later expanded their hours and menu to serve the supper crowd -- a fact I'm grateful for as I rarely have a chance to get downtown during weekdays! 

Braised beef sandwich (L) and Guajillo spiced pork soup (R)

Prior to my evening visit, I did have the chance to stop in and grab a lunch to-go. The braised beef was tender and scrumptious, stuffed inside a sliced bun. The meat soup of the day, Guajillo spiced pork and white bean soup, was flavourful and hearty, though I encountered only one piece of meat in my bowl.

Croquettes (L) and house-made ricotta with chutney (R)

Our evening meal got off to an excellent start with the night's special, caramelized onion and potato croquettes, were, simply, incredible when paired with the brilliant tomato sauce (I wish they were on the regular menu). The house-made ricotta was lusciously creamy without being overly salted.

Tasting plate

The tasting plate was the highlight of the meal. The cheeses and meats were delicious on their own, but 

the trimmings (including pine nut-infused honey, curried mustard, and fresh figs) were what made this plate stand out from others I've experienced in the city. 

Penne, covered in a sauce of pulled pork arrived a short wait after we finished the appetizers. The sauce was savoury and full of flavor, but the pasta was unfortunately somewhat overcooked. 

The desserts were enjoyable, but not extraordinary. Though the marks of the torching were present, very little caramel had crystallized to contrast in texture with the decadent custard of the peanut butter creme brulee. The flourless chocolate cake itself paled in comparison its tangy vanilla goat cheese cream partner.  

By day, MRKT is a refreshingly inspired cafeteria for the hurried downtown lunch crowd. By night, however, the hustle slows, and MRKT offers food that encourages visitors to share and linger over their creative take on a variety of ingredients. Overall, I enjoyed my visits at both paces, and hope to stop by again soon.

Restaurant website