Fennec Kitchen and Bar Opens in Edmonton's Ice District
A new culinary destination has arrived in Edmonton's vibrant Ice District area, as restaurateur Josh Meachem expands his successful empire across the North Saskatchewan River. Fennec Kitchen and Bar represents Meachem's first foray north of his established Old Strathcona locations, bringing his signature welcoming atmosphere to a space nestled beneath an office tower just east of the bustling Ice District.
Expanding a Restaurant Empire
Josh Meachem, the visionary behind beloved Edmonton establishments including Boxer, Coterie, and Lunar, has ventured beyond his south side comfort zone with this latest opening. The move marks a significant expansion for the restaurateur, who has built a reputation for creating warm, inviting spaces that prioritize both culinary excellence and comfortable ambiance.
Fennec Kitchen and Bar maintains the cozy, relaxed vibe that characterizes Meachem's other restaurants, offering a particularly welcoming retreat on chilly Edmonton evenings. The restaurant's design and atmosphere create an immediate sense of comfort, making it an ideal destination for both casual dining and special occasions.
French Contemporary Cuisine with Creative Flair
The menu at Fennec Kitchen and Bar showcases what the restaurant describes as "French contemporary" cuisine, featuring mostly small plates with a selection of sandwiches available during lunch hours. The culinary approach emphasizes creative combinations and thoughtful preparation, with dishes that balance traditional techniques with modern interpretations.
During a recent visit, several menu items stood out for their exceptional execution and flavor profiles. The anise salad proved particularly memorable, featuring shaved fennel and pickled shallots as a crisp foundation, complemented by thinly sliced cucumbers and an avocado-lime vinaigrette that provided both creaminess and citrus notes. Pumpkin seeds added satisfying texture, while chilli crisp delivered just enough heat to elevate the dish without overwhelming the palate.
Standout Dishes and Culinary Highlights
The restaurant's lamb meatballs demonstrated Fennec's commitment to quality and flavor. Prepared with ras el hanout seasoning and served with lemon-garlic aioli, these tender morsels were further enhanced by toasted pistachios, additional chilli crisp, and mint oil. The dish's careful balance of spices and textures showcased the kitchen's attention to detail.
Another highlight was the pressed short rib dish, which featured three pieces of braised meat served between layers of potato pavé with horseradish aioli. This rich, deeply savory preparation emerged as a favorite during the dining experience, demonstrating the restaurant's ability to create comforting yet sophisticated dishes.
Thoughtful Starters and Decadent Desserts
The meal began with marinated olives seasoned with fennel, orange zest, garlic, and coriander—a simple starter elevated by thoughtful seasoning and generous portion size. For dessert, the restaurant offered three compelling options, with the chocolate marquise and rum-infused cheesecake both proving worthy of attention. The dense, dark chocolate dessert topped with orange rum-whipped cream competed closely with the creamy cheesecake featuring graham cracker crumb, creating a difficult but enjoyable choice for diners.
A Welcome Addition to Edmonton's Dining Scene
Fennec Kitchen and Bar represents more than just another restaurant opening—it signifies the continued growth and evolution of Edmonton's culinary landscape. By bringing his successful formula to a new neighborhood, Josh Meachem has created a destination that combines the comfort of his established restaurants with the excitement of a new location and menu.
The restaurant's focus on small plates encourages sharing and exploration, while its French contemporary approach offers diners both familiar flavors and creative interpretations. With its warm atmosphere, carefully crafted dishes, and strategic location near Edmonton's Ice District, Fennec Kitchen and Bar is poised to become a significant player in the city's competitive dining scene.
