Highlevel Diner | Edmonton

Tucked in beside the river valley next to Edmonton's university district area is the Highlevel Diner. Famous for their cinnamon buns, the cafe has sturdy, worn wood tables that have weathered diner after diner over the years. Covered in art and perfectly located to take in the morning sun, it’s the perfect spot for Sunday brunch.

Inside the cafe is warm and cozy, enough space for families, small groups, and friends to gather, perfectly specked apart to feel intimately separate. It's friendly for all ages and the serving staff are efficient but caring, taking time to answer questions and pause their hands and feet while doing so. Its warm, covered in wood, art, stained glass, and brightly painted walls with rows of windows on two sides. At first it feels a bit like walking into an exclusive, old-world club with dark wood and navy walls, but quickly gives way to its friendlier side as you take your seat, grounding the space.

Loaded with next-morning students zippered into fleeces and all styles of jeans and colourful toques, the diner is the perfect place for a morning regroup of Saturday night's activities.

The starter is a monsterous cinnamon bun, a light and fluffy twist with a crunchy cinnamon topping and carmelized sticky bottom. The thing is huge, easily 6 inches on all sides and 4 inches high. Served plain, with caramel bourbon sauce, or cream cheese icing, it comes served with a big 'old steak knife sticking out of the center, and rightfully so.

It's perfect for sharing, for taking home leftover reminders of your breakfast, or to see you through the car ride back home.

You'll find fan-favorites on the plastic laminated brunch menu including Benedicts, Omelettes, Rancheros, Pancakes, Cereal, and Yogurt. An admittedly small menu, but cooked to flavourful absolute perfection.

Try the Huevos Rancheros with fried rice and mole and two big tortilla wedges.

The Classic Eggs Benny is served in a fresh hollandaise sauce with choice of side.

Afterwards, take a walk near Adair Park with the easy to access river valley trails right behind the building.

📍Highlevel Diner

10912 88 Avenue NW

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada