Refresh Organic Bistro
10151 82 Avenue
780-722-4740
www.refreshorganic.com
Rating: *** 1/2
Signature Drink: Dates with Almonds Smoothie ($6.50)
Signature Dish: Soup & Sandwich ($12)
Dinner & drinks for 2: $40
I don’t ask for much on a Saturday afternoon. Food must simply be fast and fresh, inexpensive and interesting. I don’t want to go home to change and we certainly don’t have a reservation. I found the spot.
A tempting array of sandwiches, salads and desserts occupy Refresh Organic Bistro’s cooler. I browsed the day’s (mostly gluten-free) menu before I placed my order. We took a seat at one of the tiny tables and I waited for my Rooibos tea ($2) to steep.
My borsch and chicken salad sandwich ($12) were delivered immediately: I attacked the beet soup first. A mound of veggies, dyed scarlet by the beets, emerged from the succulent broth. Caramelized onions sweetened every spoonful.
I turned next to my dusty kaiser roll. Chill chunks of chicken rolled over my tongue on a wave of fresh cilantro. The bun was a little chewy, but my mouth was too full to complain. I finished with a strange power cookie ($2), possibly made with molasses and birdseed. It did nothing to diminish my delight.
Refresh sources most of its exceptional fare from local farmers. This is the spot that will warm those long, leisurely Saturday afternoons on Whyte.
Dining out
Fright Night
Since you probably have your Halloween night planned, check out the Halloween Hangover at Filthy McNasty’s on Sunday. Scream and giggle at a triple feature of fabulous films: Hatchet, Sleepaway Camp and the 1981 classic Happy Birthday to Me. Swing by 10511A 82 Avenue and look up – Filthy McNasty’s is on the second floor.
Texas Eat ’EM
Want to gamble on a good time? The River Cree Resort in Enoch has 800 slot machines, over 35 table games and a 12-table poker room. Dine in the elegant Sage restaurant, the rocking Tap25 sports bar or at the Kitchen buffet area. www.rivercreeresort.com
