While Edmonton has dozens of incredible local eateries to explore, some huge international chains have also made their way to the city this year.
Several buzzworthy spots opened in YEG this year, drawing in plenty of hungry Edmontonians keen to know what all the hype is about.
So, in case you missed the news or you’re simply in need of a reminder, here are the biggest international chains that opened in Edmonton in 2024.
It was a big year for Chick-fil-A in Edmonton, opening its first Alberta outpost at West Edmonton Mall this summer. It’s safe to say Edmontonians were hyped up, getting in line as soon as the mall opened at 6 am on opening day. A second location at South Edmonton Common quickly followed.
The Georgia-based chicken chain is known for its signature chicken sandwiches, waffle fries, and Chick-fil-A sauce.
Address: 8882 170th Street NW, Edmonton
Address: 2060 – 99th Street NW, Edmonton
Krispy Kreme is another US export that recently made its way to YEG, opening its first outpost in December. People were so keen to get their hands on the chain’s famous sweet treats that they were in line for as long as 12 hours.
The 4,600-square-foot store features one of its signature Doughnut Theatres, where guests can watch the donut-making process and even try a hot one straight off the line.
Address: 4614 Gateway Boulevard NW, Edmonton
Floridian spot Firehouse Subs finally expanded into Edmonton this year, opening its first outpost in the Newcastle neighbourhood. It has since opened five more across the city.
The spot offers fully loaded handhelds. What sets Firehouse Subs apart is its careful process of steaming its meats and cheeses before assembling the sandwich to melt those flavours together perfectly.
Address: #101 4620 Gateway Boulevard NW, Edmonton
Address: 16815 127th Street NW, Edmonton
Address: 10104 186th Street NW, Edmonton
Address: 17004 90th Avenue NW, Edmonton
Address: 8402 109th Street NW, Edmonton
Jinya Ramen Bar, a popular concept which origanted in the US, opened its first Edmonton outpost in 2024. It currently also has Canadian locations in Vancouver and Calgary.
Jinya is known for its “slow-cooked” approach to ramen, with its six signature broths simmered for 20 hours in-house.
Address: 10037 109th Street NW, Edmonton
Fast-casual Mexican-inspired eatery Chipotle also opened its first outpost in YEG in September. The spot offers a wide range of bites, including build-your-own burritos, bowls, and tacos.
Address: 4715 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton
Popular Japanese cheesecake spot Uncle Tetsu made its YEG debut in 2024, opening its first outpost at West Edmonton Mall.
Originating in Hakata, Japan, Uncle Tetsu offers soft and fluffy Japanese cheesecakes in various flavours, including matcha and chocolate, and stamped with the adorable Uncle Tetsu logo.
Address: 8882 170th Street NW, Edmonton
Another big international chain that made its way to the city was Machi Machi, a hugely popular Taiwanese bubble tea spot. It’s known for its beverages served in adorable bottles, including freshly pressed tea, fresh fruit drinks, and fizzy teas.
Address: 3713 Gateway Boulevard NW, Edmonton
With files from Allison Stephen
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