Izzy Reviews Cavern
I woke up Saturday morning craving tinned fish paired with a cheeky cocktail. What did I do? I made my way over to the wine bar and cheese shop located on 10169 104 Street NW #2, Edmonton, AB. What else is a girl to do but satisfy a craving? Despite Cavern being located downtown and a bit further from campus, it is close to Bay Enterprise station and resides in the basement of the Phillips Lofts building along the iconic 104th Street.
Now, this wasn’t my first time at Cavern. My friends and I found the place when looking for shelter after scurrying around in the cold last January. It was illuminated like a hearth. Now, my partner and I regularly swing by for visits. This time, however, I went on my own to appreciate the ambience and enjoy some alone time (everyone was busy that day). There are four tables inside, with two small bar areas as well. You can seat yourself and one of the staff will swing by to give you a menu and water. During the spring and summer months, they also offer outdoor seating.
I got their chips and dip, as well as a can of tinned mussels from Galicia in some marinade. To drink, I got the lambrusco spritz. The chips and dip was great, they threw in some olives, ginduilla peppers, cucumbers, and red peppers in with the dip. They put it all on a tray alongside the tinned seafood I picked out with some bread. I didn’t get a photo of my drink since I’d forgotten and finished it all by the time I whipped my camera out. Apologies.
If tinned seafood isn’t for you, that’s fine! Cavern also offers a selection of sandwiches. I’ve tried their smoked salmon bagel and salami and chevre baguette and both are amazing. They also offer charcuterie boards as well, which can be intimidating to order if you don’t know your stuff but the staff at Cavern are all knowledgeable about their products and are happy to share their expertise.
Their sandwiches and plates are affordable, being around the $12-14 range. I must admit, though, the prices for the tinned fish may be on the more expensive side depending on the market price for the tin you get. They’ve also got a wide variety of drinks to pick and choose from, whether you’re in the mood for wine, beer, a cocktail, or a coffee. Do expect to pay $20-30 if you’re grabbing food and a drink!
They sell a variety of cheeses and wines, all well curated. Their tinned seafood selection is one of my favourite things about Cavern. I even grabbed some extra tins to use as stocking stuffers for the holiday season! They also host some pretty cool events such as cheese tasting. Their last event was ‘Murder on the Cheese Board’ partnered with local businesses Audreys and Garneau Block. I give the food a 9/10 and give the experience a 10/10. Cavern is the perfect location for a bite with friends, a little date night, or just enjoying your time alone. If you’re a savoury person, you must give it a go!
Written by GAPSS Media Committee Member Izzy S.