PlayWright: Downtown’s Hot New Restaurant

By Maia Ellis

Located in Edmonton’s vibrant Arts District, and just steps away from the Winspear, is one of the city’s most exciting new restaurants, in a location that you might not expect. PlayWright, a new casual fine dining restaurant, can be found in the Citadel Theatre, in the old Normand’s location.

Stepping inside PlayWright, you’ll immediately notice the thoughtful design, and warm and inviting atmosphere. All throughout the restaurant there are unique touches, like playbills from past Citadel plays and a custom mural of the city of Edmonton. There’s also an open kitchen with a live-edge bar, so that guests can sit and watch the chefs in action. A favourite feature of many patrons is the secret library room that can be accessed via a hidden bookshelf door!

Owner Steve Brochu, who also runs the successful MilkCrate cafe, as well as GhostLight, a coffee kiosk also located in the Citadel, wants the restaurant to be a celebration of Edmonton’s food, offering unique and tasty meals. A quick look at their menu and you’ll see what he means – from juicy burgers and barbecue platters to savoury and comforting soups, the food at PlayWright is exciting and fresh. With seating up to 120, and three unique spaces that can be rented out, PlayWright is the perfect location for a dinner with friends, or for a party or corporate event.

Being located in the Citadel presents a unique challenge: with many theatre patrons visiting the restaurant before their show or during intermission, the food needs to be prepared quickly. By offering braised and slow-cooked options that are cooked throughout the day on the menu, Brochu is able to give his guests delicious, comforting food, without having to wait long, or compromise on flavour. This minimal food preparation time can give guests peace of mind, knowing that they won’t be running late for their play or concert.

Originally offering only a dinner menu, PlayWright recently expanded its offerings to lunch as well – perfect for anyone working downtown. And while the food menu might be the primary draw, don’t forget to check out their exciting drink options. Try a black tea old fashioned, or a French 75, or another one of their delicious cocktails – perfect for catching up with friends after a show.

If you’re looking for something new and familiar all at once, make sure to check out PlayWright.