Juana Ines: An Authentic Taste of Central Mexico Blossoms in Manchester Square

A bold new chapter for authentic Mexican food has arrived in Edmonton, and its name is Juana Ines.

 

Nestled in the distinctive, European-inspired architecture of Manchester Square, this new restaurant is more than just a place to eat.

 

It is a vibrant, heartfelt celebration of Central Mexican culture, family roots, and artistic spirit.

 

Located at 12042 107 Ave NW, Juana Ines has quickly become a standout destination in the Queen Mary Park neighborhood, offering a comforting and deeply personal dining experience.

 

The restaurant is a tribute to Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, a 17th-century Mexican nun, philosopher, and writer celebrated for her intellect and feminist ideals.

 

This inspiration is immediately apparent upon entering.

 

The dining room is a visual feast, with walls washed in pastel pink and green, climbing floral arrangements, and gilded skulls thoughtfully placed on tables.

 

A stunning, pop-surrealist portrait of Sor Juana herself, complete with a halo and iconic imagery, serves as the room’s focal point.

 

This is not just decoration; it's a statement about the restaurant's soul.

 

For many local food lovers, the spirit behind Juana Ines will feel familiar.

 

The owners are the same creative force behind the much-loved Frida Urban Taqueria, a casualty of the disruptive construction on 124th Street.

 

Now, they have re-emerged in a quieter, more spacious location with ample parking, bringing the legacy of Frida into a new, evolved form.

 

The menu is a confident exploration of the owners' family roots in Querétaro, a state in central Mexico.

 

While not strictly regional, the dishes are presented with a palpable sense of pride and tradition.

 

Forget Tex-Mex clichés; this is home-style cooking served without fuss.

 

Diners can expect authentic plates like mole enchiladas, nopales (cactus), and a variety of tacos filled with slow-stewed, flavorful meats.

 

One of the must-try items is the suadero taco, featuring tender shredded brisket slow-cooked in beef tallow until it is juicy and mild.

 

Served on a simple corn tortilla with diced onion and cilantro, it's a comforting and accessible introduction to their style.

 

For those seeking more heat, the tinga taco is a perfect choice.

 

It features roasted chicken simmered in a smoky chipotle-tomato sauce, beautifully balanced by crumbled sour cream and queso.

 

The combination of heat, tang, and creaminess is an absolute delight.

 

These flavors pair wonderfully with refreshing drinks like the iced horchata latte, a balanced mix of spiced rice milk, coffee, and cinnamon that isn't overly sweet.

 

The restaurant’s opening comes at a pivotal time for its location.

 

Juana Ines is an anchor tenant in the unique Manchester Square development, which transformed a former Brick furniture store into a retail hub with a distinct European village aesthetic.

 

With its fountain, hidden alleyways, and unique storefronts, the square aims to be a vibrant lifestyle destination.

 

But the transformation extends far beyond the square itself.

 

The restaurant finds itself at the heart of the massive 107 Avenue Revitalization project, a city-led initiative to breathe new life into this crucial commercial corridor.

 

This revitalization is a game-changer for the entire area, which has long been described as a place where the world meets in Edmonton.

 

The project, expected to be completed in 2025, is bringing significant upgrades.

 

Improvements include new streetlighting, upgraded and expanded pedestrian lighting, and distinctive gateway features at key intersections like 101 Street, 109 Street, and 116 Street.

 

The city is also installing new benches and bike racks, making the avenue more inviting and accessible for everyone.

 

A major component of this project is the creation of a brand-new public park at 107 Avenue and 105 Street.

 

This park, a direct result of community feedback, is designed to be a gathering and event space, featuring a plaza, a performance stage, a child-friendly play area, and ample seating.

 

Construction on the park is well underway and is anticipated to be open to the public by the end of summer 2025.

 

While the construction has caused intermittent lane closures and traffic headaches for commuters, the long-term vision is one of a safer, more beautiful, and economically vibrant main street.

 

For a new business like Juana Ines, this future is incredibly promising.

 

The restaurant is not just opening its doors; it is embedding itself into a neighborhood on the cusp of a major renaissance.

 

The atmosphere inside Juana Ines already reflects this energy.

 

The dining room is often packed with patrons, and the sounds of exuberant Mexican birthday songs can be heard as staff celebrate with guests.

 

The vibe is expressive yet casual, welcoming and full of life.

 

And there is more to come.

 

Plans are in the works for a speakeasy-style bar upstairs, promising a destination for late-night drinks and adding another layer to the Manchester Square experience.

 

There has even been talk of a pulley system to deliver snacks from the kitchen below, a playful touch that captures the restaurant's inventive spirit.

 

Juana Ines represents the best of the modern Edmonton food scene: independent, culturally rich, and deeply connected to its community.

 

It’s a story of resilience, creativity, and the power of a good taco.

 

Whether you're a longtime fan of Frida Urban Taqueria or a newcomer seeking truly authentic Mexican food, a visit to this charming spot in Manchester Square is an invitation to experience something special.

 

It’s a comforting plate on a relaxed night out, set against the backdrop of a neighborhood actively, and excitingly, reinventing itself.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What kind of food does Juana Ines serve?

 

Juana Ines specializes in authentic Central Mexican cuisine inspired by the owners' family roots in Querétaro. Expect traditional, home-style dishes like mole enchiladas, nopales, and slow-cooked meat tacos, focusing on bold and vibrant flavors.

 

Where is Juana Ines located in Edmonton?

 

Juana Ines is located at 12042 107 Ave NW in the Queen Mary Park neighborhood, situated within the unique European-style retail development known as Manchester Square.

 

Is there parking available at Juana Ines?

 

Yes, one of the benefits of its new location in Manchester Square is better accessibility and more available parking compared to the owners' previous restaurant on 124th Street.