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Edmonton Alley Kat: Original Craft Beer Pioneers and Their Enduring Legacy
Edmonton Alley Kat: Original Craft Beer Pioneers and Their Enduring Legacy
Edmonton Alley Kat: Original Craft Beer Pioneers and Their Enduring Legacy
"Inside the legacy of Edmonton's original craft beer pioneers, Alley Kat Brewing Co. Don't miss out! 🍻"
Edmunchie
Jan 5, 2026
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Here we ....goooo! |
Long before the current craft beer boom, Edmonton Alley Kat defined the local scene.
Founded in 1995 by pioneers Neil and Lavonne Herbst, it was the city’s very first craft brewery, introducing tastes that were revolutionary at the time.
They were the first in Alberta to brew fruit beers and even established the province's first brewery lab to ensure quality.
Iconic beers like their Aprikat Apricot Ale and Scona Gold Kölsch quickly became beloved local staples.
In 2020, the Herbsts passed the torch to new local owners, Zane Christensen and Cameron French, who were dedicated to keeping the brewery independent.
While honoring its legacy, the brewery has also adapted to modern tastes, notably by switching to aluminum cans.
Alley Kat didn’t just make beer; it built the foundation for Edmonton’s thriving craft community and remains a cornerstone of the city’s culture. Read More... |
Hungry this week?🍟🥂 | ||
Food and Drink |
Trivia Night at Rendezvous Pub: Test your knowledge and enjoy local brews. It’s a great way to experience Edmonton's pub culture with a competitive (but friendly) twist.
Indigenous Sharing Plates at Bernadette's: Experience a unique culinary journey with Indigenous-inspired small plates. This elegant wine bar offers a modern take on traditional ingredients.
Old Strathcona Farmers' Market: While it peaks on Saturdays, the district around the market features incredible local bakeries and food shops that are open throughout the week, offering a taste of Edmonton’s best local produce.
Brew + Bloom Floral Café: Visit this downtown café for a floral-themed brunch or coffee. It is one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city and offers a warm, garden-like escape from the January cold.
Edmonton Pub Trivia Night: Another great option for food and brainpower. These nights often feature drink specials for participants and a lively mid-week crowd.
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Ooooooh lala....😋🥳 | ||
Happy hours |
The Provincial Kitchen & Bar Daily Deals: A local favorite for consistent value. On Wednesday, enjoy half-price wings and $6.25 IPAs, or visit on Thursday for $2 off Sea Change beers.
Red Lobster Happy Hour: A reliable spot for late-afternoon deals on seafood starters and classic cocktails like Margaritas and Caesars starting at $6.
MKT Fresh Food | Beer Market: Known for one of the largest beer selections in the city, MKT offers rotating daily "Happy Hour" food and drink specials that are perfect for a post-work gathering.
Bar Henry in the ICE District: A stylish spot to grab cocktails, wine, and snacks. It’s the perfect pre-game or post-work destination in the heart of downtown.
Darling on Whyte: Indulge in a curated wine and snack experience on Whyte Avenue. Known for its sophisticated atmosphere and excellent selection of regional treats.
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Want more.. much more?..😋🥳 | ||
Meetups, Night life, Family, and other events |
Joke Of The Day |
Why did the Edmontonian bring a ladder to the hockey game? Because they heard the Oilers were always trying to climb their way to the top! |
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