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Italian Centre "Piazza" Reopens: Tradition or Gentrification?
Italian Centre "Piazza" Reopens: Tradition or Gentrification?
Exciting news: The Italian Centre "Piazza" is back! Get the inside scoop in this week's newsletter.
Edmunchie
Jan 8, 2026
Another thursday and new year are here!
Today we feature the Seitans..
Go!
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Teresa Spinelli, owner of the Italian Centre Shop, has secured the future of Little Italy by purchasing The Piazza property.
This move protects a beloved local landmark and ensures that the Italian Centre Shop will remain at the heart of the neighborhood.
Spinelli’s decision was inspired by her deep commitment to community values, especially with the threat of outside buyers potentially changing the area’s character.
By acquiring The Piazza at 108th Avenue and 95th Street, she preserves a vibrant gathering place filled with unique shops and popular events.
The previous owner, McCauley Development Cooperative, struggled with pandemic-driven financial setbacks, making her intervention crucial for both investors and residents.
Plans are underway to revitalize the square and invite new, community-focused businesses while the neighborhood gears up for a major Italian festival in May 2026.
Spinelli's leadership highlights her passion for celebrating and strengthening Little Italy’s cultural legacy. Read More... |
(Free tastings/samples where noted)🍟🥂 | ||
Food and Drink |
Food for Thought Culinary Book Club: A unique book club where members discuss a chosen book while enjoying snacks and dishes inspired by the story’s themes.
Zootopia Sip n Paint: A family-friendly painting event where you can learn to paint characters like Nick Wilde while enjoying themed non-alcoholic beverages.
Luxury Cookie Lab: Spend a Saturday afternoon learning the art of gourmet cookie decorating from professional bakers. You’ll leave with a box of your own creations.
Ice Cream 101: A hands-on class at one of Edmonton's most famous ice cream shops. Learn the science of the scoop and create your own custom flavor.
The Wellness Edit: Meal Prep Party: A social cooking event where you work together to prep healthy meals for the week ahead, taking the stress out of your Monday morning.
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(Discounted drinks – no free options typically)😋🥳 | ||
Happy hours |
Rocky Mountain Icehouse "Power Happy Hour": An aggressive Friday happy hour featuring $3.50 highballs, house wine, and pints. It is one of the best value deals in the downtown core.
Beercade Half-Price Appies: Kick off your weekend with half-price appetizers and pints. It’s a great spot to play vintage arcade games while enjoying a cheap bite.
The Billiard Club Late Night: On Friday nights from 10:00 pm to 11:00 pm, enjoy $3 highballs and $5 wine. It’s a popular spot for a late-night social transition.
Arcadia Bar Pizza & Pints: A hidden gem on 124th Street offering $1 off all pints and $2 off pizzas during the late afternoon.
Blowers & Grafton Happy Hour: Enjoy "East Coast Hospitality" with $4 Mackay Lagers, house wine, or well highballs. Their happy hour runs daily, making it a reliable weekend choice.
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Want more.. much more?..😋🥳 | ||
Meetups, Night life, Family, and other events |
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