Benvenuto to Edmonton’s Italian District
Viva Italia is a diverse Edmonton neighbourhood bursting with the charm and flavours of Europe. While the area’s heritage is steeped in Italian culture, a mix of ethnic and cultural backgrounds make walking and shopping around the district a curious and distinctive adventure.
Stroll the quaint sidewalks and discover unique shops and restaurants offering a mix of old world charm and contemporary amenities. Think hundreds of bottles of olive oil, cappuccino (made the right way), exuberantly told stories around each corner, European-style hand-tied flower bouquets and more tomatoes than you can imagine! Think loud soccer games, a deli that can’t be beat, street festivals that can’t be beat, hotly debated issues of the day and oh, did we mention the food? Sip a latte while the kids play in Giovanni Caboto Park by the old-world fountain or dine on a variety of authentic cuisines.
Check out the map below for an overview of the neighbourhood.
There is something for the whole family in Little Italy.
Local businesses established Viva Italia District Association as its own distinct association in 2014 to develop and promote the spirit of community along Edmonton’s 95 Street. Formerly part of the Chinatown Little Italy Business Revitalization Zone, the association now focuses its efforts on specifically promoting and celebrating the Little Italy streetscape.
Long known for its anchor store, the Italian Centre Shop, this neighbourhood is experiencing a strong revitalization. New businesses and restaurants are moving to 95 Street to capitalize on the distinctly European character that has flourished here since 1959.
Those longing for a taste of Europe need only stroll 95 Street to feel enveloped by the warmth and charm of the local shops and restaurants.
Giovanni Caboto Park sits at the heart of Little Italy and is truly community gathering place. The statue of one of the area’s first entrepreneurs, Frank Spinelli plays cards in Giovanni Caboto Park, always with room for friends. There’s the summer spray park and playground that brings community members and visitors alike out to enjoy Little Italy’s best green space. Gorgeous towering elm trees dot the park, creating shade on a sunny day, and the perfect place for a picnic. All the amenities are nearby, so pick up lunch and join us!
For further information about Viva Italia, please contact Ken Bregenser at Zocalo, 780-428-0754 or Teresa Spinelli at the Italian Centre, 780-424-4869.
Viva Italia’s business district is growing, with new shops and restaurants opening to present you with a world of experiences.
Here is a list of current businesses along 95 Street, between 108 Avenue and 105 Avenue.
Abyssinia Ethopian Restaurant
10810 – 95 Street – (780)756-8902
Acupuncture Massage
10711A – 95 Street – (780) 910-7558
B & R Auto Service
9504 – 106 Avenue – (780) 429-4457
Boyle McCauley Denture Clinic
10815A – 95 Street – (780) 425-8471
Boyle McCauley Pharmacy & Home Health Care
10817 – 95 Street – (780) 705-6333
Brew for Less
10746 – 95 Street – (780) 426-6046, 422-0488, Fax: (780) 425-2366
Going Places Travel Group Inc.
10720 – 95 Street – (780) 414-6389, Fax: (780) 424-1549
Italian Canadian Meats
10757 – 95 Street – (780) 422-6473
Italian Centre Shop
10878 – 95 Street – (780) 424-4869, (780) 993-4869
Kafana
10803 – 95 Street – (780) 761-2272
La Dolce Vita Cafe & Bar
10831 – 95 Street – (780) 421-0226
Mark Joe’s BBQ
10825 – 95 Street
Myocare Massage & Spa
10720B – 95 Street – (780) 420-1012
Neumann Plumbing (1979)
10640 – 95 Street – (780) 429-0295
Quasar Bottle Depot
9510 – 105 Avenue – (780) 424-9446
Plaza 95 Convenience Store
10825 – 95 Street
Santos RestoLounge
10821 – 95 Street – (780) 421-1507
Sorrentino’s
10844 – 95 Street – (780) 425-0960
Spinelli Bar Italia
10850 – 95 Street – 780) 424-8259
T. K. Shapers Hair Styling
10803 – 95 Street – (780) 420-0458
Venetian Barber Shop
10816A – 95 Street – (780) 423-1235
Viphalay Laos & Thai Restaurant
10724 – 95 Street – (780) 423-3213
Zocalo
10826 – 95 Street – (780) 428-0754
Viva Italia!
Little Italy’s big street festival is Sunday, August 26, 12-8PM! Enjoy food, music, promenading, real lattes, Italian car show, wine & cheese tent, kids’ stuff and more. It all happens on 95 Street and in Giovanni Caboto Park. Mangia. Bevi. Balla! See here for more info.
