By Britanny Burr on December 20, 2024.
Do you like carrot cake? Of course you do. Well, we’ve got a (literal) treat for you. We’ve discovered a small-town eatery that packs a serious punch. It’s known and loved by many for various reasons, but the carrot cake really does fall at the top of the pile. If you ever find yourself cruising through Athabasca, make sure you hit up Johnny’s Eatery. It’s a spot as warm and inviting as the town itself. Located in the heart of this cute riverside town, Johnny’s isn’t your average small-town restaurant. It’s a place where you’ll find handcrafted dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a menu that’ll have you planning your return trip before you’ve even left. In one word? Freshness. At Johnny’s, every dish that leaves the kitchen is created with care and cooked to order. There’s no pre-packaged, reheated business here, just honest-to-goodness cooking that tastes like home (but better). Whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you can count on a meal that’s not only delicious but also made with real ingredients. The chefs have an eye for detail and a passion for quality, meaning every bite is packed with flavour. Johnny’s has a knack for taking the classics to a new level. Their gourmet burgers are a local favourite, piled high with fresh toppings and paired perfectly with hand-cut golden fires. Their signature “Johnny’s Burger” is a juicy beef patty made from Alberta-raised beef, topped with melted cheddar, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, and a delicious in-house special aioli sauce. The Beef Chili Bowl is an easy go-to, filled with certified Angus beef and shredded mozzarella and served with a fresh toasted brioche bun. You can’t go wrong here. Johnny’s also serves up daily specials to keep things interesting, like hearty wraps, Johnny’s Fav Fish N’ Chips, and freshly tossed salads. If you’re in the mood for comfort food, don’t miss the chance to try their three-cheese Mac N’ Cheese baked to perfection. It’s a game-changer. And now, let’s get to the real showstopper: Heather’s Favourite Carrot Cake. This isn’t just any carrot cake. It’s the carrot cake. Moist, spiced just right, and loaded with freshly grated carrots, this dessert is the perfect blend of flavours with that elevated comfort food vibe we all know and love. It’s topped with a thick layer of homemade cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of toasted walnuts. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you savour every last bite. Some claim it’s the best carrot cake in all of Alberta. Rest assured, it’s one carrot cake you’ll never forget. Johnny’s Eatery has become a beloved fixture in Athabasca. It’s the type of place where you can settle into a cozy booth, catch up with friends, and enjoy a meal that’s been crafted with love. Don’t miss out. Whether you’re looking for a burger or a slice of to-die-for carrot cake, you’re in for a real treat. Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the Great West Media & Southern Alberta Newspapers Cool Winter Guide advertising feature. The Cool Winter Guide is a special feature about winter activities, bucket list adventures, winter attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff. 8