No surprise: the concept for the Woodrack Café was thought up during a kayaking trip through some of Alberta’s most gorgeous backcountry.

Both food and vibe at this new University District joint reflect an indulgent trip to a Bohemian cabin in the woods—natural wood and vintage fixtures and finishes, plus comfort food and sweets suited to a crisp, dark night. Large dream catchers and painted antlers populate all corners of the café, which also features a tufted couch tucked into a corner with a basket of knitting supplies and guitar for customer use. On the menu: a plethora of Danesi espresso and locally roasted Ace coffee drinks, soups, sandwiches and a bevvy of treats to still your sugar-loving heart (try the house speciality whoopie pies in flavours like lavender, chai, banana cream and carrot cake.

For gluten-free folks, the Woodrack carries goodies from Tamiri, too. —Miranda Post

Woodrack Café, Unit 101 7603 109 St., Edmonton, 780-757-0380, www.thewoodrackcafe.com