Zymo is a new fixture in Edmonton, and they’re quickly making a name for themselves. This modern bar bistro specializes in European comfort food with Ukrainian soul—a divine combination.
When Zymo joined Downtown Dining Week, we knew we had to get the inside scoop on how they crafted their stunning menu. We interviewed Yelyzaveta Zymovets, the co-owner, on how her restaurant came to be.
1. How would you describe Zymo’s vibe?
Zymo is warm, vibrant and a little unexpected. It’s a place to gather with friends, share dishes, try something new and enjoy great cocktails. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, with a sense of discovery for guests who may be experiencing these flavors for the first time.
2. What inspired your menu?
Our menu is inspired by the food we grew up with, particularly Ukrainian cuisine and the broader Eastern European culinary tradition. Many dishes are rooted in classic recipes— varenyky, crepes, pickled vegetables, rich sauces—but we reinterpret them through a modern lens. We love combining tradition with creativity, introducing familiar flavors in a way that feels fresh and exciting for Edmonton’s dining scene.
3. How did you decide to open Zymo in Edmonton?
Edmonton became our home, and we quickly discovered that the city has an incredibly curious and supportive food culture. People here are open to exploring new cuisines and love discovering independent restaurants. That spirit made Edmonton the perfect place to share our culinary background.
4. Why Downtown?
Downtown has a unique energy. It’s where the city comes together for work, arts, nightlife and dining. We loved the idea of being part of that vibrant environment and contributing something distinctive to the neighborhood.
5. What’s your team’s favourite dish on your Dining Week menu?
The nalysnyky. These delicate crepes are filled with mascarpone and served with sour cherries and poppy seeds. The combination is rich, slightly tangy and beautifully balanced. It’s a dish that feels both elegant and nostalgia-rooted in Ukrainian tradition, yet it’s presented in a way that feels fresh and memorable.
During Downtown Dining Week (March 11 to March 22), enjoy Zymo’s $65 three-course dinner featuring grilled salmon or flank steak with cottage cheese pancakes or the team-favourite cherry rose nalysnyky.