Food

Even though the average wage in Fort McMurray [1] is twice the national average, it doesn’t mean the locals have fancy tastes. In fact, the city lacks any really good restaurants at all, with all the business going to fast-food restaurants and family-oriented chains, the best of which is the Keg Steakhouse (Nomad Inn, 10006 MacDonald Ave., 780/791-4770, Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–midnight, Sun. 4–11 p.m., $18–28), known for fine cuts of Alberta beef.

For breakfast, it’s hard to resist recommending the Hearthstone Grill (Sawridge Inn, 530 Mackenzie Blvd., 780/791-7900, daily from 6:30 a.m., $15–31), which has a surprisingly good buffet at an even better price—just $12 including coffee. Adding to the appeal is an open dining space that is stylish and welcoming.