Farrow co-owner Laine Cherkewick is no stranger to Edmonton's dining scene – he's been the brains behind some of Edmonton's hottest menus for years. In 2015, he opened Farrow on 109 Street, and since then the sandwich and coffee shop has been among Edmonton's very top options for high-quality lunch and coffee. The hot coffee, punny sandwiches and punk attitude quickly became a mainstay in Garneau – but given the spot's success, Laine felt it was time to expand.
Laine opened a new Farrow in Ritchie on August 14, 2017. According to Laine, compared to 109 Street, the new location is "the same guy – when he chooses to grow up, get a nicer place and a full-time job." While the general heart of the business is the same, the new setting has matured the tone and streamlined the operation.
The new location, which Laine runs with Max Poulter, seems like a mansion compared to the original space. Farrow in Richie features a wide deck with picnic tables as well as a bright front room with a few stools available at the windows. Bright chalk drawings, skate magazines and stickers lend a similar casual vibe to the original location. They still largely remain a "grab and go" concept, with most customers spending only a few minutes during their visit. And the Richie location offers a similar line of unique sandwiches and thoughtful curated pour-over coffees from a variety of producers. They remain a great option for a quick lunch or a bite and coffee before work.
