The Old Grouch — Restaurant in Alberta

We took a chance on this place because it was directly across the street from our hotel and we are so glad that we did. We were welcomed in like family.

We ordered the drink special which was a rhubarb slush with added alcohol of choice (or not!). It was so so tasty and refreshing. We split a large cabbage roll and some pierogies. I grew up with a Hungarian Grandma who always had cabbage rolls waiting for us and these were the real deal. Delicious, seasoned well, piping hot and home made. The pierogies came with some onions and were deliciously creamy on the inside. We also ordered a burger and fries to share and these too were phenomenal. Chip truck fresh cut gorgeous golden brown fries and a burger that was 100% ground beef and tasted delicious and home cooked. While we were there, we were told a fresh pot of gravy had just been made. We aren't really gravy people typically, but after having the other food, I decided it was a good idea and I was not disappointed. REAL beef gravy. None of this salty packaged crap. So so delicious and like family made it after roasting beef.

While we were eating, the owner came around with a large jar and a couple forks. She offered us something she referred to as "pickled frog balls" which made us laugh but they were pickled brussels sprouts. Hand labelled in her beautiful penmanship I had flashbacks to my own grandmother.

This restaurant is home to the people who work here and as a guest, I was happy I had the chance to experience it. I felt like they'd adopted me for a few hours and I was now part of their family. Very kind people. Very delicious food. And the pricing is incredibly reasonable. With everything, our bill was only $40, which is insane!

We were passing through and only had one night in Drumheller, so once we finished eating, we asked if they had any recommendations other than the obvious ones. The chef came out, as he's lived there his entire life and sat down with us for a good 15 minutes to chat about things to do that were worth the time. He was so helpful!

Give this place a chance. You will not be disappointed. It was such a positive experience for me, that I bought one of their t-shirts. 😂🥰

Thank you for such a wonderful and memorable...

I've driven past Old Grouch numerous times and always wanted to stop in and now I'm kicking myself that I waited so long. My wife's bridesmaid booked it as a venue for our wedding party dinner, and we couldn't be happier with the time we had. The buffet that they set up for us was full of absolutely delicious traditional Ukranian favorites, all done in a homemade style that made me think of something Grandma would cook for Christmas. The sauerkraut alone was worth the trip, but the cabbage rolls, pierogi, sausage stew and beet salad had our guests coming back for plate after plate. I had a genuinely tough time stopping myself in order to save room for the delicious wheat berry Christmas pudding and other amazing desserts. Besides the fantastic cooking, the atmosphere is absolutely to die for, like visiting a museum full of endless curios and kitschy decorations including piles of amazing Elvis memorabilia. Fran was our host, and when we remarked that we were also fans of The King, she furnished our party with an extensive Presley playlist that had our toes tapping all night. The service overall was fantastic, warm and friendly, and felt like spending a night with good friends. Fran even brought out some guitars so that we could have an impromptu jam session. When the bill came at the end of an absolutely amazing night, we were shocked at how great the prices were. You could not possibly ask for a better deal for such a memorable night full of excellent food and great fun. If I lived in the Valley I'd have a tough time not stopping by to try everything on the menu. Grouch's is just everything you want in small town community oriented family dining, and is a credit to the friendliness and vibrant culture of Drumheller. 10/10, would ABSOLUTELY return...

I came to Alberta to visit my fiancé and I happened upon this little gem. The food was outstanding and the people who own is are thee absolute sweetest people I’ve ever met in my life. It’s so cute and eclectic. I felt like I was taken back in time and I has the felling of nostalgia right away. I had the lunch special, lasagna garlic toast and turkey soup. It was excellent!! And I took a slice of Saskatoon berry pie home and ate it later. I did that food so good you gotta dance” dance. Bang on all the food was hittin!

I came back today for the Valentine’s Day dinner special and I cannot wait. I know it’s going to be bomb!

Def support this family business you won’t be disappointed! 100 stars

And I forgot to mention the prices are from the 80s. I ate a ton and paid $14.50 well $24.50 worth tip. Very well deserved I...