The historic 1910 Union Bank building in Downtown Edmonton is set to regain its status as a cornerstone of the city’s financial and dining scene. Following extensive renovations, the transformation of this iconic structure is now well underway, with plans to introduce the new business headquarters of Union Financial Corporation and the upscale restaurant Roca by Sabor to the area.
Purchased in 2023 by Edmonton lawyer and businessman David Hawreluk, the pre-First World War landmark at 10053 Jasper Avenue is undergoing restoration with the vision of attracting more businesses, visitors, and economic activity to the Downtown core. The plan includes the relocation of the headquarters for Union Financial Corporation to the upper floors, alongside the opening of Roca by Sabor, which marks the restaurant’s entry to the Edmonton culinary scene.
Hawreluk shared his enthusiasm about the project, emphasizing its potential impact on revitalizing Downtown Edmonton. “This project is about more than preserving and restoring a historic gem in Edmonton,” he stated. “It’s about contributing to revitalizing Downtown Edmonton by bringing new life to the building and new energy to the area.”
Union Financial Corporation, which encompasses Union Lending Corporation, Union Wealth Management Corporation, and Union Insurance Brokerage Corporation, is expected to move to the newly refurbished premises by early 2026. This move signifies the return of the building to its roots as a financial institution, echoing over 69 years of its banking legacy.
A key component of the Union Bank building revitalization is the introduction of Roca by Sabor—an ambitious dining establishment from the acclaimed Sabor Group. The restaurant is scheduled to open its doors to the public in spring 2026 and will occupy the prominent main floor, featuring private basement dining rooms. Roca will showcase coastal-inspired cuisine crafted from internationally sourced ingredients.
“Bringing Roca by Sabor to the Union Bank building is an incredible opportunity to create something truly one-of-a-kind,” said Christian Mena, owner of Sabor Group. He believes the combination of the stunning historic space and the fresh new dining experience will resonate with Edmontonians and visitors alike.
Enthusiasm for this initiative extends to local business leaders, including Puneeta McBryan, CEO of the Edmonton Downtown Business Association. She lauded the project, saying, “Restoring historic spaces...while introducing new economic activity strengthens the core and makes it a more vibrant and dynamic place to work, dine, and visit.”
Kim Petrin, deputy city manager of Urban Planning and Economy with the City of Edmonton, added, “The Union Bank revitalization is a perfect blend of our rich history and the dynamic future of our Downtown community.”
Shifting gears to the culinary scene, the upcoming BC Home + Garden Show will reflect similar themes of local engagement and innovation. Scheduled for March 13 to 16 at BC Place Stadium, the show will feature exciting cooking demonstrations, including appearances by renowned local chefs such as Behshad Zolnasr and Bruno Feldeisen.
Zolnasr, the executive chef of CPrime Restaurant, eagerly shared his love for connecting with guests from the stage. “I like the outreach with the guests. I’m a very verbal person, so I love talking and getting out of the kitchen.” His enthusiasm reflects the community spirit of the event, where local culinary stars come together to share their passions.
This year, guests will have the opportunity to learn from Zolnasr as he demonstrates how to make gnocchi Romano. “It’s a semolina-based gnocchi instead of potato; it’s user-friendly and perfect for the season,” he explains, highlighting the ease of creating enjoyable dishes at home.
The show will also introduce fascinating presentations from various experts, including Carissa Kasper, founder of Seed & Nourish, and Adam Middleton, executive restaurant chef at ARC at the Fairmont Waterfront, who will share tips for cultivating urban food gardens.
Attendees can look forward to demonstrations of versatile sauces like salsa verde and chimichurri, showcasing how to incorporate fresh herbs from their gardens to create delicious meals.
The message of supporting local businesses resonates among the presenters, including Zolnasr and Kasper, who encourage attendees to appreciate their community’s culinary talents. “Stay local and support your small businesses and restaurants,” Zolnasr urges, encapsulating the collaborative spirit of the culinary industry.
With these initiatives, both the revitalization of the Union Bank building and the BC Home + Garden Show highlight the exciting developments within Edmonton’s culinary and business landscapes, promising vibrant experiences for residents and visitors alike.