Random Delicious Thing: Besto Pesto Salad in Jasper

By Jennifer Bain | Published Aug. 21, 2026

Random Delicious Thing shines a bi-weekly spotlight on things you really must eat across Canada.

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The Besto Pesto salad from Otto’s Cache in Jasper travels well/Jennifer Bain

WHAT: Besto Pesto Salad

WHERE: Otto’s Cache, 410 Connaught Dr., Jasper, Alberta

PRICE: $16

DISH DECONSTRUCTION: Nice and chewy rigatoni is tossed with basil pesto, sundried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, pistachios, arugula and shaved parmesan and served as a cold pasta salad.

WHY: “Come get some yum,” is the clever menu slogan. This was my go-to portable lunch during a recent week of adventures in Jasper. Simple and satisfying, it holds up well on hikes and when you’re out and about without refrigeration. I’m not convinced the pistachios add much, but I’m always happy to support pistachio farmers and the viral flavour of 2025. I also can’t explain why I haven’t been adding both sundried tomatoes and roasted red peppers to my pasta salads, but will be from now on.

FUN FACT:  Open since May 17, 2025, Otto’s Cache instantly became a Jasper favourite and packs just about everything a hungry traveller needs into a small space. There are grab-and-go meals, pastries and coffee plus a sit-down café, dog-friendly patio and curated market. I also have a weakness for the Turkish eggs (currently served from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.) — poached free-range eggs served with labneh, gochugaru oil (for a Korean twist), cucumber slices, pickled onions, crispy shallots, dill and sourdough focaccia made in house (of course).

A retro tourism sign found inside Otto’s Cache in Jasper/Jennifer Bain