Calgary is notorious for its rich and diverse cultural tapestry. From the world-famous Calgary Stampede to the Sun and Salsa Festival, the city has always been a mixing pot for various cultures and cuisines. From upscale Italian eateries to cozy cafes and diners, Calgary offers a vast choice of dining experiences. Today we are going to explore the best places to eat in Calgary and provide you with a few unique points about each one as well as the estimated price range and some standout dishes you can find in each.
River Café
Located in downtown Calgary, River Cafe is an elegant established that is known for its traditional Canadian cuisine. The menu features locally sourced ingredients including dishes like wild game, seafood, and farm-fresh vegetables.
- Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
- Standout Dishes: Smoked Alberta trout, bison tartare, roasted duck breasts
- Customer Feedback: The restaurant is praised for its gorgeous setting and high-quality food.
- Special Dietary Options: The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Charcut Roast House
Calgary’s meat lovers’ paradise. Charcut Roast House specialized in roasted meats and artisanal sausages and coupled with its rustic décor, it makes for a warm, delicious, and inviting atmosphere.
- Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
- Standout Dishes: Charcut board (a selection of cured meats), rotisserie chicken, pork belly
- Customer Feedback: Known for its large portions and delightful flavors.
- Special Dietary Options: There are some vegetarian and gluten-free options, although the focus is primarily on meat dishes.
Rogue
Set in a historic building, Rogue is your go-to restaurant if you are looking for fine-dining experience with a focus on French cuisine. The menu changes seasonally, reflecting the availability of local ingredients.
- Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
- Standout Dishes: Foie gras, Alberta lamb, wild mushroom risotto
- Customer Feed: One of the best spots in Calgary for special occasions, the customers praise Rogue’s attentive service and delicious dishes.
Model Milk
As the name would imply, the Model Milk is located in a former dairy building. However, their dining experience is far from the rustic roots of the original structure. With a focus on contemporary and innovative dishes, Model Milk’s menu is eclectic and features dishes from all around the world.
Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
Standout Dishes: Fried chicken and biscuits, charcoal-grilled octopus, buttermilk panna cotta
Customer Feedback: Customers love the creative menu and mix of the industrial and chic atmosphere.
Special Dietary Options: Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.
Ten Foot Henry
Mixing fine and casual dining, Ten Foot Henry offers a vegetable-centric healthy menu with a bright, airy, and relaxing atmosphere.
- Price Range: $ to $$$
- Standout Dishes: Charred cauliflower, spaghetti squash, butterscotch pudding
- Customer Feedback: Ten Foot Henry is a hit among the health-conscious diners and is known for its friendly service and uniquely delicious vegetable-forward menu.
- Special Dietary Options: Although some meat options are available, the menu is extensively vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free.
The Nash
Located in the historic National Hotel from which it gets its name, The Nash offers a high-class dining experience with a menu that showcases some of the best of Canadian cuisine. Its stylish and modern atmosphere complements well with the historic charm of the hotel.
- Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
- Standout Dishes: Alberta beef tenderloin, seared scallops, lemon tart
- Customer Feedback: The impeccable service and high quality of food make their mark on the patrons; with some claiming that The Nash is their favorite spot for special occasions.
- Special Dietary Options: Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.
Pigeonhole
Known for its small plates and voluptuous wine list, Pigeonhole has a menu that features a variety of dishes from all over the world. Its cozy and intimate atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a romantic night out.
Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
Standout Dishes: Chicken liver mousse, burrata, cacio e pepe.
Customer Feedback: Most guests are ecstatic about the creatively small plates and the cozy ambiance.
Special Dietary Options: Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.
Anju
Offering a modern twist on traditional Korean cuisine, Anju perfectly blends authentic Korean flavors with Western culinary techniques. Coupled with the stylish decor, Anju is an excellent spot to grab a bite of delicious Korean fried chicken in style.
- Price Range: $$ to $$$
- Standout Dishes: Korean fried chicken, pork belly and kimchi stew, miso-marinated cod
- Customer Feedback: Customers love the flavors of the cuisine fusion and remark that “it stands out in Calgary’s dining scene”.
- Special Dietary Options: Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.
Native Tongues Taqueria
Bringing authentic flavors of Mexico to Calgary, Native Tongues offers traditional Mexican dishes in a lively and colorful setting. The menu is full of tacos, tostadas, burritos, and enchiladas, as well as many other Mexican favorites.
- Price Range: $$ to $$$
- Standout Dishes: Tacos al pastor, queso fundido, churros
- Customer Feedback: Customers note the vibrant decor and delicious flavors of the dishes, pointing to Native Tongues Taqueria as the go-to spot for Mexican food in Calgary.
Alloy
Offering a unique blend of Latin and Asian cuisine in an upscale and modern setting, Alloy features creative dishes that showcase the best of both cuisines.
- Price Range: $$$ to $$$$
- Standout Dishes: Miso-glazed black cod, beef short ribs, churro donuts
- Customer Feedback: Alloy is a top choice for customers that prefer a refined dining experience that mixes elegance with a fusion of flavors.
- Special Dietary Options: Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.
Calgary’s diverse culinary scene offers something for every palate and preference. From the elegant and locally-sourced dishes at River Cafe to the meat-centric delights at Charcut Roast House, and the creative global flavors at Model Milk, there’s no shortage of exceptional dining experiences. Whether you’re seeking a fine-dining experience with a French twist at Rogue, a health-conscious vegetable-forward meal at Ten Foot Henry, or the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Native Tongues Taqueria, Calgary’s restaurants promise memorable meals and exceptional service. Each establishment brings its unique flair and dedication to quality, ensuring that every dining adventure in Calgary is nothing short of extraordinary.
