Calgary is a city that boasts a dynamic and diverse culinary scene, reflecting its multicultural heritage and vibrant community. From farm-to-table restaurants to bustling food markets, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re a local foodie or a visitor eager to explore new flavors, this guide will take you through the must-visit spots and hidden gems that define Calgary’s food culture.
1. Start Your Day with a Hearty Breakfast
Highlights:
OEB Breakfast Co.: Known for its creative and decadent breakfast dishes.
Diner Deluxe: A retro diner offering classic breakfast staples with a modern twist.
Yellow Door Bistro: A chic spot renowned for its innovative breakfast and brunch menu.
Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at one of Calgary’s beloved breakfast spots. OEB Breakfast Co. offers a unique twist on breakfast classics, featuring dishes like duck fat fried potatoes and truffle scrambled eggs. Diner Deluxe brings a nostalgic vibe with its retro decor and hearty plates, while Yellow Door Bistro delights with its artistic and flavorful breakfast offerings.
2. Explore Calgary’s Bustling Farmers’ Markets
Highlights:
Calgary Farmers’ Market: A year-round market with a variety of local vendors.
Crossroads Market: One of Calgary’s largest indoor/outdoor markets.
Kingsland Farmers’ Market: A community hub for fresh produce and artisanal products.
Calgary’s farmers’ markets are perfect for food lovers who appreciate fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The Calgary Farmers’ Market is a popular spot, offering everything from fresh produce to gourmet foods. Crossroads Market, one of the largest in the city, provides a wide selection of products, while Kingsland Farmers’ Market is a community favorite known for its friendly vendors and high-quality goods.
3. Savor Gourmet Coffee and Pastries
Highlights:
Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters: Renowned for their ethically sourced, expertly roasted coffee.
Analog Coffee: A local favorite with a cozy atmosphere and delicious brews.
Sidewalk Citizen Bakery: Known for its artisanal bread and pastries.
For a mid-morning pick-me-up, visit one of Calgary’s top coffee shops. Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters are celebrated for their commitment to quality and sustainability, offering a perfect cup every time. Analog Coffee is another beloved local spot, known for its warm ambiance and expertly crafted beverages. Pair your coffee with a treat from Sidewalk Citizen Bakery, famous for its delectable pastries and artisanal bread.
4. Indulge in Calgary’s Diverse Ethnic Cuisine
Highlights:
Shokunin: A contemporary Japanese restaurant with an innovative menu.
Bolero: An authentic Brazilian steakhouse offering a unique dining experience.
Sukiyaki House: A long-standing favorite for traditional Japanese cuisine.
Calgary’s multicultural population is reflected in its diverse food scene. Shokunin offers a modern take on Japanese izakaya dining, with dishes like yakitori and sashimi. For a taste of Brazil, Bolero provides an authentic churrasco experience with a variety of grilled meats. Sukiyaki House is a staple for Japanese food lovers, known for its high-quality sushi and traditional dishes.
5. Discover Hidden Gems in Inglewood and Kensington
Highlights:
The Nash: A chic eatery offering contemporary Canadian cuisine.
Bridgette Bar: A trendy spot known for its inventive small plates and vibrant atmosphere.
Trolley 5 Brewpub: A local favorite for craft beer and comfort food.
Inglewood and Kensington are two of Calgary’s most vibrant neighborhoods, each boasting an array of unique dining options. The Nash, located in Inglewood, serves contemporary Canadian dishes in a stylish setting. In Kensington, Bridgette Bar offers a creative menu of small plates perfect for sharing. For a casual vibe, head to Trolley 5 Brewpub, where you can enjoy house-brewed craft beers and hearty comfort food.
6. Relish the Best of Alberta Beef
Highlights:
Charcut Roast House: A downtown hotspot known for its meat-centric menu.
Vintage Chophouse: A classic steakhouse offering premium cuts of Alberta beef.
Modern Steak: A modern twist on the traditional steakhouse with a focus on local sourcing.
Alberta is renowned for its high-quality beef, and Calgary’s steakhouses are the best places to experience it. Charcut Roast House in downtown Calgary is famous for its charcuterie and meat-focused dishes. Vintage Chophouse provides a classic steakhouse experience with a refined atmosphere, while Modern Steak offers a contemporary take on steakhouse dining, with an emphasis on locally sourced, organic beef.
7. Enjoy Trendy Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Highlights:
The Coup: A trendy vegetarian restaurant with a creative, globally inspired menu.
Veg-In YYC: A popular spot for vegan comfort food and smoothies.
Seed N Salt: Known for its fresh, healthy, and delicious plant-based dishes.
Calgary’s food scene also caters to vegetarians and vegans with a variety of innovative and delicious options. The Coup is a must-visit for its inventive vegetarian dishes and chic ambiance. Veg-In YYC offers mouth-watering vegan comfort food, including burgers and poutine. Seed N Salt focuses on fresh, wholesome meals with plenty of plant-based options to choose from.
8. Experience the Calgary Food Tour
Highlights:
Guided Tours: Explore Calgary’s culinary hotspots with expert guides.
Tasting Sessions: Sample a variety of dishes from different eateries.
Cultural Insights: Learn about Calgary’s food culture and history.
For a comprehensive culinary experience, consider joining a Calgary Food Tour. These guided tours take you through the city’s best eateries, markets, and hidden gems, offering a chance to sample a wide range of dishes. Along the way, knowledgeable guides share insights into Calgary’s food culture and history, making it an enriching and delicious experience.
9. Delight in Sweet Treats and Desserts
Highlights:
Made by Marcus: Artisanal ice cream with unique and seasonal flavors.
Yann Haute Patisserie: A French bakery known for its exquisite pastries and macarons.
Sweet Relief Pastries: Offering decadent cakes, cookies, and other sweet treats.
No culinary guide would be complete without mentioning Calgary’s best spots for sweet treats. Made by Marcus is a local favorite for its artisanal ice cream, featuring creative and seasonal flavors. Yann Haute Patisserie offers a taste of France with its delicate pastries and colorful macarons. Sweet Relief Pastries provides a variety of indulgent desserts, from rich cakes to delicious cookies.
10. Sip Craft Beer and Cocktails
Highlights:
Tool Shed Brewing Company: Known for its bold, flavorful craft beers.
Cold Garden Beverage Company: A quirky brewery with a fun atmosphere.
Proof: A cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks in a stylish setting.
Calgary’s craft beer and cocktail scene is thriving, with numerous breweries and bars offering unique and delicious beverages. Tool Shed Brewing Company is renowned for its bold and innovative beers. Cold Garden Beverage Company stands out with its eclectic decor and diverse beer selection. For cocktail enthusiasts, Proof is the place to go, offering an extensive menu of expertly crafted drinks in a chic, intimate setting.
Conclusion
Calgary’s culinary landscape is as diverse as it is delicious, offering something for every type of food lover. From hearty breakfasts and gourmet coffee to diverse ethnic cuisines and sweet treats, this city has it all. Whether you’re exploring hidden gems or enjoying classic favorites, Calgary’s food scene is sure to leave you satisfied and eager for more.
FAQs
What are some must-try dishes in Calgary?
Must-try dishes in Calgary include Alberta beef steaks, poutine, and unique breakfast dishes from local favorites like OEB Breakfast Co. Additionally, exploring diverse ethnic cuisines such as Japanese at Shokunin or Brazilian at Bolero is highly recommended.
Where can I find the best local coffee in Calgary?
The best local coffee can be found at Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters and Analog Coffee. Both spots are renowned for their expertly roasted beans and high-quality brews.
Are there any food tours available in Calgary?
Yes, Calgary Food Tours offers guided culinary tours that take you through the city’s best eateries, markets, and hidden gems, providing a comprehensive and delicious experience.
What are some vegetarian and vegan dining options in Calgary?
Popular vegetarian and vegan dining options in Calgary include The Coup, Veg-In YYC, and Seed N Salt. These spots offer creative and delicious plant-based dishes that cater to a variety of tastes.
Where can I find the best desserts in Calgary?
For the best desserts, visit Made by Marcus for artisanal ice cream, Yann Haute Patisserie for exquisite French pastries, and Sweet Relief Pastries for decadent cakes and cookies.
Calgary’s food scene is rich and diverse, promising a delightful culinary journey for anyone willing to explore its many offerings. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious newcomer, this guide will help you navigate the city’s best culinary delights, ensuring a memorable and satisfying experience.
Also Read: Calgary’s Hidden Gems: Unique Activities Off the Beaten Path
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