10 Best Restaurants In Calgary

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

From the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread to the sizzle and pop of a perfectly seared steak, dining out in Calgary is more than just a meal - it's an absolute experience! As someone who has personally savored the culinary delights that this city has to offer, I can attest that finding the best restaurants in Calgary is akin to discovering treasure troves of gastronomical gems.

From hidden holes-in-the-wall serving up comfort food classics to high-end establishments dishing out gourmet fare, there is something here for every palate and budget. So sit back, loosen up your belt a notch or two, and join me as we embark on a mouthwatering journey through 10 of Calgary's top-notch eateries.

1. Alloy

Alloy is a contemporary Canadian restaurant that offers imaginative fine dining with modern flair. Located at 220 on 42nd Avenue in Calgary, this restaurant has a stark modernist room graced by debonaire Calgarians. The atmosphere is comfortable and intimate, perfect for friends, family, business meetings, or an evening out.

Alloy Restaurant's menu changes seasonally, but the truffle gnocchi is a beloved fixture. They use local ingredients and offer gluten-free and vegetarian options. The climate-controlled glass wine room stores more than 120 labels to match your dining expectations. If you are craving a hard-to-find whisky after dinner, let them know, and they will look for it. They will also bring in wines for guests upon request.

The restaurant's private party facilities are perfect for any occasion, and their room has been specially designed to make you feel at home.

In my opinion, the Alloy is one of the best Calgary restaurants, offering imaginative fine dining with modern flair. They use local ingredients, offer gluten-free and vegetarian options, and have an exceptional list of spirits and a vault full of wonderful wines.

Contact:

Address: 220 42 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 1Y4, Canada

Phone: +1 403-287-9255

2. Ten Foot Henry

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Ten Foot Henry, one of the top restaurants in Calgary. The restaurant is owned by husband-and-wife team chef Stephen Smee and Aja Lapointe, and it's clear that their passion for food is reflected in every aspect of the dining experience.

One of the things that sets Ten Foot Henry apart is its focus on vegetable-centered dishes. As a vegan, I was thrilled to see so many delicious vegetarian options on the menu. But even meat-eaters will find plenty to love here, with offerings like pasta with tomato and bacon, roasted chicken, pork belly, and strip loin steak.

The atmosphere at Ten Foot Henry is lively and welcoming, with a colorful and eclectic decor that adds to the fun vibe. The restaurant is open all day, so whether you're looking for a leisurely weekend brunch or a late-night dinner, you'll find just what you're looking for.

I highly recommend making a reservation at Ten Foot Henry if you're looking for a unique and delicious dining experience in Calgary.

Contact:

Address: 1209 1 St SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0V3, Canada

Phone: +1 403-475-5537

3. Bridgette Bar

Bridgette Bar is a chef-driven bar located in the heart of Calgary's Design District. The restaurant features a mid-century modern setting, attentive service, and skillful cooking that has generated lots of buzz over the years.

The menu at the Bridgette restaurant is ambitious, featuring dishes crafted by Chef JP Pedhirney. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, happy hour, and late-night bites. The restaurant also offers a snack menu during matinee hours, which are from Monday to Sunday, 2 pm to 5 pm.

Bridgette Bar is an excellent choice for special occasions, groups, and creative cocktails. The restaurant has a good reputation for wood-roasted half-duck with charred romaine and a Further Down the Rabbit Hole cocktail.

Bridgette's operating hours are Monday to Wednesday from 11:30 am to 12 am, Thursday to Friday from 11:30 am to 1 am, Saturday from 2 pm to 1 am, and Sunday from 2 pm to 11 pm. Minors are permitted in the main dining room until 9:30 pm.

Contact:

Address: 739 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0B3, Canada

Phone: +1 587-319-6827

4. River Café

The River Café is a highly acclaimed restaurant located in Prince's Island Park, Calgary. The restaurant has been serving its customers for over 30 years and has earned a reputation for its warm hospitality and excellent food.

The restaurant's warm wooden interior, inviting stone fireplace, and water-facing patio make it an oasis of calm and idyllic hospitality. The ambiance is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

River Cafe's menu features dishes made from natural and locally sourced ingredients. The bistro prides itself on its commitment to sustainability and uses only the freshest ingredients in its dishes. The menu changes seasonally, and the chefs create dishes that reflect the flavors of the current season.

One of the restaurant's standout dishes is the artisan cheese and the fish and game charcuterie. The rawest expression of natural ingredients tells a story that is both unique and memorable. The restaurant also offers a five-course dinner that is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

River Café has received numerous accolades and awards over the years, including being named one of Canada's Top 100 Best Restaurants in 2022. The restaurant's proprietor, Sal Howell, and executive chef, Scott Pohorelic, have been instrumental in creating a dining experience that is both memorable and unique.

Contact:

Address: 25 Prince's Island Park, SW, Calgary, AB T2P 0R1, Canada

Phone: +1 403-261-7670

5. Model Milk

Model Milk is one of the best places to eat in Calgary, located in the center of uptown 17th avenue. The restaurant is set in a historic dairy building, and its unique atmosphere sets it apart from other restaurants in the area.

The menu at Model Milk is fresh, innovative, and locally sourced. Chef Becca MacLeod is known for her creative dishes, which include hot fried chicken, BBQ Alberta brisket, and buttermilk biscuits. The restaurant also offers a variety of creative cocktails, including the Black Manhattan, which is a favorite among customers.

The interior of Model Milk is modern and stylish, with brick walls and an open kitchen. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, and it is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family. The waiters are very friendly, and they are always happy to recommend dishes or drinks.

Whether you are looking for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner, Model Milk is the perfect place to go.

Contact:

Address: 308 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2S 0A8, Canada

Phone: +1 403-265-7343

6. Major Tom

A while back I had the opportunity to dine at Major Tom, one of Calgary's best steakhouses and most highly regarded restaurants. Located on the 40th floor of Stephen Avenue Place near the Calgary Tower, this steakhouse offers a truly elevated dining experience with breathtaking views of the city.

The menu at Major Tom features classic Manhattan-style steakhouse dishes with a modern twist. From perfectly cooked steaks to fresh seafood and decadent sides, every dish is expertly crafted and beautifully presented.

One of the things that sets Major Tom apart from other restaurants is their commitment to using only top quality ingredients. Their beef is sourced from the best ranches in Alberta and aged for a minimum of 45 days to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness. They also offer a selection of fresh seafood, including oysters, lobster, and salmon.

In addition to the exceptional food, the service at Major Tom is truly top-notch. The waitstaff is knowledgeable and attentive, making sure that every guest feels well taken care of throughout their meal.

Contact:

Address: 700 2 St SW #4000, Calgary, AB T2P 2W3, Canada

7. Teatro

Teatro is a fine dining restaurant located in the heart of downtown Calgary, in the theatre and art district. It has been a cornerstone of Calgary's culinary scene since its opening in 1993.

The restaurant is housed in the historic Dominion Bank building, which was established in 1911. The building's unique architecture and design create a charming and elegant atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

The restaurant's menu features technique-driven dishes rooted in classic Italian cuisine, with influences from around the Mediterranean. The dishes are prepared with the finest ingredients, and the menu changes regularly to reflect seasonal availability. Teatro also has an award-winning wine cellar with over 10,000 bottles of wine, making it a popular spot for wine enthusiasts.

In summary, Teatro is one of the best in the city for anyone looking for the best dining in Calgary. With its delicious cuisine, extensive wine list, and elegant atmosphere, it's no wonder why Teatro has been a staple in the culinary scene in Calgary for over 25 years.

Contact:

Address: 200 8 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0K7, Canada

Phone: +1 403-290-1012

8. Bonterra

Bonterra is a lively and spirited Italian restaurant located in the heart of Calgary. The restaurant offers contemporary Italian cuisine prepared by Chef Joseph Lavergne, with an emphasis on simple, fresh ingredients with an exciting twist.

The restaurant has a casual dining room, a breathtaking Tuscan terrace, and a Wine Room for a more private event. Bonterra's menu features a range of dishes, including stuffed pasta, seafood, and meat dishes. One of their signature dishes is the Gnocchi Pesto, which is a classic Italian dish made with homemade gnocchi, basil pesto, and Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Bonterra Trattoria has been recognized as one of Calgary's best restaurants, and it's easy to see why. The restaurant's elegant Italian cuisine and Tuscan escapism vibe make it a popular destination for foodies and locals.

In addition to its delicious food, Bonterra also has an extensive wine list featuring wines from Italy and around the world.

Contact:

Address: 1016 8 St SW, Calgary, AB T2R 1K2, Canada

Phone: +1 403-262-8480

9. Bow Valley Ranche

The Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant is located in the heart of Fish Creek Provincial Park in Calgary. This fine-dining establishment offers exquisite ambiance suited to any occasion, making it one of the best restaurants in Calgary.

This great Calgary restaurant is housed in a magnificent historical landmark, which adds to the overall charm and appeal of the dining experience. The menu features Canadian cuisine, with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. The dishes are expertly prepared and beautifully presented, making for a truly memorable dining experience.

One of the standout dishes I tried was the Alberta Beef Tenderloin, which was cooked to perfection and served with a delicious red wine jus. The wine list is also impressive, with a wide selection of Canadian and international wines to choose from.

In addition to the main dining room, the Bow Valley also offers private dining options for groups of up to 50 people. The private dining rooms are elegantly decorated and offer stunning views of the surrounding park.

From the beautiful setting to the expertly-made cuisine, this restaurant truly delivers on all fronts.

Contact:

Address: 5979 Bow Bottom Trail SE, Calgary, AB T2J 5E8, Canada

Phone: +1 403-476-1310

10. Chairman’s Steakhouse

Chairman’s Steakhouse in Calgary is owned by a group of stakeholders led by developer Jay Westman and operated by Vintage Group. Chef Cedric Truchon and General Manager Dustin Makarenko oversee the day-to-day operations, ensuring that every guest has an unforgettable dining experience.

One of the things that stood out to me about Chairman’s Steakhouse was the attention to detail in every aspect of the restaurant. From the elegant decor to the impeccable service, everything was top-notch. The menu at this Calgary institution features premium cuts of steak, classic sides, salads, and seafood such as tuna crudo, all expertly prepared in-house by Chef Truchon and his team. The wine selection is unparalleled, and the cocktails are delicious.

I had the pleasure of trying the dry-aged ribeye, which was cooked to perfection and had a rich, buttery flavor. The sides were equally impressive, with the truffle mac and cheese and roasted mushrooms being standout dishes. The service was attentive without being overbearing, and my waiter offered excellent recommendations.

Contact:

Address: 2251 Mahogany Blvd SE, Calgary, AB T3M 2V6, Canada

Phone: +1 587-291-9898