Banff is a vibrant town in the heart of Banff National Park, known for its stunning mountain views and diverse culinary scene. Visitors can find a wide range of places to eat, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Banff offers something for everyone, from local Canadian dishes to international flavours.
The town’s restaurants take pride in using fresh, local ingredients, including Alberta beef, which is famous for its quality and taste. Many Banff restaurants provide scenic dining experiences, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. This makes dining in Banff both a culinary and visual treat.
Banff has become a top destination for travellers seeking both adventure and gourmet meals. After a day of exploring the great outdoors, visitors can relax and enjoy some of the best food in Canada. In this guide, I have compiled a list of 10 Best Restaurants in Banff that you can visit after a day of exploration.
1. The Bison Banff: A Farm-to-Table Delight
The Bison Banff offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience, that focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Known for its commitment to sustainability, The Bison supports local farmers and producers, ensuring that each dish is both flavorful and environmentally responsible. This restaurant is a popular spot for anyone looking to enjoy Alberta’s finest ingredients in a memorable setting.
The menu features highlights like bison short ribs, braised elk, and scallops, showcasing the best of local cuisine. The Bison’s open-concept kitchen lets diners watch their meals being prepared, adding a touch of excitement to the dining experience. Guests can enjoy stunning mountain views from the dining room or relax on the rooftop terrace during the warmer months.
Perfect for special occasions, casual dinners, or group events, The Bison offers an inviting atmosphere with fine wines and unique cocktails.
- Address: 211 Bear St # 213, Banff, AB T1L 1E4
- Phone: 403 762-5550
- Hours: Mon-Sun 5 PM – 9 PM
2. Farm & Fire: Canadian Comfort with a Twist
Farm & Fire in Banff offers a warm and welcoming dining experience focused on Canadian comfort food with a twist. This popular spot uses wood-fired cooking techniques to bring out rich, smoky flavours in its dishes. The restaurant is known for its rotisserie chicken, pizzas, and slow-roasted vegetables, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients from Canadian farmers.
Guests can enjoy dining in the warm, modern space or on the patio. The restaurant also offers a special Après Hour daily, featuring discounted drinks and snacks after a day of exploring Banff. The comfortable setting and hearty meals make it a favourite choice for group outings or casual dining.
- Address: 333 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1B1
- Phone: 403 760-3298
- Hours: 7 AM – 9 PM
3. Block Kitchen + Bar: Modern Meets Mountain
Block Kitchen + Bar in Banff offers a unique blend of contemporary alpine-inspired cuisine with a touch of international flavours. The menu takes classic dishes from around the world and adds a Canadian twist, creating a memorable dining experience for locals and tourists alike. This fusion of flavours makes Block Kitchen + Bar a standout choice in Banff’s restaurant scene.
The upscale, modern decor provides a stylish and comfortable atmosphere, and guests can enjoy breathtaking mountain views while dining. It’s the perfect spot for a casual yet sophisticated meal, ideal for enjoying with friends or after a day of exploring the Rockies.
Block Kitchen + Bar is perfect for group outings, offering a diverse menu that caters to various tastes. The creative fusion of flavours and cozy yet modern ambiance makes it one of the top dining spots in Banff.
- Address: 5 Banff Ave #201, Banff, AB T1L 1C6
- Phone: 403 985-2887
- Hours: Monday – Sunday 11:30 am – 10:00 pm
4. Bear Street Tavern: The Pizza Paradise in Banff
Bear Street Tavern is a popular spot in Banff for comfort food and delicious wood-fired pizzas. This restaurant is known for its signature pizzas like the Pulled Pork Pie and Prosciutto Pie, the menu also includes a variety of tasty sandwiches and fresh salads. This makes it a great choice for those seeking a hearty meal or lighter options.
The restaurant has a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere, perfect for casual dining with friends or family. It offers a great selection of craft beers to pair with your meal, adding to the relaxed Banff experience. Bear Street Tavern provides gluten-free options for those with dietary needs, making it accessible to all.
In addition to dining in, Bear Street Tavern is a convenient option for takeout, allowing you to enjoy their delicious pizzas on the go. With its friendly vibe, diverse menu, and quality food, it’s a top choice for both locals and visitors in Banff’s restaurant scene.
- Address: 211 Bear St, Banff, AB T1L 1A1
- Phone: 403 762-2021
- Hours: Mon-Sun: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
5. Bluebird Woodfired Steakhouse: A Refined Dining Experience
Bluebird Woodfired Steakhouse in Banff offers a refined take on Rocky Mountain cuisine with a modern twist. The menu showcases a range of fresh seafood, Alberta meats, and seasonal produce, making it a go-to spot for food enthusiasts looking to experience the best of Banff’s culinary scene.
With its stylish decor and warm ambiance, Bluebird is the perfect place for a special meal. Diners can enjoy stunning scenic views while savouring expertly prepared dishes. The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere makes it ideal for everything from casual dining to romantic evenings, or even group events.
This restaurant provides a memorable dining experience. Its emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients and attention to detail in every dish ensures that it stands out as a top choice in Banff. Visitors can enjoy both excellent food and breathtaking views at the same time.
- Address: 214 Lynx St, Banff, AB T1L
- Phone: 403 985-9163
- Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
6. The Grizzly House: A Fondue Lover’s Dream
The Grizzly House has been a Banff staple since 1967. It has a cozy, cabin-like atmosphere that adds to its charm. The rustic decor and warm ambiance create a comfortable environment where guests can relax and enjoy a truly hands-on dining experience.
At this restaurant, you can indulge in 14 different types of fondues and hot rock dishes, featuring options like beef, shark, buffalo, rattlesnake, lobster, chicken and even chocolate.
If you’re craving something different, try their wild game or steaks from Alberta beef. For starters, enjoy dishes like buffalo steak tartar or melted Swiss raclette. The restaurant’s unique decor, filled with rustic elements like wood carvings, totem poles, and old disco phones, adds to the experience.
During warmer months, relax on the patio and take in stunning mountain views. Their extensive wine selection and variety of beverages complement every meal. With its social, interactive atmosphere, the Grizzly House remains a top spot for locals and tourists seeking a memorable meal.
- Address: 207 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1B4
- Phone: 403 762-4055
- Hours: Sunday- Thursday: 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM. Sunday- Thursday: 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM. Closed on Tuesday
7. Sky Bistro: Dining Above the Sulphur Mountain
Sky Bistro offers a dining experience above the clouds that offers scenic restaurants in Banff, located at the top of Sulphur Mountain. This restaurant specializes in locally inspired Canadian dishes, using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create flavorful meals. The emphasis on local produce ensures that every dish reflects the best of Canadian cuisine.
You can only reach Sky Bistro by Banff gondolas, or hike the Sulphur mountain to the top. Taking the gondolas is an adventure in itself, and it requires some additional fees. But, anyhow you visit the restaurant, you’ll find out that it is worth the effort.
What makes Sky Bistro unique is its breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Diners can take in the stunning scenery while enjoying their meals, making it the perfect spot for a memorable occasion. The combination of fine dining and adventure, with access via the Banff Gondola, adds to the overall experience.
Sky Bistro is ideal for special occasions, it offers a refined and elevated dining atmosphere. The blend of local flavours, expertly crafted dishes, and incredible views make it one of Banff’s top dining destinations. It’s the perfect place for those looking to enjoy both a gourmet meal and the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Before or after your meal, you can walk on the boardwalk to Sanson Peak which is about 1 kilometre away. It is fun and scenic. You can also take pictures along for a memorable visit.
- Address: 100 Mountain Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1J3
- Phone: 403 762-7486
- Hours: Mon-Sun 11 AM – 9 PM
8. Hankki Banff + Dessert: Korean Food in the Rockies
Hankki Banff + Dessert brings the exciting flavours of Korean street food to the heart of the Canadian Rockies. It is one of the best places to eat in Banff. This casual spot offers a variety of grab-and-go meals that are perfect for travellers looking for a quick bite. The menu is packed with bold, tasty options, including crispy Korean fried chicken, savoury rice bowls, and flavorful hot dogs.
Hankki is known for its quick and casual dining experience, making it a convenient choice for those on the move. The bold flavours and fresh ingredients make every meal satisfying, and the fast service ensures you can get back to exploring Banff without missing a beat. It’s an excellent option for a flavorful, no-fuss meal.
- Address: 206 Buffalo St, Banff, AB T1L 1E4
- Phone: 403 762-0332
- Hours: Mon-Sun 11 AM – 11 PM
9. LUPO Italian Restaurant: Authentic Italian in the Heart of Banff
LUPO Italian Ristorante & Patio brings the taste of authentic Italian cuisine to the heart of Banff. This cozy and modern restaurant is perfect for those who love classic Italian dishes, offering a menu filled with handmade pasta, delicious pizza, and fresh seafood. The focus on using high-quality ingredients ensures that every meal is full of rich flavours.
The dining experience at LUPO is warm and inviting, with a mix of traditional and modern decor. It’s the ideal spot for both casual meals and special occasions, making it a top choice for Italian food lovers. Guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while savouring expertly prepared dishes that transport them to Italy.
If you’re in the mood for a comforting plate of pasta or a perfectly baked pizza, LUPO has something for you. The combination of delicious food, friendly service, and a welcoming environment makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in Banff.
- Address: 208 Wolf St #201, Banff, AB T1L 1B3
- Phone: 403 985-9180
- Hours: Mon-Sun 4 PM – 9:30 PM
10. Tooloulou’s: A Cajun-Creole Canadian Fusion
Tooloulou’s offers a unique blend of Cajun-Creole flavours with a Canadian twist, making it a must-visit in Banff. The menu is packed with bold, hearty dishes like po’boys, fresh seafood, flavorful gumbo, and classic poutine. This fusion of Southern and Canadian cuisine provides a flavorful and satisfying dining experience.
The cozy, casual setting at Tooloulou’s makes it a great spot for any meal of the day. The extensive menu offers a wide range of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or sitting down to a full meal, you’ll enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
- Address: 204 Caribou St, Banff, AB T1L 1A6
- Phone: +14037622633
- Hours: Sun – Thur: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM. Fri – Sat: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Conclusion: Best restaurants in Banff
Banff is not only known for its breathtaking natural beauty but also for its diverse and vibrant food scene. From cozy comfort food to elevated mountain view dining, the town offers something for every taste. Craving authentic Italian, wood-fired steak, or bold Cajun-Creole flavours? Banff’s top restaurants provide an unforgettable experience.
Each restaurant, like The Bison’s farm-to-table meals or Sky Bistro’s elevated fine dining, combines high-quality ingredients with stunning views, making it one of the best places to eat in Banff. For special occasions, casual meals, or quick bites, these restaurants offer delicious options for everyone.
While this list highlights some of Banff’s standout dining spots, there are many other fine dining establishments in Banff that didn’t make the list. These restaurants were chosen based on their unique offerings, but that doesn’t mean they are definitively the best. Banff’s dining scene is full of amazing experiences, and exploring beyond this list will certainly reveal more culinary gems.
