The city of Calgary has food scenes that are a dynamic blend of flavours and styles, offering something special for every taste. This city is known for its mix of traditional and modern dining, from high-end steakhouses to innovative, plant-forward eateries.
With the influence of local ingredients and sustainable practices, Calgary restaurants bring out the best in Alberta’s produce, meats, and culinary expertise. Visitors and locals can explore a variety of dining experiences that reflect the unique culture of the city, including fine dining, cozy cafes, and vibrant international cuisine.
Some of the top neighbourhoods in Calgary for dining include Victoria Park, Bridgeland, and the lively Red Mile on 17th Avenue. Victoria Park is known for its chic steakhouses and upscale eateries, while Bridgeland’s European-inspired cafes and authentic Italian spots add a warm and inviting feel. The Red Mile on 17th Avenue is famous for its trendy bars and eclectic restaurants, making it a popular spot for socializing and casual dining.
While it is hard to pick certain numbers of restaurants out of millions in this vast city, I have compiled a list of 12 of the best restaurants in Calgary that I feel will satisfy your taste buds.
1. Ten Foot Henry
Ten Foot Henry is a beloved restaurant in Calgary that offers a family-friendly dining experience with a focus on fresh, vegetable-centered dishes. This popular spot, located on 1st Street SW, serves up meals in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that feels both casual and refined. Open daily from 11 am to 11 pm, Ten Foot Henry draws locals and tourists alike, especially on weekends when it features a special brunch menu until 2 pm. The restaurant encourages reservations but happily welcomes walk-ins, making it easy for diners to enjoy a spontaneous meal at one of the city’s favourite spots.
Named after a 10-foot statue inspired by a 1930s comic strip character, Ten Foot Henry has become a part of Calgary’s Creative Culture. Owners Stephen Smee and Aja Lapointe revived the restaurant at its original location, bringing a piece of the history of Calgary back to life. They have created a unique space where delicious, healthy food meets a bit of local storytelling. Ten Foot Henry also offers branded gift cards and e-gift cards, perfect for sharing the experience with friends.
- Address: 1209 1 St SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0V3
- Phone: (403) 475-5537
2. Model Milk
Model Milk in Calgary is a standout dining destination that redefines comfort food with a modern twist. Housed in a historic 1930s dairy building, the restaurant combines vintage charm with a sleek, industrial vibe, creating a unique atmosphere that draws food lovers from all over.
Operated by Concorde Entertainment Group, and led by Regional Chef Garrett Rotel and District Chef Merritt Gordon, Model Milk has been pushing culinary boundaries since it opened in 2011. The menu, inspired by high-quality, local ingredients, brings a fresh take on classic comfort dishes, evolving constantly with new ideas from the talented kitchen team.
The culinary philosophy at Model Milk focuses on simplicity and quality, highlighting the natural flavours of ingredients sourced from local farms and fisheries. Signature dishes like the calamari fricassee and apple pie with cheddar crust have become fan favourites, while new, inventive items—such as savoury French toast with salted honey custard—keep the dining experience exciting.
The restaurant also supports sustainable practices, partnering with regional producers and even using urban agriculture to source some of its fresh produce. Model Milk’s “Rough Drafts and Movie Night” pop-ups allow chefs to test new creations, giving diners a taste of the team’s creativity and passion.
- Address: 308 17th Avenue SW, Calgary, T2S 0A8
- Phone: (403) 265-7343
3. Bridgette Bar Calgary
Bridgette Bar in Calgary has earned a devoted following for its Mediterranean-inspired dishes designed to be shared with friends and family. Operated by the well-known Concorde Entertainment Group and led by Head Chef Bastian Mayer, this trendy spot on 10th Avenue SW brings unique flavours and a welcoming atmosphere to the city’s dining scene.
Bridgette Bar focuses on serving creative and flavorful shareable plates, with popular menu items like crispy eggplant fries with green harissa yogurt, wood-grilled strip steak with Béarnaise, and a famous banana caramel pie. Each dish is crafted with bold flavours, keeping guests excited to try something new each time they visit.
The inviting setting at Bridgette Bar adds to its charm, with exposed brick walls, cozy mid-century-style furniture, and a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe. It’s a place where diners feel at home, whether enjoying a meal by the fireplace or on the outdoor patio. The restaurant’s popularity has only grown since its opening seven years ago, making reservations essential for an evening out. Bridgette Bar’s success has even led to expansion, with a new location in Canmore and Toronto, proving its appeal beyond Calgary. With a mix of unique small plates, a rotating menu, and inventive cocktails, Bridgette Bar offers an unforgettable dining experience that keeps people coming back.
- Address: 739 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0B3
- Phone: (403) 700-0191
4. Fortuna’s Row
Fortuna’s Row is one of the best restaurants in Calgary as it offers a contemporary Latin American dining experience that reflects the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, Peru, and Colombia. Chef-owner Mikko Tamarra brings extensive experience from renowned establishments like Pujol in Mexico City and Astrid y Gastón in Peru, infusing the menu with authentic flavours and innovative techniques.
The restaurant’s open kitchen and expansive bar create an energetic atmosphere, inviting guests to explore a variety of shareable plates, from tacos and tostadas to larger dishes featuring seafood and charcoal-grilled meats. For those seeking a curated experience, the “let us feed you” option allows the chef and team to select a personalized array of dishes for the evening.
Housed in a historic building with over a century of history, Fortuna’s Row combines concrete and terracotta décor to create a warm and inviting space. The brunch menu is equally impressive, featuring dishes like fried yucca with beef cheeks and chicharrón pork belly with plantain, complemented by artisanal bread crafted by pastry chef Teisha Huff.
Beverage director Ivana Lovric curates a selection of inventive cocktails that pair seamlessly with the menu. The restaurant also offers a private dining room accommodating up to 20 guests and the adjacent Standing Room Only Bar for a more casual experience.
- Address: 421 Riverfront Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0C2
- Phone: (403) 243-0069
5. Rouge Restaurant
Rouge Restaurant is located in Calgary’s historic Inglewood neighbourhood and offers a fine dining experience that blends local heritage with modern cuisine. Established in 2003 by co-owners Olivier Reynaud and Paul Rogalski, Rouge is situated in the A.E. Cross House, a landmark built in 1891 by one of Calgary’s “Big Four” and a founder of the Calgary Stampede.
The restaurant’s setting reflects the rich history of Inglewood, the oldest neighbourhood in Calgary, which is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene.
ROUGE CALGARY
Under the culinary direction of Chef de Cuisine Dean Fast, Rouge’s menu features seasonal dishes crafted from ingredients sourced from its on-site garden, local farms, and foraged provisions. Signature offerings include a six-course tasting menu priced at $120, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, local produce.
The wine list complements the menu with selections from renowned regions worldwide. Rouge’s dedication to quality and innovation has earned it international recognition, including a ranking among San Pellegrino World’s Best Restaurants in 2010.
- Address: 1240 8 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0M7
- Phone: (403) 531-2767
6. Vero Bistro Moderne
Vero Bistro Moderne is located on 10th Street NW in the vibrant Kensington neighbourhood and it offers a unique dining experience that blends Italian, Spanish, and French cuisines. Under the leadership of Chef Jenny Chan, who travels to Europe annually to study regional culinary traditions and source authentic ingredients, the restaurant presents a menu featuring fresh, organic, and high-quality components.
Dishes highlight specialties like Italian burrata, Spanish Jamón Ibérico de Bellota, and organic meats and vegetables from local farms.
Chef Jenny’s dedication to authenticity and quality is evident in every dish, earning Vero Bistro Moderne recognition as one of Calgary’s top restaurants and the fourth best in Canada by TripAdvisor.
The restaurant’s success is reflected in numerous positive reviews from diners worldwide, praising the exceptional food and warm hospitality. Vero’s intimate setting and personalized service make it a standout choice for those seeking a memorable culinary experience in Calgary.
- Address: 209 10 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1V5
- Phone: (403) 283-8988
7. Caesar’s Steakhouse + Cocktail Bar
Established in 1972, Caesar’s Steakhouse + Cocktail Bar has been a cornerstone of Calgary’s dining scene, renowned for its dedication to quality and tradition. The restaurant specializes in Alberta beef, aged for a minimum of 28 days to enhance tenderness and flavour.
Each steak is cut to order, seasoned with a proprietary spice blend perfected over five decades, and charbroiled over an open-flame grill. Signature dishes include Chateaubriand, Prime Rib Eye, Steak & Lobster, and Dover Sole Meunière, all prepared with meticulous attention to detail.
Complementing the menu is an extensive wine list that has earned the Wine Spectator “Award of Excellence” since 2013. The selection features a range of options, including rare vintages like Dominio de Pingus and Château Palmer, catering to both connoisseurs and casual diners.
The cocktail menu offers classic libations such as barrel-aged Manhattans and the restaurant’s signature Bloody Caesar. Guests can expect traditional, attentive service, with tableside preparations enhancing your visiting experience.
- Address: 512 4 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 0J6
- Phone: (403) 264-1222
8. River Café
Nestled in the heart of Prince’s Island Park, River Café offers a dining experience that harmoniously blends with Calgary’s natural beauty. Established in 1991 as a seasonal café, it transformed into a year-round restaurant in 1995, featuring a cozy fieldstone fireplace and a wood-fired open kitchen. The ambiance reflects its commitment to sustainability and local sourcing.
River Café partners with over 60 regional producers, including local farms, ranches, and fisheries, to source fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu emphasizes the origins of each component, fostering a connection between diners and the food’s source. This dedication to sustainability has earned River Café recognition as one of Canada’s most eco-friendly restaurants.
Whether enjoying a meal by the fireplace or taking in the park’s scenic views, guests can expect a memorable dining experience that celebrates Calgary’s natural and culinary heritage.
- Address: 25 Prince’s Island Park, SW, Calgary, AB T2P 0R1
- Phone: (403) 261-7670
9. Shokunin
Shokunin is on 4th Street S.W. in Calgary’s Mission district, it offers a unique Japanese dining experience under the guidance of Chef Darren MacLean. As Calgary’s first “Yakitoria,” the restaurant specializes in expertly grilled skewers, known as yakitori, featuring over 20 cuts of chicken and meat prepared over a traditional Japanese-style Robata Grill.
This method imparts a distinctive depth of flavour to the dishes. The menu also includes a variety of grilled vegetables, seafood, and select cuts of Japanese Wagyu beef, aged in-house for 45 days in beeswax.
Beyond its culinary offerings, Shokunin boasts an extensive selection of “junmai” or “pure” sakes, many of which are exclusive to the restaurant in North America. The cocktail menu features creative libations that complement the food, while the in-house brewed OKAMI KASU beer, made with sake kasu, provides a unique beverage option. The restaurant’s ambiance is enhanced by eclectic street beats and manga-inspired murals, creating a vibrant atmosphere that complements the innovative cuisine.
- Address: 2016 4 St SW, Calgary, AB T2S 1W3
- Phone: (403) 229-3444
10. Major Tom
Major Tom, located on the 40th floor of Stephen Avenue Place in downtown Calgary, offers a dining experience with panoramic views extending to the Rocky Mountains. The restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows and elegant interior create a sophisticated atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for special occasions or a memorable night out.
The menu features elevated steakhouse classics and inventive dishes. Notable offerings include the crispy hen egg with pepperoni jam, the “Major tots” topped with smoked sturgeon and pickled onion, and the crab and shrimp roll on toasted brioche.
For mains, the English-style prime rib and the crispy half chicken with potato purée and glazed mushrooms are highly recommended. Dessert enthusiasts should try the boozy baked Alaska, flambéed tableside and served with bourbon semifreddo and Angostura caramel.
- Address: 40th Floor, Stephen Avenue Place. 700 2 St SW Calgary, AB T2P 2W2
- Phone: (403) 990-3954
11. Pat and Betty
Pat & Betty is one of the best places to eat in Calgary. It is a European-inspired dinette and bar in the Victoria Park area, named after the mothers of the owners, Pat and Betty. The restaurant offers indulgent dishes like Mezzi Rigatoni with vodka sauce and burrata, and Pork Belly & Scallops with truffle and foie gras potato purée. The menu is designed for sharing, encouraging guests to savour each moment together.
The warm atmosphere reflects the passion and affection of the owners’ mothers. Pat, from British Columbia, shared her love of comfort food and seasonal cooking with her children. Betty, originally from England, brought her culinary expertise and love for hospitality to Calgary, even hosting the 1988 Olympic Committee. Their stories inspire a dining experience rooted in indulgent food, vivid wines, and big-hearted service.
- Address: 1217 1 St SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0V3
- Email: hello@patandbetty.com
12. Nupo
Nupo is on the East Village in Calgary, This restaurant offers a unique dining experience that blends Japanese-inspired cuisine with a focus on plant-based and seafood dishes. Chef-owner Darren MacLean, influenced by his mother’s love for vegan recipes and sushi, has crafted a menu that emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s name, derived from his mother’s maiden name, Nuponnen, reflects this personal connection.
The interior of Nupo combines Alberta’s natural elements, featuring birch, shale, and burnt woods, which create a warm and inviting atmosphere. A standout feature is the six-seat omakase sushi bar, where guests can enjoy an intimate and interactive dining experience.
Here, chefs prepare up to 15 pieces of nigiri, sourced sustainably from around the world, complemented by seasonal snacks, butter-roasted miso soup, and dessert. This setup allows diners to engage directly with the chefs, enhancing the overall experience.
Nupo’s commitment to quality and storytelling is evident in its dishes, such as the sablefish “unagi” donburi, which offers a delightful seafood option in a city known for its steak. Additionally, the restaurant hosts the Cultural Chef Exchange series, bringing renowned chefs from around the world to Calgary, and providing guests with diverse culinary experiences without leaving the city.
- Address: 631 Confluence Way SE, Calgary, AB T2G 1C3
- Phone: (587) 353-1388
Conclusion: Best restaurants in Calgary 2024
Calgary’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavours and experiences, showcasing a diverse array of dining options. From the vegetable-focused dishes at Ten Foot Henry to the elevated steak offerings at Major Tom, each establishment brings its own unique flair.
Vero Bistro Moderne delights patrons with authentic Italian dishes, while River Café emphasizes sustainable practices in a nature-infused setting. Shokunin offers Japanese-inspired cuisine with rare sake selections, and Pat & Betty provides European-inspired fare celebrating family traditions. Nupo stands out with its plant-forward menu and intimate omakase sushi bar.
Exploring the best Calgary restaurants offers a delicious journey through the city’s top neighbourhoods. Victoria Park, Bridgeland, and the Red Mile on 17th Avenue are home to many of these culinary gems.
