Calgary

1. Popular Categories of Cuisine in Calgary

Calgary’s dining scene reflects its multicultural population and Alberta’s agricultural heritage. Here are some popular categories of cuisine you’ll find:

• Canadian Cuisine: Expect dishes featuring Alberta beef, bison, and game meats, as well as poutine and butter tarts.
• Steakhouses: Alberta is famous for its high-quality beef, and Calgary has some of the best steakhouses in Canada.
• International Cuisine: A wide variety of global cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese, Italian, and Middle Eastern, are well-represented.
• Farm-to-Table: Many restaurants focus on locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the region’s produce and meats.
• Casual Dining and Gastropubs: Calgary has a thriving craft beer scene, and many gastropubs pair local brews with elevated comfort food.
• Vegetarian and Vegan Options: The city has a growing number of plant-based restaurants and menus catering to vegetarians and vegans.

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2. Recommended Restaurants

Here are some standout restaurants across different categories:

Fine Dining

• River Café (Prince’s Island Park): A beautiful restaurant offering seasonal, locally sourced Canadian cuisine in a serene park setting. Perfect for a special occasion.
• Alloy (SE Calgary): A fusion of Mediterranean, Asian, and Latin flavors in an elegant atmosphere.
• Teatro (Downtown): Known for its Italian-inspired dishes and extensive wine list, located in a historic building.

Steakhouses

• Caesar’s Steakhouse (Multiple Locations): A Calgary institution serving classic steakhouse fare with a retro vibe.
• Vintage Chophouse & Tavern (Downtown): A high-end steakhouse with a focus on Alberta beef and an excellent wine selection.

Casual Dining

• Una Pizza + Wine (17th Avenue SW): Famous for its thin-crust pizzas and cozy atmosphere.
• Native Tongues Taqueria (Beltline): A lively spot for authentic Mexican tacos and mezcal cocktails.

International Cuisine

• Shokunin (Mission): A Japanese izakaya-style restaurant offering creative small plates and an impressive sake menu.
• Calcutta Cricket Club (17th Avenue SW): A vibrant Indian restaurant with a retro, cricket-themed decor.
• Silver Dragon (Chinatown): A long-standing favorite for dim sum and Cantonese dishes.

Vegetarian/Vegan

• The Coup (17th Avenue SW): A trendy vegetarian restaurant with innovative, globally inspired dishes.
• Veg-In YYC (Downtown): A casual spot offering vegan comfort food with Indian influences.

Unique Dining Experiences

• Sky 360 (Calgary Tower): Dine in a revolving restaurant with panoramic views of the city and the Rockies.
• Charbar (East Village): Located in a historic building, this restaurant specializes in wood-fired Argentinian-inspired dishes.

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3. Average Costs for Meals

• Casual Dining: CAD $15–$25 per person for a main dish.
• Mid-Range Restaurants: CAD $25–$50 per person for a meal with drinks.
• Fine Dining: CAD $50–$100+ per person, depending on the restaurant and wine selection.
• Fast Food: CAD $10–$15 for a meal.

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4. Tipping Practices

Tipping is customary in Canada, and it’s an important part of the dining culture. Here’s what you need to know:

• Standard Tip: 15–20% of the pre-tax bill is expected for good service.
• Exceptional Service: 20% or more.
• Group Dining: Some restaurants automatically add a gratuity (usually 18%) for large groups, so check your bill.

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5. Local Specialties

Calgary and Alberta are known for their high-quality meats and hearty dishes. Be sure to try:

• Alberta Beef: Found in steakhouses and many other restaurants, it’s a must-try for meat lovers.
• Bison and Game Meats: Often featured in fine dining and farm-to-table restaurants.
• Calgary-Style Ginger Beef: A sweet and spicy Chinese-Canadian dish that originated in Calgary.
• Poutine: A classic Canadian dish of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, available in many casual eateries.
• Craft Beer: Calgary has a thriving craft beer scene, so pair your meal with a local brew.

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6. Notable Areas and Districts for Dining

Calgary has several neighborhoods and districts known for their vibrant dining scenes:

• 17th Avenue SW (The Red Mile): A bustling area with a mix of casual eateries, trendy restaurants, and bars. Great for people-watching and nightlife.
• Beltline: Adjacent to downtown, this area is home to many of Calgary’s best restaurants, including Native Tongues and Ten Foot Henry.
• Mission: A charming neighborhood with a mix of upscale and casual dining options, including Shokunin and Añejo.
• Chinatown: The go-to spot for authentic Chinese cuisine, dim sum, and Asian groceries.
• East Village: A revitalized area with modern restaurants like Charbar and a growing food scene.
• Kensington: A trendy, walkable neighborhood with a mix of cafes, pubs, and restaurants.

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7. Unique Dining Experiences

• Food Festivals: If you’re visiting in July, don’t miss the Calgary Stampede, which features a wide variety of unique and indulgent foods, from deep-fried treats to bison burgers.
• Food Halls: Check out First Street Market or Crossroads Market for a variety of food vendors offering everything from international cuisine to local specialties.
• Farmers’ Markets: Visit the Calgary Farmers’ Market for fresh produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat meals from local vendors.

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8. Cultural Nuances and Tips

• Casual Atmosphere: While fine dining establishments may have a dress code, most Calgary restaurants are relatively casual. Smart-casual attire is usually appropriate.
• Reservations: Popular restaurants, especially fine dining spots, can fill up quickly. It’s a good idea to make reservations in advance.
• Dietary Restrictions: Most restaurants are accommodating of dietary restrictions, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Don’t hesitate to ask your server.
• Family-Friendly: Many restaurants in Calgary are family-friendly, but it’s always a good idea to check in advance if you’re dining with children.

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Calgary’s dining scene is a reflection of its dynamic and diverse culture, offering something for every palate and budget. Whether you’re indulging in Alberta beef at a steakhouse, exploring international flavors, or enjoying a casual meal with a local craft beer, you’re sure to have a memorable culinary experience. Bon appétit!