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Guide to Fast Food and Quick Bites in Calgary, Canada

Calgary, a vibrant city in Alberta, Canada, offers a diverse and exciting food scene, including a wide range of fast food and quick bite options. Whether you're looking for international chains, local favorites, or unique Canadian specialties, Calgary has something for everyone. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate the fast food and quick dining culture in the city.

1. Popular Fast Food Chains in Calgary

Calgary is home to many well-known international and Canadian fast food chains. Here are some of the most popular ones:

a. Tim Hortons

What to Try: Tim Hortons is a Canadian institution. Must-try items include their coffee, Timbits (bite-sized doughnuts), and breakfast sandwiches.
Price Range: $5–$10 CAD per person.
Tips: Tim Hortons is known for its quick service and is a great option for breakfast or a snack. Lines can be long during morning rush hours, so plan accordingly.

b. A&W Canada

What to Try: Famous for their root beer, Teen Burger, and onion rings. A&W Canada also offers Beyond Meat burgers for vegetarians.
Price Range: $8–$15 CAD per person.
Tips: A&W Canada emphasizes hormone-free beef and sustainable practices, making it a slightly healthier fast food option.

c. McDonald’s

What to Try: The Canadian McDonald’s menu includes unique items like the McChicken BLT and poutine (fries topped with cheese curds and gravy).
Price Range: $8–$12 CAD per person.
Tips: McDonald’s locations in Calgary often have self-order kiosks, making it easy to customize your meal.

d. Wendy’s

What to Try: Known for their fresh, never-frozen beef burgers, spicy chicken sandwiches, and Frosty desserts.
Price Range: $8–$15 CAD per person.
Tips: Wendy’s is a good option for a quick, filling meal. Look out for combo deals to save money.

e. Subway

What to Try: Build-your-own sandwiches and wraps with a variety of fresh ingredients.
Price Range: $7–$12 CAD per person.
Tips: Subway is a great choice for a healthier fast food option. You can customize your meal to suit your dietary preferences.

2. Local Quick Bite Spots in Calgary

In addition to international chains, Calgary boasts a variety of local fast food and quick bite options that reflect the city’s unique culinary culture.

a. Peter’s Drive-In

What to Try: Famous for their milkshakes (over 30 flavors), burgers, and fries.
Price Range: $10–$15 CAD per person.
Tips: This iconic Calgary spot often has long lines, especially on weekends. The milkshakes are thick and delicious, so don’t skip them!

b. Jollibee

What to Try: A Filipino fast food chain offering Chickenjoy (fried chicken), Jolly Spaghetti (sweet-style spaghetti), and peach mango pie.
Price Range: $10–$15 CAD per person.
Tips: Jollibee is a favorite among Calgary’s Filipino community. Be prepared for a wait during peak hours.

c. Cluck N Cleaver

What to Try: Locally-owned fried chicken joint offering crispy fried chicken, rotisserie chicken, and buttermilk biscuits.
Price Range: $12–$20 CAD per person.
Tips: This is a great spot for high-quality, locally-sourced chicken. Portions are generous, so consider sharing if you’re not too hungry.

d. Native Tongues Taqueria (Quick Service Counter)

What to Try: Authentic Mexican tacos, churros, and guacamole.
Price Range: $10–$20 CAD per person.
Tips: The quick service counter is perfect for a fast, flavorful meal. Try the al pastor tacos for a taste of Mexico.

e. Shawarma Knight

What to Try: Shawarma wraps, donair, and falafel.
Price Range: $10–$15 CAD per person.
Tips: This is a popular late-night spot for Middle Eastern cuisine. Portions are large and satisfying.

3. Must-Try Local Specialties

Calgary has some unique food items that you should try while exploring the city’s fast food and quick bite scene:

a. Poutine

Description: A Canadian classic made with fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
Where to Try: Available at McDonald’s, A&W, and many local spots like Big Cheese Poutinerie.
Price Range: $6–$12 CAD.

b. Alberta Beef Burgers

Description: Alberta is known for its high-quality beef, and many local burger joints highlight this specialty.
Where to Try: Peter’s Drive-In or Clive Burger.
Price Range: $10–$20 CAD.

c. Bannock Tacos

Description: A twist on traditional tacos using bannock (a type of Indigenous fry bread) as the base.
Where to Try: Check out local food trucks or Indigenous-owned eateries.
Price Range: $10–$15 CAD.

4. How to Order at Fast Food and Quick Bite Spots

Self-Order Kiosks: Many fast food chains like McDonald’s and A&W have self-order kiosks where you can customize your meal and pay directly.
Drive-Thru: Drive-thru service is common in Calgary, especially at places like Tim Hortons and Peter’s Drive-In. Be prepared to order quickly and clearly.
Mobile Apps: Most major chains have mobile apps that allow you to order ahead and skip the line. This is especially useful during busy times.
Cash vs. Card: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller, local spots.

5. Cultural and Practical Tips

Tipping: Tipping is not expected at fast food chains, but if you’re dining at a quick-service counter or food truck, it’s polite to leave a small tip (around 10%).
Peak Hours: Lunch (12:00 PM–1:30 PM) and dinner (6:00 PM–8:00 PM) are the busiest times. Visit outside these hours for faster service.
Dietary Preferences: Many places in Calgary cater to dietary restrictions, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Don’t hesitate to ask about ingredients.
Local Food Trucks: Calgary has a thriving food truck scene, especially during the summer months. Check out events like the Calgary Stampede or local farmers’ markets for unique quick bites.

6. Average Costs

Fast Food Chains: $8–$15 CAD per person.
Local Quick Bite Spots: $10–$20 CAD per person.
Food Trucks: $8–$15 CAD per person.

7. Final Recommendations

For a quintessential Calgary fast food experience, start your day with a coffee and Timbits from Tim Hortons, grab a burger and milkshake from Peter’s Drive-In for lunch, and end your day with poutine or tacos from a local spot like Native Tongues Taqueria. Don’t forget to explore the city’s food trucks and try some Alberta beef specialties!

Enjoy your culinary adventure in Calgary!