Canada
Discover the best restaurants, dishes, and local cuisine in Calgary, Canada. Read authentic reviews, browse menus, and find your perfect dining experience.
Calgary's cuisine is characterized by a blend of hearty, meat-centric dishes and globally inspired flavors. The emphasis is on fresh, local ingredients, reflecting the surrounding agricultural landscape. Expect to find dishes that showcase Alberta beef, locally grown produce, and innovative culinary techniques.
Alberta beef, known for its high quality and marbling, is a staple. It's often served as steak, roasts, burgers, or in dishes like beef tenderloin. The beef is typically grass-fed and finished on grain, resulting in a rich flavor.
While originating from Calgary, it is now found all over the prairies. Crispy fried beef strips coated in a sweet and spicy ginger sauce. A fusion dish with Chinese-Canadian origins, it's a sweet and savory crowd-pleaser.
A lean and flavorful alternative to beef, bison is gaining popularity. It can be found in burgers, steaks, and stews, offering a unique taste of the prairies.
Also known as prairie oysters, they are bull testicles that are deep-fried. This adventurous dish is a local delicacy, especially during the Calgary Stampede.
Saskatoon berries, native to the prairies, have a sweet, almond-like flavor. They're used in pies, jams, and other desserts, showcasing local ingredients.
While not a food, the Caesar cocktail is practically Calgary's official drink. A vodka-based cocktail with clamato juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce, typically garnished with celery and a lime wedge.
To fully experience Calgary's food scene, consider these tips for finding the best local eats and hidden gems.
These vibrant neighborhoods are home to a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and shops. They offer a mix of trendy eateries and established local favorites.
Visit the Calgary Farmers' Market or other local markets to sample and purchase fresh, local ingredients and products. It's a great way to support local businesses and discover new flavors.
Calgary has a growing craft beer scene. Many breweries offer tasting rooms and food pairings, showcasing local beers and cuisine.
Don't be afraid to try unique dishes like Rocky Mountain Oysters or Alberta bison. These regional specialties offer a taste of Calgary's culinary heritage.
AB
Calgary's culinary scene is a relatively recent development, evolving from its ranching roots and influenced by waves of immigration. Early foodways were heavily reliant on beef, game, and simple preparations. Over time, diverse cultural communities have enriched the city's food landscape, adding international flavors and techniques.
Food plays a significant role in Calgary's cultural identity, reflecting its history as a ranching town and its diverse population. Community events and festivals often feature local cuisine, showcasing the region's culinary talent and agricultural heritage.
The Calgary Stampede is a ten-day rodeo and festival that heavily influences the city's food scene. Expect lots of barbecue, chuckwagon races, pancake breakfasts, and adventurous eats like deep-fried foods and midway treats.
Farmers' markets are popular gathering places where local farmers and artisans sell their produce, meats, and baked goods. They provide a direct connection to the source of ingredients and support local agriculture.
Calgary's diverse population has led to a wide range of international restaurants and food businesses. Ethnic enclaves offer authentic cuisine from various countries, enriching the city's culinary landscape.
Calgary's ranching history is still visible in its food culture, with a focus on high-quality beef and traditional cooking methods. Many restaurants showcase Alberta beef and pay homage to the region's agricultural roots.