For this year’s Avenue food awards, we took a new approach: the readers’ picks that came back in droves from our online survey were combed through and given the nod by our esteemed panel of judges. The reason for this, quite simply, was that some categories were just too close to call. So, we asked Avenue food writers John Gilchrist and Cinda Chavich, as well as our restaurant-savvy editorial team, to choose among those tiebreakers and settle any disputes. The results, we’re sure you’ll agree, are the tastiest to date. Now, without any further ado, here are the best places to eat in Calgary for 2010.
Calgary's Best Restaurants 2010: The List
All 86 winners in 31 categories. Categories, names, contact details. That's it. The diet version of our annual awards.
Calgary's Best Restaurants 2010: The Map
All 86 winners, runner-ups and honourable mention restaurants on one interactive map.
RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR
Winner: Rouge
Our judges debated long and hard — it’s so close among the restaurants at the top — but in the end Rouge took our award for Best Restaurant of the Year. The setting is unique among Calgary restaurants — an historic, Victorian house, a gorgeous garden surrounded by mile-high caraganas and the soft sound of elephants trumpeting in the distance (the Zoo is directly across the Bow River). Rouge is a bit of heaven in Inglewood.
Co-owners Paul Rogalski (watch the exclusive video with Rogalski) and Olivier Reynaud brought in executive chef Michael Dekker last year and the food is even better than ever. And Reynaud’s service team matches the sublime cosmopolitan cuisine.
1240 8 Ave. S.E., 403-531-2767, rougecalgary.com
Exclusive Video: Talking Food with Rouge co-owner Paul Rogalski
Runner-Up: River Café
River Café’s dedication to “seasonal Canadian” food, its island-in-the-stream locale, its upscale lodge atmosphere, and its well-honed service earn it a solid second place on our list.
Prince’s Island Park, 403-261-7670, river-cafe.com
Honourable mention: Teatro
From the lobster-scallop lasagna and the extensive wine list to the luscious Teatro Burger and the comfy loveseats, this classic downtown restaurant continues to evolve and impress.
200 8 Ave. S.E., 403-290-1012, teatro-rest.com
BEST NEW RESTAURANT
Winner: Rush
It’s lush, it’s plush, it’s Rush. It’s also the old downtown Post Office renovated with stylish, carpeted, high-ceilinged, black-and-white opulence. The setting is the perfect backdrop for executive chef Justin Leboe’s “refined comfort food.” Think foie gras brûlée with peanut butter and jelly garnishes, or Broek Pork Acres pork confit with salted plum and lemon bulgar. Top that with some of the best service in the city, led by
manager Anthony Chalmers and a bevy of skilled sommeliers, and you have one of the finest dining experiences to hit Calgary this year — or any year, for that matter.
100, 207 9 Ave. S.W., 403-271-7874, rushrestaurant.com
Runner-Up: Petite
Petite has a brick-and-steel, hard-edge look, softened by chef Jared Alvey’s “European contemporary” cuisine. 1301 10 Ave. S.W., 403-452-5350, petiterestaurant.ca
Honourable Mention: Vin Room
With 64 wines available by the glass and executive chef Kai Salimaki’s creative small plates, Vin Room has become a hot ticket on 4th Street S.W.’s restaurant row.
2310 4 St. S.W., 403-457-5522, vinroom.com
BEST OF THE BURBS N.W.
Winner: Da Guido Ristorante
While it just squeaks into the northwest with a location on the west side of Centre Street N., the quality of the traditional Italian cuisine at Da Guido is never in doubt; it is some of the finest in the city. The extensive menu features a number of homemade pastas and fresh seafood dishes, as well as a variety of veal, risotto dishes and other creations by Italian-born chef Guido Panara. Panara has been serving up his personal takes on Italian since he first opened in 1984.
2001 Centre St. N.W., 403-276-1365, daguido.ca
Runner-Up: Istanbul
Calgary’s only restaurant serving Turkish cuisine, Istanbul has had three different locations but maintains a loyal following no matter where it goes.
4129 4 St. N.W., 403-229-0542
Honourable Mention: Redwater Rustic Grille
The second of three locations opened by the Vintage Group, this Stadium Shopping Centre eatery offers a tasty contemporary menu.
1935 Uxbridge Dr. N.W., 403-220-0222, redwatergrille.com
BEST OF THE BURBS S.W.
Winner: Gaucho Brazilian Barbecue
Chef Edmilson Rodrigues worked in his native Brazil and operated restaurants in Japan and China before moving to Calgary in 2002. Gaucho has been satisfying diners looking for authentic Brazilian barbecue since 2007, and last year moved to a new, larger location on Macleod Trail, across from Chinook Centre. While there are a few side dish options, meat is the name of the game here. The restaurant operates in the Brazilian all-you-can-eat Rodizio style, so come hungry. Servers come to your table with skewers of succulent barbecued meat (different choices are available depending on the day, but there is usually a variety of chicken, beef and pork options) that is sliced directly onto your plate, and it doesn’t stop until you turn over your table’s dining card (green means go, red means stop).
100, 5920 Macleod Tr. S.W., 403-454-9119, brazilianbbq.ca
Runner-Up: Thai Nongkhai
While technically in the southeast, we consider Macleod Trail to be the southwest and so have included this authentic Thai eatery in best of that quadrant. Be sure to check out the lunch buffet, as well as the regular menu. 10, 7400 Macleod Tr. S.E., 403-705-3329, thai-nk.com
Honourable Mention: LeVilla
LeVilla creates the unexpected atmosphere of a mountain getaway from the middle of the West Market Square strip mall. And with its extensive menu of classic and contemporary steak and seafood dishes, not to mention a notably lengthy water menu (boasting more than 15 types of bottled water), it takes suburban dining up a step. 404, 1851 Sirocco Dr. S.W., 403-217-9699, levilla.ca
BEST OF THE BURBS S.E.
Winner: Alloy
While it’s easy to miss Alloy on a drive-by, considering it’s in a nondescript building in an industrial area, you won’t soon forget the food or the place. Located beyond the limits of downtown, but still close to the core, Alloy offers all the swank of a high-end downtown restaurant with its cherry blossom trees, pure white booths and large California-style contemporary patio. It’s where Latin meets Mediterranean meets Asian cuisine. With inventive dishes like the lamb trio, red curry braised beef short rib and vegetarian empanadas with mango-mint ceviche salad, it’s obvious chefs Uri Heilik and Rogelio Herrera have mastered the art of the blend. 220 42 Ave. S.E., 403-287-9255, alloydining.com
Runner-up: Colonial Fusion Cuisine
A Swarvoski crystal dragon hangs from the ceiling, but it’s not the only thing that will wow you — the delicious Vietnamese and French fusion dishes include lobster pad thai, pho and coquilles St. Jacques.
197, 163 Quarrypark Blvd. S.E., 403-723-6669
Honourable Mention: The Ranche
It’s definitely worth making the drive out to Fish Creek Provincial Park to dine in a historic ranch house on flavourful dishes of Rocky Mountain cuisine and ranch-raised meats.
15979 Bow Bottom Tr. S.E., 403-225-3939, crmr.com/theranche
BEST OF THE BURBS N.E.
Winner: Clay Oven
An almost unanimous choice among our judges and our readers for the best of the great northeast, Clay Oven has been a destination for great Punjabi Indian food since 1997. Long considered to serve the best Indian breads in the city, it also does a busy-busy lunch buffet and a lively evening trade. In addition to the breads, the vegetarian dishes are outstanding — curried chickpeas with onions and flame-roasted, mashed eggplant being just two. Outside of buffet hours, Clay Oven is a peaceful place to dine, where most dishes are well under $20. That’s easy on the wallet, too.
349, 3132 26 St. N.E., 403-250-2161, clayovencalgary.com
Runner-Up: Thai Boat
An oasis of fine Thai food amid the chain restaurants of 32nd Avenue N.E., Thai Boat plies you with the flavours and atmosphere of Bangkok.
108, 2323 32 Ave. N.E., 403-291-9887
Honourable Mention: North 51° Steakhouse
Dining at the airport was never so good. North 51 features local and seasonal products and prepares them with skill. Careful, you may miss your flight.
Delta Calgary Airport Hotel, 2001 Airport Rd. N.E., 403-250-2609
WORTH THE SPLURGE
Winner: Capo
For Giuseppe Di Gennaro, it’s personal. His food, that is. Tucked into the 35-seat dining room at Capo, it’s obvious that Di Gennaro — chef, owner and renovator — has created a dining experience to satisfy all the senses. The room is sensuously tuned, with soft globe lights and cushioned banquettes, your meal is choreographed by a team of stealthy servers and your palate is massaged by Di Gennaro’s cooking.
Gnocchi is topped with lobster sauce and piqued with black-truffle oil, cannellone is stuffed with oxtail and pheasant is finished with a muscat and rosemary cream. Watch as Di Gennaro plates every dish. He is the Capo, after all. 4, 1420 9 Ave. S.E., 403-264-2276, caporestaurant.ca
Runner-Up: Rouge
Many would pay just for the view across the lush backyard to Rouge’s garden. But stay for acclaimed chefs Michael Dekker and Paul Rogalski’s cosmopolitan cuisine.
Prince’s Island Park, 403-261-7670, river-cafe.com
Honourable Mention: Rush
Fine service, exquisite food, the perfect wine pairing, all set in the cushy confines of Rush. It all comes together here for that very special evening.
100, 207 9 Ave. S.W., 403-271-7874, rushrestaurant.com
BEST-KEPT SECRET
Winner: Atlas Specialty
Thousands drive right by Atlas every day. It’s on a busy stretch of 9th Avenue at 9th Street S.W., unfortunately where most commuters are racing towards other downtown destinations. But stop for a minute (not on 9th Avenue, mind you) to enjoy a little Persian food. Like the fesenjoon of walnuts, pomegranete and chicken, or the badenjan of eggplant with beef sirloin and tomato broth. Never tried those? Not surprising. Atlas is one of the few Persian restaurants in Calgary. And even though it always seems to be busy, it remains Calgary’s best-kept dining secret. Now, tell everyone.
100, 1000 9 Ave. S.W., 403-230-0990, atlascalgary.com
Runner-Up: Anju Restaurant and Lounge
Set the GPS for Anju and you’ll find creative modern Korean cuisine in an old brick house amid the towering condos on the western edge of downtown.
507 10 St. S.W., 403-532-9419, anju.ca
Honourable Mention: Vue Café
Virginia Christopher’s art gallery is the perfect and unexpected setting for the curved cafe bar and the contemporary food of Vue. The art’s pretty good, too.
816 11 Ave. S.W., 403-263-4346, vuecafe.com
BEST BRUNCH
Winner: Diner Deluxe
Given all the new breakfast joints popping up on Edmonton Trail, the street has become Calgary’s “Breakfast Belt,” with Diner Deluxe as the reigning top-notch veteran. Nine years of serving up brunch to sleepy-eyed locals and keeping our bellies full with hearty creations like the bacon and cheddar-stuffed French toast, maple-fried oatmeal and famous creamy eggs Benny, there’s nothing like a raucous weekend morning meal here. Add to that the fresh baked bread from Urban Baker next door and you’re set for the day. Now if there was only a way around the long lineups on the weekends — bust such is the price of success.
804 Edmonton Tr. N.E., 403-276-5499, dinerdeluxe.com
Runner-Up: The Fairmont Palliser
Go for the mouth-watering Sunday buffet feast of roasts, omelettes, seafood, salads and Belgian waffles, if not the massive dessert table, alone.
133 9 Ave. S.W., 403-260-1219, fairmont.com/palliser
Honourable Mention: AKA Winebar
Truffle omelettes, eggs Benedict topped with Broek Pork Acres bacon or pork belly and crispy hash browns — that’s what we call a perfect weekend wake-up call.
709 Edmonton Tr. N.E., 403-984-7534
BEST BUSINESS LUNCH
Winner: The Belvedere
It’s calm and collected, suave and sophisticated, sharp and smart — just like you want to be when impressing clients. For those reasons, and because it serves outstanding food, The Belvedere takes home this year’s award for Best Business Lunch. (The three-course, $25 lunch doesn’t hurt, either — and makes you look that much smarter.) From the prime beef tenderloin with yam fondant to the Digby scallops with beluga lentils, you’ll be guaranteed creatively prepared cuisine at The Belvedere, with wines and service to match. Owner Clayton Morgan is committed to serving the best to the best. Now, isn’t that you?
107 8 Ave. S.W., 403-265-9595, thebelvedere.ca
Runner-Up: Divino Wine & Cheese Bistro
It’s lively and energetic, and just loud enough to create a private zone for a business lunch. And Divino’s food has been honed over a couple of decades of concerted effort.
113 8 Ave. S.W., 403-410-5555, crmr.com/divino
Honourable Mention: Centini Restaurant & Lounge
Want a little pampering to go along with your roasted pork belly and polenta? Let the Centini crew fawn over your clients while you order another bottle of Sassicaia.
160 8 Ave. S.E., 403-269-1600, centini.com
BEST SUSHI
Winner: Globefish Sushi & Izakaya
By combining izakaya offerings (Japan’s take on pub food) with some of the traditional fare of sushi restaurants, all within a sleek setting great for dates, drinks or lunch, Globefish has once again gained accolades from our readers and judges. While at some sushi spots rolls that go outside the norm descend into a dog’s breakfast of cobbled-together ingredients, at Globefish flavours and textures are combined with care. The creative rolls are not only tasty, but beautiful, with flourishes of tempura and drizzled sauces that are high-impact in both taste and looks. The only difficulty is trying to pace yourself so you have room for more.
332 14 St. N.W., 403-521-0222 and 1, 2009 33 Ave. S.W., 403-249-8866, globefish.ca
Runner-Up: Blowfish Sushi Lounge
If you’re looking for an upscale sushi lounge, this is the spot for you. The five-course Omakase tasting menu will give you the full experience of the chef’s expertise.
625 11 Ave. S.W., 403-237-8588, blowfishsushilounge.com
Honourable Mention: Sushi Bar Zipang
This traditional sushi restaurant, complete with kimono-clad servers, provides everything we’re looking for: high-quality fresh fish cut by expert sushi chefs, warm service and excellent bento boxes. The Bridgeland spot is great for lunch or dinner.
1010 1 Ave. N.E., 403-262-1888
BEST SERVICE
Winner: La Chaumière
With wide disagreement among readers and in what very well may have been the most hotly debated category amongst the panel, the classic old-school service of La Chaumière came out on top. Its gentleman waiters in vests and white attentively attend to each of their tables with the utmost of professionalism. They quickly whisk away cutlery, heat up bisques and soups tableside and offer their expert opinions on the traditional French menu. Don’t forget to have a look at the wine list and ask for some expert tips there, as well. 139 17 Ave. S.W., 403-228-5690, lachaumiere.ca
Runner-up: Centini Restaurant & Lounge
Owner and executive chef Fabio Centini’s eponymous Italian eatery located in the middle of downtown is a standout for both its service and its food.
160 8 Ave. S.E., 403-269-1600, centini.com
Honourable Mention: Rouge
Looking for yet another reason to visit this Inglewood restaurant that has earned honours in multiple categories this year? The service is great, too.
1240 8 Ave. S.E., 403-531-2767, rougecalgary.com
BEST PLACE TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS
Winner: Sky 360
Sure, the view from Sky 360 atop the Calgary Tower is outstanding. It’s been scenic since the tower was built as a Centennial project more than 40 years ago. But now, following a thorough renovation and facelift of the dining room, chef Alain Chabot has elevated (pun intended) the cuisine to new heights. The former Il Sogno and The Belvedere chef has turned his hand to the revolving dining room and has created a crowd-pleasing menu of local and international delights. That may be enough to distract you from the view.
101 9 Ave. S.W., 403-532-7966, sky360.ca
Runner-up: River Café
A stroll onto Prince’s Island just a short trip from downtown offices is enough to convince most visitors we live in paradise. Add River Café’s food and they may never leave town.
Prince’s Island Park, 403-261-7670, river-cafe.com
Honourable Mention: The Ranche
A little history (it was William Roper Hull’s ranch house), a gorgeous park setting in Fish Creek
Provincial Park, and a gamey menu will be sure to impress folks from away.
15979 Bow Bottom Tr. S.E., 403-225-3939, crmr.com/theranche
BEST BURGER
Winner: Open Range
This swish saloon-style steak house with wood plank floors and bullhorns on the mantle of its stone fireplace has only one burger on its menu, but it is a doozy. The bison burger’s hand-formed patty comes topped with jalapeño jack cheese and sauced with ketchup and smoked paprika mayo, both made in house. The bun is baked at the Urban Baker and the double-smoked bacon — arguably the best pork product in town — comes from Regina’s at the Crossroads Market. Reservations are highly recommended and parking is tight, but prime ingredients made from scratch make it a burger worth planning for.
1114 Edmonton Tr. N.E., 403-277-3408, open-range.ca
Runner-Up: Loungeburger
Build your own burger from the selection of six buns, 14 patties, 23 sauces and 32 meat, veggie and cheese toppings at this casually sophisticated lounge across from Stampede Park.
270, 1331 Macleod Tr. S.E., 403-250-2747, loungeburger.com
Honourable Mention: Rocky’s Burger Bus
Thick, hand-formed meat patties are slapped on a bun and served out of this permanently parked bus-turned-burger joint with a constant lunchtime lineup.
1120 46 Ave. S.E., 403-243-0405
BEST TAKEOUT
Winner: Mirchi
Eat-in is possible, but with only 15 seats, your best bet is to hit up this renowned Pakistani kebab house for a quick, mouth-assaulting takeaway. Its specialty, chicken and beef kebabs, delivers a taste that is authentic, simple and surprisingly intense. And the other dishes, such as the range of vegetable and meat curries, or the daily specials from the aroma-inducing buffet, are pretty darn good, too. Conveniently located in the Beltline, it’s easy to see why the bulk of Mirchi’s business is takeout.
101, 825 12 Ave. S.W., 403-245-3663, mirchirest.com
Runner-Up: Tazza
Fresh and bold Middle Eastern cuisine that’s all made from the heart, without the use of any formally written recipes.
1105 1 Ave. N.E., 403-263-5922, tazzafresh.com
Honourable Mention: Crete Souvlaki
Fill up both your gas tank and your tummy at this authentic, old country Greek café and gas bar rolled into one.
2623 17 Ave. S.W., 403-246-4777
BEST PIZZA
Winner: Il Centro
It’s hidden in a quirky and unusual setting (a nondescript strip mall east of Chinook Centre), but just try to get in on the weekend. Fedele Ricioppo and his family build the best pizza in the city — Roman style, medium crust, with a light coating of tomato sauce and cheese, and well chosen toppings. Nothing fancy; just good all-around pizza. The rest of the food at Il Centro is no slouch, either (Try the calamari.) But don’t expect fancy. Instead expect a lively Italian party and good food at good prices — pretty much everything is under $20.
106, 6036 3 St. S.W., 403-258-2294
Runner-up: Rea’s Italian Cucina
The restaurant formerly known as Sandro has been reborn as Rea’s following a horrific fire. And the pizza — excellent crust, fine toppings and sauce — is as good as ever.
431 41 Ave. N.E., 403-230-7754
Honourable mention: Pulcinella
Domenic Tudda sticks to the soft-crusted tradition of Neapolitan pizza to make a fine, elegant pie in a setting that brings Naples to Calgary.
1147 Kensington Cres. N.W., 403-283-1166, pulcinella.ca
BEST PLACE TO TAKE KIDS
Winner: Calgary Farmers’ Market
Selecting a restaurant to take kids to can be tricky. The child-friendliest spots combine not only great food options for both parents and offspring, but dining experiences that allow for natural childhood exuberance to be channelled in socially acceptable ways. The Calgary Farmers’ Market, while not a traditional restaurant, obviously, has the best of all worlds. Fresh food from local producers, a wide enough variety of options to please the palates of kids and enough space and noise to cover any unfortunate mishaps. Throw in face painting and a bouncy castle and you’ve got a clear winner. However, be sure to get there before hunger sets in, as lineups and finding a table can be a challenge that derails even the best-laid plans.
H6, 4421 Quesnay Wood Dr. S.W., 403-244-4548, calgaryfarmersmarket.ca
Runner-up: Sushi Boat
Even finicky eaters will find something they like as dishes parade past on the boats ready to be selected and enjoyed. And watching the sushi chefs prepare the fresh food in the middle of the restaurant provides ample distraction for little ones and their adult accompaniment, alike.
806 Crowfoot Cres. N.W., 403-239-1818, sushiboat.ca
Honourable mention: Kane’s Harley Diner
If you’re thinking of burgers and fries anyway, check out the diner fare at this former Harley Davidson dealership. Decorated in full 1950s kitsch, the only downside here is your kids asking you if this is what everything looked like when you were their age.
1209 9 Ave. S.E., 403-269-7311
BEST QUICK EAT-IN MEAL
Winner: Holy Grill
It’s hard to find a good, non-chainified burger, but step into Holy Grill and you’ll be met by the scent of freshly grilled meat. Not for the vegans in the crowd, Holy Grill unashamedly fires up burgers topped with blue cheese and avocado and serves them with sweet potato chips for well under $12. Good meat grilled just for you, good bun, good toppings — good eatin’. You can also indulge in a variety of paninis and soups and still have enough time for a quick browse through Mountain Equipment Co-op just across the street before heading back to work.
827 10 Ave. S.W., 403-261-9759, holygrill.ca
Runner-Up: Flatlands Cafe
A favourite for a quick Beltline breakfast or lunch, Flatlands satisfies with fresh baking, house-roasted meats, and big quiches and omelettes.
100, 550 11 Ave. S.W., 403-265-7144, flatlandscafe.com
Honourable Mention: Kinjo Sushi & Grill
Pluck a few plates of sushi off the boat bar before sitting down and you’re eating within seconds of arrival. Keep going as fast as you’d like — lunch in 20 minutes is easy.
7101 Macleod Tr. S.W., 403-255-8998, kinjosushiandgrill.com
BEST BUFFET
Winner: The Fairmont Palliser
A piano player tickles the ivories while you stroll amongst a staggering amount of top-notch food, in a building that first opened its doors in 1914. The Sunday brunch at this grand hotel is everything you’d want in a buffet. Get a made-to-order omelette or waffle, enjoy the hand-carved meat or the full gamut of breakfast and lunch items.
However, it is more than just the sheer volume of choices that makes the Palliser’s brunch the best in the city; it is also the elegant setting and quality of each item.
133 9 Ave. S.W., 403-260-1219, fairmont.com/palliser
Runner-Up: Namskar
Monday to Friday, Namskar serves up a buffet from its 16th Avenue N.E. location that lives up to the billing of “fine East Indian cuisine.”
202 16 Ave. N.E., 403-230-4447, namskar.ca
Honourable Mention: Glory of India
Another great choice for a weekday Indian meal, this time right in the downtown core. It is always authentic, fresh and tasty.
515 4 Ave. S.W., 403-263-8804, gloryofindia.com
BEST DESSERTS
Winner: Manuel Latruwe Belgian Patisserie & Bread Shop
For pastry that is close to edible perfection, it is best to defer to the Belgians, including Manuel Latruwe. He won the prestigious International Patisserie Grand Prix before moving to Calgary to open his bakery 13 years ago. Latruwe’s signature cakes, made daily in individual or group serving sizes, combine indulgent ingredients such as dacquoise biscuits and dark chocolate, cappuccino and hazelnut mousse. Éclairs, profiteroles and brûlées can be consumed in the 32-seat patisserie or taken home. Other treats to take away include bags of melt-in-your-mouth lemon shortbread and pints of ice cream laced with subtle flavours such as chocolate from the patisserie’s neighbour, Bernard Callebaut.
1333 1 St. S.E., 403-261-1092, manuellatruwe.com
Runner-up: Nectar Desserts
Made by hand in small batches, Rebekah Pearse’s cakes, tarts and macaroons can be paired with gourmet coffees, teas or wine in the eclectic upstairs dessert bar, or taken home for later.
Upstairs, 1216 9 Ave S.E., 403-263-8486, nectardesserts.com
Honourable mention: A Ladybug Bakery and Café
In addition to their legendary lemon tarts, Belgian bakers Marie and Yves Ghesquiere create delicate pastries and made-to-order waffles using local and organic ingredients.
Calgary Farmers’ Market and 2132, 10 Aspen Stone Blvd. S.W., 403-249-5530
BEST PATIO
Winner: Bonterra Trattoria
This garden patio along the Beltline has been a top destination for alfresco dining ever since it unfurled its first umbrella 10 years ago. Oversized potted plants, trickling water fountains, grapevine-wrapped trellises and overhead beams surround diners with a relaxed Tuscan ambience. Two fireplaces and heat lamps extend the patio’s viability as long as possible (in 2009 it didn’t close until November). It’s a patio intended for languid dining. If you score one of the 62 seats — they don’t take reservations — eat your rustic Italian meal slowly, order another bottle of wine and stay for dessert.
1016 8 St. S.W., 403-262-8480, bonterra.ca
Runner-Up: Raw Bar
Pacific Rim-influenced cuisine and cocktails are served poolside at Hotel Arts to clientele dressed in everything from bikinis to business attire while they relax on lounge chairs or at umbrella-sheltered tables.
Hotel Arts, 119 12 Ave. S.W., 403-206-9565, hotelarts.ca
Honourable Mention: Alloy
Hidden in the southeast, high walls conceal this patio’s industrial location. The restaurant’s sleek whitewashed decor continues outdoors where mature trees shade the rock garden.
220 42 Ave. S.E., 403-287-9255, alloydining.com
MOST ROMANTIC RESTAURANT
Winner: Muse
Under the roof of its three-level building, there’s a playful ambiance created by the plush seating, fireplace and multicoloured lanterns in the atrium. The striped drapes even give off a subtle circus motif and the whimsy continues into executive chef Cam Dobranski and company’s imaginative takes on fine French and Canadian cuisine. For starters, instead of the requisite bread and butter basket, you’re presented with a bowl of gourmet popcorn with truffle oil. If the way to the heart is indeed through the stomach, nothing short of the nine-course chef’s tasting menu will do. To finish, share the chef’s selection of desserts for two.
107 10A St. N.W., 403-670-6873, muserestaurant.ca
Runner-Up: The Casbah
Get transported to Morocco with the music, richly coloured tapestries and dishes of sweet couscous and simmering tajines. Eat with your hands for a true sensual food experience.
720 11 Ave. S.W., 403-265-9800, casbahrestaurant.ca
Honourable Mention: Laurier Lounge
Dipping tasty morsels of bread, savoury meats and fruits in cheese and chocolate in any of Laurier’s fondues makes for a fun and intimate dinner by candlelight.
1111 7 St. S.W., 403-228-3771, laurierlounge.com
BEST OF THE MOUNTAINS
Winner: Post Hotel
We love the lodgy setting of the Post Hotel at Lake Louise, the log dining room and the uncompromising quality that owners George and André Schwarz insist upon in their hotel. Whether you’re having a simple soup-and-sandwich lunch or a blowout dinner, you’ll be afforded the best food and the best service possible. And if you’re a wine aficionado, delve as deep as you want into one of the finest collections in the country. More than 2,200 labels are available here (more than 32,500 bottles), so you should be able to find something you’ll like.
200 Pipestone Rd., Lake Louise, 403-522-3989, posthotel.com
Runner-up: Crazyweed Kitchen
Chef Jan Hrabec’s food — steamed black Alaskan cod, duck confit with dried cherries, beef holubtsis in roasted tomato sauce — is simply inspired and inspiring at this Canmore destination.
1600 Railway Ave., Canmore, 403-609-2530, crazyweed.ca
Honourable Mention: The Bison
Creative Rocky Mountain comfort food — plus a great view — comes from the kitchen at Banff’s The Bison. Upstairs is more elaborate; downstairs is the funky hangout.
211 Bear St., Banff, 403-762-5550, thebison.ca
BEST COCKTAILS
Winner: The Oak Room at the Fairmont Palliser
This hotel bar’s refusal to compromise service and quality of ingredients elevates the experience of “going for drinks” to the esteem it deserves. There are no prefab mixes — ginger for your Moscow Mule is pureed to order, and the cucumber for your pomegranate and cucumber mojito is hand-pressed. Vintage libations such as the 9th Avenue Caesar and house favourites such as The Akroyd are on the menu along with premium spirits, an impressive selection of alcohol-free options and an extensive wine list. The Oak Room is an egalitarian watering hole, where if the oak-panelled walls could talk they’d have nearly 100 years of stories to tell.
133 9 Ave. S.W., 403-260-1219, fairmont.com/palliser
Runner-Up: Raw Bar
Its bar bible changes regularly to include seasonal ingredients. Cocktails here are made using in-house prepared ingredients in surprisingly delicious combinations such as its classic martini with plum and clove jelly.
Hotel Arts, 119 12 Ave. S.W., 403-206-9565, hotelarts.ca
Honourable Mention: Milk Tiger Lounge
A throwback to the mid-century glory days of meeting for drinks, classic cocktails such as Harvey Wallbangers and Pimm’s Cups are served at this sophisticated, but unpretentious lounge.
1410 4 St. S.W., 403-261-5009, milktigerlounge.com
BEST VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT
Winner: The Coup
This small, funky eatery proves vegetarian doesn’t have to mean “hippy hangout.” Instead, the place comes off as a cool restaurant that just happens to serve vegetarian grub. And damn good vegetarian grub, at that. Both vegans and carnivores keep coming back for the tasty selection of salads, quesadillas and noodle bowls, all made from scratch with local and organic ingredients. Highlights are the peanut satay dragon rice bowl, el taco and warm goat cheese spread appetizer. With the addition of its lounge counterpart, Meet, last year, The Coup’s martinis and cocktails also make this a great late-night hangout.
924 17 Ave. S.W., 403-541-1041, thecoup.ca
Runner-Up: Gratitude Café
With its thin-crust pizza, stir-fries, stuffed burritos, sandwiches, organic wines and Raw Food Fridays, Kensington’s Gratitude isn’t your typical granola eatery.
101, 227 10 St. N.W., 403-984-4433, gratitudecafe.ca
Honourable Mention: Buddha’s Veggie
Who knew wheat gluten could be so yummy? The Asian classics like shark fin soup and spicy dry ribs are all meatless, but taste amazingly like the real deal.
5802 Macleod Tr. S.W., 403-252-8830, buddhasveggie.com
BEST LATE-NIGHT DINING
Winner: Jaroblue
The interior of Jaroblue is everything a late-night dining spot should be — plush, dark, cozy and accommodating. When most people are at home getting ready for bed, this stylish tapas bar and lounge on 17th Avenue S.W. is just filling up with beautiful people basking in the hue of flattering lighting. Whether you’re after a meal or simply a snack or dessert, the menu will surely satisfy — as will the wine list, creative cocktails and martinis. A perfect date spot or for an evening out with friends, food orders are taken until 11:45 p.m. on Friday and Saturdays, and ’til 10:45 p.m. Sunday to Thursday.
1314 17 Ave. S.W., 403-237-5276, jaroblue.com
Runner-Up: The Living Room
From the menu to the service to the interior, The Living Room is all luxury and elegance for the sophisticated late-night dining set.
514 17 Ave. S.W., 403-228-9830, livingroomrestaurant.ca
Honourable Mention: Golden Inn
Some of the best Cantonese dishes in town. Fresh ingredients, generous portions, all served until 2 a.m. on weeknights in the heart of Chinatown. What’s not to like?
107A 2 Ave. S.E., 403-269-2211
BEST APPETIZER OR TAPAS
Winner: Jaroblue
The plates may be small, but the flavours are expansive at Jaroblue with its creative dishes that are at once comforting in their richness and surprising in their originality. The dishes range from $8 to $15, and the menu offers a nicely balanced complement of vegetarian, seafood and carnivorous options. Start with the wine-poached pear salad with walnuts and blue cheese and spicy Szechuan sweet peas, which are a delight. Move on to meatier options like grilled lamb chops with sweet potato pave and saskatoon berry jelly and seared beef tenderloin with potato rösti and ginger demi glaze. Or go for the sharing platter and let chef Jonas Hamre decide for you. He won’t disappoint.
1314 17 Ave. S.W., 403-237-5276, jaroblue.com
Runner-Up: AKA Winebar
The lamb-stuffed olives at AKA Winebar are a pure delight, and it doesn’t stop there. The lamb ribs, the flatbreads, the pork belly, the frites — even the greens are delicious.
709 Edmonton Tr. N.E., 403-984-7534
Honourable Mention: Vin Room
Comfort food with sophisticated flair is the perfect pairing for the wonderful wine list at Vin Room.
2310 4 St. S.W., 403-457-5522, vinroom.com
BEST STEAK
Winner: LeVilla
Alberta is synonymous with good beef, so there was no shortage of contenders in this category. However, in the end, LeVilla came out on top. Located in West Market Square this fine-dining restaurant serves up AAA Alberta beef in a variety of cuts including tenderloin, strip loin and rib-eye. You can also try out specialty creations like the 10-oz New York strip loin steak Neptune, or the pan-seared aged Stilton steak made with a 6-oz tenderloin filet.
404, 1851 Sirocco Dr. S.W., 403-217-9699, levilla.ca
Runner-Up: Open Range
Head up Edmonton Trail and you’ll find a tasty spin on the traditional steakhouse from the creators of Diner Deluxe, Big Fish and the Vue Café.
1114 Edmonton Tr. N.E., 403-277-3408, open-range.ca
Honourable Mention: Caesar’s Steakhouse & Lounge
With its classic steakhouse decor and menu, Ceasar’s serves up great steaks, something it’s been doing since it opened in 1972.
512 4 Ave. S.W., 403-264-1222, and 110, 10816 Macleod Tr. S.E., 403-278-3930, caesarssteakhouse.com
BEST SEAFOOD
Winner: Catch
Arguably, Catch is restaurant guru Michael Noble’s greatest achievement in Calgary. For us landlocked Calgarians, his oyster bar and fine-dining seafood establishment cemented the fact we’re not just about Alberta beef. Lobsters from Nova Scotia, crabs from British Columbia and more than a dozen varieties of fresh oysters are flown in daily, and then executive chef Hayato Okamitsu works his culinary magic. Not-to-miss are the wonton crusted tempura prawns and award-winning lobster miso bisque. During the warmer months, hit up the patio on Stephen Avenue and bask in the sun while you enjoy the immaculately prepared food.
100 8 Ave. S.E., 403-206-0000, catchrestaurant.ca
Runner-Up: Raw Bar
Sophisticated Pacific Rim-style cuisine such as the tuna tataki and platter allows the seafood flavours to shine rather than be masked under overpowering sauces and spices.
Hotel Arts, 119 12 Ave. S.W., 403-205-9565, hotelarts.ca
Honourable Mention: Big Fish
Dwayne Ennest does up his seafood the unpretentious way: inventive, but hearty, and packed with flavour whether it’s a dill Dijon-crusted ruby trout or Asian-style sole hot pot.
403-277-3403, big-fish.ca
BEST OF THE FOOTHILLS
Winner: Route 40 Soup Company
Route 40 is known for soups such as the roasted carrot and ginger and chili. (Try the Kananaskis stinging nettle soup come spring — it’ll tingle your tonsils.) But everything else we’ve had on husband and wife Mark and Lanny Klaudt’s flavour-packing menu has been stellar, too. The smoked pork shank and bacon ravioli, the bison and mushroom meatballs served on scallion potato cakes display the best of local ingredients worked into global preparations. The food is always fresh and lively, the service is charming and the setting is foothills classic.
146 Main St., Turner Valley, 403-933-7676, route40.ca
Runner-Up: The Bavarian Inn Restaurant
For sophisticated Rocky Mountain cuisine and fine service in a spruce-shrouded, Black Forest setting, Charlie and Pam Holschuh’s Bavarian Inn is a winner.
75 White Ave., Bragg Creek, 403-949-3611, thebavarianinn.com
Honourable Mention: Wild Horse Bistro
Sisters Jessie and Amy Smulders offer beautifully flavoured “contemporary Albertan” cuisine such as a Driview lamb burger, gingerbread pear cobbler and vegetable risotto, all in a simple setting.
126 Centre Ave., Black Diamond, 403-933-5800, wildhorsebistro.ca
BEST COFFEE
Winner: Bumpy’s Café
A hand’s-down winner among readers and our panel of judges, Bumpy’s serves delicious, locally roasted coffee, lattes and cappuccinos in a friendly, retro-styled café. A decent selection of black, green and herbal teas, as well as exotic rooibos and maté teas, are also available, but with high-end coffee like this, it’s almost a sin not to go with the joe. The freshly baked homestyle muffins and scones, not to mention the breakfast paninis, which are straight up awesome, can easily create an early morning lineup. And the wait is well worth it.
1040 8 St. S.W., 403-265-0244, bumpyscafe.com
Runner-Up: Kawa Espresso Bar
Rich and intense coffee is served up at Kawa in an elegant atmosphere that features wraparound windows, two chandeliers and a cozy fireplace.
101, 1333 8 St. S.W., 403-452-5233, kawacalgary.ca
Honourable Mention: Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters
This Calgary Farmers’ Market staple can easily sell 1,100 cups of its famous, single roasted bean java on a Saturday. And now it’s got a Marda Loop location to boot.
Calgary Farmers’ Market and 2043 33 Ave. S.W., 403-612-1221, philsebastian.com
BEST LOCAL CUISINE
Winner: The Ranche
As part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Resorts family, The Ranche serves nothing short of locally raised quality meats, fresh greens and veggies from local producers that have become the standard at its various resorts and restaurants. An actual ranch that lies just southwest of Calgary provides the restaurant with its elk and buffalo for dishes like the bison strip loin and elk rib-eye in sage butter and pink peppercorn cream sauce. The restaurant itself, a 19th century ranch house secluded in Fish Creek Provincial Park, is the perfect backdrop for the food. Make sure to allow some time post- or pre-meal to wander the grounds.
15979 Bow Bottom Tr. S.E., 403-225-3939, crmr.com/theranche
Runner-Up: River Café
This long-time champion of local, organic and free-range ingredients ensures heirloom fruits and veggies and prime cuts of Alberta beef and game are always on the menu.
Prince’s Island Park, 403-261-7670, river-cafe.com
Honourable Mention: Rouge
It doesn’t get any more fresh than chefs picking vegetables from the garden behind the restaurant. Rich, flavourful dishes like the Alberta lamb T-bone also showcase local producers.
1240 8 Ave. S.E., 403-531-2767, rougecalgary.com
BEST WINE LIST
Winner: Vin Room
At any given time more than 64 wines are available by the glass at Vin Room thanks to eight Enomatic wine machines. From inexpensive sippers to big and pricy vintages, it’s a fascinating list that ranges from well-known grapes to rare finds. This is the place to try a Verdelho or a Roussanne, indulge in an ounce or two of well-aged Bordeaux, or even knock back a flute of bubbly. Choose the lively main floor room, the quieter upstairs quarters or the sunny deck. And make sure to have some of chef Kai Salimaki’s food; it works perfectly with the wine.
2310 4 St. S.W., 403-457-5522, vinroom.com
Runner-Up: La Chaumière
It’s deep, classic, satisfying and amazingly well-priced. The cellar at La Chaumière has been built intelligently over more than 30 years and it seems to go on forever.
139 17 Ave. S.W., 403-228-5690, lachaumiere.ca
Honourable Mention: Thai Sa-On
The Thai food is great here, but the wine list is truly jaw-dropping. And it somehow goes quite well with the food.
351 10 Ave. S.W., 403-264-3526, thai-sa-on.com
Judges’ Recommendations
In any best-of selection there are bound to be a few fine restaurants that for whatever reason didn’t fit the criteria. Several restaurants were mentioned repeatedly by our readers and judges alike, but didn’t top a category. So we thought we’d add a category of those gems here.
Brava Bistro
Executive chef Kevin Turner’s New World Mediterranean cuisine infuses flavour into every dish. Brava is also a comfortable and casual retreat on 17th Avenue S.W.
723 17 Ave. S.W., 403-228-1854, bravabistro.com
Chef’s Table
This excellent restaurant at the Kensington Riverside Inn consistently serves fine contemporary French cuisine with wines and service to back it up.
1126 Memorial Dr. N.W., 403-228-4442, kensingtonriversideinn.com
Cilantro
After more than 20 years, and still going strong, Cilantro continues to impress with its Californian-Southwestern cuisine and fine patio.
338 17 Ave. S.W., 403-229-1177, crmr.com/cilantro
Il Gallo Nero
Seems a lot of our forgotten faves are Italian, as is Il Gallo Nero. It could have been a Best-Kept Secret, or even a Best Pizza.
211 17 Ave. S.E., 403-237-9077, ilgallonerocalgary.com
Il Sogno
The inspired Italian cuisine of Il Sogno just gets better and better with time. How could we leave out one of the best restaurants in the city?
24 4 St. N.E., 403-232-8901, ilsogno.org
Jonas’ Restaurant
Jonas’ would have been a Best-Kept Secret if its great Hungarian cuisine hadn’t made it so popular over the past few years.
937 6 Ave. S.W., 403-262-3302, jonasrestaurant.homestead.com
Olives
The creative Italian and Mediterranean food of head chef Johnathan Canning, plus the sleek across-from-the-Stampede setting of Olives, is worthy of note, too.
1129 Olympic Way S.E., 403-984-5000, olivesrestaurant.ca
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