Sometimes, it’s nice to be able to rely on the classics. Whether it’s a no-fail diner exerience on Blackfoot Trail or cozying up for a meal next to one of the grand fireplaces in the Fairmont Palliser, here are seven places where you can dine old school this week.
Blackfoot Truckstop Diner
If you’ve never been here, firstly, shame on you. Secondly, there’s a lot to love about this place. From the toy train that makes circles around the ceiling to mile-high meringue pies, you are always guaranteed a good time here.
(1840 9 Ave. S.E., 403-265-5964)
Caesar’s
Leave the vegetarians at home for this one. This grandfather of Calgary steakhouses is meat, meat and more meat. Let’s be honest here. When was the last time you had a steak Neptune (filet mignon, shrimp and asparagus covered in bearnaise sauce)? Go on, you deserve it.
(512 4 Ave. S.W., 403-264-1222, caesarssteakhouse.com, @CaesarsSteak)
La Chaumiere
There are croquettes, escargot and white tablecloths as far as the eye can see in this Calgary institution of French fine dining. The menu is almost defiantly traditional, and the high quality of service you receive here is definitely a rarity in our city.
(139 17 Ave. S.W., 403-228-5690, lachaumiere.ca)
Nick’s Steakhouse
Ah, Nick’s. The aroma of garlic happily wafts through this something-for-everyone establishment on Crowchild Trail. If ordering the classic lasagna doesn’t warm you up on a cold autumn night, then nothing will.
(2430 Crowchild Tr. N.W., 403-282-9278, nickssteakandpizza.com)
The Rimrock
There’s a whole lot of history in this fine dining restaurant inside the Fairmont Palliser downtown. Grab a table by the back fireplace where, rumour has it, many notable Alberta politicians of days past sat and enjoyed their dinners with fellow dignitaries. (133 9 Ave. S.W., 403-262-1234, fairmont.com/palliser-calgary, @fairmont_pal)
Smuggler’s Inn
Bacon-wrapped scallops and crab-stuffed mushroom caps are just a couple of the, shall we say “vintage,” but comforting options here. Move onto some prime rib with a double-stuffed potato on the side. Don’t mind if I do! (6920 Macleod Tr. S., 403-253-5355, smugglers.ca, @smuggsinn)
Spiros Pizza
You’ll find this long-standing Greek eatery on south 17th Avenue. Of course, they dish out souvlaki and other Mediterrean classics, but the real winner here is the pizza. Thick crust with tons of topping and cheese. What more could you ask for? (1902 33 St. S.W., 403-685-4444, spirospizza.ca)