10 Best Restaurants for a First Date

These places can at least get you off to a good start if you’re heading on a first date.

NTNL Bowl.
NTNL Bowl. Photography by Jared Sych.

Candela

The great thing about this stylish space is that if your date turns out to be a picky eater, one of Candela’s many small plates is sure to appeal.

1919 4 St. S.W., 403-719-0049, candelalounge.com

Extreme Bean

This casual coffee shop is a great spot to grab a hot chocolate or a London fog before strolling along the river paths.

3303 3 Ave. N.W., 403-283-6820, extremebean.ca

Farm

Farm’s cozy atmosphere lends itself to intimate conversation, and the top-notch charcuterie makes for good nibbling while getting to know someone new.

1006 17 Ave. S.W., 403-245-2276, farm-restaurant.com

LDV Pizza Bar

It’s a no-brainer that pizza is great for sharing, so try this often-overlooked second-storey restaurant in Bridgeland. LDV is not as packed as other pizza hot spots in town, so you’ll feel neither crowded nor rushed.

916 1 Ave. N.E., 403-263-5999, ldvpizzabar.com

Local on 8th Avenue

For anyone working downtown, this is a perfect spot for an after-work first meeting. The food is consistent and the lighting is kind for making first impressions.

310 8 Ave. S.W., 403-264-7808, localon8thave.com

NTNL Bowl

Bowling for an hour or so and enjoying a cocktail and some tacos while getting to know someone helps take the edge off.

341 10 Ave. S.W., 403-474-2739, ntnl.ca

Oak Tree Tavern

Pubs can be rowdy, but Oak Tree’s small size keeps it calm and casual, which is generally preferable when you’re sitting down to meet someone for the first time.

124 10 St. N.W., 403-270-3347, oaktreetavern.com

Vendome Cafe

The advantage at this coffee shop/restaurant is that if it’s a coffee date, you’re covered, and if it’s wine and a casual bite, you’re covered, too.

940 2 Ave. N.W., 403-453-1140, vendomecafe.com

Winebar Kensington

There’s something about the dimly lit, comfy restaurant that just oozes first date. Share a couple of glasses of wine at the bar while watching the chef prepare your sharing plates.

1131 Kensington Rd. N.W., 403-457-1144, winebarkensington.com

Yellow Door Bistro

If it’s just a drink and a chat, the bar fits the bill just fine, but if you think you need to do some heavy-duty impressing, request a booth for a more elegant feel.

119 12 Ave. S.W., 403-206-9585, yellowdoorbistro.ca

Get a weekly serving of suggestions for how to experience Calgary's restaurants, bars and markets by signing up for Avenue’s Food & Drink Newsletter.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Privacy Policy

Privacy & Cookies Policy
Avenue Calgary