No. 1
Major Tom
Reservations book up months in advance for this downtown restaurant, and it’s not hard to see why. At 40 floors above Stephen Avenue, Major Tom offer spectacular views of the city during the day and evening. Have your pick of hors d’oeuvres like the potato doughnuts or the crab and shrimp roll before trying the restaurant’s beef program, which features Benchmark Angus, Alberta Prime and Wagyu beef.
40th Floor, 700 2 St. S.W., 403-990-3954 (text only), majortombar.ca, @themajortombar
Runners-up
River Café
River Café has been a Calgary staple for over three decades. While the restaurant’s dining room offers a cozy dining option year-round, the patio overlooking Prince’s Island Park provides a beautiful dining experience in the spring and summer. No matter when you visit, beautifully plated seasonal dishes made with local ingredients await.
Prince’s Island Park, 403-261-7670, river-cafe.com, @rivercafeyyc
Teatro Ristorante
Teatro’s team of passionate chefs are masters at bringing the flavours of Italy to your plate. The serving staff are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, and wine stewards are ready to recommend perfect pairings from the award-winning wine cellar. For the full Teatro experience, try the chef’s tasting menu for an indulgent, five-course meal to experience with your whole table.
200 8 Ave. S.E., 403-290-1012, teatro.ca, @teatrorestaurant
Klein / Harris
Led by executive chef James Waters, the Klein/Harris menu celebrates Canadian cuisine, from the West Coast to the Maritimes. The restaurant’s relaxing atmosphere is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Stephen Avenue, whether it’s for a plate of Alberta lamb loin or a delicious cocktail like the K/H Caesar.
110 8 Ave. S.W., 403-262-8100, kleinharris.com, @klnharris
Veg-In YYC
Veg-In YYC takes a healthy and simple approach to its plant-based fare, which features a mix of Indian and Western flavours. The downtown eatery serves up samosas, kebabs, bowls and more without skimping out on portion sizes. Spices, sauces and other retail items are available for purchase as well.
215 6 Ave. S.E., 587-351-5253, veginyyc.com, @veginyyc