Winner
Fuji Ramen and Sushi
Between the colourful decor and varied menu, Fuji Ramen and Sushi offers an inviting place to gather for Japanese cuisine. At this family-owned restaurant, ramen and sushi are the go-to orders, but the restaurant also has dishes like karaage, takoyaki and tempura that are equally noteworthy. At lunchtime, Fuji also offers bento boxes for adults and kids that include a little bit of everything for a reasonable price.
111, 12100 Macleod Tr. S.E., 587-352-5595, fujiramenandsushi.com, @fujiramenandsushi
Runners-up
Chairman’s Steakhouse
Situated on Lake Mahogany, Chairman’s Steakhouse offers beautiful views of the Mahogany neighbourhood and the water — in the summer, the lakeside patio is a particularly great place to dine. The restaurant is inspired by the glitz of the Old Hollywood era and offers its own spin on a classic steakhouse menu with half racks of Alberta lamb, steaks like the Brant Lake Wagyu tomahawk chop, chicken fried oysters Rockefeller and more.
2251 Mahogany Blvd. S.E., 587-291-9898, chairmans.ca, @chairmansyyc
Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant
Located in a historic house with a picturesque wrap-around veranda in Fish Creek Provincial Park, Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant offers a memorable dining experience. The menu, which focuses on Canadian cuisine, includes masterfully cooked game meats and local produce. Guests can also enjoy special weekend offerings like afternoon tea at the restaurant or head to the nearby Annie’s Cafe (open in the spring) for ice cream after their meal.
15979 Bow Bottom Tr. S.E., 403-476-1310, bvrrestaurant.com, @bowvalleyrancherestaurant
The Lake House
Perched along the shores of Lake Bonavista, The Lake House’s dining room is surrounded by windows that offer lake views. The elegant menu features appetizers like a roasted winter squash medley or locally produced charcuteries, as well as mains like duck breast from Brome Lake or a duo of elk rump and corned elk brisket.
747 Lake Bonavista Dr. S.E., 403-225-3939, lakehousecalgary.com, @thelakehouseyyc
Starbelly
This Seton restaurant promises a cozy and casual dining experience. The open kitchen in the middle of the restaurant serves up an impressive selection of dishes, with options like bourbon-glazed pork belly, Alberta pork chops, miso black cod and more hearty fare made with local and seasonal ingredients.
220, 19489 Seton Cres. S.E., 403-570-0133, starbelly.ca, @starbellyyyc