Winner – River Café
For 30 years, River Café has celebrated sustainable Canadian cuisine with a menu of seasonal dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients and an exquisite wine list. The sprawling natural landscape of Prince’s Island Park and the nearby Bow River have made River Café a sought-out spot for both large events (when restrictions allow) and intimate meals.
25 Prince’s Island, 403-261-7670, river-cafe.com, @rivercafeyyc
2nd – Mercato
This family-owned-and-operated restaurant has been serving authentic Italian cuisine since 1974. Mercato’s wide, arched windows complement the lively and spirited dining space, which has an open concept kitchen and bar and long communal tables for friends to break bread over.
2224 4 St. S.W., 403-263-5535, mercatogourmet.com, @mercato_mission
3rd – Teatro
Teatro’s home in the historic 1911 Dominion Bank Building near the theatre district makes it perfect for a special night out with your closest friends (when restrictions allow). The restaurant’s dramatic high ceilings, award-winning wine cellar (located in an authentic bank vault) and Mediterranean-inspired menu all contribute to a memorable dining experience.
200 8 Ave. S.E., 403-290-1012, teatro.ca, @teatrorestaurant
4th – The Nash and Off Cut Bar
The Nash’s bright dining room and the Off Cut Bar’s contrasting dark interior both showcase the National Hotel’s storied past. Enjoy comforting wood-fired rotisserie chicken and cocktails amidst a blend of modern design and historical decor, like the hand-painted Town of Calgary map on the walls of The Nash or the prohibition era mug shots of Calgary convicts framed inside the Off Cut Bar.
925 11 St. S.E., 403-984-3365, thenashyyc.com, @thenashyyc
5th – Alloy
Alloy’s clean and sophisticated dining room strikes just the right tone for an upscale, celebratory occasion. The restaurant’s curated wine and cocktail lists pair well with its innovative menu, which is influenced by Mediterranean, Latin and Asian cuisines.
220 42 Ave. S.E., 403-287-9255, alloydining.com, @alloydining
6th – Rouge
Upon arrival at Rouge, you’ll be greeted by the historic Cross House’s beautiful red exterior and a view of the restaurant’s backyard garden. The picturesque setting in Calgary’s oldest neighbourhood is mirrored by a charming interior and exceptional service.
1240 8 Ave. S.E., 403-531-2767, rougecalgary.com, @rougerestaurant
7th – The Lake House
Overlooking Lake Bonavista, The Lake House provides breathtaking views year-round with large windows that let plenty of natural light into the spacious dining room and across a refurbished 21-foot-long bar from the 1800s. The restaurant is known for its “rustic elegance” — you can’t miss the elk antler chandeliers or grand fireplace — and serves western Canadian fare.
747 Lake Bonavista Dr. S.E., 403-225-3939, lakehousecalgary.com, @thelakehouseyyc
8th – Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant
Located in the historic 1896 Ranche house, Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant offers a truly picturesque experience in the heart of Fish Creek Park. Local, fresh vegetables (grown on-site in the herb and vegetable garden) are a menu staple and are part of what makes the elevated fare here so special.
15979 Bow Bottom Tr. S.E., 403-476-1310, bvrrestaurant.com, @bowvalleyrancherestaurant
9th – Flores & Pine
One of Avenue‘s best new restaurants in 2020, Flores & Pine’s bright and contemporary design is part of what makes this such a beautiful location for a girls’ night out, family dinner, wedding or any special occasion (when restriction allow it). Celebrate over a delicious meal in the main dining room or look into Flores & Pine’s dedicated private event spaces.
254028 Bearspaw Rd., 403-241-7611, floresandpine.com, @floresandpine
10th – Hy’s Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar
Hy’s Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar has been a fixture of Calgary’s culinary scene for over 65 years. Intimate lighting, a richly coloured interior with dark decor and an emphasis on professional service make this restaurant a must-try for your next memorable occasion.
8th Avenue and 3rd Street S.W. (The Core Shopping Centre), 403-663-3363, hyssteakhouse.com, @hyssteakhouse