Avec Bistro Braised Short Rib
What better way to warm your bones than to enjoy something that’s fall-off-the-bone? Go for Avec’s variation on short rib with red wine jus, toasted barley and crispy garlic chips. (550 11 Ave. S.W., 587-352-0964)
Big T’s BBQ and Smokehouse Pulled Pork Sandwich
Keep things classic at this popular barbecue joint with a slightly messy but always delicious pulled pork sandwich, slathered in any of the house-made sauces. (2138 Crowchild Tr. N.W., 403-284-5959, bigtsbbq.com)
Carino Red Wine Braised Eel
Though eel is probably not the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks of braising, Carino’s unusual take on fusion (Japanese/Italian) with braised daikon and eel on a parsnip puree with seared foie gras is excellent. (709 Edmonton Tr. N.E., 403-984-7534)
Cucina Driview Farm Lamb Stew
Slow-cooked lamb and rosemary dumplings sit on top of a soft, creamy polenta at this cozy little bistro on Stephen Avenue. (515 8 Ave. S.W., 587-353-6565, eatcucina.com, @eatcucina)
Laurier Lounge Beef Bourguignon
This labour of love dish has tender chunks of beef, pancetta and lots of root vegetables in a rich, red wine sauce. (1111 7 St. S.W., 403-228-3771, laurierlounge.com, @laurierlounge)
Yellow Door Bistro Braised Olsen Farms Bison Short Rib
With braised cabbage, mushrooms and crispy potato croquette, this plate of short ribs, finished with bison jus is just the thing to have on a cold evening. (119 12 Ave. S.W., 403-206-9585, yellowdoorbistro.ca, @yellowdooryyc)