If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary this week, try one of these six unique dishes that play to your curiousity as well as your appetite.
Anju Crispy Tofu
Are large chunks of tofu a huge selling feature for you? Probably not but these panko-crusted pieces of goodness topped with sauted kimchi and lemon aioli are a surprising highlight of a dinner here. (507 10 St. S.W., 403-532-9419, anju.ca, @AnjuRestaurant)
Big T’s BBQ Deep-fried Pickles
Big, briney pickle spears are battered in cornmeal and Southern spices, fried up and served with a creole dipping sauce. It’s true what they say – you haven’t lived until you’ve had a deep-fried pickle. (2138 Crowchild Tr. N.W., 403-284-5959, bigtsbbq.com)
Carino Bistro Mentaiko Pasta
When you think spaghetti, pollock roe, shellfish and dried seaweek probably don’t come to mind. Having said that, Carino’s take on fusion cuisine resulted in a slightly perplexing but tasty meal experience. (709 Edmonton Tr. N.E., 403-984-7534, carinobistro.ca, @carinobistro)
CHARCUT Bone Marrow and Escargot au Gratin
This marrow bone is full of snails, topped with bread crumbs, roasted and then served piping hot. It tastes better than butter on toast any day of the week. (899 Centre St. S., 403-984-2180, charcut.com, @CHARCUT)
Cucina Beef Heart Tartare
Silver Sage beef heart, free run egg yolk, Brassica mustard, capers and a touch of balsamic is the way to the adventurous diner’s heart. If you’re going try adding some heart to your diet this week, this is definitely a good start. (515 8 Ave. S.W., 587-353-6565, eatcucina.com, @EatCucina)
NOtaBLE Stilton Cheesecake
Throwing any kind of blue cheese into a dessert can be dangerous, but chef Michael Noble’s cheesecake finds the perfect balance of blue, tangy and sweet, accompanied by a rhubarb compote. (4611 Bowness Rd. N.W., 403-288-4372, notabletherestaurant.ca, @notablecalgary)