Although it’s technically spring, is still feels mighty wintery out there. At least you can take comfort in these seven great dishes, which will help you forget your weather frustrations until this damn snow melts away.
Borgo Linguine
Nothing hits the spot quite like a big bowl of pasta. Chef Giuseppe’s fresh linguine with a basil cream sauce and juicy prawns is always a great choice to serve when you and your date are looking to warm up over dinner. (818 16 Ave. S.W., 403-245-2202, borgo.ca, @borgotrattoria)
Cassis Bistro Croque Madame
It’s hard to lose with a combination of ham, fried egg and rich bechamel sauce on a warm slice of toast. We say bechamel is to cold weather what chicken noodle soup is to a cold. (2505 17 Ave. S.W., 403-262-0036, thecassisbistro.ca, @cassisbistro)
Catch Clam Chowder
Whether it’s a rainy day or a snowy day, nothing can warm you up like a big bowl of New England-style chowder. Get an order of fish ‘n’ chips here too and after a few bites, you won’t even care what the weather’s like outside. (100 8 Ave. S.E., 403-206-0000, catchrestaurant.ca, @catchcalgary)
Cucina Rotisserie Free Range Chicken
Not only does Cucina’s chicken dish with roast oregano potatoes, root vegetables and arugula salad hit the spot in the restaurant, but you can also purchase a tender, whole roast chicken to take home and enjoy. Those grocery store roast chickens will never taste the same again. (515 8 Ave. S.W., 587-353-6565, eatcucina.com, @eatcucina)
Diner Deluxe The Grilled Cheese
Sylvan Star gouda, oka and aged cheddar is sandwiched between fresh slices of rosemary sourdough and grilled. Adding some spicy chorizo or homemade chili into the mix is definitly a recipe for a crispy, messy, but delicious meal. (804 Edmonton Tr. N.E., 403-276-5499, dinerdeluxe.com, @diner_deluxe)
FARM Janice’s Mac ‘n’ Cheese
One of the ultimate comfort foods, this bowl of hot, gooey pasta is made up of Farm’s secret combination of specialty cheeses and spices. Add some tender Broek Acres pulled pork to kick it up a notch. (1006 17 Ave. S.W., 403-245-2276, farm-restaurant.com)
Model Milk Maple Hill Fried Chicken
Unless you’re really feeling down about the weather, this dish is meant for two. A large helping of crispy fried chicken served with fresh waffles, maple syrup, rich chicken gravy and greens is about as deliciously southern as you can get in Calgary. (308 17 Ave. S.W., 403-265-7343, modelmilk.ca, @modelmilkbistro)