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Calgary food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Calgary.
Photo by @withlovefromchile on Unsplash
What to eat in Calgary
5 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Alberta Beef Steak
$35–$75
Calgary is situated in the heart of cattle country, so a perfectly cooked Alberta beef steak is a must. Look for cuts like ribeye or strip loin, often grilled to perfection and served with classic steakhouse sides.
Where to try: The Guild or Vintage Chophouse
Donair
$10–$18
While originating in Halifax, Calgary has embraced the donair, a late-night staple. It's a pita wrap filled with spiced, slow-roasted beef, garlic sauce, tomatoes, and onions – a messy but delicious experience.
Where to try: Una Pizza + Wine (for a gourmet take) or local late-night joints in Kensington
Saskatoon Berry Pie
$6–$12
These small, dark purple berries native to the Canadian prairies offer a unique, slightly nutty, and sweet-tart flavor. A slice of Saskatoon berry pie, often served warm with ice cream, is a taste of the Canadian West.
Where to try: Cranberries Sweet Cafe or farmers' markets like Calgary Farmers' Market
Bison Burger
$15–$25
Experience lean and flavorful bison, a more sustainable and local alternative to beef. A well-made bison burger offers a rich, slightly gamy taste that's distinct and satisfying.
Where to try: Native Tongues Taqueria or The Nash
Ginger Beef
$18–$30
A Calgary invention! This dish features crispy fried beef strips tossed in a sweet and spicy ginger-garlic sauce, a unique Canadian-Chinese fusion that's become a local favorite.
Where to try: Silver Dragon Restaurant or Parkway Restaurant
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Inglewood
Historic and bohemian, with a mix of independent boutiques, craft breweries, and diverse eateries.
craft beercasual dininglive music
Kensington
Trendy and bustling, known for its vibrant street life, independent shops, and a wide array of global cuisines.
global cuisinepeople-watchinglate-night bites
Stephen Avenue (8th Ave SW)
Downtown's historic pedestrian mall, offering upscale dining, pubs, and cafes in beautifully restored buildings.
upscale diningbusiness luncheshistoric architecture
Beltline
A dynamic and rapidly evolving area with a concentration of trendy restaurants, cocktail bars, and hidden gems.
cocktail barsnew restaurantsurban exploration
Dietary notes
Calgary's food scene is increasingly accommodating to dietary needs. While many traditional dishes are meat-centric, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are readily available, especially in newer restaurants and those focusing on international cuisines.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping is customary in restaurants, typically 15-20% for good service.
- •Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
- •Calgarians generally dress smart-casual for most dining experiences, though upscale establishments may have a stricter dress code.
- •It's common to see people enjoying coffee breaks throughout the day and beers after work.
- •While card payment is widespread, carrying some cash can be useful for smaller vendors or farmers' markets.
Plan the rest of your Calgary trip
Food guides elsewhere