Introduction

We hope you enjoy our selection of carefully chosen restaurants, pubs and nightspots. They are presented to help you decide on your dining and nightlife pleasures. We feel the businesses we have selected represent a good cross-section of the best that Calgary, Canmore & Banff have to offer. We can also be found online at www.calgarybanff.com.

This guide can be used in several ways:

• The green pages cover Calgary, as do the green maps; the pink pages & map C cover Canmore, and the blue pages & map B are for Banff.
• If you know which part of town you are looking in turn to the appropriate map and find a location by number, then look in the guide for the matching number; they start at 1 and go in numerical order, with a letter to identify the map.
• If you see an ad that looks interesting note the number to find it on the map, and look in the alphabetical reviews to read our description of it.
• Finally if you read a review that intrigues you, use the number to find the ad and the location. The establishments are identified with $, $$ & $$$ to indicate relative costs of their menus, ranging from under $12 to over $25 per entrée.

Your reviewers are Joel Gelfand, Connie Pocasangre & Fred Holliss.

We are happy to make this available to you, and hope you find it useful and interesting.

— Joel Gelfand, President, Collage-Ad, June 2006

Calgary Reviews

The Belvedere From the custom furniture and the plush draperies to the chic New York style cocktail lounge, this restaurant seems timeless. They never cease to amaze with their originality and flare for haute cuisine. Chef Alain Chabot now heads the kitchen and the cuisine has never been better. Rooted in French contemporary gastronomy with a global flair, and using only the freshest ingredients, the Chef’s new menu presents wonderful starters including seared digby scallops, market fresh oysters and seared Quebec foie gras. Entrées feature such gems as Roasted Nunavut Caribou medallion, Alberta Lamb rack, and Muskovy Duck A l’orange. The wine list is impressive, with over 800 wines and something to please every palate. Not to mention they are a recent winner of Wine Spectator Magazine’s “Best Of Award Of Excellence.” On every visit to the Belvedere we are pampered and coddled. Recommended dessert : Maple and mascarpone cheesecake. Reservations recommended. Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm, 5pm-close. Sat 5pm-close. 107 - 8th Ave SW, 265-9595. www.thebelvedere.ca. $$$ D5  ↑Top  ←Back

Black Cat Bar & Grill Welcoming you with warm tones and beautifully finished wood floors, this spot has a truly comfortable setting, perfect for your lunch or dinner get-together or after work cocktail. They offer a wide range of menu choices with daily soup, sandwich and entrée specials. Their Cod Fish and Chips is a favourite, as is their Seafood Fettucini. Don’t forget their Peppercorn New York Steak served with roasted potatoes and a sautéed vegetable medley. An extensive wine list is offered along with vast variety of beer on tap including Guiness! Mon-Fri 7am-close. Happy hour 3-7:30pm. Sat-Sun private functions only. #150, 635-6th Ave SW, 233-7654. $-$$ D19  ↑Top  ←Back

Black Swan Ale House One of South Calgary’s most popular pubs, with a comfortable outdoor patio that catches the sun until sunset, and outdoor heaters to extend the patio season. They are proud of their huge selection of imported and domestic beers and have some of the best pub fare in Calgary. They’ve recently moved away from typical deep fried pub food and are now featuring a healthy selection of creative salads and appetizers including fresh Mussels, Stuffed Mushroom Caps and Tequila Lime Shrimp. Nonetheless the Calamari is still one of our favourites, lightly breaded with lemon pepper and served with tzatziki sauce for dipping. You’ve got to try the chii fries — lattice fries drenched in chili and cheese and baked in the oven. Delicious! Friday night the over-thirty crowd dances to music from the 60’s through to current top 40. Saturdays it becomes a high-energy dance bar. Sunday night features live music with up-and-coming bands from Western Canada. The Black Swan is also a great place to go to watch your favourite sporting events showing on their seemingly endless array of televisions. Arrive early to avoid the lineup. Daily 11am-2am. 10455 Southport Road SW, 271-8776. $-$$ S34  ↑Top  ←Back

Bootleggers Steaks, Sports & Sorts is based on the old Chicago tradition of outstanding fare and big portions at reasonable prices. Enjoy 2 for 1 Steak Entrées on Saturdays, 10 cent Wings every Wednesday and Sunday with 40 flavours to choose from, or just pop in for their famous 1/2 Price Happy Hour weekdays from 4-7pm. Whether you choose their Karaoke Lounge or Sports Bar, Bootleggers is always a fun place to be! Daily 10am-3am. 3444 - 32nd Ave NE. 291-0507. www.bootleggers.ca. $-$$ N30  ↑Top  ←Back

The Bull & Finch Pubs These excellent watering holes have everything going for them. Super-friendly efficient service, sunny patios, great food, reasonable prices, and lots of beers on tap. They have a surprisingly large menu with lots of choices. Fill yourself up on Zorba’s feast - two pork skewers marinated and served with Tzatziki sauce, Greek salad, pita bread and fries or potato. Wow! On the lighter side, the chicken pasta salad is a winner. Penne noodles bathed in a basil dressing, crowned with grated cheese and vegetables, and topped with chicken breast. Daily 10am-2am. Four locations: 10233 Elbow Drive SW, 259-5555 • 11520-24th St SE, 720-0000 • 13226 Macleod Trail SW, 225-3171 • 2335-162nd Ave SW, 873-8088. $ S35-38  ↑Top  ←Back

Caesar’s Steak House Possibly Canada’s finest steakhouse, we have American friends who wrangle trips to Calgary just so they can dine here. These steakhouses are world famous for charcoal-broiled steaks, seafood and ribs. Both locations feature a Roman setting and exemplary service. Top-notch, top-choice and a top dining destination. Mon-Sat 11am-Midnight. 512 - 4th Ave SW, 264-1222 • 10816 Macleod Trail S in Willow Park Village, 278-3930. $$$ D13, S14  ↑Top  ←Back

Cajun Charlie’s Calgary’s oldest Cajun restaurant has landed in the heart of Eau Claire Market. Creole spices and ample servings distinguish this bustling restaurant. The patio is packed every sunny day, and Calgary is the third-sunniest city in North America. You’re bound to enjoy both the Jambalaya and your time there. Sun-Thu 11am-10pm. Fri-Sat 11am-11pm. Eau Claire Market Downtown, 200 Barclay Mall. 233-8101. $$ D28  ↑Top  ←Back

Cannery Row Oyster Bar and Seafood Restaurant For a quarter century Cannery Row Downtown has been Calgary’s premiere upscale seafood destination. The newly renovated patio provides an excellent view of the Calgary Tower and surrounding area. Enjoy the show at the oyster bar as the chefs shuck a variety of live east and west coast oysters or choose your live lobster from the tank. The new menu provides endless healthy choices of surf and turf, live mussels & clams and a wide selection of Louisiana style Cajun dishes. Live entertainment starts up in September on the weekends and two big screen televisions are available in the lounge so you don’t miss the big game. Cannery Row South offers the same great menu selections and can be found just south of Anderson Rd. off Macleod Trail. Although a quieter atmosphere, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the chef delivering the absolutely amazing Tower of Seafood. The south location also offers a beautiful patio. Downtown: Mon-Thu 11am-10pm, Fri 11am-11pm, Sat 5-11pm, Sun 5-9pm. 317 10 Ave SW, 269-8889. South: Mon-Thu 4-10pm, Fri-Sat 4-11, Sun 4-9pm. 500, 12101 Lake Fraser Drive SE, 225-1273. $$-$$$ D9, S10  ↑Top  ←Back

Coast Plaza Restaurant Enjoy Coast Plaza’s huge brunch every Sunday morning from 10 am to 2 pm. Indulge yourself in an all-you-can-eat array of unimaginable food delights. All of your breakfast favourites from pancakes and bacon to seafood platters, carved roasts, fresh fruit & salads with exotic dips & sauces. Then finish with our delectable pastries & desserts. It’s too bad every day didn’t start this way. Now you have something to look forward to. Daily 6:30am-10pm. 1316 - 33rd St NE, 207-8117. $-$$ N24  ↑Top  ←Back

Don Quijote Tapas Bar & Restaurant The white tablecloths and fine dining enhance the fun you will have at this mecca for Latin entertainment in Calgary. With dancing Thursday through Sunday, and live Latin bands Fridays & Saturdays, you will not only have a great meal but a great time too. It’s a celebration of tapas, wine & Latin music that promises an unforgettable dining and nightlife experience. Salsa lessons Sundays at 8pm and Tango lessons Tuesdays at 8:30pm. It’s also a lunch destination for the denizens of downtown. Mon-Fri 11:30am-2pm. Daily 5-10pm. Dancing Thu-Sun 10pm-2am. 309 - 2nd Ave SW (across from Eau Claire Market), 205-4244. $$ D29  ↑Top  ←Back

Ed’s Restaurant One block from the Stampede Grounds in a landmark circa-1920’s house, Ed’s has been serving Calgarians since 1984. The original charm of the small rooms lends itself to private dining rooms for business meetings, parties or romantic dinners. Two patios - a sunny second-level deck and a shaded street side terrace - are great for summertime lounging. Nevin Berning, Ed’s four diamond hotel trained executive chef, creates innovative menu offerings including the new award-winning thin-crust gourmet pizzas to complement the traditional favourites - slow-cooked AAA Alberta prime rib, steaks, seafood and the signature gourmet burgers made from AAA Alberta sirloin along with a great selection of casual nibbles. Mon-Fri 11am-11pm, Sat 10am-11pm, Sun 10am-9pm. 202 - 17th Ave SE, 262-3500. $-$$ D4  ↑Top  ←Back

Embarcadero Wine & Oyster Bar Named after the waterfront district in San Francisco, this historic red brick building houses a European style wine bar lounge for smokers, as well as a completely separate second-floor non-smoking dining room decorated with original Asian artwork. They feature at least six varieties of oysters on the half-shell, including the daily featured 95¢ oyster. Fresh seafood, including cedar planked maple glazed salmon and the daily catch, round out a gourmet menu with Alberta beef, duck, lamb and pastas. The wine lover will appreciate the extensive wine list and continually changing selection of wines by the glass. The south-facing tree-shaded patio is an ideal summertime retreat, complete with goldfish fountain and ivy enclosure. Mon-Thu 11am-11pm, Fri 11am-Midnight, Sat 4pm-Midnight. 208 - 17th Ave SW, 263-0848. $$-$$$ D3  ↑Top  ←Back

Fantino (Formerly the Conga Room) Continuing a legacy of food creation from the 500 year old farm back in Italy, Fantino presents a mesmerizing blend of Mediterranean fusion cuisine. We can’t quite tell you what’s on the menu yet, as it is unfinalized as we go to press, but we welcome Fantino’s to our Guide, and we look forward to their opening up on the 8th Avenue Mall. 109 8th Ave SW, 262-7248. $$ D22  ↑Top  ←Back

Fourth & 4th Restaurant & Pub Right in the heart of Downtown Calgary, we find a gem of an eatery that offers classic North American comfort food. They use only the finest top notch ingredients: from their homemade soup of the day; to their Tomato Boccancini Salad, prepared with fresh tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, rock salt, pepper and a Maple Balsamic Vinagrette; all the way down to their freshly made desserts. The Grilled Salmon Spinich salad is a perfect choice for today’s health conscious diners. The Prime Rib Dip is so popular they can hardly keep enough on hand. The perfect vegetarian choice was their Pesto Primavera Pizza, a combination of sun dried tomatoes, artichokes, mixed peppers, Spanish onions, fresh cheeses, with a pesto sauce that finishes perfectly. Recommended dessert: Bernard Callibaut Chocolate Mousse. Summer: Mon-Fri 6:30am-Midnight, closed weekends. Winter: Mon-Fri 6:30am-Midnight, Sat-Sun 9am-Midnight. 503-4th Ave SW, 233-8500. $-$$ D27  ↑Top  ←Back

Gnocchis Ristorante & Dining Lounge A comfortable and contemporary atmosphere with a unique twist on classic Italian cuisine, meeting all of your expectations and more! For starters we recommend the “Scampi Alla Giovanni,” tossed in a champagne peppercorn cream sauce, and the “Calamari Marinara,” sautéed in a caper basil tomatoe sauce, both served to perfection! You will know where this “ristorante” gets its name when you see the vast variety of delicious home-made Gnocchi on their menu. A favourite is the Gnocchi Da Mare: homemade gnocchi with fresh mixed seafood in a rich creamy ricotta brandy sauce. Another main course favourite is the “Veal Chop,” perfectly seasoned with a Gorgonzola demi glaze cream sauce. All meals are accompanied by fresh Italian baguette! Daily lunch and dinner specials. Recommended dessert: Homemade Tiramisu. Try the new “Fall” Lounge, Gnocchi’s chic Martini Bar, or in the summertime their off-street patio. Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, Mon-Sat 5-10pm. Closed Sundays. Reservations Recommended. 1238 8th Street SW, 262-2887. $$-$$$ D8  ↑Top  ←Back

Hooters 10 Nearly World Famous Chicken Wings... $7.99 Ice Cold Regular Draft or highball... $3.99 Being served by a World Famous Hooters Girl...PRICELESS! Sit back with a plate of Hooters’ nearly world famous chicken wings and an ice cold pitcher of beer or your favorite cocktail and watch the game on one of the 16 Big screen TVs. Meet the best Hooters girls in all of Canada including Miss Hooters Canada 2006. Although known for the world famous chicken wings, Hooters is popular for “Hooterized” service, sports programs, the coldest beer in town, delicious food, and uncommon theme. The entire family can have fun at Hooters, and in case you didn’t know kids 10 and under eat free every weekend. Hooters is located at more than 300 location in 14 countries worldwide, but nobody does it better than Hooters of Calgary. North: 2723 23 St NE, 264-4668. South: 4608 Macleod Tr S, 243-4668. $-$$ N41, S42  ↑Top  ←Back

Kyoto 17 is one of our favourite Calgary Japanese Restaurants, with its hip underground setting on trendy 17th Ave. You can take off your shoes and enjoy a traditonal Japanese Tatami room, be entertained at the sushi bar, or relax at a cozy table with soothing Japanese music in the background. The sushi and sashimi dishes are always fresh, and the generous portions are presented to you on elegant Japanese dinnerware. The Magura tuna was served chilled to the perfect temperature as it should be and the Salmon was beautifully marbled. The Tobiko Sashimi (flying fish roe) is presented in a cucumber crown and pops in your mouth. The cold Kirin or Sapporo beer certainly adds to the authenticity of the Japanese experience. Kyoto 17 also offers excellent tempura, noodle dishes, and bento boxes of Teriyaki Chicken and steak. Recommended dessert: Mango Ice Cream. Visit their Banff location at The Sukiyaki House Kyoto Banff (see review in Banff section). Mon-Fri 11am-2pm, 5-10pm. Sat 5-11pm. Sun 5-9pm. 908 - 17th Ave SW. 245-3188. $-$$ D52  ↑Top  ←Back

Mango Shiva This upbeat Indian restaurant, with great “Ambient” music, is unique to Calgary. With original starters such as honey-basil crab samosas, coconut curried calamari in lemon grass sauce, or tandoori prawns with lemon garlic butter & black lentils. All wonderful. Unlike the more traditional Indian style of sharing dishes, one orders their own entrées and shares the starters. Our entrées included the Tandoori Salmon, a boneless skinless salmon fillet marinated with a traditional tandoori marinade of yoghurt, ginger, garlic, lemon and other spices, which was melt-in-your-mouth delicious, and the charbroiled rack of lamb was perfect! Lean, tender and topped with a Korma sauce of Indian tomatoe curry, cashew paste, saffron and cream. Mon-Fri 11am-3pm, daily 5pm-11pm. 507 - 8th Ave SW, 290-1644. $$$ D15  ↑Top  ←Back

Manies Greek Cuisine Situated on trendy 17 Ave, this restaurant’s popularity has not subsided over 25 years! They offer an excellent variety of traditional Greek specialties as well as Manies signature pizzas. For a perfect start to your meal we recommend the calamari, lightly breaded and served with their own house made Tzatziki sauce. The Mixed Grill for two is outstanding, including lamb chops, Spanakopita (spinach pie), Dolmadakia (stuffed vine leaves), Keftedes (greek meatballs), beef and chicken souvlakis, and potatoes, rice and salad. At Manies you don’t leave hungry! Friday and Saturdays take your dining experience one step farther when you can dine while being mesmerized by an exotic belly dancer. Recommended dessert: Karithopita (Walnut Cake). Hours of operation: 11am-Midnight 7 days a week. Delivery until 5am. 819 17 Ave SW, 228-9207. $$ D16  ↑Top  ←Back

Melrose Cafe & Bar Fifteen years of hospitality on the popular 17th avenue! Melrose is sincere, courteous service partnered with premium beverages and fresh food items from an extensive menu. Enjoy amidst unforgettable ambience from a multi-level high energy bar, to the four level lush garden patio, to the sophisticated yet cozy dining room. Any day of the week, something is always going on! Host a special event, watch sports on high definition large screen TV’s, Tackle NTN trivia on Canada’s first LCD playmakers, or simply indulge at the chocolate fountain, the star of the Sunday Brunch Buffet. Melrose Café & Bar, open daily until 2am. 730 17 Ave SW, 228-3566. www.melrosecalgary.com. $$ D32a  ↑Top  ←Back

Milestone’s Grill & Bar is the ideal blend of innovative food and cocktails, friendly service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether it’s for lunch, brunch, dinner or a drink, Milestone’s offers globally-inspired cuisine and enticing bar creations. Mon-Fri 11am-close, Sat-Sun 10am-close. Downtown: 107 - 8th Ave SE, 410-9521. South: 90 Anderson Road SE (in the southwest corner of the Southcentre Mall parking lot), 225-1150. www.milestonesrestaurants.com. $$ D17, S18  ↑Top  ←Back

MING Eat Drink is located on the busy 17th Avenue strip. In March of 1997, under a lit tufted leather and stainless steel sign, MING opened its doors for business. Born in response to the market’s demands for premium products without the pretense as well as for everything Asian, MING is an eclectic union of these two themes. Individuality is the hallmark of MING. From the wide range of music played by bartenders, to stir sticks in the shape of mermaids, to soda glasses from the fifties, to metal serving plates, MING is a statement of unique styles. 4pm-2am daily. 520 17th Ave SW, 229-1986. www.mingeatdrink.com. $$ D32b  ↑Top  ←Back

Morgan’s on 17th Bar & Grill Replete with hipsters, this is a great place to check out local bands almost every night. Lots of drinks and food specials. Tuesday is wing night and buckets of Corona. This bar is bound to be a good night out. With all the bands they have, if you like live music, you can’t go wrong here. Daily 11:30am-2am. 1324 - 17th Ave SW. 244-1332. $ D39  ↑Top  ←Back

The Newport Grill at the Inn on Lake Bonavista Overlooking Calgary’s beautiful Lake Bonavista, relax and enjoy the posh setting and spectacular dining. Linen service and fine silver accompany the spectacular lake setting. Our meal began with Large Marsala Grilled Prawns served over fresh cut oranges, field greens and marsala cream sauce. A perfect combination! The Chateaubriand, a beautiful cut of AAA Alberta tenderloin was expertly carved and served tableside with fresh seasonal vegetables, mushrooms and classic mashed potatoes. Always a treat of a dish! Other dishes include their signature rack of New Zealand lamb, steaks, risotto and seafood specialties. Here, we discovered the perfect setting for an intimate dinner with family or friends, or a casual lunch on their lakefront patio. Suggested dessert: Grand Marnier Souffle. An elegant evening to remember! Mon-Fri 11:30am-Close, Sat 5pm-close, Sun Brunch 10:30am-2pm. #205, 747 Lake Bonavista Dr SE, 271-6711. www.newportgrill.com $$$ S6  ↑Top  ←Back

Oh! Canada Restaurant A three-tiered restaurant at the heart of downtown featuring “Canadian” food. What is Canadian food? Well, you would have to try things like: Maple Salmon, Newfy Fish ‘N’ Chips-By, Mom’s Meatloaf, Chili a la Parka, and The Gretzky. We recommend the Atlantic Salmon Spring Rolls - crispy rolls with an outrageous taste sensation, served with a homemade spicy plum sauce for dipping. Then Mom’s Meatloaf - individually prepared meatloaves wrapped in bacon. Thick and meaty with good quality beef and a rich brown gravy. Mmm... thanks Mom! For salmon with a twist, try the Maple Salmon. A delicately marinated salmon fillet, pan sautéed and topped with a Maple/Saskatoonberry glaze. With a gorgeous patio, nestled in the trees and facing Century Park, you may choose to sit in the sun or shade at your leisure. All entrées are under $20. Mon-Fri 11am-9pm. Corner of 7th & 7th SW, 266-1551. $$ D23  ↑Top  ←Back

The Palomino Smoke House and Social Club Head Honcho Fred Kenopaki’s vision is, as always, right on the money, and just what Calgary was looking for. The Palomino’s roots are in classic western barbeque. The menu is entertaining and full of Western favourites such as Sliced Alberta Beef Brisket, Applewood Smoked Pulled Pork and St Louis Pork Ribs. Our favourite was the Giant Alberta Beastie Bones which are enormous slow smoked beef ribs, served with two sides chosen from too many to mention. The ribs are so large you need only choose one or two. They have a patio out back that gets the sun all day long and we heard it’s been branded “downtown Calgary’s best patio.” Recommended dessert: Classic Bread Pudding with Jack Daniels Butterscotch Sauce. Live Music Friday and Saturday. Mon-Fri 11am-close, Sat 10am-Close, closed Sunday. 109 7th Ave SW, 532-1911. $$ D21  ↑Top  ←Back

Ranchman’s Calgary’s original country bar. A cowboy fixture since 1972 when it started as a self-serve cafeteria, today the 1,100 seat dance hall hosts top country bands and performers, with Calgary’s largest dance floor for kicking up your heels. Pool tables and a great western atmosphere help explain why this has been a Calgary classic for so long. With Pro Rodeo cowboys calling this their “home away from home,” Ranchman’s has become a museum of rodeo and country music memorabilia, including over 70 trophy saddles. An experience not to be missed! With daily specials and a classic western menu, there’s always something yummy to be had. Their ribs are great and they offer traditional slow-roasted BBQ beef. Full serve Cowboy Fare Grade AAA Alberta Beef, Ribs & Chicken. Taste the Stampede all year long. Mon-Sat 10am-2am. 9615 Macleod Trail S, 253-1100. $-$$ S33  ↑Top  ←Back

Red Carpet Steakhouse & Red’s Lounge provide something for every dining mood. When you enter this establishment you have three rooms to choose from. A romantic, upscale fine dining room, serving rib-eye, New York strip and filet mignon steaks; a youthful casual dining room where you can order burgers, pizza or sandwiches; or Red’s Lounge which caters to an upscale, hip clientele with a New York, Manhattan-style influence. Red Carpet Steakhouse and Red’s Lounge is ideal for any occasion. Mon-Sat 11am-Midnight, Sundays & Holidays Noon-9pm. 6707 Elbow Drive SW, 255-1173. $-$$ S12  ↑Top  ←Back

Ric’s Grill The welcoming dark wood uses modern decor to advantage and blends a large capacity with an intimate experience. Mixed booths and tables offer flexibility for large or small parties, and they have a comfortable lounge adjacent. Ric’s claim that “they start with the finest ingredients available and spend more money in preparation than any other restaurant in its class” was reflected in our experience. The menu is vast with choices to suit any hunger, supplemented by an ever-changing monthly menu of dinner features. For starters we sampled the toasted coconut prawns - mouth-watering plump shrimp coated with perfectly toasted coconut. And the crab-cakes exceeded our expectations. Made fresh, crispy on the outside and filled with Dungeness crab, shallots, spices and almost no filler. For our entrée we enjoyed the 16 oz. melt-in-your-mouth Rib Steak perfectly cooked and topped with “Oscar Deluxe,” scallops prawns and asparagus topped with Bernaise sauce. The steaks are all AAA Sterling Premium Alberta Beef. Ric’s Grill offers a unique selection of over 180 fine wines from around the world. Recommended dessert: Ginger Cake (served warm). Mon-Thurs 11 am-Midnight, Fri 11am-2am, Sat 4pm-2am, Sun 4pm-Midnight. 1436-8th St SW, 269-7427. $$ D7  ↑Top  ←Back

Soho Bar & Grill brings to you some of the finest New York City has to offer. From vibrant paced lunches to corporate happy hours and early morning breakfast. SoHo has a trendy lend of martinis and a cuisine short to tempt those with tepid taste buds. If you need a locale for that “can’t miss” business breakfast or lunch, or some where just to kick back with a fine martini, then SoHo is your stop. Friday music genre: R&B, Old Skool & Reggaeton. Saturdays music genre: Latin, Latin & Latin. Mon-Thu 7am-close, Fri: 7am-2am, Sat 5pm-2am. Corner of 9th Ave & 6th Street SW, 237-6453. www.SoHoBarGrill.com. $$ D20  ↑Top  ←Back

Sumo Lounge Located in the vibrant and metropoliton Eau Claire Market, Sumo Lounge is the first choice for sushi connoisseurs seeking more than fish and rice. With a large and creative sushi list and fusion kitchen using only the freshest ingredients, the options at Sumo are countless. A floating Kai-Ten style bar dominates the room which is surrounded by a bustling dining area, complete with private rooms, a relaxed lounge and sunny patio. An extensive Asian-influenced cocktail bar playing modern music and screening current sports events is the perfect spot to wind down after a hectic work day or to start off a night out. Mon-Fri 11:30-close, Sat Noon-close, Sun 5pm-close. 136 Eau Claire Market, 200 Barclay Parade, 290-1433. $$ D11  ↑Top  ←Back

The Toad ‘n’ Turtle Not just pub fare, the vast menu is loaded with appetizers, wraps, pizzas, pasta, burgers, stir fries and a great breakfast menu. It also has some rather, um, unusual items listed, such as Steeler’s Stew, Angry Chicken Wrap, RibBits, Ragin’ Cajun Skins, the Loaded Toad Pizza and The Edmontonian. We chose the Award-winning Kitchen Sink Stew, which was served in a bowl lined in a soft tortilla shell. Nicely spicy, but not too hot, it included Spolumbo’s sausage with cubed beef and a bunch of other “secret stuff” the chef would not disclose. We started off the meal with their Mini Yorkies, which made a big impression. Stuffed with tender roast beef and au jus for dipping, the serving was generous enough to count as an entrée, not an appetizer. Very good! Recommended dessert: the Brown Betty. To ‘top off’ all this goodnes, The Toad ‘n’ Turtle includes what is probably northeast Calgary’s most fabulous rooftop patio, featuring a seaside scene complete with surfboards and beach bunnies. Mon-Thu 11 am-1 am, Fri 11 am-2 am, Sat 10 am-2 am, Sun 10 am-1 am. 2475 27th Ave NE, 717-0670. $$ N31  ↑Top  ←Back

Well Rising from the ashes of Calgary’s eclectic Mortal Coil, Well has carried forward a hip ambiance from Shane’s former location to a new hot spot downstairs next to Kyoto 17. In fact, they offer the Kyoto 17 menu (see separate review), so if sushi is your bag, man, and you dig the cool tunes, then Well is your place. Featuring a live DJ from Thursday through Saturday, the masterful blend of urban music and urbane cocktails provides a haven for those escaping the hot summer days or the cold winter nights. And the custom wooden bar they designed is worth the trip. 5pm-2am. Lower 908 17th Ave SW (enter from 16th Ave.), 228-1006. $$ D40  ↑Top  ←Back

White Spot Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at Western Canada’s favourite neighbourhood restaurant. They believe in using only the best ingredients. From their award winning Triple “O” burgers served with fresh cut fries, to their fresh salads, AAA steaks, chicken, pastas and stir-fries, there’s truly something on the menu for everyone. Oh, and the little mates will love their Pirate Pak — a complete kid’s meal served in a fun cardboard boat. South: 8am-11pm. 10440 Macleod Tr SE, 278-8212. North: Sun-Thu 6:30am-11pm, Fri-Sat 6:30am-Midnight. 3322 - 23 Street NE, 237-5100. www.whitespot.com. $$ S1, N2

Canmore Reviews

Chef’s Studio Japan is Canmore’s popular bustling Japanese restaurant, with an open kitchen where the customers love to sit and watch the chefs prepare the specialties. They offer both traditional and western style sushi and sashimi menus. We were impressed with the unagi BBQ eel special roll: BBQ eel outside, with tempura crunch and cucumber inside. The portobella mushroom sushi was also delicious, deep fried portobella with lemon juice and coarse salt. Other specialties include Ahi Tuna and Crab meat with Cucumber, rainbow roll or smoked Salmon and eel tail. All extraordinary! Suggested Dessert: Tempura Ice Cream. Daily 4:30-10:30pm. #108, 709 Main St. 609-8383. $-$$ C45  ↑Top  ←Back

The Drake Whether you are a local or visiting the Drake you are welcomed at your table by a friendly face. It’s the most popular pub-restaurant in town, with great food, great service and a comfortable atmosphere. You can dine in the pub or in one of their cozy, non-smoking rooms, or on a nice day choose one of the many patios and enjoy the incredible views. The fajitas are to die for - brought sizzlin’ hot to your table. Talk to any local and they will tell you they offer the best steaks in town - several different sizes and choices of cuts of some of Alberta’s best beef. Or if you’re looking for a burger, the Drake’s is fresh, homemade, grilled to perfection and a favourite throughout the valley. They feature live entertainment throughout the week so whether you’re looking for a great meal or a fun band, The Drake is the place to go. Remember if it’s happening in Canmore, it’s happening at The Drake! Daily 7:30am-2am. 909 Railway Ave, 678-5131. www.drakeinn.com. $ C49  ↑Top  ←Back

The Grizzly Paw Nestled between high mountain peaks and the Bow River, The Grizzly Paw Brewing Company is the Canadian Rockies only micro-brewery. Built in 1996, the high pine accented roofs and raw logwork within make this brewery/restaurant very “mountainy.” Niall Fraser, head brewer, makes eight brews on a regular basis ranging from their Drooling Moose Pilsner (now available in cans) to a heavy oatmeal stout. Past guests include the Who’s Who of Hollywood, who have been coming for years to sit on Canmore’s finest deck, sample brews and the Paw’s world-famous Fish and Chips. Other popular dishes are the Grizzly Paw burgers, fresh oven baked pizzas, and hearty stews during the ski season. Drop by and enjoy one of the truly unique restaurants in scenic Canmore. Daily 11am-2am. 622 Main St. 678-9983. $$ C47  ↑Top  ←Back

Patrinos Steak House & Pub offers fine dining while you enjoy the beautiful views of the Bow Valley. They have a great Sunday brunch and the pub is always busy with Canmore locals. Enjoy their casual atmosphere with big screen satellite sports TV’s and pool tables. Patrinos’ house specialty is prime rib and steaks and they have a variety of Italian and Greek dishes. We suggest trying the New Orleans Surf ‘n’ Turf, an 8 oz. sirloin blackened with Cajun spices and topped with baby garlic shrimp, served with vegetables and choice of potato, rice or spaghetti. Another favourite is the Paldakia; tender lamb chops marinated and served on a bed of rice with a Greek salad. Don’t forget Thursday night is wing night. 11am-close. 1602 Bow Valley Trail, 678-4060. $$ C48  ↑Top  ←Back

Sherwood House is open again! Under new management (Wild Bill’s & The Drake), this is a popular dining and gathering place for locals and visitors. Located in the heart of downtown Canmore, The Sherwood House patio features the best views in all of the Bow Valley. Gourmet burgers, sandwiches, salads, vegetarian dishes with nightly steak and seafood specials round out its small but tasty menu. The patio is open whenever the sun shines! 11am-11pm. 838 Main St, 678-3517. $-$$ C44  ↑Top  ←Back

Zona’s Late Night Bistro Nestled one block off Main Street, this “hip” restaurant has been a local’s favourite since its inception. Their focus is on originality in flavours and spice and the menu seems to be constantly evolving. For starters we suggest Zona’s famous avocado Caesar salad with their own creamy dressing, homemade croutons and fresh parmesan, or the Almond Breaded Brie Wheel served with caramelized onions. Although the menu changes regularly with Chef’s flair and originality, a steadfast favourite entrée is their signature dish Molasses Leg of Lamb Curry. Tender chunks of roasted Lamb in a sauce of curry and exotic spices with just enough zing, and served with apple mint chutney and Jasmine rice. This dish has been on the menu since day one! Suggested dessert: maple syrup and dark rum chocolate pecan pie. Canmore’s #1 Local’s Recommended Restaurant. Join them Thursdays after 10 for Zen Night, where the restaurant transforms to a happening dance bar. Dinner 5-10pm. Tapas 10pm-Midnight. 710-9th St, 609-2000. $-$$ C46

Banff Reviews

The Aurora Nightclub When you enter into the club, you feel as though you could be in an LA nightclub. Lots of wood and recessed lighting around the bars, and high energy dance music pounding out on the dance floor. At the back bar enjoy their comfy couches and pool tables. This is where the “in” crowd from Calgary and Banff hang out. Great for stags, stagettes & birthday parties. Sun, Tue, Thu 10pm-2am. Fri-Sat 9pm-2am. Closed Mon & Wed. Lower Level, 110 Banff Ave, 760-5300. www.aurorabanff.com. B61  ↑Top  ←Back

Bruno’s Bar & Grill Named after nature/adventure photographer Bruno Engler, Bruno’s provides a warm mountain environment featuring a fireplace nook, 126-year old spruce bar, and original photographs of and by Bruno himself. Breakfast is served all day and they feature 16 varieties of Gourmet Burgers and Valbella European sausages. Our choice was the Bruno Burger, an 8 oz. homemade pattie on a chibatta bun with swiss cheese, sautéed mushrooms and, on the side, sweet potato fries. Very good. They also offer Chicken, Buffalo and veggie burgers. Winner of the “Best Burger Restaurant 2005.” Daily 8am-3am. 304 Caribou St, 762-8115. $-$$ B66  ↑Top  ←Back

Bumper’s The Beef House Established in 1975, Bumper’s is a western-themed A-frame building famous for “Alberta Beef.” They offer Banff’s only “all you can eat” salad bar, so good you may be tempted to fill up on it - but save room for the main courses! The house specialty is Prime rib of Alberta beef, served with all the trimmings. A succulent cut slow roasted for hours in Bumper’s special slow cookers and served the way you like it. Another favourite is the “Pile ‘O’ Bones.” Four large prime rib bones baked and served up with a rich BBQ sauce on the side. No doubt about it, this is a great place for beef lovers! For other palates they offer a selection of steaks, chicken, fish, and pasta. Daily 4:30pm-10pm. Lounge 4:30pm-Midnight. 603 Banff Ave, 762-2622. $$ B53  ↑Top  ←Back

Caramba! Restaurante This casual spot located in the Ptarmigan Inn boasts a “Mediterranean Menu” which includes Spanish, Greek and Italian influences. We started with the Caramba Salad, fresh spinach leaves, goat cheese, roasted pine nuts and crispy pancetta drizzled with reduced balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, a nice twist to an old favourite. And then on to the Rack of Lamb! The intoxicating aroma of Mediterranean spices wafted through the air as we were presented with tender roast lamb with a cumin, paprika & mustard seed reduction, surrounding fresh seasonal vegetables and rosemary potatoes. This dish exceeded our expectations. The vast menu consists of wonderful choices such as rotisserie meats, wild mushroom ravioli, grilled BC salmon, and their ever popular pizzas. Suggested dessert: Chocolate; Three Components. Very reasonably priced wine list. Daily 7am-10am, 5pm-10pm. Lounge open to 11pm. 337 Banff Avenue, 762-3667. $$ B56  ↑Top  ←Back

Earls Moderate prices belie the quality of the freshly prepared fish, chicken, meats and vegetables served from the selection of over fifty menu items. The recipes reflect Oriental, Cajun and Mexican influences. Their thin-crust pizzas are freshly baked in the Forno oven. Service is quick and cheerful. Try the Earl-sized drinks. Daily 11:30am-11pm. 229 Banff Ave, 762-4414. $$ B57  ↑Top  ←Back

The Elk and Oarsman Restaurant and Pub right on Banff Ave. This comfortable establishment is becoming one of Banff favourite spots for locals and tourists alike. They offer and excellent selection of pizzas, burgers and Black Angus Steaks. You can enjoy the Rocky Mountain atmosphere in the restaurant or find the best of current sports in the pub’s many plasma screen TVs. On the rooftop patio you will find 360° views of Banff and the Rocky Mountains. You shouldn’t visit to Banff without a visit to “The Elk.” Sun-Thu 11am-1am Fri-Sat 11am-2am. Upstairs 119 Banff Ave, 762-4616. $-$$ B60  ↑Top  ←Back

Hoodoo Lounge Funky lounge that transforms into a party bar with a dance floor. Striking wood and stone interior. DJ or live music nightly. Relax on the leather couches while watching one of many plasma screen TVs. Dance the night away at your next stag, stagette or birthday party. “What happens at the Hoodoo, stays at the Hoodoo.” Daily 9pm-3am. 137 Banff Ave (downstairs), 760-8636. www.hoodoolounge.com. B62  ↑Top  ←Back

The Keg Steakhouse and Bar It was hard to choose from the selection of mouth watering starters such as scallops wrapped in bacon, garlic shrimp and grilled Portobella mushrooms. We sampled the Mushrooms Neptune, mushroom caps topped with a fluffy crab and cream cheese mixture. A real treat! Your next challenge is to choose from the selection of Keg Classic steak dinners or the tempting combos such as steak with shrimp crab or lobster (you can also have prime rib combos). We settled on the steak and crab. We “upgraded” our sirloin to the New York which was tender and juicy and perfectly spiced, served up with a nice portion of crab with hot butter for dipping. For the carb watcher you can substitute the starch for a salad or fresh asparagus. If you’re craving a great steak the Keg is certainly the place to visit! North: 6:30am-10:30pm, Caribou Lodge 521 Banff Ave, 762-4442. Downtown: 4pm-10pm, 117 Banff Ave, 760-3030. $$ B54, B55  ↑Top  ←Back

The Maple Leaf Grille and Spirits The casual elegance of this Lodge style interior incorporates the best that Canada has to offer. ‘Gold Medal Plates” award winning chef Michael Lyon uses only the freshest ingredients to create each dish according to the season. The menu covers a wide range from rustic game meats such as Venison or Brome Lake Duck to fresh Lobster from the restaurant’s own tank. East & west coasts are further addressed with an exquisite selection of fresh fish and seafood. The seafood tower was impressive - three towers of fabulous seafood: oysters, steamed clams, steamed mussels, jumbo prawns, Atlantic lobster and King Crab. Next we chose the Chef’s wild game creation. Elk Tenderloin wrapped in double smoked bacon, Yukon gold mashed, fresh asparagus and candied golden beets. Superb! Recommended dessert: Molten chocolate soufflé (15 minutes to prepare). Open 11am-close. 137 Banff Ave, 760-7680. $$-$$$ B50  ↑Top  ←Back

Melissa’s Restaurant and Bar Melissa’s continues its long-standing tradition of delivering quality food and friendly, casual service. Its rustic log interior with high, vaulted ceilings and massive wood beams has kept visitors to Banff coming back since the late ’70’s. They are open for breakfast, lunch & dinner, serving up a wide selection of hearty home cooking that appeals to all budgets and tastes. Alberta beef is featured on the dinner menu and an impressive selection of fish & seafood. Restaurant 7am-9pm. Bar 11am-2am daily. 218 Lynx St, 762-5511. $$ B58  ↑Top  ←Back

Rose & Crown Featuring live entertainment, this Banff Ave pub & restaurant is a favourite with locals and tourists alike. Relax in front of the fireplace with a pint of your favourite brew or enjoy the view from their rooftop patio. They have quite a varied menu offering English style Fish and Chips, Shepherds Pie, pasta dishes, homemade burgers, soups, steak sandwiches and more. After lunch or dinner, visit the games room for some virtual golf or a rubber of pool. The entertainment is always lively and dancing is encouraged. A great place to visit! Daily 11am-close. Upstairs, 202 Banff Ave, 762-2121. $-$$ B64  ↑Top  ←Back

Sukiyaki House Kyoto Banff The sister location to Kyoto 17 in Calgary, this is the place to be in Banff for excellent sushi, sashimi and Japanese dishes. They have a large sushi bar in the front of the restaurant where you can enjoy watching the chefs creating their specialties. Kick off your shoes and relax in their Japanese Tatami room and enjoy an authentic Japanese experience. The service is excellent and the menu extensive. We were tempted by their popular “Love Boat”, a large variety of sushi and sashimi in a wooden boat, but settled on ordering a la carte. The spicy Tuna rolls were delicious. Spicy but not overly so, and presented like an art form. One should also try the Tuna or Salmon Gama, a nice variation of sushi where the fish is diced and mixed with sesame oil, giving it a very unique flavour. Another of our favourites was the Shiitake Sashimi. The mushrooms are simmered for hours in special spices then cooled and diced and presented in a cucumber. We also recommend the house specialty, Sukiyaki, a Japanese-style Fondue where you cook your beef and vegetables yourself in a hot pot right at your table. It is served with rice, all the fresh vegetables you want and the traditional raw egg for dipping. Suggested dessert: Green Tea Ice Cream. Winter daily 4:30-10pm, Summer daily noon-close. 2nd Flr, 211 Banff Ave, 762-2002. $-$$ B51  ↑Top  ←Back

Tony Roma’s More than great ribs! Sit at the window overlooking bustling Banff Ave in the large comfortable booths and enjoy the view! The friendly efficient staff can accommodate large or small groups and the restaurant is very inviting. Choose from St. Louis Style, Baby Backs, Bountiful Beef, or Riblings. All come with your choice of signature BBQ sauces. Can’t decide between your two favourites? Build your own combo just the way you like it. Prefer a steak? All of the steaks are AAA Alberta Beef, either the NY grilled or Flame grilled Top Sirloin are excellent choices. Succulent Prime Rib and Mahi Mahi Tuna are new menu selections. For this meal we decided to dine outside the rib, and tried the Asian Salad. A mix of fresh greens and Asian vegetables, crispy wontons and sesame seeds drizzled with a tangy Asian style dressing. A meal in itself! Our salad was topped with Salmon but chicken is also available. Suggested dessert: Brownie Skillet Sundae. Drop in and enjoy their new fireside lounge. Breakfast buffet available daily. Lunch 11am- 4pm. Dinner 4pm-11pm. 138 Banff Ave, 760-8540. $$ B59  ↑Top  ←Back

Wild Bill’s This is a full-service Western-themed restaurant and saloon named after the famous Banff area cowboy “Wild Bill Peyto.” There is a huge dance floor in the middle, flanked by outdoor patios. They bring in a variety of music from country to hip-hop, from R&B to Top 40 bands like 54-40. Their normal fare is Western and Tex-Mex, and it’s hard to decide what to order from their extensive menu of burgers, steaks, chili, chicken and on up to the 20 oz. ribeye steak. A particular favourite of ours is “Banff’s Legendary Fajitas” served piping hot to your table, where you fill your own soft-shell tortillas with peppers, onion, cheese and jalapeños. It’s available for vegetarians or with beef or chicken. Sizzling! Whether for the good food or the good times, this is definitely the place to be in Banff! Daily 11am-close. 201 Banff Ave. 762-0333. $$ B63