Enjoy Fantastic Food In Great Calgary Eateries

Calgary's most famous restaurants are a mixture of establishments with long, storied histories and some newcomers to the scene that have quickly made a name for themselves in the region. Here are four top restaurants that Calgarians are raving about.

River Café—25 Prince's Island Park

With a focus on hyper-local fine dining, superior service and lovely riverside setting, it's no surprise that River Café has continued to flourish and remain relevant for over 25 years. Once guests cross the footbridge and approach this upscale woodland lodge, they are figuratively transferred into another world graced with relaxed elegance—and incredibly crafted foods and wines.

River Café enjoys regular accolades as one of Canada's Top 10 by Wine Enthusiast and is consistently listed as one of Canada's 100 Best Restaurants annually. The seasoned chefs here use fresh, sustainable local ingredients and rarely utilize imported ingredients that aren't Canadian sourced. Specialties here include the hog wild boar dish and other game meats.

Cassis Bistro—#105 2505 17th Ave SW

Cassis Bistro has easily elevated the expectations of authentic French cuisine lovers in Calgary. As a true French bistro, the food here never strays away from traditional French classic fare. The menu boasts standard favourites such as quiche, steak frites, croque madame, Charcuterie plates, and there are daily meat and seafood specials featuring seasonal chef inspired creations.

Those who want to enjoy the relaxed environment here should make a reservation, as this is a small bistro with only a few dozen seating spaces that stay filled regularly. After all, this is a great place to enjoy fine, locally sourced French food and remarkable wines while silent black and white movies are played on a back wall big screen.

Cardinale—401 12 Ave. S.E.

Cardinale is one of the newest hot spots for those who crave homemade modern Italian cuisine with a touch of local flair. Step inside this cozy and stylish Victoria Park space with plush velvet banquettes and an old-school neighbourhood vibe ready to indulge the senses. Whether one is seeking a place to enjoy a unique signature cocktail, make a trip to the wine cellar, or sample award-winning fare, Cardinale can't be beat.

Chef Steven Dowdell and the culinary team lovingly make everything from scratch daily including dressings, sauces and fresh pasta. Many of the meats served here such as the smoked bacon and sausages are partially or fully smoked at Cardinale's sister establishment Hayden Block. Be prepared for large plates, but definitely save room for their signature house-made sweets.

Alloy—220 42 Ave. S.E

For more than a decade, Alloy has earned a reputation for excellence and is beloved by Calgarians and visitors alike. Serving up globally inspired dishes crafted from predominantly local ingredients, this restaurant has surpassed the odds of survival considering it's rather out-of-the-way location in the Manchester Industrial area. However, the extra time to get there is well worthwhile.

The owners and chefs at Alloy are well traveled, and their menu is heavily inspired by their travels. A blend of world cuisines, seasonal and staple offerings include infusions of Asian, Latin American and Mediterranean flavours that are not often found in Calgary—at least under one roof. Head out to Alloy for lunch or dinner and see what has made this establishment a top dining choice.

Those looking for a great meal at one of Calgary's most famous restaurants will find these options to be superior choices. Remember, due to their popularity making reservations are recommended.