Good restaurants in Calgary

[Caged Great]

I couldn't find a more general thread after 5 min of looking so I figured I'd start a new one.

Earlier today, I went to The Coup on 17th ave and 9th street for a brunch with my girlfriend and some of her friends. It's a mainly vegetarian/vegan restaurant. I know what you are thinking, it's nasty/bland etc. I thought the same thing and figured that I'd be heading somewhere else immediately following the brunch for something more filling.

However, the food there is spectacular. By far the best food I've ever had in Calgary. I sampled a couple dishes there and it was all great. I'll be going there whenever I'm downtown from now on, and the best part is that it's all healthy food and they are good when it comes to accommodating allergies etc.

Just figured I would plug a place that I thought the food was great at, especially with the stereotype of vegetarian/vegan food being somewhat nasty.

[CMPunk]

The design District Tavern is pretty good. Can't beat a bucket o bacon

http://www.realpubfood.com/

[Bunk]

My current favourite - just down the street from the Coup is Farm. Damn, that place is good. Great atmosphere too.

http://farm-restaurant.com/

In general, I find Calgary's restaurant scene supurb for a city of our size. The only thing I wish for is a better variety of cheap eats.

[You Need a Thneed]

Went for a company supper/late Christmas banquet at Charcut last week. Our entire party really enjoyed it.

[SeeBass]

Went for a company supper/late Christmas banquet at Charcut last week. Our entire party really enjoyed it.

I agree there and Wurst have been my best meals lately.

[keratosis]

My current favourite - just down the street from the Coup is Farm. Damn, that place is good. Great atmosphere too.

http://farm-restaurant.com/

In general, I find Calgary's restaurant scene supurb for a city of our size. The only thing I wish for is a better variety of cheap eats.
Have to agree, "Farm" is a Gem.

[wireframe]

While both have good food, I don't really think Farm or Wurst are worth their prices. At Farm, it is clear that they spend too much on staff and have to increase their prices and at Wurst the imported beer is great but simply costs too much.

My favourite restaurant in the city right now is Borgo on 17th. The chef used to run Capo, which was easily the best food in Calgary. Borgo is a more casual and less expensive version of the same. I can comfortably say that Borgo serves the best Italian food I have had in Canada.

I also love this tiny Korean restaurant by the crack Mac's on 8th. The sign is broken, so I cant tell you the name.

[oxygen]

I also love this tiny Korean restaurant by the crack Mac's on 8th. The sign is broken, so I cant tell you the name.

Don Day, great place and easily missed if you didn't know it was there.

My addition is Model Milk, which is in the old Victoria's space on 17th Avenue SW. Very well thought out menu that constantly changes.

[Northendzone]

Went to this great place where you had the option on sitting in the restaurant, or you had the option of remaining in your vehicle and eating, the food was reasonable priced and tasty. They also featured all you can drink non-Alcholic beverages, nice touch if you ask me.......

[jar_e]

This thread ends with Rouge. Its obviously a niche restaurant and pricey, but there is no better food in Calgary than Rouge.

[MRCboicgy]

If you aren't looking for high-end and just need a good steak sando and some beer, I like Upper Deck on 6th and 10th SW - on the second floor. Used to be Key West. The food is pretty damn good (great steak fries!) and prices are reasonable. I've hit it up on a few gamedays after work to watch a period and get my grub on.

[wireframe]

This thread ends with Rouge. Its obviously a niche restaurant and pricey, but there is no better food in Calgary than Rouge.

I could not disagree more. Rouge is no good at all.

[Mtt48]

I have taken the lady to Notable a couple of times and we really enjoy it. It's located in Montgomery in the Northwest. http://www.notabletherestaurant.ca/

They have quite a variety of dishes and the menu changes often. Great wine list as well. If you are thinking of going you must get a reservation. I believed they are usually booked up for dinner weeks in advance, so it can be a bit of a trick getting in. They do have drop-ins as well, but I imagine the wait would be a couple of hours.

[ricosuave]

Jacquelene Suzanne's in Inglewood is pretty good.

[onetwo_threefour]

I really like the Ranche. Nice for some different choices like elk, bison, boar sometimes with interesting seasonal changes to the menu. Atmosphere is interesting as well, antique western, without being overly cowboy.

[FLAMESRULE]

Open Range on Edmonton Trail and about 13th ave NE is our current favourite. All produce + meat is locally sourced, organic, and extremely good. Its upscale rustic / traditional prairie fare. Has quite a few type of game meats and the standard beef/bison along with some vegetarian meals.

[DFO]

I could not disagree more. Rouge is no good at all.

I doubt anyone else shares your opinion

[DrJ]

I have taken the lady to Notable a couple of times and we really enjoy it. It's located in Montgomery in the Northwest. http://www.notabletherestaurant.ca/

They have quite a variety of dishes and the menu changes often. Great wine list as well. If you are thinking of going you must get a reservation. I believed they are usually booked up for dinner weeks in advance, so it can be a bit of a trick getting in. They do have drop-ins as well, but I imagine the wait would be a couple of hours.

Notable is also very reasonable price wise for the quality of food.

[Notorious Honey Badger]

Globefish has the best sushi in Calgary imo

[EVERLAST]

Open Range on Edmonton trail...if you havent been eating there you've been eating ka ka

Ive eaten everywhere suggested by other posters on here and nothing comes remotely close to open Range

Other faves ...Laurier Lounge

[saskflames69]

Swiss Chalet, but only because there aren't any nearby where I live. Of course, you Calgarians take it and Harvey's for granted.

[mariners_fever]

I doubt anyone else shares your opinion

I do. If I were to spend the money on the chef's tasting at Rouge, I'd go to Muse in Kensington instead for their tasting menu. We're fortunate to have such a talented chef from France in our city.

Don't get me wrong, Rouge is great. However, for that price, Muse is even better.

[joe_mullen]

recent favorite - Cassis - great food, nice small menu, outstanding service.

other favorites (high end) - Rouge, Teatro, Boxwood

other favorites (cheaper) - Niko's (great value), Coup, Una, Laurier Lounge, Taste

best breakfast - Diner Deluxe

best pizza - Il Centro

disappointments - Model Milk, Charcut

...there's more that i forget as well.

[FLAMESRULE]

I do. If I were to spend the money on the chef's tasting at Rouge, I'd go to Muse in Kensington instead for their tasting menu. We're fortunate to have such a talented chef from France in our city.

Don't get me wrong, Rouge is great. However, for that price, Muse is even better.


Did the tasting menu at Muse about 2 years ago for my 5 year anniversary with Mrs. Flamesrule...was epic. An incredible dining experience. Well worth the money IMO.

[Brotato]

The wife and I hit Redwater monthly (at least!) for an inexpensive dinner out (compared to some Rouge, Muse, etc). It's about Moxies prices but the food is more locally sourced and 10x better. Huge fan of Redwater for food/dining experience per $.

[karl262]

IMO:
Best steakhouse is the bears den.
Best sushi is globefish in Marda loop
Best Italian is sugo
Best Viet food is Minh chau
Best burger is burger inn
Best hangover food is McDonald's

[crazy_eoj]

Blue Star Diner in bridgeland, same owners as Dairy Lane they have unbelievable breakfast and amazing tacos and burgers for dinner. Weekly stop for me.

[MarchHare]

I do. If I were to spend the money on the chef's tasting at Rouge, I'd go to Muse in Kensington instead for their tasting menu. We're fortunate to have such a talented chef from France in our city.

Don't get me wrong, Rouge is great. However, for that price, Muse is even better.

There's a huge difference between saying "when evaluated on a value-for-the-money perspective, there are better restaurants in Calgary than Rouge," (like you said) vs. "Rouge is no good at all" (like wireframe said). I can potentially agree with the former statement, but anyone who makes the latter is a philistine with no appreciation of cuisine.

Anyway, here are my favourite fine dining establishments in Calgary (in no order):

Rouge
Muse
Alloy
Jaroblue
Charcut
Catch

If you want to go a bit further afield, Crazyweed in Canmore is also delicious.

[northcrunk]

Trib and The Tasting House as well as the Belvedere on Stephen ave are all great resteraunts.

[Knut]

For a little known place I really enjoy The Blue House Cafe on 19th st and Northmount NW. They have latin american cuisine with fantastic seafood.

http://bluehousecafe.ca/index-1.html

Vintage Chophouse is still my favorite steak place in the City.

As for Pasta. Villa Maria on 17th a few blocks west of the Casino is a small but very friendly place. The owner, Danny, will make the experience even better. There is a limited, but tasty menu on Flames game days. On non-Flames days get the truffle ravioli to share (too rich to eat by yourself) and the Gamberi (Prawns).

[troutman]

Winebar Kensington always impresses me.

[nomad]

Great thread. If you're looking for somewhere nice to go you can't go wrong with any of the above recommendations. Our favourites these days are Brasserie Kensington and Cassis. Old stand-bys are Laurier Lounge and Globefish. Really liked Sugo for Italian. Only place that I found mildly disappointing was Muse.

[FlameOn]

Vero Bistro in Kensington has always been great. Blink and District were tasty the last couple of times I was there. Great, now I'm hungry.

I don't know why so many people like Globefish... fairly normal by sushi standards nowadays.

[Yasa]

Blue Star Diner in bridgeland, same owners as Dairy Lane they have unbelievable breakfast and amazing tacos and burgers for dinner. Weekly stop for me.

I've been there twice for breakfast. The first time was amazing. The second time was not so much. They overcooked the eggs and didn't put much hollandaise sauce on. I'd give it a third shot for sure. They have a great gluten-free menu too.

[Cain]

I'm poor, so my fine dining is basically limited to sushi.

I've said it many times on this site, but for a new thread I will say it again!

In my opinion...Globefish is terribly overrated. Check out Misato for rolls, and Wa's for non roll fare. Shikiji for ramen.

So much better than globefish and much better value imo.

[Jing]

I've been there twice for breakfast. The first time was amazing. The second time was not so much. They overcooked the eggs and didn't put much hollandaise sauce on. I'd give it a third shot for sure. They have a great gluten-free menu too.

I agree, Blue Star is just too inconsistent. First time I went for breakfast, the food was amazing. The next time I went it was mediocre at best. Same thing with dinner (great tacos the first time, unseasoned and bland the next).

Sone of my favourite restaurants:

Sushi Bar Zipang
Mercato
Blink
Alloy
District
Charcut

[iLoveLamp]

Crush on 12th & 12th SW has the best burgers in town IMO

[DownInFlames]

Crush on 12th & 12th SW has the best burgers in town IMO

They closed recently. There are signs in the windows saying it'll be reopening as a pub. Not sure if the burgers will stay the same.

[troutman]

http://forum.calgarypuck.com/showthread.php?t=110656&highlight=tastes+calgary

[FlameOn]

They closed recently. There are signs in the windows saying it'll be reopening as a pub. Not sure if the burgers will stay the same.

I actually like that place. :( Just was a little out of the way for me.

[darockwilder]

Don Day, great place and easily missed if you didn't know it was there.

My addition is Model Milk, which is in the old Victoria's space on 17th Avenue SW. Very well thought out menu that constantly changes.

Don Day is a restaurant?!?! If it's the place you can see from the C-Train, I always thought it was a daycare place.

If I could, I would insert the "The More You Know" image here....


Back to actual restaurant stuff, another vote for Vero Bistro in Kensington. Small place and pricey, but very nice!

[malcolmk14]

I walk by Don Day all the time and have never had the stones to go in. I should try it out.

[Jojado]

Best beef or falafel wraps I've had so far in Calgary are at Shawarma King in Kensington (so far I've also been to Chickpea, Cedars Deil, and Falafel King).

[Jing]

Had dinner at Muse, and it was amazing! Definitely check them out if you can.

[Lt.Spears]

I doubt anyone else shares your opinion

I'm actually not a big fan of rouge. Their location it's excellent and the venue is very neat, but i found the food to be just decent for the prices. My fiance liked her meal but thought it was over priced as well.

I agree with others that Muse is incredible, everything ive ever had there has been excellent.

[malcolmk14]

Had dinner at Notable last night and despite the fact they ran out of prime rib (it was 8:45 on a Friday, no problem), it was amazing.

Started with Steak Tartare and Scallops with bacon and romaine hearts, and moved on to some Ribeye steaks, and finished off with bread pudding covered in Caramel and cream and a French Press coffee.

Drooooool.

[DFO]

I'm actually not a big fan of rouge. Their location it's excellent and the venue is very neat, but i found the food to be just decent for the prices. My fiance liked her meal but thought it was over priced as well.

I agree with others that Muse is incredible, everything ive ever had there has been excellent.

I called out the OP because he flat out called Rouge crap - we know thats not the case. I think the Rouge vs. Muse comparison is just splitting hairs - two of the best restaurants in town IMO.

[Table 5]

Went to Borgo a couple of days ago.....had a fantastic meal, and for the first time felt that the prices were very reasonable for what you were getting. Will definitely be going back.

Going to Farm tonight for a bday party, so definitely looking forward to that after all the good recommendations it's been getting. Any particular dishes that stand out?

Calgary definitely has some great food for a city this size. Now we just need more competition...

[Table 5]

Did you have the mushroom...thingy?

Had the Tagliatelle (eg noodles and bacon) and took some of the wifes lamb chops. Both were a good time.

[Table 5]

Was pretty purrfect, that's fur sure.

[Knut]

What are you guys talking about Meow ?

[Traditional_Ale]

La Luna Rosa on Edmonton Trail is excellent. 14 of us spent $5000 there at the company Xmas party.

[Bunk]

Went to Borgo a couple of days ago.....had a fantastic meal, and for the first time felt that the prices were very reasonable for what you were getting. Will definitely be going back.

Going to Farm tonight for a bday party, so definitely looking forward to that after all the good recommendations it's been getting. Any particular dishes that stand out?

Calgary definitely has some great food for a city this size. Now we just need more competition...

Their Mac and Cheese is really good. Sablefish is also excellent.

They also have some amazing seasonal dishes (unfortunately not right now) like the Beef Cheek and Brisket. Mmmm.

Really keen to try their breakfast. I hear it's great. Borgo also has a nice set of pastry choices for breakfast.

Enjoy!

[wireframe]

I am pleasantly surprised that some people share my thoughts on Rouge. I went a bit overboard saying that it was no good at all. What I meant was that it is not even close to worth the prices and it seems that some other agree.

I also agree completely with joe_mullen's pizza choice, Il Centro. That place is tiny, but they have the best pizza around. If you havent tried it out, go down to Il Centro. The room and location are terrible but the pizza is incredible and it costs very little. I recommend the 3 cheese pizza ONLY if they have gorgonzola that day and if you are drinking, you have to get a glass of limoncello after dinner.


In my opinion...Globefish is terribly overrated. Check out Misato for rolls, and Wa's for non roll fare. Shikiji for ramen.


Next time I am in Calgary, I will check out Misato and Wa's. I love the ramen at Shikiji and don't like Globefish at all, so I will probably share your opinion on the others too.

[oxygen]

Another great place for sushi and sashimi is Sushi Hiro. Wa's is also quite good and I agree with some of the other posters that Globefish isn't that great. When Globefish first opened across from Marlborough Mall on Memorial I actually quite enjoyed it.

[Guest1]

I went to Wa's for my first sushi restaurant experience on Monday. Pretty good! You get Rockets instead of after dinner mints!

[mr.jim.lahey]

Bear's Den, Casbah and Blue House Cafe.

[Regular_John]

Gnocchi's - Haven't seen this posted yet, this is the wife & mine's anniversary date every year. Not terribly priced(bout $100 with a bottle of wine), but it's our "made it another year" meal. Service is top knoth and the food is great as well.

We eat maybe 2-3 other meals at this price point a year, but we really look forward to Gnocchi's, every year reguardles and it's typically our best meal of the year. But I will say Tapas in Canmore gives it a run for it's money.

[tete]

Gnocchi's - Haven't seen this posted yet, this is the wife & mine's anniversary date every year. Not terribly priced(bout $100 with a bottle of wine), but it's our "made it another year" meal. Service is top knoth and the food is great as well.

We eat maybe 2-3 other meals at this price point a year, but we really look forward to Gnocchi's, every year reguardles and it's typically our best meal of the year. But I will say Tapas in Canmore gives it a run for it's money.

Gnocchi's is closed - I noticed that just before Christmas. We only live a couple blocks from there but never went there.

Another vote for Rouge, especially the tasting menu with wine - their pairings are phenomenal. Although Farm is a bit costly for what you get, their quality is top notch. They have some of the best bacon in the city, if you go for brunch, try the french toast, it's very tasty.

[Regular_John]

Gnocchi's is closed - I noticed that just before Christmas. We only live a couple blocks from there but never went there.


:eek: That sucks, my wife will be quite disappointed. Then again we really only went once a year, so we certainly weren't regular customers.

[Cactus Jack]

What happened to Lounge Burger? I left Calgary a year ago and loved it but I've heard it really went downhill

[llama64]

What happened to Lounge Burger? I left Calgary a year ago and loved it but I've heard it really went downhill

Stampede happened.

Lounge Burger completed it's total divebomb into full restaurant d-bagery - it's now overpriced burgers (not bad, just overpriced) with an atmosphere that just screams Axe bodyspray.

Used to really like that restaurant - but now I just can't stand it.

How has no one mentioned Taste? Great food - just wish it was a bit bigger and less packed with yuppie chicks.

[Jing]

Stampede happened.

Lounge Burger completed it's total divebomb into full restaurant d-bagery - it's now overpriced burgers (not bad, just overpriced) with an atmosphere that just screams Axe bodyspray.

Used to really like that restaurant - but now I just can't stand it.

How has no one mentioned Taste? Great food - just wish it was a bit bigger and less packed with yuppie chicks.

I agree with your assessment of Taste. The quality and flavor is there, but you just get too little for your money. Same applies to their food truck, Perogy Boyz. Its a shame, as I would definitely be a more frequent customer if the price/quantity was improved.

[MRCboicgy]

:eek: That sucks, my wife will be quite disappointed. Then again we really only went once a year, so we certainly weren't regular customers.

Go to La Luna Rossa for your Italian fix now

[JonDuke]

Best sushi in Calgary is NOT the overrated GF.
Try Kinjo next time you wanna devour some raw fish.
Hands down our favorite place to eat

[Jing]

Best sushi in Calgary is NOT the overrated GF.
Try Kinjo next time you wanna devour some raw fish.
Hands down our favorite place to eat

I agree that globe fish is vastly overrated. However, the best sushi in Calgary (and I have tried Kinjo) is Sushi Bar Zipang IMO.

[silentsim]

Mercato's steak is phenomenal

[Cain]

Best sushi in Calgary is NOT the overrated GF.
Try Kinjo next time you wanna devour some raw fish.
Hands down our favorite place to eat

Kinjo has a cool atmosphere but I didn't find the fish to be great. Friends have liked it though so maybe my experience was not the norm.

I really liked zipang, but found it expensive. Would place it in the upper tier for sure though.

[Pizza]

Best sushi in Calgary is NOT the overrated GF.
Try Kinjo next time you wanna devour some raw fish.
Hands down our favorite place to eat

Did Peter give you a second box of Strawberry Pocky to say that?

[Philly06Cup]

A good guide: http://www.avenuecalgary.com/articles/page/item/calgary039s-best-restaurants-2011-the-list

My take on sushi

Best sashimi: Sushi Club Kensington. Amazing stuff; all imported
Best rolls: Misato
Best tempura rolls: Zipang.
Best experience: Kinjo (below-average sushi, but Kinjo makes up for it with his antics -- good for first dates)

Most over-rated: Globefish. Any and all of them.

[Hack&Lube]

Best sushi in Calgary is NOT the overrated GF.
Try Kinjo next time you wanna devour some raw fish.
Hands down our favorite place to eat

Kinjo is sub-mediocre at best. My Japanese friends don't eat there and say it's made for westerners tastes hence the mayonnaise in everything. It's white-man's fusion sushi with a bit of flair and theatrics and atmosphere in the restaurant to entertain. If that's your thing, fine. Then again, nobody in this town really knows what good sushi really is like. A really authentic and good sushi joint in Japan doesn't even give you wasabi and soy sauce. It comes hand-made, pre-seasoned.

[loob job]

My wife and i loved the meal we had at Rush last year. It was amazing.

[Regular_John]

It's a tiny little hole in the wall, and has basically no real atmosphere to speak of. You could mistake the simple tables & modest decorations for a greasy spoon/breakfast joint.

But Momo-Yama (http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/15/191061/restaurant/Southwest/Momo-Yama-Sushi-Japanese-Cuisine-Calgary) in Glenbrook (same stripmall as Glamorgan Bakery) is some of the most consistently good sushi I've had in the city.

It's very reasonably priced (although it has gone up a bit) and the limited staff do aim to please. I believe the head chef is also the owner, and he's the only one rolling everything by hand.

Like I said, this isn't high-brow dining, probably not suited for a big date, but for a basic "get your fill of sushi" place it's our favourite.

[Puppet Guy]

Kinjo is sub-mediocre at best. My Japanese friends don't eat there and say it's made for westerners tastes hence the mayonnaise in everything. It's white-man's fusion sushi with a bit of flair and theatrics and atmosphere in the restaurant to entertain. If that's your thing, fine. Then again, nobody in this town really knows what good sushi really is like. A really authentic and good sushi joint in Japan doesn't even give you wasabi and soy sauce. It comes hand-made, pre-seasoned.

I have had better sushi, but I love, love, love the atmosphere at Kinjo. The place is so upbeat, and the staff is always very good to The Puppet Family. If I'm having a visit from the depression monkey we'll go there and I'll feel a lot better, whether it's from the raised omega levels or the sense of fun. Eating out should make you feel good, and I've never felt bad there.

[MarchHare]

Went to Vintage Chophouse with some friends last weekend. As a special for the month of January, they're serving Wagyu beef (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wagyu) specially imported from Australia. It's a bit pricy at $10/oz, but well worth it. I'm sure this will annoy the Alberta beef purists, but it was by far the best steak I've ever had.

[Table 5]

Vintage makes the best steak in the city already imo, so a wagyu version must be something else. A little too rich for my blood unfortunately....

[me_dennis]

I really like the pizza at Without Papers, in Inglewood.

Their crust is comparable to Lombardi's pizza in NYC (my favorite pizza in the world) and their Shroom pizza is amazing. Lots of wild mushroom, truffle oil, garlic, and baby arugula. Not your usual pizza, but very delicious. If you're looking for your standard pizza, try the Hutch. It's got some kick to it, with spicy genoa salami and other cured meats. My only complaint is there is never enough cheese, which I find to be a common complaint with all these new "hip" pizza and wine joints.

Best pizza in the city goes to Vogglio though.

[Sliver]

Anybody tried the new egg salad sandwich from Subway?

[Table 5]

What's the best pizza place on or around 17th ave? Aside from Una. I got a hankering for one right now....

[Fueled By Fire]

I've been to a number of sushi places in town and Sushi Hibiki in my mind give you the best bang for your buck.

It's a hole in the wall (on 1st ave and Edmonton Trail), but the fish is fresh, the food is flavourful and the price is right.

[Mazrim]

Anybody tried the new egg salad sandwich from Subway?
It's pretty bad.

[troutman]

What's the best pizza place on or around 17th ave? Aside from Una. I got a hankering for one right now....

Spiros (further west).

[yyc_flames]

The Living room
Have the ravioli as app and the risotto as your main!

Pho Hoai for Vietnamese!!

[Brotato]

The Living room


Every time I eat in the living room my wife yells at me.

[SuperMatt18]

What's the best pizza place on or around 17th ave? Aside from Una. I got a hankering for one right now....

How close are you looking at?

If you want a pizza that is similar to UNA but not on 17th, try Famoso on 4th or Double Zero Pizza (4th Street between 7th and 8th AVE). http://doublezeropizza.ca/

Double Zero is nice because he has decent pizza that is comparable to UNA but the restaurant is alot bigger so you don't have to worry about getting a table.

[yyc_flames]

villaggio is good for pizza

corner of 13 st and 17 ave sw

[Bill Bumface]

For Greek I've had two great meals at Calypso's Taverna, 2010 Centre St NW.

[GomerPile]

Juree's Thai Place
On 16th ave where the old Burger King was, just west of 19th Street NW. It was reccomended to me by my friend who I traveled to Thailand with. I aggree with him, it is about as authentic we have had in town. Delicious. My fiancee and I went with another couple each ordered a main dish and shared, bill came to $35.00/ couple.

We will definatley be heading back.

The one negative I guess if I had to pick one. Minimal seafood, just prawns and fish. Many of my memories of Thai food is the crab and squid noodle dishes.

[Table 5]

Thanks for the suggestions Trout and SupperMatt.....by the time you answered, I had already ordered from Vogglios. It was pretty tasty as well, but always good to have some options for the future.

[SuperMatt18]

Thanks for the suggestions Trout and SupperMatt.....by the time you answered, I had already ordered from Vogglios. It was pretty tasty as well, but always good to have some options for the future.

Vogglio's is good and a great price since the second pizza is 50%off. Really can't go wrong with Vogglio's, UNA, Famoso, or Doublezero.

Spiros is good as well but is much different then the pizza listed above as it is the thick, greek style pizza.

[me_dennis]

What's the best pizza place on or around 17th ave? Aside from Una. I got a hankering for one right now....

Try Vogglio d'pizza (14th st 15th ave) sort of by Phils restaurant, and get the thin crust mexicana.
A bit expensive, but loaded with quality toppings and very filling and delicious.
The thin crust stays crispy even the day after.

edit: didnt' see your post

[Table 5]

Yep, it was a good time. Tons of topping too.....usually I prefer only 1 or 2 on my pizza, but this had about 7 of them and still tasted pretty great.

Btw, has anyone ever been to Boyds Lobster Shop? It looks rather dirty from the outside, but my desire for good fresh seafood has me intrigued.

[Puppet Guy]

Yep, it was a good time. Tons of topping too.....usually I prefer only 1 or 2 on my pizza, but this had about 7 of them and still tasted pretty great.

Btw, has anyone ever been to Boyds Lobster Shop? It looks rather dirty from the outside, but my desire for good fresh seafood has me intrigued.

I haven't been in about three years, but I remember that I had a good meal of fish and chips and fried clams. Inexpensive, and the lack of decor isn't an issue.

[Du Hast]

on the north side of the river :

Italian : Da Guido ; awesome food, fair price
Take Out Pizza : Demitris
Pulchinella's good authentic italian style pizza
Jimmys AAA deli makes a wicked (and huge) shwarma

thanks for all of the other comments - this thread is helpful

[Flames Draft Watcher]

Best beef or falafel wraps I've had so far in Calgary are at Shawarma King in Kensington (so far I've also been to Chickpea, Cedars Deil, and Falafel King).

Two best in the city IMO are Tazza in Bridgeland and Shawarma Knights on 14th ST and 16th Ave SW.

[Flames Draft Watcher]

What's the best pizza place on or around 17th ave? Aside from Una. I got a hankering for one right now....

I like Sophie's near Westhills. We always get meat sauce and cheese pizza.

[yyc_flames]

anyone ever been to the Pizza place upstairs in New York New York in Vegas?? They serve big thin crust pizzas...where can I get the same in Calgary?

[Regular_John]

I like Spiros more but it is really bloody expensive.


I'd agree, we ate there once a few years ago, and while the food was really good, it was over priced for what we had. We basically left thinking "well that was really good, but expensive" For the price point we'd rather go elsewhere.

[Muta]

I'm poor, so my fine dining is basically limited to sushi.

I know this is an old post in this thread, but this is the greatest and most legendary phrase in the history of man.

[Bunk]

Double Zero is quite good - and a great atmosphere right downtown. I'm headed there tonight in fact.

Una is good, but I find it pricey (like many more casual Calgary restaurants) and the pizza crust bland and dry.

I also love pizza places like Odyssey or A Plus, which are those thick cheesy steakhouse style pizzas. So delicious.

An Odyssey Pizza - from Urbanspoon

http://a2.urbns.pn/w/s/EN/Lse3CzclZSgDae-640m.jpg

[Regular_John]

Things that are not pizza are ######edly expensive. They have souvlaki and rice (I think it was). It was something like $29. No better than M and M meats for almost 10 x the price. Wasn't even good, pretty sure it is a instant rice like 'minute'.

Pizza good there (overpriced). Other stuff is criminally overpriced.

Yeah we had pizza & one or two appetizers and we pushing $60 for the two of us. Think I had one beer with the meal and the misses was drinking water.

Like I said, it was good, the pizza was even above average, but if I'm spending $60 on pizza I should be eating leftovers the next day and/or drinking a bottle of wine with the meal.

[Bill Bumface]

Instead of pizza head up 17th to Donegal so the waitress can call you an alcoholic when she doesn't understand you are speaking with an accent.

"He's German"

"He's DRIVING!?!?"

[wireframe]

I really like the pizza at Without Papers, in Inglewood.

Their crust is comparable to Lombardi's pizza in NYC (my favorite pizza in the world) and their Shroom pizza is amazing. Lots of wild mushroom, truffle oil, garlic, and baby arugula. Not your usual pizza, but very delicious. If you're looking for your standard pizza, try the Hutch. It's got some kick to it, with spicy genoa salami and other cured meats. My only complaint is there is never enough cheese, which I find to be a common complaint with all these new "hip" pizza and wine joints.


Without Papers might be the worst restaurant experience I have had in Calgary. My parents told me it was terrible but I though I would try it myself. We had pretty bad service, but I can excuse that because the waitress was new. I ordered a pizza with three ingredients: arugula, prosciutto, and bocconcini. About a minute before the pizza arrived I was told that they had run out of arugula and I would not be getting any. Bummer, but I wasn't thrown off yet. When the pizza did come it has no bocconcicni. After about 25 minutes the waitress came back and I complained that my pizza had only one of the advertised three toppings (33% is a bad score for any test). She came back minutes later and argued with me that there was indeed bocconcini on the pizza and that the taste was masked by the prosciutto. Eventually I told her that I grew up in an Italian house and I know what cheese tastes like. It doesn't count as a topping if the slice is so thin that I cant taste it. My companions also had bad pizza. The highest score goes to the mushroom pizza - 5/10. None of us will ever go back.

[Table 5]

Come to think of it I had pretty air-headed service at Without Papers as well. I thought the pizza itself was pretty good though....nice atmosphere as well. My only complaint was the ridiculously high price (sorry if I'm starting to sound like a broken record but a personal-sized pizza should not be anywhere close to 20 bucks).

Have to say I'm pretty impressed with how far Calgary has come from even 5 years ago in terms of pizza...there's some really solid stuff out there these days. Nobody I've tried has perfected the crust just yet though (especially that nice coal-oven char). I think the closest thing I've come to Naples pizza is Famoso. I remember the first time I had it, I had to phone my wife to tell her about it....Naples effin ruined my NY pizza experience, but the sauce at this place was about as close as I've gotten to recreating that experience. Crust was still a bit of a miss though.

[malcolmk14]

That's funny. New York ruined my Calgary pizza experience.

[MRCboicgy]

I know Kinjos is whitewashed, but dammit, if I don't find myself in there (Macleod) once a month just for the moving boat. After grabbing some nice sushi in Seattle, I can attest to the difference, but Kinjos is what it is - 20 bucks or so, and I'm pleasantly filled.
Plus, the atmosphere has calmed a bit since the younger Kinjo has taken over that location.

[CedarMeter]

Anyone know a restaurant in Calgary that's makes good perogies?

[Bunk]

Odyssey was good, but last time I went there, the prices had jumped, the person on the phone didn't understand english and the pizza sucked, it was similar but had cheaped out obviously. Pretty sure it got bought out.

Yeah, I heard Odyssey us under new ownership and it's gone down hill. No matter, I'll just go to A Plus. Basically the same thing a couple of blocks away.

[malcolmk14]

I've eaten more than a few times at most sushi places in Calgary and I can categorize a few of the places mentioned here.

Globefish - overpriced and overrated. Eaten at the various locations probably 25-30 times. Have only been once or twice in the past year. Don't get me wrong, it's good, but it's not nearly as good as a lot of people say it is.
Misato - good quality and generally fairly priced, sometimes on the expensive side. Probably been about 10-15 times.
Wa's - good quality and I can't remember pricing, only been 1 time.
Kinjo - below average quality and just generally tacky and not very good. Visited 3-4 times.
Zipang - tried it for the first time on Thursday and was impressed. It's expensive but it's very traditional and they seemed to have more specialty fish than I've seen anywhere else.
Hibiki - only been once, maybe slightly above average. Nothing outstanding or I think I would have been back.
Shibuya - A good late night izakaya option. On occasion they've been better than Globefish, and I've also had a couple nights where the fish was frozen or other mistakes were made. Been about 5 times.
Shikiji - Used to be good but has gone downhill. Stick to the Ramen. Visited 3-4 times.
Sushi Club K'z - Solid, expensive, visited 1 time.
Momoyama - Good, similar to Misato. Had one bad experience a couple of years ago but the last few months my visits have been excellent. Roughly 10 visits.
El's Japanese Fusion - Solid korean-style rolls across from Globefish. Cheaper and not quite as good. Still an ok option. 4-5 visits.
Towa - Eaten here about 15 times. It's tacky but generally quite delicious if you can get past the completely ridiculous and obnoxious size of everything they serve. If you've never been, order less than you think you'll need.
Hana - Overpriced, average quality, 1 visit.
Wasabi - Average, cheap, 1 visit.
Yume - $1 nigiri but it isn't very good, about what you'd expect for $1. 1 visit.
Sushi Boat - Overpriced and not as good as Kinjo. 4-5 visits.
Ichi Rock - Korean style izakaya restaurant with decent sushi, pretty pricy but good quality. Horrible location. Visited 3 times.
Haru (Springborough) - Expensive and gimmicky. Probably won't go back although it's closest to my house. 2 visits.
Sushi & Co. - Essentially a take-out counter staffed by Koreans on 10th st SW. Favourite place in the city. It's cheap and the quality has only faltered once or twice. Probably visited about 20-30 times.
Amici - Another $1 joint. Bad. 1 visit.
Hanami - completely unmemorable. Forgot I even visited but on Urbanspoon it's a thumbs down from me.
Sushi Bar Ren - Pretty bad sushi on a boat place. Good temaki for a great price but that's their only redeeming quality. 3 visits.
Haru (Mackenzie) - Decent, didn't hate it. 1 visit.
Sakana grill (Chinatown) - their happy hour was a go-to place until they discontinued Toro for $1.10. They had it at 9 pm one night and by 9:30 when we tried to order a second round they no longer offered it at that price. It's still on the menu but they won't sell it to us. Visited about 10-15 times but won't go back until toro is back.
Li-Ao sushi - just opened, gimmicky like Kinjo with the Pocky and obnoxiousness, but they make pretty decent sushi. Nothing outstanding but it is ok for the location it's in. Eaten there twice.
Kawa - nah. 1 visit.
Hot Stone Rice Bowl - Just opened a few months ago on 37th St SW. Very good sushi, two out of the three visits I've made have been top notch. Similar to Sushi & Co with more diversity, similar to Globefish with less cost. Careful, their crazy buster roll isn't the same as Globefish's.
Sushi Motto - only ever eaten there with a dealfind voucher and found it pretty average. 1 visit.
Uptown Sushi - used to be great but gone downhill lately. 5-7 visits.
Sukiyaki house - expense account place. Tacky, gimmicky, and not worth the cost. 1 visit.
Macleod Sushi & BBQ - only place I'll go for all you can eat, as the other few in the city suck. 3-5 visits.
Umi (U of C) - terrible. just terrible. 3-4 visits.
Sushi Q (chinook) - see above. 2 visits.
Yamato (7th Ave) - been twice, it's average quality wise, but nothing special especially with Sushi & Co only one train station away.
Blowfish - Ridiculously expensive, but they've got a cool menu.

[malcolmk14]

Damn I eat a lot of sushi.

[Pizza]

Damn I eat a lot of sushi.

I aspire to eat like that one day

[GomerPile]

Damn I eat a lot of sushi.


But apparently you have not ate at my favorite place.

Sushi BBQ Inn - 16th Ave accross from SAIT. IMO the best in the city.

[Pizza]

But apparantly you have not ate at my favorite place.

Sushi BBQ Inn - 16th Ave accross from SAIT. IMO the best in the city.

Get out of here, Troll!

[malcolmk14]

But apparantly you have not ate at my favorite place.

Sushi BBQ Inn - 16th Ave accross from SAIT. IMO the best in the city.

No, I have, I just left it off my list. I'm sorry that you think that is good sushi. But keep eating there, more seats at the good places for me!

You've got to be joking.

[_Q_]

But apparently you have not ate at my favorite place.

Sushi BBQ Inn - 16th Ave accross from SAIT. IMO the best in the city.

Yeah that place is probably the worst restaurant in North America. Nobody should ever have to eat such garbage. I remember my friend used to love that place and would refuse to eat any other sushi. He didn't ever try another sushi place until he got a new girl friend that threatened to break up with him if he ever took her back there again.

Try any place on the list above and I can guarantee you'll like it more than that crap.

[Nuje]

Tu Tierra - It's on Heritage and Fairmount (where China City once was). Great Mexican. I haven't been to the Southern US, or really eaten anywhere in Mexico off a resort, but this place has flavours I've simply never tried before. Every other Mexican place in the city tastes like cardboard imo. Great little unassuming place.

[Bunk]

O Shima on 17th Ave just west of 14th street is pretty good for sushi.

A lot of people think Globefish is overated, but I still think it's good. Their Agedashi Tofu is outstanding and love the Beef Tataki. Their fancy roles like the Crazy Buster are a bit pricey (so is most sushi in Calgary) but is really good. I find the Marda Loop location the best one.

[GomerPile]

Yeah that place is probably the worst restaurant in North America. Nobody should ever have to eat such garbage. I remember my friend used to love that place and would refuse to eat any other sushi. He didn't ever try another sushi place until he got a new girl friend that threatened to break up with him if he ever took her back there again.

Try any place on the list above and I can guarantee you'll like it more than that crap.

Fair Enough, but unfortunatley the worst sushi I have ever had was in Japan, so I judge according to that experiance and sadly yes the BBQ Inn is better then that.

[flamesflames444]

I just moved to Wildwood just around the corner from Odyssey so I can't comment on what it was like pre-ownership change, but I find it pretty decent, but not the best in the city. Takeout is 20% off so a large is around $16, but it is super filling.

My usual go to pizza is Pulcinellas or Famoso.

[Bunk]

Tu Tierra - It's on Heritage and Fairmount (where China City once was). Great Mexican. I haven't been to the Southern US, or really eaten anywhere in Mexico off a resort, but this place has flavours I've simply never tried before. Every other Mexican place in the city tastes like cardboard imo. Great little unassuming place.

Agreed - this is a good Mexican place. Honourable mention to the Los Compadres food truck - excellent tacos.

[malcolmk14]

O Shima on 17th Ave just west of 14th street is pretty good for sushi.

A lot of people think Globefish is overated, but I still think it's good. Their Agedashi Tofu is outstanding and love the Beef Tataki. Their fancy roles like the Crazy Buster are a bit pricey (so is most sushi in Calgary) but is really good. I find the Marda Loop location the best one.

I agree. I did write that it's overrated in my post but that's only because people rate it as the best sushi in the city. It really is good, but just expensive and not the best, IMO.

Haven't tried O Shima but it's pretty popular so I might have to give it a shot.

Tu Tierra - It's on Heritage and Fairmount (where China City once was). Great Mexican. I haven't been to the Southern US, or really eaten anywhere in Mexico off a resort, but this place has flavours I've simply never tried before. Every other Mexican place in the city tastes like cardboard imo. Great little unassuming place.

Tu Tierra is great - 4 out of my 5 visits have been excellent. One time I feel like I got microwaved food but... what can you do?

Los Compadres is good for tacos but when is the last time they've been out? Can't eat there if they are never open. Also they are pretentious about their food being real Mexican and don't take to constructive criticism well.

[Bunk]

I agree. I did write that it's overrated in my post but that's only because people rate it as the best sushi in the city. It really is good, but just expensive and not the best, IMO.

Might have missed it, but what's your favourite? Curious because you've been to so many.

[Bunk]

Los Compadres is good for tacos but when is the last time they've been out? Can't eat there if they are never open. Also they are pretentious about their food being real Mexican and don't take to constructive criticism well.

Some of the trucks have slowed down or stopped during the winter months. For instance fries and dolls shut down for the winter. Others are out in full force everyday. There are at least 10-12 more trucks slated to open this spring too.

As far as being real Mexican - they are actually Mexican people owning and operating the truck, which can't be said for a lot of Mexican restaurants in Canada. :cool:

[Pizza]

Fair Enough, but unfortunatley the worst sushi I have ever had was in Japan, so I judge according to that experiance and sadly yes the BBQ Inn is better then that.

So because it's better than the worst, it therefore must be the best?

[malcolmk14]

Might have missed it, but what's your favourite? Curious because you've been to so many.

Depends what I'm going for, really. If I'm going for lunch it's probably Sushi & Co. at the end of the C-train line at 10th St. SW. If it's dinner, it's probably Misato on 17th/Sarcee. Both places are operated by Koreans rather than Japanese but that seems to be the trend.

Sushi Bar Zipang seems like a bit of a special occasion place and I would recommend it for top-quality sushi if you have a non-discerning wallet, but I need to go back there myself a few more times to try more things. At least it was really good quality the day I was there.

If I want a bunch of small sharing plates and izakaya-style food I'm doing Globefish, Shibuya, or maybe Ichi-Rock which is actually more of a Korean restaurant.

Hard to narrow down a favourite, really depends what I want to eat. Honorable mention goes to Momoyama (also Korean-operated) for lunch or dinner, strong place most of the time.

[malcolmk14]

As far as being real Mexican - they are actually Mexican people owning and operating the truck, which can't be said for a lot of Mexican restaurants in Canada. :cool:

Yeah, I kindly suggested that they have an option of corn or flour tortillas and maybe add beans to their offerings and they told me that's not real Mexican food.

Fair enough, I think it is Mexican so we'll just disagree. It's still good and I'll still eat there, but I'd eat there twice as often if they had more variety.

[Du Hast]

Anyone know a restaurant in Calgary that's makes good perogies?

Heritage deli. Just off 17th ave and 37th st sw. Everything is homemade . I thot the perogies were good (not on par with my baba's ) but still good. And I was impressed with the sausage and cabbage rolls too. Overall very good authentic ukrainian

[zuluking]

Night out for chef's tasting menu - Chef's Table or Muse?

[malcolmk14]

Muse

[crazy_eoj]

Things that are not pizza are ######edly expensive. They have souvlaki and rice (I think it was). It was something like $29. No better than M and M meats for almost 10 x the price. Wasn't even good, pretty sure it is a instant rice like 'minute'.

Pizza good there (overpriced). Other stuff is criminally overpriced.

Many of their specials, like the lamb or when they do spit roasted pork, are well priced and some of the best in town. Also the pasta is more than reasonable.

But the souvlaki is not a good deal. And certainly, it's not a cheap option for pizza either. But it's damn good!!

[crazy_eoj]

Heritage deli. Just off 17th ave and 37th st sw. Everything is homemade . I thot the perogies were good (not on par with my baba's ) but still good. And I was impressed with the sausage and cabbage rolls too. Overall very good authentic ukrainian

There's a lineup some mornings for when the Garlic Sausage (kubasa) comes out of the smoker. Best you can get in town!!

[kermitology]

Damn I eat a lot of sushi.

Have you ever gone to Sushi Dining Chopsticks in Marlbourough? I've heard some people are so-so on that place, but I found their salmon sashimi to be out of this world. It's expensive, but I've always had good sushi there.

[fredr123]

Damn I eat a lot of sushi.

Curious where Koto Sushi Lounge and Yamato rank on your list.

[Philly06Cup]

Night out for chef's tasting menu - Chef's Table or Muse?

Chef's Table. with the wine pairing.

[rd_aaron]

I'm looking for a good teppanyaki style Japanese restaurant. I see Japanese Village but reading the reviews on Urbanspoon (http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/15/190784/restaurant/Victoria-Park/Japanese-Village-Calgary) makes me not want to go. Apparently if someone in your reservation party cancels last minute, they charge you $25/person who don't show up and the manager & hostess berate you for not having everyone show up... not to mention that they rush you through for supper in under an hour, and actually ask you to leave. How on earth can the place have an 82% rating with reviews like that?

[malcolmk14]

Have you ever gone to Sushi Dining Chopsticks in Marlbourough? I've heard some people are so-so on that place, but I found their salmon sashimi to be out of this world. It's expensive, but I've always had good sushi there.

Nope, haven't been, but if I'm in the area and hungry I'll give it a try.

Curious where Koto Sushi Lounge and Yamato rank on your list.

Haven't tried either one, in fact, I don't think I've ever heard of Koto Sushi Lounge. Glancing at the menu on urbanspoon though it looks on the expensive side, and would have to be pretty good or have some sort of killer lunch special to justify the price.

Edit: If you mean Yamato on 7th Ave and 6th St SW then I have been there twice and it's not bad, pretty average, but with Sushi & Co. only a few minutes away there's just no way I go there. I work 1 block away from Yamato and 3 blocks from Sushi & Co.

Added Yamato and Blowfish to my original list.

Ate at Towa tonight before the game and it was tasty and just absurdly huge as always.

[malcolmk14]

I'm looking for a good teppanyaki style Japanese restaurant. I see Japanese Village but reading the reviews on Urbanspoon (http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/15/190784/restaurant/Victoria-Park/Japanese-Village-Calgary) makes me not want to go. Apparently if someone in your reservation party cancels last minute, they charge you $25/person who don't show up and the manager & hostess berate you for not having everyone show up... not to mention that they rush you through for supper in under an hour, and actually ask you to leave. How on earth can the place have an 82% rating with reviews like that?

The only other one I even know of is Sakana Grill.

You're absolutely right though. Japanese Village is an institution in Calgary but they are so bossy and they rush you through the machine to fill that table another time. So many better places to go but the yummy yummy sauce and steak sauce are so damn good.

[Pizza]

I'm looking for a good teppanyaki style Japanese restaurant. I see Japanese Village but reading the reviews on Urbanspoon (http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/15/190784/restaurant/Victoria-Park/Japanese-Village-Calgary) makes me not want to go. Apparently if someone in your reservation party cancels last minute, they charge you $25/person who don't show up and the manager & hostess berate you for not having everyone show up... not to mention that they rush you through for supper in under an hour, and actually ask you to leave. How on earth can the place have an 82% rating with reviews like that?

I've been there 3 times in the last two months and I dont know where these people come up with their reviews.
I had someone drop out last minute in our party and I explained what happened to the host. She was cool with it and seated us 10 min past our reservation. They didnt charge us $25 for the missing person. We also stayed for 90 minutes for our meal

Teppanyaki is different than all other restaurants since they have set times for the chef to "perform".
As long as you show up on time and respect that they are a business who have seats to fill, you'll have a fun time there.

and yes, they gave me a free birthday cake for saying this

[rd_aaron]

I've been there 3 times in the last two months and I dont know where these people come up with their reviews.
I had someone drop out last minute in our party and I explained what happened to the host. She was cool with it and seated us 10 min past our reservation. They didnt charge us $25 for the missing person. We also stayed for 90 minutes for our meal

Teppanyaki is different than all other restaurants since they have set times for the chef to "perform".
As long as you show up on time and respect that they are a business who have seats to fill, you'll have a fun time there.

and yes, they gave me a free birthday cake for saying this

Did you go on a Friday or Saturday night? Personally, it would just be me and my fiancée so obviously I wouldn't have to worry about not making the reservation but I also don't want to go out for a nice supper and get pushed through in 45 minutes. I might give it a shot this weekend.

[troutman]

Did you go on a Friday or Saturday night? Personally, it would just be me and my fiancée so obviously I wouldn't have to worry about not making the reservation but I also don't want to go out for a nice supper and get pushed through in 45 minutes. I might give it a shot this weekend.

You will have to sit around a table with other people.

[VladtheImpaler]

Did you go on a Friday or Saturday night? Personally, it would just be me and my fiancée so obviously I wouldn't have to worry about not making the reservation but I also don't want to go out for a nice supper and get pushed through in 45 minutes. I might give it a shot this weekend.

It's an office/kids b-day party kind of place, not a date sort of place... unless you are so bored of each other, you'd rather sit around with strangers. :)

[rd_aaron]

You will have to sit around a table with other people.

I realize that. I guess I was just expecting more of a "fine dining" atmosphere. I've been to Samurai in Saskatoon which is considered fine dining (even though it's teppanyaki style), not a place you'd have a kid's birthday party (or apparently a team windup as a picture on the website shows).

[malcolmk14]

I think to be fair, in the past you could have maybe considered Japanese Village to have a bit of a fine dining atmosphere, although it's always been kid-friendly and loud/raucous.

In the last 8 or 10 years, Calgary's dining scene has evolved and become a little bit more sophisticated, and Japanese Village has become more of a family-style place.

I don't think there's anything necessarily wrong with going there on a date, because it is fun; it just wouldn't be my first choice because I typically like to go somewhere a little more intimate.

The only time I go anymore is when my younger sister wants to have her birthday there every April as a matter of tradition.

[woob]

I'm looking for a good teppanyaki style Japanese restaurant. I see Japanese Village but reading the reviews on Urbanspoon (http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/15/190784/restaurant/Victoria-Park/Japanese-Village-Calgary) makes me not want to go. Apparently if someone in your reservation party cancels last minute, they charge you $25/person who don't show up and the manager & hostess berate you for not having everyone show up... not to mention that they rush you through for supper in under an hour, and actually ask you to leave. How on earth can the place have an 82% rating with reviews like that?

Steak sauce and rice.

[rd_aaron]

I think to be fair, in the past you could have maybe considered Japanese Village to have a bit of a fine dining atmosphere, although it's always been kid-friendly and loud/raucous.

In the last 8 or 10 years, Calgary's dining scene has evolved and become a little bit more sophisticated, and Japanese Village has become more of a family-style place.

I don't think there's anything necessarily wrong with going there on a date, because it is fun; it just wouldn't be my first choice because I typically like to go somewhere a little more intimate.

The only time I go anymore is when my younger sister wants to have her birthday there every April as a matter of tradition.

That's good to know. I think we'll check it out this weekend since we're moving and don't want to be cooking meals and making a mess at home.

Steak sauce and rice.

I'll make sure to get some steak sauce on my rice.

[Notorious Honey Badger]

malcom where would you recomend to try spider rolls and spicy tuna? my favourite in the city so far is globefish but you seem to have tried a lot of places

[Ozy_Flame]

NHB, I'd recommend Towa for spicy tuna (and lots of it). Zen 8 also serves up good spicy tuna sushi - excellent cones as well. The manager often imports his tuna straight from Japan; definitely worth checking out.

[malcolmk14]

malcom where would you recomend to try spider rolls and spicy tuna? my favourite in the city so far is globefish but you seem to have tried a lot of places

Maybe I've just never had a good one but I'm not a fan of spider rolls. I've tried them at Misato and Momoyama and neither one really did it for me so I got turned off and really never ordered them again. I wouldn't be opposed to giving them a shot somewhere else if they come highly recommended.

A lot of places do the spicy tuna roll well, it's an easy one, but as mentioned before my favourite is Sushi & Co... Also, Rice Bowl on 37th between Richmond Rd. and 17th Ave also does a pretty good spicy tuna roll. The sauce at both places (they're so similar) is some kind of korean-style chili sauce and the rolls are a nice big size (bigger at Sushi & Co.) and fair in price ($6). I usually get the Spicy Tuna or Salmon roll as part of the Traditional Roll Combo ($14) and add a Mango Tuna roll on top of that. You can feed two people for $22, add a Tempura and a Spicy Tofu appetizer or something and it's just way too much food.

Towa's spicy tuna roll is my favourite one with mayo-based spicy sauce, it's up there in price ($14) but it is just ridiculously huge. I usually fill up at Towa with a Spicy Salmon roll, negi-toro roll, and an appetizer. About $45 for two people including a tip.

[Pizza]

Did you go on a Friday or Saturday night? Personally, it would just be me and my fiancée so obviously I wouldn't have to worry about not making the reservation but I also don't want to go out for a nice supper and get pushed through in 45 minutes. I might give it a shot this weekend.

Twice I've went on a Friday night and yeah, it does get kinda busy. If you're not making a reservation, you might have to wait

You will have to share a table with some people, but that's expected with Teppanyaki. You wont get the intimacy of a single table, but it's a good start if you want a fun date. I havent seen any kids the times i've went there. Honestly at nearly $30 per set dinner there, I doubt you'll be seeing too many kids anyways

[malcolmk14]

Twice I've went on a Friday night and yeah, it does get kinda busy. If you're not making a reservation, you might have to wait

You will have to share a table with some people, but that's expected with Teppanyaki. You wont get the intimacy of a single table, but it's a good start if you want a fun date. I havent seen any kids the times i've went there. Honestly at nearly $30 per set dinner there, I doubt you'll be seeing too many kids anyways

I have almost the exact opposite experience, strangely. We've been going to Japanese Village for birthdays at least once a year since I was 10 or 12, maybe longer. And my sister is 5 years younger than me. I often see kids there when I go, usually in big family groups with 4-6 adults and a few kids.

They are very kid-friendly and even have a kids menu with $10-12 entrees if I recall correctly.

[nik-]

. The manager often imports his tuna straight from Japan.

This seems like fluff to me, doesn't Japan import most of their tuna anyway?

[kermitology]

You will have to sit around a table with other people.

The best meal I've had in my life I was seated at a table for four with two Austrian women I'd never met. It was a revelation.

[FlameOn]

Curious where Koto Sushi Lounge and Yamato rank on your list.

Koto Sushi Lounge is decent. Yamato not anywhere near as good. Quality has taken a nose dive in recent years.

[red sky]

Ridiculously sushi list

Have you ever been to Koto Sushi. I have been twice with deal find vouchers and found it pretty decent.

My top two are Misato's and Sushi Towa for the spicey salmon roll and black and white roll.

[malcolmk14]

Had dinner at Charcut tonight.

Heirloom beets with goat cheese and arugula, and the pigs head mortadella to start.
Prime Rib with a side of Broccolini for dinner.
Chocolate pudding with chantilly cream for dessert.

Mmmm. Delicious. Finally got the prime rib that I've been craving since Notable was out last weekend.

[Vansmack]

I've had some delicious meals recently at Niko's in Kensington. The food was amazing and the service has been great.

[red sky]

Had dinner at Charcut tonight.

Heirloom beets with goat cheese and arugula, and the pigs head mortadella to start.
Prime Rib with a side of Broccolini for dinner.
Chocolate pudding with chantilly cream for dessert.

Mmmm. Delicious. Finally got the prime rib that I've been craving since Notable was out last weekend.

Their prime rib is delicious. The Spring Creek beef is unbelievable.

[Table 5]

How do you guys pronounce Charcut btw? I always thought it was the frenchie way (shar koot) since it sounds like it's derived from charcuterrie.....but I've heard people call it the more english "Char Cut" way too...

[flamesrule_kipper34]

How do you guys pronounce Charcut btw? I always thought it was the frenchie way (shar koot) since it sounds like it's derived from charcuterrie.....but I've heard people call it the more english "Char Cut" way too...

I was the same way as you, after looking it up there was an article in Avenue Magazine that states it is meant to be pronounced "Char Cut".

A Cut Above Charcut (http://www.avenuecalgary.com/articles/page/item/a-cut-above-charcut)


(The Charcut name is inspired by the word charcuterie, but is pronounced Anglo-style rather than French.)

[bomber317]

Sushi Bar Zipang seems like a bit of a special occasion place and I would recommend it for top-quality sushi if you have a non-discerning wallet, but I need to go back there myself a few more times to try more things. At least it was really good quality the day I was there.


I really like Zipang for all kinds of sushi/sashimi and japanese dishes.

Their sashimi is awesome because they actually give you a bigger portion than the sushi equivalent.

My next 2 favorites are probably Wa's and Misato's.

[red sky]

I was the same way as you, after looking it up there was an article in Avenue Magazine that states it is meant to be pronounced "Char Cut".

A Cut Above Charcut (http://www.avenuecalgary.com/articles/page/item/a-cut-above-charcut)

Yup. I thought it was like Charcuterie but when Connie was on top chef they said it as Char Cut.

[AR_Six]

I live directly across from Muse. It's a great restaurant, I've never been disappointed, but I also don't think it's as out-of-this-world good as some make it out to be. Kensington generally has some good places at varying price ranges, Vero, Pulcinella, and especially the Brasserie.

I wasn't that impressed with Rouge. Calgary generally has plenty of good Italian spots... Sugo is fantastic. Teatro is also great, same with Mercato. Catch was underwhelming. Trib isn't bad, but also a bit underwhelming. Rush was a disappointment. Vintage makes the best steak in the city, period; the Cowboy Chop is unreal. People often overlook River Cafe, that place has such great atmosphere and such a fantastic location and the food has been very good on both occasions I've been there. Off the top of my head.

There's a lot of wasted breath on sushi in this thread. Sorry, but the best sushi in this city is still pretty damned mediocre.

[bomber317]

There's a lot of wasted breath on sushi in this thread. Sorry, but the best sushi in this city is still pretty damned mediocre.

I don't think it's "wasted". Just because other cities have better food based on population/proximity to water/chefs doesn't mean people don't want to eat sushi in Calgary.

You could make the same argument for a lot of food in Calgary. Chinese, Vietnamese, Italian, French, etc. If you apply that for all cuisines, the only thing you'd be eating here is Steak and Ginger Beef.

[Table 5]

Vintage makes the best steak in the city, period; the Cowboy Chop is unreal. People often overlook River Cafe, that place has such great atmosphere and such a fantastic location and the food has been very good on both occasions I've been there.

Mind you I haven't been to all the names brought up in this thread, but the best meal I've ever had in Calgary was at River Cafe. That place is top notch, and such a nice setting too.

And I agree about the steak at Vintage. Best steak I've had anywhere period....and that includes Peter Lugers.

[AR_Six]

You could make the same argument for a lot of food in Calgary. Chinese, Vietnamese, Italian, French, etc. If you apply that for all cuisines, the only thing you'd be eating here is Steak and Ginger Beef.
No, that's not what I'm saying at all. While we're not as big a city as Vancouver, Montreal and Toronto and the quality and selection of restaurants in any category is going to be a bit less, there generally isn't a marked difference in the overall standard between these cities. In other words, I can get a damned good Italian meal in Calgary, same as I can in Montreal. I can get a very good French meal here, same as in Vancouver. Our steakhouses are better than Vancouver's, sure, but you can still get a very good steak out on the coast if you're in the right spot. This is not true of the sushi in Calgary. The standard is significantly lower, to a point where if you're going out, you're always going to get MUCH a better meal in whatever price range you're looking at if you get something else. So unless you're absolutely craving it, there's basically no point.

Part of the problem is that the japanese places here... it's like having an Italian restaurant where 90% of the menu is pasta and pizza. It's cookie cutter, and the ingredients available do not allow for that kind of stuff to end up being any good. Sushi joints in this city need to stop being sushi joints and start being japanese restaurants. Be creative, broaden the menu, incorporate more interesting izakaya stuff (no, not just gyoza, tempura and agedashi tofu), delve into regional elements. Calgary has plenty of potential to have pretty solid japanese cuisine, but as long as they continue to focus on sashimi, sushi and rolls as "what people think japanese food entails" it's never going to be better than VERY underwhelming.

[troutman]

Valentines Day suggestions:

http://www.avenuecalgary.com/blogs/tables-for-two

[Muffins]

I really like Zipang for all kinds of sushi/sashimi and japanese dishes.

Their sashimi is awesome because they actually give you a bigger portion than the sushi equivalent.


By far my favorite sushi place.
My dad and a couple of his friends have gotten to know the owner pretty well. It's gotten to the point where we don't have to order anything, he just makes us various things to try until we're full.

I highly recommend the shrimp heads.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/158/391612358_1c31b5e522.jpg

[troutman]

I highly recommend the shrimp heads.



In Vancouver I saw diners biting the heads off live prawns. That's fresh!

[Wormius]

Heritage deli. Just off 17th ave and 37th st sw. Everything is homemade . I thot the perogies were good (not on par with my baba's ) but still good. And I was impressed with the sausage and cabbage rolls too. Overall very good authentic ukrainian

Does that place at the Calgary Farmers Market sell home made perogies, etc?

[bomber317]

Part of the problem is that the japanese places here... it's like having an Italian restaurant where 90% of the menu is pasta and pizza. It's cookie cutter, and the ingredients available do not allow for that kind of stuff to end up being any good. Sushi joints in this city need to stop being sushi joints and start being japanese restaurants. Be creative, broaden the menu, incorporate more interesting izakaya stuff (no, not just gyoza, tempura and agedashi tofu), delve into regional elements. Calgary has plenty of potential to have pretty solid japanese cuisine, but as long as they continue to focus on sashimi, sushi and rolls as "what people think japanese food entails" it's never going to be better than VERY underwhelming.

Thanks for expanding on your post.

I do agree with you on this point. I do think that Zipang and Wa's have some traditional dishes that are worth trying but they're generally specials and is not on the regular menu. (unless you count Wa's grilled food). That being said, I don't go to those places for the non-sushi/sashimi items.

[_Q_]

No, that's not what I'm saying at all. While we're not as big a city as Vancouver, Montreal and Toronto and the quality and selection of restaurants in any category is going to be a bit less, there generally isn't a marked difference in the overall standard between these cities. In other words, I can get a damned good Italian meal in Calgary, same as I can in Montreal. I can get a very good French meal here, same as in Vancouver. Our steakhouses are better than Vancouver's, sure, but you can still get a very good steak out on the coast if you're in the right spot. This is not true of the sushi in Calgary. The standard is significantly lower, to a point where if you're going out, you're always going to get MUCH a better meal in whatever price range you're looking at if you get something else. So unless you're absolutely craving it, there's basically no point.

Part of the problem is that the japanese places here... it's like having an Italian restaurant where 90% of the menu is pasta and pizza. It's cookie cutter, and the ingredients available do not allow for that kind of stuff to end up being any good. Sushi joints in this city need to stop being sushi joints and start being japanese restaurants. Be creative, broaden the menu, incorporate more interesting izakaya stuff (no, not just gyoza, tempura and agedashi tofu), delve into regional elements. Calgary has plenty of potential to have pretty solid japanese cuisine, but as long as they continue to focus on sashimi, sushi and rolls as "what people think japanese food entails" it's never going to be better than VERY underwhelming.

This...

It seems as though every discussion in this city about good food degenerates to a discussion about Sushi. Yes, there's decent sushi in this city, but really, it's not the only thing to eat here. In fact, I dare any sushi addicts to go out and spend equal money on any other meal and tell me they didn't enjoy the meal more.

[moncton golden flames]

going to rush this evening before the game to sit in the lounge for some food. will review tomorrow...

[bomber317]

This...

It seems as though every discussion in this city about good food degenerates to a discussion about Sushi. Yes, there's decent sushi in this city, but really, it's not the only thing to eat here. In fact, I dare any sushi addicts to go out and spend equal money on any other meal and tell me they didn't enjoy the meal more.

But why does it have to compare? If I want sushi, I'll go spend money on sushi. If I want Italian, I'll go spend money on Italian. It's not about how much I spent but what I wanted.

It does seem there's a disproportional number of people talking about "good" sushi as opposed to any other cuisine.

Some of my favorites....

Italian - Mercato
Thin Pizza - Famosa
Thick Pizza - Spiros
Chinese - the new Ginger Beef by silver city (hand made noodles)
Dim Sum - Teapot
Sushi - Zipang
Vietnamese Soup - random vietnamese restaurant by London Drugs in Sunridge. (only the soup and rice is good, dry noodles not so much)
Fast Burgers - 5 guys
French Deli - L' Epicerie

[Table 5]

This gives me hope, I desperately want to like sushi. I have tried ~35 times, but it tastes like fish. Maybe I have only had gross Calgary sushi and people here are just bullshatting themselves that its actually good or don't mind that rotting thing of the sea flavour.

I do remember liking the sushi at a place called Sushi Ran in Sausalito. I have been trying to recreate that taste here since like 8 years ago.

I don't think Calgary sushi is terrible. It's not the best sushi in the world, but I think if you don't like it here, chances are you're just not a sushi guy.

Of course with seafood it's all about getting it as fresh as possible. A place like California or Vancouver will have a quicker access to fresh fish, so inevitably it's going to taste a bit better. One of the only things that seems to be a good deal in Vancouver is the sushi... it's great and reasonably priced (at least the restaurant i went to).

[Bane]

This gives me hope, I desperately want to like sushi. I have tried ~35 times, but it tastes like fish. Maybe I have only had gross Calgary sushi and people here are just bullshatting themselves that its actually good or don't mind that rotting thing of the sea flavour.

I do remember liking the sushi at a place called Sushi Ran in Sausalito. I have been trying to recreate that taste here since like 8 years ago.

I tried sushi for the first time a couple of weeks ago at Sushi Club in Kensington, and I have to say it was way better than I expected. No fish taste at all. Just buttery soft salmon. No rotting sea flavour at all.

[_Q_]

It's not like I hate sushi or anything, because I really do enjoy it. I sometimes crave it actually, and nothing else can satisfy that craving. However the way I look at it is this, if I'm going to spend over $140 for a dinner for two, I better get something pretty damn good and frankly, for the money you pay, there are far better options. I have been to all the good sushi restaurants in the city, so it's not like I'm speaking from a position of ignorance. The service usually sucks and the product is pretty meh for the price you pay. I have been to Vancouver and yes, the stuff is slightly better there, but it's still not this life changing experience that is worth several hundred dollars per meal that some people make it out to be. Again, sushi is great sometimes, but it's not the only thing to eat.

Anyways, that's enough of my rant on sushi.

My favorite restaurants are:

Notable - Best meal in the city and price is decent for what you get. Almost everything on their menu is spectacular, but the burgers, roasted chicken and steak are out of this world. The menu looks kind of boring, but they do all the food with such perfection, that pretty much everything is fantastic.

Model Milk - Almost as good as Notable, but much nicer restaurant (in my opinion of course). The hamachi crudo is one of the best raw fish dishes I have ever eaten... yes it's better than sashimi.

Una Pizza - Best thin crust pizza by far. The other menu items are pretty good as well and they have a great beer selection (although nothing on tap)

Ox and Angela - Same owners as Una. Mostly Latin American cuisine. Very good food. The cowboy steak is huge and unbelievably good.

Sushi Club - If I'm eating sushi, this is my favorite place. Very fresh fish and customer service is actually attentive for an asian restaurant.

Borgo Trattoria - Extremely nice restaurant. Reminded me of some of the higher end restaurants in Montreal. Nothing is better than taking a date to Borgo, sitting by the giant open window (more like open wall) in the summer overlooking 17th ave and enjoying a bottle of wine with some appetizers. The food quality is fantastic, but be warned all the items are super small. So order a lot if you're hungry.

Over-rated: Charcut, Anju, Globefish.

[NiklasSundblad]

People say that to me all the time, even when I am there eating with them. They will say 'see, not fishy at all' and I say 'ya, this is good', yet 2 pieces later I am chasing the fishy tasting nuggets with gulps of beer and whatever else I can. I can taste it.

Would actually like to do a pepsi challenge with fish that has never been frozen to the stuff we get here that 'hasn't been frozen'
You know tuna is frozen right on the boats from which they are caught, in the middle of the ocean. If you go to the morning tuna auction at the Tsukiji central market in Tokyo, half of all the tuna is already frozen.

[Table 5]

Would actually like to do a pepsi challenge with fish that has never been frozen to the stuff we get here that 'hasn't been frozen'

Pretty much all the sushi you eat is flash-frozen on board after it's caught. In the US it's illegal to serve sushi that hasn't been frozen (I think the only exception is tuna)...I doubt Canada is much different.

edit: bah, beaten to the punch.

[malcolmk14]

I agree that most of the sushi in Calgary doesn't stack up to places in cities like San Francisco, Vancouver, New York City, or Tokyo. But that does not make a critique of Calgary's sushi scene any less viable on its own.

This thread should absolutely be about more than sushi, because there are a ton of great places in Calgary to get all different kinds of cuisine. Some of those places are better and some are worse than the sushi restaurants that have been discussed.

There are 91 sushi restaurants in Calgary according to Urban Spoon, of course some of them are going to warrant some kind of discussion in a thread about food.

My favourite meal in the city is at Notable.

_Q_, where are you going for sushi that you're spending $140 for two people?!

[SeeBass]

Favourite Indian- Clay Oven

[Wormius]

What makes great sushi though? Minimalist or what? Unless the ingredients are rotting or something, I am not sure what the little things are that would make a sushi restaurant either suck or be the best in the city. There must be some very fine line if we're talking about the product itself, and not the restaurant environment or serving staff.

[Table 5]

Just tried out Tubby Dog, and honestly I'm not sure what the fuss is about. $7 bucks for a hotdog who's only real defining characteristic is the huge amount of condiments slathered on top? I'm not seeing the magic.

[malcolmk14]

Not a huge fan of Tubby Dog but occasionally it can be good after a night of drinking.

[Table 5]

I did try out that Chien Chaud place on 4th a while ago, and thought that was better (more interesting combinations, and just seemed to taste better overall). Too bad, because I live on the same block as Tubby.

[return to the red]

Had a craving for Vietnamese last time in Calgary and came across Nem Delight, Best Vietnamese I've ever had.

[Knalus]

I did try out that Chien Chaud place on 4th a while ago, and thought that was better (more interesting combinations, and just seemed to taste better overall). Too bad, because I live on the same block as Tubby.

I like Tubby Dog, and can't stand Chien Chaud. Boiled dogs, instead of fried, bad mealy bread instead of the generic stuff they serve at Tubby (bad bread is worse than lacking good bread). The toppings are perched on top, so that they fall off the dog, leaving you with more than a few bites with no toppings at all, a larger majority of their toppings being vinegary and watery in flavour...

At first I wasn't sure what it was that I didn't like about that dog. Then I realized it was everything.

[LIP MAN]

The Dairy Bar in Ramsay, right by MacDonald Bridge. Right around the corner from me, and a turn away from Spiller Road to the 'Dome. It's not open yet, but in spring/summer has ridiculously good hotdogs and tasty gingerale rootbeer etc.

The buns they use are great, and they're split and grilled sooooo good! I've talked to the owner numerous times about opening up for Winter, just adjusting the menu to have more comfort foods etc. Like the place so much I wanted to work there part time 'cause it's got potential.

[MRCboicgy]

I still like Bolsa for general Vietnamese, and gunplay.

[malcolmk14]

Had pizza from Madison's tonight and thought it was pretty decent. Expensive, though.

[Bill Bumface]

The Dairy Bar in Ramsay, right by MacDonald Bridge. Right around the corner from me, and a turn away from Spiller Road to the 'Dome. It's not open yet, but in spring/summer has ridiculously good hotdogs and tasty gingerale rootbeer etc.

The buns they use are great, and they're split and grilled sooooo good! I've talked to the owner numerous times about opening up for Winter, just adjusting the menu to have more comfort foods etc. Like the place so much I wanted to work there part time 'cause it's got potential.

I've been there for sundays before and really liked it. Cool spot.

Another great summer spot for me is Inglewood drive-in. Their blizzard like concoctions (I think they call them Brain Freezes) are awesome, and I like the burgers quite a bit too!

[East Coast Flame]

Anyone tried the Tilted Grill yet?

Going to Yuk Yuks tonight and I'm looking for something walking distance from there.

[malcolmk14]

I went to the Tilted Grill on a Saturday a few months ago. It was 1 in the afternoon and they wouldn't let me order off the lunch menu - brunch only.

I went specifically to try the bulgogi burrito, and ended up having to get something else which wasn't very good. Haven't been back, but I've been meaning to go and try that burrito!

[_Q_]

Anyone tried the Tilted Grill yet?

Going to Yuk Yuks tonight and I'm looking for something walking distance from there.

I've been a few times. The food is decent, but not spectacular. It's good value for the price. Try the Caesars there's. They're good.

[Jing]

It's not like I hate sushi or anything, because I really do enjoy it. I sometimes crave it actually, and nothing else can satisfy that craving. However the way I look at it is this, if I'm going to spend over $140 for a dinner for two, I better get something pretty damn good and frankly, for the money you pay, there are far better options. I have been to all the good sushi restaurants in the city, so it's not like I'm speaking from a position of ignorance. The service usually sucks and the product is pretty meh for the price you pay. I have been to Vancouver and yes, the stuff is slightly better there, but it's still not this life changing experience that is worth several hundred dollars per meal that some people make it out to be. Again, sushi is great sometimes, but it's not the only thing to eat.

May I ask where you are spending $140 on sushi for two? When I go to Zipang it costs $70 tops after tax and tip for a meal for two.

[_Q_]

May I ask where you are spending $140 on sushi for two? When I go to Zipang it costs $70 tops after tax and tip for a meal for two.

It's quite easy actually. Take globefish for example. It's not the best sushi place, certainly not the worst though, and their prices are pretty average for this city. Maybe I eat more than most guys when I go for sushi, I don't know, but I'm not a very big guy myself. So a typical meal for me and my date would look like this:

Gyoza - $6
Two "expensive" rolls - $15 x 2 = $30
Two cheap rolls - $6 x 2 = $12
nigiri sushi - $2.50 x 10 = $25
Bottle of saki - $40

Total - $113
Total plus tax - $118.35
Total plus tax and 20% tip - $142

That gets each person about 16 pieces of sushi, a couple Gyoza and half a 300 mL bottle of saki.

[malcolmk14]

Ahh, I don't drink, so that's where I have a hard time seeing a $140 bill somewhere.

I can be well-fed at Globefish with tax and a tip for $70 (for 2) on most visits.

[Nuje]

I still like Bolsa for general Vietnamese, and gunplay.
Yeah, I'm addicted to their soup. Good stuff.

[LChoy]

Bump

The Executive chef from Muse will be on the 2nd edition of Top Chef Canada

http://www.torontolife.com/daily/daily-dish/tv-diner/2012/02/06/top-chef-canada-season-2-announced/

[Table 5]

Going to Charcut tonight. Any recommendations?

[East Coast Flame]

Going to Charcut tonight. Any recommendations?

I am going tonight as well and was just about to ask this!

My friends recommend the marrow and to stay away from the turkey sausage.

[Table 5]

Definitely intrigued by the marrow (my family used to eat it all the time on bread back in the day), so I think I will have to try that one out. Doing some quick image searches, I saw some cheese fondue pot that looked pretty tasty too..

Staying away from turkey sausage seems like a no brainer no matter where you are. ;)

[zuluking]

Definitely intrigued by the marrow (my family used to eat it all the time on bread back in the day), so I think I will have to try that one out. Doing some quick image searches, I saw some cheese fondue pot that looked pretty tasty too..

Staying away from turkey sausage seems like a no brainer no matter where you are. ;)

The poutine. If the duck fat didn't do it, the truffle oil seals the deal!

[red sky]

Going to Charcut tonight. Any recommendations?

Roasted beet, goat cheese and arugula salad.

[malcolmk14]

Beet, cheese, arugula salad is awesome - definitely my favourite appetizer. The beets are gigantic and fresh, the goat cheese is creamy and mild, and the arugula is fresh and peppery. They put arugula on everything at Charcut, so if you don't like it make sure to let your server know.

The "cheese fondue" pot you saw was likely the Quebec Raclette cheese, I've had it twice and it's pretty delicious, it's served with warm fluffy pan bread. It's not really a fondue, though. It's just cheese melted in a warm cast-iron pan that you can spread nicely on the accompanying bread.

A friend at the table had the bone marrow last time I was there, but I was on the opposite end and didn't try it. You can also get marrow on brioche as a side with your main sometimes, depending on the iteration of the menu you get tonight. Good opportunity to try it in a small dose and decide if it's something you'd like to order next time.

The Pig's Head Mortadella stuffed with pistachios and truffles is delicious, served with a nice grainy mustard.

As far as mains go, my favourite is the Spring Creek Prime Rib, it's served with creamy horseradish and, yep, you guessed it, arugula.

Butcher steak is usually good depending on the cut, I liked the sirloin and wasn't a huge fan of the skirt.

The chicken is fantastic, I usually don't order chicken at restaurants but this is moist and the skin is cooked perfectly. Really fantastic.

Was not a fan of the lamb leg on shelling beans that I tried, and usually I loooooove lamb.

I don't particularly like poutine but my girlfriend swears that Charcut's is the best thing she's ever eaten. I've tried it and it's rich and flavourful but I'd prefer to spend my stomach space somewhere else.

The Broccolini is hit or miss, brussels sprouts are quite good.

As far as dessert goes, the Valhrona chocolate semifreddo is delicious if they have it on the menu - they didn't a couple of weeks ago.

The chocolate pudding is the best pudding I've ever had, and the peach cheesecake in a jar is pretty good as well.

If you're not a wine drinker they have a great beer selection, and if you're not an alcohol drinker in general they have a few types of Grizzly Paw sodas from Canmore that make a good complement to the meal.

Enjoy!

[malcolmk14]

I noticed moncton golden flames never reviewed Rush like he said he would at the top of this page, I see you reading this thread, get on it!

[Psytic]

This thread ends with Rouge. Its obviously a niche restaurant and pricey, but there is no better food in Calgary than Rouge.

I took my Fiancée there for Valentines Day a few yrs back and the presentation was nice and it was unique stuff I would never normally order like moose and duck and other Canadian animals but the food was all cold. It didn't taste that great for a 300 dollar meal either. I am more into places like Bolero, you can't beat all you can eat flame grilled meat. I live in BC now so maybe Rouge is better now but I wasn't impressed.

[Lt.Spears]

Anyone been to Bonterra? I met the owner on my way back from Mexico and he invited us over, seems to be well reviewed.

[East Coast Flame]

Anyone been to Bonterra? I met the owner on my way back from Mexico and he invited us over, seems to be well reviewed.

Bonterra is probably my favorite place in town. Fantastic food, great atmosphere and reasonably priced. I have been many times and have never been disappointed.

[FLAMESRULE]

Had lunch at Escoba downtown. Had the duck breast...pretty damn good if I do say. Nothing like the duck for two we had at the Tribune, but still very tasty.

[SeeBass]

^^^and one of the best patios for summer dining in the city

[SeeBass]

I am going tonight as well and was just about to ask this!

My friends recommend the marrow and to stay away from the turkey sausage.


You must have the marrow it is incredible!!!

[moncton golden flames]

I noticed moncton golden flames never reviewed Rush like he said he would at the top of this page, I see you reading this thread, get on it!

haha, i was waiting for a call out!

we were in a 'rush' to get to the flames game and didn't get to eat. we made it there after the game for a few bevies. the place is very nice inside. the lounge is very large and the main dining room has a very cool atmosphere. they are already talking of tearing out the bar and reconfiguring the lounge area, as the bar is not a good set up.

i know a few people who work there, so i do need to get in there and eat sometime. when i do, i will review it!

tonight, the wife and i are going to mango shiva on stephen ave.....

[malcolmk14]

I had the best steak tartare of my life at Escoba a couple years ago. Been back a couple of times since and it wasn't nearly as good. Don't know what happened.

[troutman]

The chocolate pudding is the best pudding I've ever had, and the peach cheesecake in a jar is pretty good as well.



Aeneas's famous quote from the I'm Off To Roma thread:

I remember reading in some guidebook or other that Europeans in general view eating chocolate pudding as the province of the very young, or of imbeciles. ;)

[Table 5]

Holy crap, I'm gonna puke I'm so full. While it's still fresh in my mind, my non scientific review of of my dinner tonight at Charcut:

Beet Salad - Really awesome...I'm a big beet fan, but the goat cheese was a nice surprise (it was soft, almost like ricotta). If you're going to have a meat-heavy meal, this is a great way to cut the fat with some refreshing vegetables. Wife's favorite of the night.

Pretzels with cheese sauce - Nothing too fancy, but really nice soft pretzels, and some delicious cheese sauce. Came with more pickled beets, carrots, and pickels...good times.

Prime Rib - I'v had varying experiences with prime rib, but this was one of the better ones I've had for sure. Nice and tender, and the au jus and horseradish sauces worked great with it.

Charcut Burger - Wife had this one, so I can't comment on anything other than it was huge. It had a giant egg on it, and looked extremely hard to handle. Can't say how it tastes, but personally, I like my burgers simple, so I'm not sure I would've liked it myself. The one bite I seemed like it had promise though.

Poutine with duck fat and truffle oil - To be honest, we were stuffed pigs by the time this hit the table, so we only had a few bites and packed it up for later. But it tastes exactly like it sounds....fatty, cheesy, and full of disgusting goodness.

Broccolini - We didn't order this, but they mistakenly brought it instead of the poutine, and then said it was on the house. Was pretty good, but by this time we were starting to get pretty full so I wasn't paying attention.

Glazed Carrots - Glazed carrots are glazed carrots. Good, but whatever.

So that was it.

Except for dessert. There's always room for dessert.

Peaches and Cream cheesecake in a Jar - Quite good. Nice and cool, and not too heavy. Great way to end the night.

Chocolate pudding - Delicious. Made me want to slip my shorts on and run around like a ######ed imbecile.

All in all, great restaurant experience. The only disappointment of the night was that they didn't have the bone marrow on the menu.

[East Coast Flame]

Our meal at charcut was fantastic as well. I went with the Prime Rib and I wholly agree with your assessment, it was excellent. My date had the Pork Belly and she really enjoyed it.

We went with Oysters to start...and they were a little disappointing. The poutine was fantastic, and the Broccolini was a nice side.

And yes, wish I was able to have marrow, but I'm sure I'll be back so hopefully it will be back on there when I return!

[red sky]

Holy crap, I'm gonna puke I'm so full. While it's still fresh in my mind, my non scientific review of of my dinner tonight at Charcut:

Beet Salad - Really awesome...I'm a big beet fan, but the goat cheese was a nice surprise (it was soft, almost like ricotta). If you're going to have a meat-heavy meal, this is a great way to cut the fat with some refreshing vegetables. Wife's favorite of the night.

Pretzels with cheese sauce - Nothing too fancy, but really nice soft pretzels, and some delicious cheese sauce. Came with more pickled beets, carrots, and pickels...good times.

Prime Rib - I'v had varying experiences with prime rib, but this was one of the better ones I've had for sure. Nice and tender, and the au jus and horseradish sauces worked great with it.

Charcut Burger - Wife had this one, so I can't comment on anything other than it was huge. It had a giant egg on it, and looked extremely hard to handle. Can't say how it tastes, but personally, I like my burgers simple, so I'm not sure I would've liked it myself. The one bite I seemed like it had promise though.

Poutine with duck fat and truffle oil - To be honest, we were stuffed pigs by the time this hit the table, so we only had a few bites and packed it up for later. But it tastes exactly like it sounds....fatty, cheesy, and full of disgusting goodness.

Broccolini - We didn't order this, but they mistakenly brought it instead of the poutine, and then said it was on the house. Was pretty good, but by this time we were starting to get pretty full so I wasn't paying attention.

Glazed Carrots - Glazed carrots are glazed carrots. Good, but whatever.

So that was it.

Except for dessert. There's always room for dessert.

Peaches and Cream cheesecake in a Jar - Quite good. Nice and cool, and not too heavy. Great way to end the night.

Chocolate pudding - Delicious. Made me want to slip my shorts on and run around like a ######ed imbecile.

All in all, great restaurant experience. The only disappointment of the night was that they didn't have the bone marrow on the menu.

Wow, that is a huge meal.

[red sky]

My recommendation is for a new menu item at Earl's... yes, Earl's.

Their Poke nachos are amazing. I recommend trying them if you enjoy raw fish.

[troutman]

Big Fish is good. I had better oysters, but the mussels and crab cake were excellent. Nice wine list.

[Table 5]

Wow, that is a huge meal.

Yeah, we totally misjudged the portion size. Luckily for us, we were parked downhill from the restaurant.

[moncton golden flames]

the first thing i always do when i go out for dinner, is order a caesar to get the taste buds running. it was tasty and spicy, but the pickled celery as a garnish was to stringy to bite thru, without making a mess. overall: 7.5/10

we started the meal by sharing 2 starters. first was garam masala grilled lamb lollipops with apple, tomato, mint chutney. the lollipop is basically a single piece of rack lamb. there were 3 pieces, all grilled perfectly. the chutney was simple and clean tasting. a very nice compliment to the lamb. overall: 8/10

the second starter was chick pea battered coconut curried calamari with a mango lentil salad. a very nice dish. the calamari was cooked perfectly, so soft and tender. the batter was not thick or overwhelming and the mango lentil salad helped cut thru the richness of the coconut curry. overall: 8/10

for the first main, we had their tandoor roasted butter chicken served with masala roasted vegetables and toasted almonds. i know, not very adventurous, but it's still one of our favourites. the sauce was more tomato than other butter chicken sauces we have had, which helped keep the dish relatively light. we didn't even have the veg, but the carrots, peas and beets looked tasty. overall: 8/10

the second main was a turmeric and cumin sauteed cauliflower with a tomato sauce and some vegetable fritters was a nice contrast the the chicken heavy butter chicken. unfortunately, we didn't finish the dish, we were just too full. but a leftover lunch today is looking mighty tasty! overall: 7.5/10

with dinner, we had the allegrini valpolicella classic. a great pairing that held up very well the the strong aromatics of indian food. every sip brought a nice spicy bit to the tongue that kept me wanting to guzzle and gorge on it. thankfully we were c-training, so the booze consumption was a fun priority to maintain. overall: 8.5/10

while mango shiva is not your traditional indian food restaurant, it is certainly a good dining experience with a nice atmosphere and good service. overall: 8/10

[OldDutch]

Went to Model Milk with the wife this weekend.

Ordered Oysters, and Foie Gras to start. I would say the Oysters were disappointing, were quite small for West Coast, but the flavour was good. Foie Gras was really good, but then again, I haven't met a Foie Gras I didn't like.

My wife went with the Lamb, and I went with the Duck Pot Pie (para phrasing dish names). Hers was really good, and mine was just pretty good. Like a 7.5 and 8/10 respectively.

Overall, I thought it was a good place, we said we would try again. I wasn't wow'd though, and given you have to be there by 6 sharp to not wait for a table (EDIT: you have to still wait, but only 20 mins), it is a bit over hyped IMO.

However, given all the new places in Calgary, we probably won't be back before it closes. Taste, Boxwood, Jar o Blue (yes, we haven't made it there in 5 years of wanting) are on deck.

The one big disappointment was lunch that day. Big Cheese poutine. Just was not good at all. The BBQ pork dishes were way too tangy, and the fries not that good. 6/10 tops.

[troutman]

Raw Bar, Chef's tasting menu:

http://www.hotelarts.ca/assets/files/menus_and_packages/Chefs%20Tasting%20Menu%20Feb%2015%20to%2018.pdf

[rd_aaron]

Raw Bar, Chef's tasting menu:

http://www.hotelarts.ca/assets/files/menus_and_packages/Chefs%20Tasting%20Menu%20Feb%2015%20to%2018.pdf

I heard Raw Bar poolside is pretty cool. I have a couple friends coming into Calgary for Stampede and was thinking this would be a good place to hit up lunch one day. Anyone have opinions on the food?

[rd_aaron]

Ya, the hotel arts stampede party is to die for.

Interesting. I didn't realize that incident was at the Hotel Arts tent. I believe my company (different company than the employee who died) had their Stampede Party that year at the same place (I was still a student at the time).

I know they're also infamous for the "check your ring at the door" thing, but I heard poolside at Raw Bar has a cool vibe to it.

[calgaryrocks]

Tu Tierra is great - 4 out of my 5 visits have been excellent. One time I feel like I got microwaved food but... what can you do?

Los Compadres is good for tacos but when is the last time they've been out? Can't eat there if they are never open. Also they are pretentious about their food being real Mexican and don't take to constructive criticism well.

BUMP
re: Tu Tierra
thinking of trying this place out, though originally we were going to try out el sombrero on 17ave - how would tu tierra compare to the two places on 17ave? the reviews for all 3 have bad and good, but what are CP experiences
also this should be moved to the food subforum

[tete]

I'd go to Tu Tierra over El Sombrero - I don't mind El Sombrero (their takeout dinner for two feeds about four people), but Tu Tierra is much better.

My husband and I went to Muse last week and had the tasting menu paired with wine. Divine. Everything was just so wonderful. Our sommelier used to be at Rouge - he had served us a few times there - and he paired the food so well. I think we'll be back to Muse again.

[troutman]

BUMP
re: Tu Tierra
thinking of trying this place out, though originally we were going to try out el sombrero on 17ave - how would tu tierra compare to the two places on 17ave? the reviews for all 3 have bad and good, but what are CP experiences
also this should be moved to the food subforum

I think Tu Tierra is definitely better than El Sombero. I've asked my friend (former owner of a Mexican deli) for her recommendation for best Calgary Mexican restaurant.

All these places should be packed Saturday for Cinco de Mayo.

[LChoy]

I'd go to Tu Tierra over El Sombrero - I don't mind El Sombrero (their takeout dinner for two feeds about four people), but Tu Tierra is much better.

My husband and I went to Muse last week and had the tasting menu paired with wine. Divine. Everything was just so wonderful. Our sommelier used to be at Rouge - he had served us a few times there - and he paired the food so well. I think we'll be back to Muse again.

Very cool. I'm rooting for Xavier (Exec Chef at Muse) on the current Top Chef Canada.

[troutman]

My friend says Los Mariachis is the best (most authentic). She used to live in Guadalajara.

http://216.23.136.135/Mariachis/main.aspx

[VladtheImpaler]

BUMP.
Going to Rush on Saturday for our anniversary and will write a review.
This should probably move to the new forum...

[troutman]

Tilted Grill (4th st and 18th ave) has a great patio. Don't know about the food, as we had brunch, and the regular menu ("street food") was not available.

[Flabbibulin]

Fergus & Bix is possibly the best "pub" food in the city while Local 002 in Lincoln Park is possibly the worst food in the western hemisphere.

[VladtheImpaler]

Alright, as promised, here is my review of Rush...

First of all, the decor, etc in the modern style are superb. Definitely a restaurant to impress a date. Anyhow, I toyed with getting the chef's tasting menu (6 courses - $75), but decided to pass - perhaps, next time. Mrs. Impaler and I each decided to get a salad, soup, main course and dessert, along with a bottle of wine. The cost of said meal was $220 (including tip).

I had the goat cheese salad to start...

http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k620/russianlawyers/th_Calgary-20120519-00092.jpg?t=1337546081

Pickled beets, beat sponge. It was very good; nothing spectacular, but very good.
Mrs Impaler had the caesar with proscioutto...

http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k620/russianlawyers/th_Calgary-20120519-00093.jpg?t=1337546080

I did not try it, but she said it was excellent...

Next, the soups... Mrs Impaler got the lobster bisque...

http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k620/russianlawyers/th_Calgary-20120519-00095.jpg?t=1337546085

I tried this, and it just didn't do it for me - tasted too fishy and was too watery for my liking. She liked it well enough, but just not my thing.
I had the roasted cauliflower veloute...

http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k620/russianlawyers/th_Calgary-20120519-00094.jpg?t=1337546086

It was flavoured with truffle, garlic chips and ricotta dumpling... and it was spectacular! The flavours and textures blended wonderfully - I could have just had a bucket of this for dinner. Will definitely have to come back to have again! Mrs Impaler tried it and wished she had ordered it instead of the bisque.

On to the mains... we kept ordering different things for tasting variety... I had the ahi tuna, garnished with root vegetables...

http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k620/russianlawyers/th_Calgary-20120519-00097.jpg?t=1337546091

I have to say I'm not a raw fish fan, but decided to try it (to a large extent because Mrs Impaler was considering it and wanted a taste). It was very good, but... unspectacular. One of those things, where I am pleased, but have no desire to order it again. The vegetables/potatoes were savoury, but, on the whole, I probably would have preferred a rib-eye or pork to the tuna...

Mrs Impaler had the gnocchi parisienne...

http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k620/russianlawyers/th_Calgary-20120519-00096.jpg?t=1337546090

It was actually quite a large portion and I wound up eating about a 1/3 of it... It was olive, dried tomatoe and goat cheese pesto. It was very good, but really, really heavy - word of advice - if you are not a glutton and want to try this dish, you skip the soup and salad. Again, would classify it as very good, but no reason to order again.

Finally, dessert, and I apologize profusely, but I forgot to snap a photo before we dug in, and decided not to photograph a "ruined" plate. :) We both had the triple creme brule - three flavours (espresso, vanilla, and amaretti, with the appropriate cookie and berry garnish). This was superb, the vanilla being the best of the three, but all were fabulous. Definitely worth returning for.

In terms of intangibles, the service was impeccable - our water and wine glasses never got empty, and everything was done quickly and politely. The complimentary valet parking was nice too.

Overall, a very good experience. I was hoping for a bit more of a "wow" factor from the food, though the soup and dessert were indeed special. We will definitely go back and try something else...

[moncton golden flames]

was your server named james per chance?

Alright, as promised, here is my review of Rush...

First of all, the decor, etc in the modern style are superb. Definitely a restaurant to impress a date. Anyhow, I toyed with getting the chef's tasting menu (6 courses - $75), but decided to pass - perhaps, next time. Mrs. Impaler and I each decided to get a salad, soup, main course and dessert, along with a bottle of wine. The cost of said meal was $220 (including tip).

I had the goat cheese salad to start...

http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k620/russianlawyers/th_Calgary-20120519-00092.jpg?t=1337546081

Pickled beets, beat sponge. It was very good; nothing spectacular, but very good.
Mrs Impaler had the caesar with proscioutto...

http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k620/russianlawyers/th_Calgary-20120519-00093.jpg?t=1337546080

I did not try it, but she said it was excellent...

Next, the soups... Mrs Impaler got the lobster bisque...

http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k620/russianlawyers/th_Calgary-20120519-00095.jpg?t=1337546085

I tried this, and it just didn't do it for me - tasted too fishy and was too watery for my liking. She liked it well enough, but just not my thing.
I had the roasted cauliflower veloute...

http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k620/russianlawyers/th_Calgary-20120519-00094.jpg?t=1337546086

It was flavoured with truffle, garlic chips and ricotta dumpling... and it was spectacular! The flavours and textures blended wonderfully - I could have just had a bucket of this for dinner. Will definitely have to come back to have again! Mrs Impaler tried it and wished she had ordered it instead of the bisque.

On to the mains... we kept ordering different things for tasting variety... I had the ahi tuna, garnished with root vegetables...

http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k620/russianlawyers/th_Calgary-20120519-00097.jpg?t=1337546091

I have to say I'm not a raw fish fan, but decided to try it (to a large extent because Mrs Impaler was considering it and wanted a taste). It was very good, but... unspectacular. One of those things, where I am pleased, but have no desire to order it again. The vegetables/potatoes were savoury, but, on the whole, I probably would have preferred a rib-eye or pork to the tuna...

Mrs Impaler had the gnocchi parisienne...

http://i1118.photobucket.com/albums/k620/russianlawyers/th_Calgary-20120519-00096.jpg?t=1337546090

It was actually quite a large portion and I wound up eating about a 1/3 of it... It was olive, dried tomatoe and goat cheese pesto. It was very good, but really, really heavy - word of advice - if you are not a glutton and want to try this dish, you skip the soup and salad. Again, would classify it as very good, but no reason to order again.

Finally, dessert, and I apologize profusely, but I forgot to snap a photo before we dug in, and decided not to photograph a "ruined" plate. :) We both had the triple creme brule - three flavours (espresso, vanilla, and amaretti, with the appropriate cookie and berry garnish). This was superb, the vanilla being the best of the three, but all were fabulous. Definitely worth returning for.

In terms of intangibles, the service was impeccable - our water and wine glasses never got empty, and everything was done quickly and politely. The complimentary valet parking was nice too.

Overall, a very good experience. I was hoping for a bit more of a "wow" factor from the food, though the soup and dessert were indeed special. We will definitely go back and try something else...

[VladtheImpaler]

was your server named james per chance?

I honestly can't remember - could have been - it was a fairly young man (~late twenties) with short dark hair.

[Flabbibulin]

Not in Calgary, but just finished dinner at Lanny McDonald's brewery (Tamarack) in Lakeside, Montana- pretty darn good

[kdogg]

I would like to thank CalgaryPuck for the recommendation of Open Range. Fantastic restaurant.... well thought out and great food. The little details matter, and they seemed to be on top of it all.

Highly recommended.

[troutman]

Alright, as promised, here is my review of Rush...


I'd be starving after those child portions.

[Pizza]

BUMP

so it looks like the exec chef from Rouge is now the exec chef in Muse as well as Rouge's staff transitioning over to Muse.

still a nice meal at Muse, but whatever made Muse better than Rouge is now a thing of the past

[tete]

BUMP

so it looks like the exec chef from Rouge is now the exec chef in Muse as well as Rouge's staff transitioning over to Muse.

still a nice meal at Muse, but whatever made Muse better than Rouge is now a thing of the past

Interesting! Rouge lost one of their best (IMHO) somelliers to Muse a while ago - he is amazing - I think his name is Angus. His pairings with tasting menus are great.

Speaking of tasting menus, any recommendations for a good tasting menu paired with wine that isn't Rouge or Muse? We've been there, done that at both places and are looking for something different for a change.

[bizaro86]

. Really liked Sugo for Italian.


. Calgary generally has plenty of good Italian spots... Sugo is fantastic.

IMO:
Best Italian is sugo
</p>

Did Sugo for my wife's birthday based on recommendations in this thread. 4 course tasting menu is $59, we had mozzarela wrapped prosciutto, a gnocci with chicken/mushrooms, prosciutto wrapped wild boar tenderloan with roasted vegetables, and panchetta with raspberry glaze for dessert. It was all excellent, and they were very willing to accomodate requests. (My wife doesn't like seafood, in general, and I think mussels were substituted out somewhere). Anyway, the service/food was excellent, we'll definitely be back.

[Table 5]

My wife and I went to Teatro yesterday to celebrate her birthday. For anyone who goes, make sure you order their Marscapone risotto. It's extremely rich and creamy, topped with lobster tail and shaved truffles (not oil), and a bone-marrow sauce. Mind-blowingly good. It was by far the best risotto I've ever had, and probably one of the top 10 things I've ever eaten period.

[troutman]

Boxwood has a great patio in the park. Impress your guests. No reservations, but we were told the wait list is not too bad, and they bring you drinks while you wait.

http://www.boxwoodcafe.ca/

[bizaro86]

My wife and I went to Teatro yesterday to celebrate her birthday. For anyone who goes, make sure you order their Marscapone risotto. It's extremely rich and creamy, topped with lobster tail and shaved truffles (not oil), and a bone-marrow sauce. Mind-blowingly good. It was by far the best risotto I've ever had, and probably one of the top 10 things I've ever eaten period.

Interesting. Our wives must have the same birthday. I actually had teatro reservations for last night, but cancelled at the last minute to try Sugo, where we haven't been before. Will definitley get the risotto next time, thanks for the recommendation!

[Table 5]

Interesting. Our wives must have the same birthday. I actually had teatro reservations for last night, but cancelled at the last minute to try Sugo, where we haven't been before. Will definitley get the risotto next time, thanks for the recommendation!

Nice, did she turn 30 too? That would be even better, ha.

What was actually a really nice touch is that we shared the risotto as one of our appetizers, and they prepared it in two separate dishes. It's probably a little too rich to eat all of it on your own, but sharing it between 2 people was the perfect amount. It might be the best dish I've ever had in Calgary.

[bizaro86]

Nice, did she turn 30 too? That would be even better, ha.

What was actually a really nice touch is that we shared the risotto as one of our appetizers, and they prepared it in two separate dishes. It's probably a little too rich to eat all of it on your own, but sharing it between 2 people was the perfect amount. It might be the best dish I've ever had in Calgary.

Haha. Nope, we're just at 27. Based on some of your previous comments in this thread, if that's edging on best dish ever in Calgary then it must be good. I'll assume your best dishes ever were elsewhere. If you only had 1-2 nights in NYC what restaurants would you do? We're doing another long weekend there next month, and could use a couple of new places. (We always do Maya one night, but wouldn't mind branching out.)

[Table 5]

Haha. Nope, we're just at 27. Based on some of your previous comments in this thread, if that's edging on best dish ever in Calgary then it must be good. I'll assume your best dishes ever were elsewhere. If you only had 1-2 nights in NYC what restaurants would you do? We're doing another long weekend there next month, and could use a couple of new places. (We always do Maya one night, but wouldn't mind branching out.)

Ha, well, my best dishes ever include things like a bag of mozzarella in Padua, a lobster roll from a roadside shack in Maine, and 4-euro pizza in Naples... so it's not always necessarily a fine-dining restaurant. I think my best ever fine-dining experience was in San Sebastian, Spain though...that town has a ridiculous amount of good food.

Keep in mind I've been living outside of NY for over a year now, but some places that come to mind that you could try Ive listed below.

Zenkichi - Williamsburg. The best Japanese food I've ever had....and none of it was sushi. Did some ridiculous 8-10 course tasting menu, with a sake tasting with every course.

Pylos - Lower East Side. Some really great Greek Food.

Dogmatic - Union Square. Just really awesome fancy-ish hotdogs. Great for on the go, and a location you're always around anyway.

-6th Street between 2nd and 1st Aves has great cheap Indian food. Great lunch specials for cheap.

-If you're there over a weekend, I recommend going to Williamsburg and attending Smorgasburg, a great outdoor food market. It's a little hipstery, but also offers a great view of the Manhattan skyline. Plus you can take the water taxi there, which is a great cheap way to get on the water.

You can always go the high end route of course in NY (ie. Momofuku, La Bernardin, Perse....all fantastic) but I think the magic of the NY dining scene is that you can get really amazing food at reasonable prices. Something that Calgary has not yet achieved, but I'm hoping it will in a few years.

A lot of great restaurants on this list though:
http://nymag.com/restaurants/wheretoeat/2012/

[valo403]

Here's the updated nymag list for 2013 http://nymag.com/restaurants/wheretoeat/2013/

A lot of Brooklyn spots. Battersby is great and not much of a trip.

If you like old school red sauce style italian try Parm for a pretty cheap lunch/dinner or really ball out and hit Carbone (the one on Thompson). Same chefs/owners for both, along with Torrisi, which steps outside of the steroetypical italian flavors a bit more.

[Hack&Lube]

My wife and I went to Teatro yesterday to celebrate her birthday. For anyone who goes, make sure you order their Marscapone risotto. It's extremely rich and creamy, topped with lobster tail and shaved truffles (not oil), and a bone-marrow sauce. Mind-blowingly good. It was by far the best risotto I've ever had, and probably one of the top 10 things I've ever eaten period.

Just curious, how much does that cost?