Calgary Eats | Your Insider''s Guide to Alberta''s Culinary Delights

Planning a trip to Calgary and eager to dive into the local food scene? You’re in the right place! Calgary offers a culinary experience that’s as diverse as its stunning mountain backdrop. From the world-renowned Alberta beef to innovative dishes showcasing locally sourced ingredients, this guide is your key to unlocking the best eats Calgary has to offer. We’ll explore iconic dishes, navigate dining etiquette, uncover unique ingredients, and even share a few surprising facts about this vibrant city. Get ready to eat your way through Calgary!

I. Unforgettable Flavors: Must-Try Dishes in Calgary

Calgary’s culinary landscape is a vibrant tapestry woven with tradition, innovation, and a deep connection to the land. Prepare your taste buds for some truly unforgettable experiences. Here are some iconic dishes that define the Calgary food scene and are absolute must-tries:

1. Alberta Beef: The King of Calgary Cuisine

   • Description: Alberta is synonymous with high-quality beef, and for good reason. You’ll find this culinary gem prepared in countless ways: perfectly grilled steaks, juicy burgers, tender roasts, and flavourful braises. The marbling of the meat provides an exceptional flavour and tenderness that’s second to none. The beef practically melts in your mouth.
   • Origin/History: Alberta’s cattle ranches have a long and storied history, going back generations. The province’s climate and vast grasslands provide the perfect environment for raising top-quality cattle. This rich history has solidified Alberta’s place as a leader in the beef industry, making it a cornerstone of the city’s culinary identity.
   • Where to Find It: High-quality steakhouses and pubs are the place to find the best Alberta beef.

2. Peameal Bacon Sandwich: A Canadian Classic, Calgary Style

   • Description: A Calgary classic and a beloved Canadian icon! This sandwich features thick slices of peameal bacon (boneless pork loin rolled in cornmeal) served in a fresh bun with a generous helping of mustard. It’s a simple but incredibly satisfying dish, perfect for breakfast or lunch. The combination of the salty, slightly sweet bacon, the tang of mustard, and the soft bun is a symphony of flavors and textures.
   • Origin/History: Peameal bacon is a Canadian invention, originating in Toronto. Calgary embraced it as a popular breakfast and lunch item, making it a must-try for visitors and residents alike.
   • Where to Find It: Local delis and breakfast spots often have the best peameal bacon sandwiches.

3. Donair: Calgary’s Unique Take on a Classic

   • Description: The Donair, also known as the “Calgary Donair”, is a dish composed of seasoned ground beef that has been grilled or roasted, then shaved off a vertical rotisserie and served on a pita or wrap. The dish is usually served with toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, onions and the iconic donair sauce, which is a sweet and tangy white sauce that is unique to the Donair. The experience is both delicious and unforgettable.
   • Origin/History: The Donair is a dish said to originate from Halifax, Nova Scotia, but has made its way across the country and is enjoyed across the country.
   • Where to Find It: A fast-food place or street vendor.

4. Poutine: A Canadian Staple with a Calgary Twist

   • Description: The Canadian dish of French fries, topped with cheese curds and a brown gravy, Poutine is a comfort food classic. The fresh cheese curds and the hot gravy melt together to make a flavour explosion!
   • Origin/History: The dish originated in Quebec.
   • Where to Find It: A fast-food place or street vendor.

5. Wild Game Sausages: A Taste of the Alberta Wilderness

   • Description: Calgary celebrates its proximity to nature by incorporating various wild game meats into its cuisine. You’ll find sausages made from elk, bison, and other game, often combined with unique flavor profiles. The game meat provides a richer, more complex flavour, offering a taste of the wild.
   • Origin/History: Alberta’s location allows for an incredible variety of wild game, and the sausage options are as varied as the ingredients used to create them. From traditional recipes to innovative flavor combinations, there is something to please every palate.
   • Where to Find It: Many restaurants offer wild game sausage in a variety of settings, from street markets to fine-dining establishments.

II. Navigating the Calgary Dining Scene: Dining Etiquette and Cultural Norms

Understanding local dining etiquette can enhance your dining experience and show respect for local customs. Here’s what you should know when dining out in Calgary:

• Tipping: Tipping is standard in Canada. A tip of 15-20% is expected for good service in restaurants, bars, and for other service providers (e.g., taxi drivers, hair stylists). Consider tipping 10-15% for average service.
• Greetings: A friendly “Hello” or “Good day” (or “Bonjour” if you’re feeling bilingual) goes a long way. A smile and eye contact are always appreciated.
• Table Manners: Keep your elbows off the table while eating. Wait for everyone at your table to be served before starting to eat.
• Pace of Dining: Meals in Calgary can be relaxed, allowing you to enjoy the company and food. Don’t rush, savour the experience.
• Appropriate Attire: Dress codes are generally casual, even at higher-end restaurants. Jeans and comfortable shoes are common. However, some establishments may have a dress code of smart casual.
• Common Dining Times: Lunch is usually between noon and 1:00 PM. Dinner is typically eaten between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
• Bread and Water: Bread is often served at the table but may not always be free (check if it’s listed on the menu). Water is usually provided without asking, unless you request something else.
• Getting the Waiter’s Attention: Making eye contact is usually sufficient. If needed, you can politely wave. Avoid snapping your fingers.
• Conversational Topics: General conversation is fine, but avoid controversial or overly sensitive topics, especially with people you don’t know well.
• Photography: Taking photos of your food is acceptable, but be discreet and respectful of other diners. Don’t use flash if it’s distracting.

III. The Heart of the Flavors: Key Local Ingredients in Calgary Cuisine

Discover the ingredients that make Calgary’s cuisine truly unique. These local ingredients are the foundation of many of the city’s most beloved dishes:

• Alberta Beef: The Star Ingredient

  • Description: As mentioned previously, the world-renowned Alberta beef is central to the region’s food culture. Its rich flavour and tenderness are unparalleled. It’s known for its marbling, which creates a juicy and flavourful experience that is hard to replicate.
  • If you can’t find it…: A high-quality, well-marbled cut of beef from your local butcher will work as a substitute, but nothing compares to true Alberta beef.

• Saskatoon Berries: A Taste of the Prairies

  • Description: These small, blue-purple berries are native to Western Canada and have a sweet, slightly nutty flavour, often used in jams, pies, and baked goods. They are a staple of Albertan cuisine. The flavour profile is unique and adds a special touch to traditional recipes.
  • If you can’t find it…: Blueberries or blackberries can offer a similar sweetness and flavour profile, but the unique taste of the Saskatoon berry cannot be beat.

• Wild Mushrooms: Earthy Delights from the Forests

  • Description: With Calgary’s proximity to nature, wild mushrooms are a popular ingredient. The flavour depends on the variety, they can add an earthy and savoury element to the dishes.
  • If you can’t find it…: Store-bought mushrooms can offer a similar taste.

IV. Fun Facts About Calgary: 5 Things That Might Surprise You

Here are some fun facts about Calgary that will deepen your appreciation for the city:

• Calgary is the sunniest city in Canada, enjoying an average of 2,396 hours of sunshine per year. This constant sunlight helps to create a lively and vibrant atmosphere throughout the city.
• The Calgary Stampede, a massive annual rodeo and festival, is one of the city’s most iconic events. It’s a celebration of Western culture, attracting visitors from all over the world.
• Calgary is located at the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, making it a gateway to stunning mountain scenery. This location provides a unique natural beauty, making it a must-see for any tourist.
• The Glenbow Museum in Calgary houses a vast collection of art, history, and culture exhibits related to Western Canada. It is home to a wide variety of artifacts and displays.
• Calgary was once a major centre for oil and gas exploration, and the industry continues to be a significant part of its economy. This rich history has also left a mark on the city’s culture and identity.

V. Frequently Asked Questions About Dining in Calgary:

Here are some frequently asked questions about dining in Calgary:

Are reservations required at most restaurants?

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner at popular restaurants, particularly on weekends. Always check and book in advance if possible.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?

Yes, Calgary’s tap water is safe to drink and of good quality.

What’s the best way to find authentic local food markets?

The Calgary Farmers’ Market, Crossroads Market, and various smaller community markets offer fresh local produce and other Alberta specialties.

Are there any food-related festivals I should know about?

Besides the Calgary Stampede, look for events like the Calgary Food & Drink Festival, which celebrates the city’s culinary scene.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted at restaurants, cafes, and other businesses. However, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or tips.

VI. Conclusion: Your Culinary Adventure in Calgary Awaits!

Calgary’s culinary scene is a delicious adventure waiting to be explored! From the iconic Alberta beef to the unique flavours of local ingredients, there’s something to tantalize every taste bud. Armed with this guide to the must-try dishes, dining etiquette, and fascinating facts, you’re now ready to experience the best that Calgary has to offer. So, go out there, explore, and don’t be afraid to try something new! Share your favorite Calgary dish in the comments below, and we hope you enjoy your trip to Calgary!