2015 has seen a fantastic array of new eateries open up their doors. Indeed, Calgary’s food scene has expanded to include vibrant taquerias, upscale diners, and intimate drinking dens.
With so many exciting new additions, here are the best new Calgary restaurants of 2015.
Pigeonhole
Justin Leboe’s charming, casual European-style eatery and drinking den has had everyone, from regular dining folk to food critics singing its praises since opening in May. The restored space next to Model Milk offers carefully-crafted sharing plates and a unique wine list, which showcases a variety of “natural wines.” The restaurant even ranked number one on enRoute Magazine’s Canada’s Best New Restaurants list.
Address: 306 17th Avenue SW
Phone: 403-452-4694
Twitter: @pigeonholeyyc
Charbar
Housed in the historic Simmons building in the East Village Charbar, co-owned by chefs Connie DeSousa and John Jackson of Charcut, offers diners fresh, sustainable, local cuisine. Executive chef Jessica Pelland proves that an innovative menu comprised of locally relevant and globally-inspired dishes is a winning combination. A bright and airy dining room on the banks of the Bow welcomes visiting patrons, while mouthwatering wood-grill offerings ensure a memorable gastronomic experience.
Address: 618 Confluence Way SE
Phone: 403-452-3115
Twitter: @charbar_yyc
Native Tongues
Elaborate, yet traditional the menu at Native Tongues, which takes its cues from co-owner and executive chef Cody Willis, dedicates itself to authentic, long-established Mexican street food. On offer single-order tacos and larger size group platters of braised, stewed, and charcoal grilled tacos served on warm tortillas (made from scratch daily). Fillings include braised beef tongue, chorizo, and refried beans. In addition to the scrumptious eats served up, the eatery has also been praised for its casual, communal dining space and hand-crafted cocktails.
Address: 235 12th Avenue SW
Phone: 403-263-9444
Twitter: @NativeTongueYYC
Proof
Proof is the perfect meeting point of elegance and comfort. This stylish, adult-only, watering hole not only pours a variety of fantastic seasonal libations but also offers a range of enticing sharable plates. While the masterful collection of beverages are to be commended, the eclectic food choices dished up play an equal part in luring patrons through the door. Chef Tino Longpre, who spent many years working under chef Justin Leboe, heads the kitchen at Proof and serves simple snacking options like pickled eggs, oysters, gougeres, and pork belly steam buns. More substantial fare includes black pudding topped with apple salad and toast.
Address: 1302 1st Street SW
Phone: 403-246-2421
Twitter: @proofyyc
Whitehall
This recent addition to Calgary’s restaurant scene delivers honest food that nods to Britain, in a contemporary and inviting setting. Forget fish and chips, bangers and mash, and Yorkshire puddings–Chef and owner Neil McCue has cleverly infiltrated subtle British additions and flavours into his dishes like black pudding, the quintessential British cheese Stilton, and mackerel. The result entrancing food, that will leave your belly satisfied.
Address: 24 4 Street NE
Phone: 587-349-9008
Twitter: @WhitehallYYC
The Beltliner
More on the casual side of things, this highly anticipated modern diner offers a comforting menu crafted with local, seasonal, artisanal and handmade ingredients. Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner The Beltliner, named after the old streetcar that travelled down 12th Avenue, offers classic diner staples with a twist, in a non-pretentious setting.
Address: 243 12th Avenue SW
Phone: 587-955-1555
Twitter: @TheBeltliner
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