5 highly anticipated restaurant openings to look forward to in Calgary in 2026
While the past year saw a huge influx of international chains and local restaurants opening up in Calgary, 2026 is set to be bigger and better.
Some exciting new concepts are on the horizon for Cowtown, with a group of very recognizable names poised to open their doors over the coming year.
If you’re already looking to plan out some foodie adventures for the new year, here are some of the highly anticipated restaurant openings in Calgary.
Wingstop
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After years of waiting on the edge of our seats, we finally have confirmation that Wingstop will be opening not one, but three Calgary locations in 2026.
The first flagship location for YYC will be located at CF Chinook Centre, and it’s going to have some pretty cool features, including a live DJ booth and modern interior elements to support the high foot traffic spot.
In addition to Chinook, it looks like another outpost will be opening at Deerfoot Meadows, according to the shopping centre’s website.
Address: CF Chinook Centre – 6455 Macleod Tr., Calgary
Hello Nori
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Hello Nori has officially confirmed that its first Calgary outpost is in the works, with the new spot slated to open in Bridgeland in early 2026.
Known as Canada’s “premier hand roll bar,” Hello Nori’s restaurant design will draw inspiration from the forests of the Pacific Northwest, featuring a sculptural wooden ceiling — a touch that has become synonymous with the restaurant.
Diners in Calgary will soon be able to try Hello Nori’s menu of 16 different varieties of hand rolls, featuring options such as Bluefin tuna, Snow crab, truffle lobster, and Hokkaido scallop.
Address:Â 885 1st Ave. NE, Calgary
Alva
C.A. Restaurant Enterprises
Alva, a new Canadiana-themed restaurant, will be a new 6,000-square-foot space with 50-foot ceilings, featuring a large bar in the centre of the room, as well as lots of cozy seating.
As well as its indoor dining area, Alva will also be utilizing some of the outdoor space in front of The Edison, with a two-tiered south-facing patio, with some seating at street level and some around four feet above, where there will also be a canopy to protect from the rain as well as the sun.
The spot is slated to open in June 2026.
Address:Â 150 9th Ave. SW, Calgary
Francine’s
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Off the back of a successful pop-up, French bar Francine’s is set to open its first permanent location in January.
The “petit French bar” concept is being brought to life by bar manager Nate Wry and chef Garrett Martin. Its menu focuses on showcasing old-world cocktails, spirits and aperitifs alongside tavern-focused and French-accented fare.
Covet Sips + Sweets – Cochrane
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While not strictly in Calgary, Covet, a popular spot for dirty soda and sweet treats, is gearing up to open a new location just a short drive away in Cochrane.
After opening in Okotoks in 2021, Covet has become a firm favourite with locals for its flavour-packed lineup of dirty sodas, coffee, and sweet treats.
Founded by Meagan Layton and Whitney Smith, Covet is a go-to spot for those looking to get their hands on inventive sips, with the spot often taking inspiration from trending drinks.
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