13 bucket-list food experiences you need to try in Alberta
When it comes to dining, it’s safe to say Alberta knows a thing or two about good food.
The province is packed to the brim with incredible spots to grab a bite, whether you’re looking for a snack while on the road or an impressive dinner out.
So if you’re looking to put together your own foodie bucket list, here are some of the must-visit spots in Alberta that you’ll want to visit ASAP.
Exotic meat at The Grizzly House
An iconic establishment nestled in the heart of Banff, The Grizzly House is a rare treat where you have the option of ordering some of the wildest dishes you’ll ever find, from rattlesnake to ostrich to alligator.
The fondue is ridiculously good, as is the French onion soup – and to top off your meal, try the chocolate fondue.
Address: 207 Banff Ave., Banff
Meat from MEAT
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Located in Old Strathcona, MEAT serves up juicy, delicious dishes that border on legendary for their flavour. The Beef Brisket is mouth-watering, as are its BBQ Pork Ribs. Going with the one-pound brisket and full rack of ribs is a safe bet – you’re going to want leftovers.
Their side dishes are delicious as well, with their mac and cheese or fries being the perfect complement.
Address: 8216 104th St., Edmonton
Doughnuts from The Donut Mill
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This sweet spot in Red Deer is a must-hit destination for doughnut lovers. Plus, the building is in the shape of a windmill, so you won’t be able to miss it. The Mill’s menu has dozens of doughnut flavours, with fan favourites like Oreo, Rolo, Apple Pie, and Rainbow Dip, just to name a few.
Address: 123 Leva Ave., Red Deer County
Breakfast from the Chuckwagon Cafe
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Saddle up and head to the Chuckwagon Cafe in Turner Valley for a breakfast like no other. With their big scrambles, pancakes, and eggs Benedict, you can sit back and enjoy this Western breakfast spot.
Address: 105 Sunset Blvd. NW, Turner Valley
Beef jerky from the Longview Jerky Shop
Who doesn’t love beef jerky? The Longview Beef Jerky Shop attracts people from all across Alberta with its honey garlic, original, and Szechuan shop staples.
The little store’s door is usually constantly opening and closing, with people coming in to get their hands on some of this perfect road trip snack. It’s truly a bucket list spot you’ve got to try at least once.
Address: 148 Morrison Rd., Longview
A burger and milkshake from Peter’s Drive-In
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Peter’s is practically an Alberta institution, and you’ve just got to try one of their burgers paired with a milkshake. With locations in Calgary, Edmonton, and Red Deer, Peter’s allows patrons to choose up to three of its many flavours for milkshakes, meaning that there are over 4,500 flavour combinations up for grabs to pair with one of their juicy burgers.
Address: 219 16th Ave. NE, Calgary
Address: 5151 Calgary Trl. NW, Edmonton
Address: 131 Leva Ave., Red Deer
Bagels from Rocky Mountain Bagel Company
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A must-hit when travelling in the Rockies, this bagel shop in Canmore is a true delight. It has a ridiculous selection of bagels, and each order comes with heaps of fixings. It’s a whole meal in just a bagel.
Address: 102 830 8th (Main) St., Canmore
Address: 101 1106 Bow Valley Trl., Canmore
Tea and treats at the Lake Agnes Tea House
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This bucket list foodie spot requires you to take a short hike in the Rocky Mountains first, which, in our opinion, simply adds to the Alberta experience.
Make the one-hour trek up to the Lake Agnes Tea House from Chateau Lake Louise and then treat yourself to a hot tea and a delicious pastry or lunch – you deserve it!
Address: Lake Agnes, Lake Louise (a 3.7 km hike from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise at 111 Lake Louise Dr.)
Barbecue eats from Big Sky BBQ Pit
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Beef and other meats are an Alberta staple, so naturally, barbecue makes the list of can’t-miss eats. Head to Big Sky BBQ Pit, just a 30-minute drive from downtown Calgary, for some amazing carnivorous dishes paired with sides like bacon jalapeño mac and cheese, scalloped cheddar bacon potatoes, and scratch-made cornbread.
Address: 306016 15th St. E., Okotoks
Comfort food from the Starlite Diner Car
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Chances are, you’ve driven past this picture-perfect dining car on the QEII Highway, but have you stopped in? You won’t regret it after you try the Starlite Diner Car’s comfort food – and it’s a great opportunity to snap some old-school-style content for the ‘gram, too.
Address: 1 Heritage Dr., Bowden
Afternoon tea at one of the Fairmont hotels
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If you’re feeling a little fancy, look no further than the Fairmont Hotels’ Afternoon Tea. Alberta’s five Fairmont properties each offer their own unique flair, but one thing they have in common is a scrumptious high tea. Featuring a variety of pastries, tea sandwiches, sweets and, of course, a specially curated tea selection, this dining event will make you feel like royalty.
Address: Multiple locations across Alberta
Macarons from Duchess Bake Shop
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When you see a lineup snaking down 124th Street, you know you must be near Duchess Bake Shop. The shop has a legendary reputation for its pastries, especially its macarons. With its macaron classic menu and its seasonal specials, it’s a sweet treat you’ll want to bite into.
Address: 10718 124th St. NW, Edmonton
Address: 9570 76th Ave. NW, Edmonton
Fried chicken from Chicken on the Way
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If fried chicken is what you want, then fried chicken is what you shall receive at Chicken on the Way. This longstanding establishment (family-owned and operated since 1958) offers fast, fresh, and delicious fried chicken. Purchase by the piece or as a combo.
Address: Various locations across Calgary and Airdrie
With files from Elle McLean and Laine Mitchell