Calgary’s food scene, once known primarily for its steak and traditional Western cuisine, has undergone a dramatic transformation. Historically, the city’s culinary identity was closely tied to its ranching heritage, with a strong emphasis on beef and hearty, comfort food.
However, recent years have seen a massive change. Today, Calgary is increasingly recognized as a culinary hotspot, a destination for food enthusiasts seeking a diverse and sophisticated dining experience. This shift has been driven by a wave of thriving chefs, restaurateurs, and a community increasingly interested in global flavors.
Here’s our comprehensive list of Calgary’s best restaurants that opened their doors in 2023:
Mister M
New on Calgary’s food scene, Mister M made waves in 2023 with its mix of international flavors using local ingredients. The setting is modern and welcoming, perfect for those looking to try something new and exciting in Calgary’s dining world. With its visually appealing dishes that taste as good as they look, Mister M is quickly becoming a go-to spot for adventurous diners.
Seoul Fried Chicken
A new addition to Calgary’s diverse food offerings, Seoul Fried Chicken specializes in Korean-style fried chicken, known for its crispy texture and flavorful spices. This restaurant has quickly become popular, demonstrating the city’s growing appetite for international cuisines.
Padmanadi
As a vegan restaurant, Padmanadi introduces a range of plant-based Indonesian, Chinese, Thai, and Indian dishes to Calgary. Its popularity underscores the city’s increasing interest in diverse and inclusive dining options, catering to various dietary preferences and lifestyles.
Salt & Brick
Salt & Brick is a brand new addition to Calgary’s restaurant landscape, focusing on high-quality, local ingredients. This eatery is all about serving fresh, regional products, with a special emphasis on sustainability. Diners can expect a variety of unique dishes, including in-house charcuteries and pizzas baked in a brick oven.
Avitus Wine Bar
This chic wine bar has become a new favorite in the city, known for its sophisticated selection of wines paired with gourmet cheeses, meats, and unique dishes like oven-roasted cheese and house-made gravlax. Located in the Avenue Thirty Four Boutiques in Marda Loop, Avitus offers a refined experience for wine lovers and food connoisseurs alike.
Ora Bread and Wine
Ora Bread and Wine has quickly become a highlight in Calgary’s vibrant culinary scene. This cozy restaurant stands out for its exceptional focus on artisanal breads and an impressive selection of wines. At Ora, guests can savor the unique combination of freshly baked, handcrafted breads paired with a carefully curated wine list that includes both local and international selections.
Class Clown Hamburgers
Ora Bread and Wine has quickly become a highlight in Calgary’s vibrant culinary scene. This cozy restaurant stands out for its exceptional focus on artisanal breads and an impressive selection of wines. At Ora, guests can savor the unique combination of freshly baked, handcrafted breads paired with a carefully curated wine list that includes both local and international selections.
Korilla Korean BBQ
Korilla Korean BBQ, a Korean BBQ and karaoke lounge, offers a fun and interactive dining experience. It’s a place where groups can enjoy delicious meat platters and unique cocktails, followed by a session of karaoke, highlighting the city’s love for dynamic and experiential dining.
In 2023, Calgary has seen a significant expansion in its culinary landscape, marked by the opening of a variety of new restaurants. This growth reflects the city’s evolving palate and its enthusiasm for diverse culinary experiences.
