As you step into Downtown Calgary, you’re immediately surrounded by a culinary landscape that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. Among the top-notch eateries, some standouts include CHARCUT Roast House, blending Italian and Portuguese flavours, and Major Tom, known for its panoramic views and innovative cocktails. Visitors will also find River Café, offering upscale, sustainable dining, and Caesar’s Steak House & Lounge, renowned for its gourmet menu and signature drinks.
As one of Calgary’s most walkable neighbourhoods, the downtown area is a great place to stroll and sample the offerings of some of the city’s best restaurants.
Downtown Calgary Dining Highlights
Major Tom offers panoramic city views and cutting-edge cocktails.
Charcut Roast House serves Italian and Portuguese-inspired dishes with seasonal ingredients.
Caesar’s Steak House & Lounge, established in 1972, provides an extensive gourmet menu and signature cocktails.
River Cafe, located on Prince’s Island, features upscale dining and picturesque views with a changing menu.
Barbarella Bar is a downtown runner-up for the best restaurants, offering diverse menu options and a lively atmosphere.
CHARCUT
Situated in the heart of Downtown Calgary, CHARCUT boasts a market-driven menu inspired by Italian and Portuguese traditions. The chefs at CHARCUT take pride in their extensive culinary knowledge, offering dishes that blend seasonal ingredients with artisanal preparation. From hand-crafted charcuterie boards to wood-roasted meats, every bite is a testament to their dedication to quality and flavour.
Guests can reserve a table ahead of time to ensure a spot. CHARCUT also has a location in Northwest Calgary, so it’s easily accessible from many of Calgary’s best neighbourhoods.
Major Tom
Step into Major Tom, a downtown hotspot offering a unique vibe and cutting-edge cocktails that perfectly complement your evening in Calgary. Located on the 40th floor at Steven Avenue Place, the restaurant provides stunning panoramic views of the city. It’s the perfect place to relax, eat, and drink after a day at the CORE Shopping Centre, one of the top things to do in Calgary.
Guests can explore the restaurant’s unique cocktail options, as well as a variety of wine and beer selections. For the main course, guests can try the Tomato and Brioche Salad or the Icelandic Cod, both carefully crafted to deliver bold flavours. In the evening, Major Tom’s bustling scene is a testament to its popularity. Even amidst a full house, service remains enthusiastic and attentive. With its exceptional cocktails and dishes, Major Tom is sure to leave guests fascinated and eager to return.
River Café
River Café in Downtown Calgary offers a serene ambiance and delectable dining options. Located on Prince’s Island just across the Bow River from the vibrant Eau Claire neighbourhood, this upscale restaurant boasts picturesque views and a commitment to using local, seasonal ingredients.
Executive Chef Scott MacKenzie’s passion for quality and sustainability is evident in every course, and the exceptional service complements the culinary expertise. The restaurant’s unique location in one of Calgary’s best parks, Prince’s Island Park, further enhances its magical ambiance. With its high ratings and environmentally conscious practices, River Café is an ideal choice for discerning diners seeking a refined meal in Downtown Calgary.
Caesar’s Steak House & Lounge
Visitors can indulge in premium quality steaks at Caesar’s Steak House & Lounge, where exceptional service and an extensive menu ensure a satisfying dining experience. Renowned for excellence since 1972, this iconic destination near some of the most luxurious condos and penthouses in Calgary combines exquisite flavours with a sophisticated atmosphere.
Caesar’s has a second location in the Willow Park neighbourhood, so it’s also highly convenient for residents and visitors in South Calgary.
Caesar’s menu features gourmet specialties, including the signature Caesar salad. Guests can also savour some of the finest steaks, each perfectly seasoned with their secret blend and roasted with precision. Their signature cocktails are perfectly paired with sumptuous dishes that showcase the finest flavours.
OEB Breakfast Co.
Experience the best breakfast and brunch in Calgary at OEB Breakfast Co., a breakfast lover’s heaven where culinary artists craft elevated dishes. This award-winning establishment serves fresh, masterfully prepared meals that are sure to delight your palate.
OEB has locations throughout Calgary, Edmonton, Victoria, Kelowna, and more. In addition to their downtown location, OEB Breakfast can be found at the following spots:
The restaurant offers dine-in, delivery, takeout services, and varying hours depending on the day of the week. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, OEB Breakfast Co. is a must-visit for breakfast and brunch enthusiasts.
SALTLIK Calgary
SALTLIK Calgary offers a spacious dining area with a relaxed atmosphere, where every detail is carefully curated to ensure an exceptional experience. SALTLIK is located in the heart of downtown near popular sites like the Glenbow Museum and the Calgary Tower. While the steaks are iconic, the menu goes beyond that, featuring succulent seafood, pasta, and a variety of desserts. An exceptional wine list and handcrafted cocktails complement the culinary delights.
SALTLIK offers private dining and event spaces, including the popular ‘Sky Lounge’ on the top floor and private downstairs spaces. These individual spaces can accommodate 12–50 guests or upwards of 100 guests with a full restaurant buyout. SALTLIK fans should also be sure to check out their location in Banff, one of the best small towns near Calgary and one of the most beautiful destinations in all of Canada.
Bridgette Bar
Bridgette Bar elevates the dining experience with hearty menu options and unique cocktails. This chef-driven bar in the vibrant Beltline neighbourhood offers an exciting dining atmosphere. Bridgette Bar caters to diverse tastes by offering a wide range of menu items, from casual bites to more substantial fare.
Visitors can reserve a table in advance to secure a spot for larger groups or special occasions. For those who want to make the most of their visit, Bridgette Bar hosts events that promise to impress. No matter the occasion, Bridgette Bar in Calgary offers a versatile and satisfying dining experience at its core.
Ten Foot Henry
Ten Foot Henry, an all-day downtown restaurant located adjacent to Central Memorial Park, offers a fresh, vegetable-anchored menu and family-style dining experience. This contemporary Canadian eatery is popular for its high-quality tapas-style menu; while it’s pricier, its popularity shows that it’s worth every penny.
When you visit Ten Foot Henry, you’ll enjoy fast and friendly service that rounds out your dining experience. Located in Downtown Calgary, Ten Foot Henry operates daily from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. While they don’t offer catering or private event facilities, Ten Foot Henry is a great spot to meet friends or family, with a casual dress code that sets the tone for a relaxed atmosphere.
Downtown Calgary’s Best Restaurants Await
Downtown Calgary’s dining scene offers something for every palate. From the Italian and Portuguese-inspired delights at CHARCUT Roast House to the breathtaking views and unmatched ambiance at the River Café, the city promises a culinary experience to remember. Whether you’re a local, a visitor, or moving to Calgary, exploring these top-rated restaurants will enhance your appreciation of Calgary’s dynamic food culture.
If you’re interested in Calgary real estate, contact Justin Havre Real Estate Team with eXp Realty with Calgary Homes at (403) 217-0003 to get in touch with a local real estate agent who can help you find your Calgary dream home today.