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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Downtown

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18 restaurants available nearby

A photo of River Café restaurant
1. River Café
4.7
Exceptional(4885)
Price: Expensive
• Canadian • Calgary
Booked 43 times today
River Café is a hidden gem located on Prince's Island Park in Calgary. It's not just a meal, it's a journey. As one reviewer put it, 'The food is different enough to be special (interesting combinations of local flora and fauna), without being too unusual for 'meat and potatoes' diehards to enjoy.' The restaurant's commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and rustic, quaint ambiance makes it a must-visit destination. One customer even mentioned it's a 'Michelin star worthy' experience. So, it's definitely worth the drive!
A photo of True Wild Distilling restaurant
2. True Wild Distilling
4.8
Exceptional(151)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary Canadian • Calgary
Booked 22 times today
Welcome to the True Wild Distilling Bar & Restaurant, A live-fire restaurant nestled between towering whisky and gin stills inside a stunning heritage building. High-quality proteins and sustainable vegetables dishes are infused with the unique flavour profile that only charcoal can impart. Unpretentious yet premium, we’ve developed a menu that’s driven by the spirits of its surroundings and is complimentary in nature. True masters of their craft, our mixologists expertly blend our spirits with curated ingredients to create cocktails that are as delicious as they are imaginative. Whether you’re in the mood for a perfectly prepared classic or want to try something new, our bar has what you’re looking for. It’s not just a meal or a drink; it’s an experience that stirs something inside.
A photo of Pizza Culture restaurant
3. Pizza Culture
4.8
Exceptional(196)
Price: Moderate
• Pizzeria • Calgary
Booked 16 times today
Pizza Culture brings you authentic, true-to-Italy Napoletana pizza and amore. As a registered member of the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN) you can put your trust in our crust. In 2024, Pizza Culture was ranked by Italy’s 50TopPizza organization as "#96 best pizzeria in the world" (by independent inspectors).Our founder and head pizza maker Jeremy Hube is hands-on in the restaurant and can be seen working our wood-fired oven. We curate a wine list that is regionally appropriate, with a strong focus on Campania and the good word on the street is that we make a mean sourdough. A friendly, casual and often bustling neighbourhood pizzeria with a dine-in dining room, side-street patio and options for takeout and delivery. If you've never dined with us before, we look forward to seeing you soon!
A photo of Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey restaurant
4. Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey
4.8
Exceptional(808)
Price: Moderate
• Barbecue • Calgary
Booked 34 times today
Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey is a bbq joint in the heart of Kensington, Calgary, Alberta. Smoking our meat from 10-14 hours, people love our brisket but we have a selection of meats, trays and sides to choose from. Join us inside or out if the weather permits, or on our backyard whiskey garden open year round. Drinkwise we’ve got the largest whiskey list in town, and an ever-evolving cocktail list anchored by our smokey old-fashioned. We’ve also got a bunch of beer on tap, with some local favourites and international selects.
A photo of Fleetwood restaurant
5. Fleetwood
4.7
Exceptional(85)
Price: Moderate
• Tapas / Small Plates • Beltline
Booked 5 times today
Fleetwood is a premium lounge offering classic cocktailing and a rich, shareable menu. Socialize and unwind in Fleetwood’s elevated yet relaxed atmosphere featuring modern vintage décor inspired by the rare 1933 Cadillac Fleetwood on display.
A photo of OXBOW restaurant
6. OXBOW
4.7
Exceptional(568)
Price: Expensive
• European • Kensington
Booked 3 times today
OXBOW is a gem in Calgary, offering an elevated dining experience with French twist to comfort food. It's highly recommended by patrons for its beautiful interiors, attentive staff, and fantastic food. The restaurant is also praised for its great service, making it a favorite for special occasions. Its location by the river adds to the charm. The Chef’s Whim with wine pairing is a hit amongst the guests. So, it's definitely worth the drive!
A photo of The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Macleod Trail restaurant
7. The Keg Steakhouse + Bar - Macleod Trail
4.6
Exceptional(4309)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Calgary
Booked 51 times today
The Keg Steakhouse & Bar serves the finest cuts of succulent steak, aged for tenderness and grilled to perfection. Prime rib is a Keg specialty, slow roasted, hand carved and perfectly seasoned with special Keg spices. The restaurant also serves delicious seafood, memorable appetizers, crisp salads and decadent desserts. A casual ambiance and friendly, very knowledgeable staff are proud and reliable trademarks of The Keg Steakhouse & Bar. You'll find a truly comfortable and satisfying dining atmosphere accompanied by a fun and up-scale bar setting where guests can enjoy an excellent wine list, signature Keg martinis, and fresh squeezed juice cocktails.
A photo of Toscana & Next Door Wine Bar & Tapas restaurant
8. Toscana & Next Door Wine Bar & Tapas
4.4
Awesome(814)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Calgary
Booked 7 times today
We are your little taste of Italy! We dedicate ourselves everyday in preparing fresh seasonal ingredients and creating homemade dishes to give you the highest quality Italian food in a cozy environment. Toscana is the perfect venue for any occasion. We have semi-private rooms that can accommodate up to 140 people. We also cater and offer delivery for large home or office parties!
A photo of Osteria Chef's Table restaurant
9. Osteria Chef's Table
4.8
Exceptional(378)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Calgary
Booked 2 times today
Located in the heart of trendy Kensington, at 201 10st NW Calgary, Osteria De Medici has been a fixture for the city's Authentic Italian culinary offerings for decades.Long time chefs Giovanni and Michele took over the management of the restaurant in Calgary's Kensington district, keeping the Osteria de Medici tradition and incorporating their own twist to create Osteria Chef's Table.Our beautiful dining room features a classic Italian Style atmosphere, crisp linens and comfortable seating.The new menu features a combination of classic Italian dishes along with daily specials created by the Chefs. Osteria Chef’s Table is dedicated to offering exceptional service and the freshest ingredients available.Giovanni and Michele frequent city markets, local growers and farmers to bring you only the best of locally sourced ingredients.Osteria Chef's Table is open for Lunch and Dinner and is available to host your next event.
A photo of Big Fish & Open Range - Renfrew restaurant
10. Big Fish & Open Range - Renfrew
4.8
Exceptional(1958)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Calgary
Booked 26 times today
Dine on fresh sustainably-sourced seafood, wild game meats and more at Big Fish & Open Range, located in Calgary. Its casual setting and inviting atmosphere is ideal for grabbing a bite to eat with friends or family.Big Fish offers food such as a seafood chowder, smoked oyster sliders or chili-glazed frog legs that make for flavorful appetizers. Guests can feast on an entrée of pan-roasted walleye with wilted spinach, fish tacos topped with tomato-mango salsa or a lamb and lobster burger. An oyster bar as well as delicious house-made desserts are also available.Open Range embodies the essence of our city; cutting edge, but comfortable and unpretentious. Open Range mixes modern with tradition, serving every cut you would expect but preparing them with interesting variations of flavours. We offer locally raised beef, elk, bison and game prepared in an easy going Southwestern style. We are one of Calgary's premier steakhouses with multiple awards and accolades.

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Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Downtown

Discover the culinary treasures of Downtown Calgary with our curated selection of restaurants that are truly "worth the drive." Each establishment offers a unique dining experience that showcases exceptional service, an inviting atmosphere, and, most importantly, a menu that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Whether you're in the mood for exquisite Italian cuisine or other gourmet offerings, these restaurants stand out for their commitment to quality and authenticity. Downtown Calgary's dining scene is vibrant and diverse, providing options that cater to every palate and occasion. The area is renowned for not only its culinary variety but also for its ability to offer unforgettable dining experiences that are perfect for both special occasions and casual outings. If you're looking for a meal that combines exquisite flavors with a warm, welcoming environment, these Downtown Calgary restaurants are your go-to destinations. Each one promises an adventure in dining that is well worth the drive, making each meal a memorable event. Whether you're a local or a visitor, don't miss out on these outstanding dining experiences where every dish tells a story of culinary excellence.

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