Searching for the best restaurant in Calgary? The city offers a diverse culinary scene, from upscale steakhouses to cozy cafes. The Calgary Restaurant Guide 2019 stands out as the top overall pick for its comprehensive listings and up-to-date reviews, while Calgary Eats offers signature recipes for food lovers seeking a taste of the city at home. For budget-conscious diners, the Valu-Driven Calgary Guide provides great options without breaking the bank. Each of these choices balances quality, price, and variety, but tradeoffs include varying levels of detail and scope. Keep reading to see how these options compare and which one aligns best with your dining needs in Calgary.
Key Takeaways
- The top picks excel in up-to-date reviews and comprehensive coverage of Calgary’s dining scene.
- Price and scope significantly influence the rankings—more detailed guides tend to be more reliable.
- Many guides focus on specific niches, like vegetarian options or value dining, which helps narrow choices.
- Consistency in restaurant ratings across guides indicates high reliability, especially for well-established spots.
- Tradeoffs often come down to whether you prefer curated lists or broad, inclusive guides.
| Calgary Restaurant Guide 2019: Best Rated Restaurants in Calgary, Canada |  | Best Overall for Comprehensive Dining Insights | Number of restaurants: 500 | Includes bars and cafés: Yes | Coverage year: 2019 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| T.S.V. Dining I: A Calgary Restaurant Guide for the Value-Oriented Gourmand |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Food Lovers | Number of restaurants: Not specified | Focus: Value-oriented | Coverage area: Calgary | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Calgary Travel Guide: Sightseeing, Hotel, Restaurant & Shopping Highlights |  | Best for First-Time Calgary Visitors | Coverage: Sightseeing, hotels, shopping, restaurants | Audience: First-time visitors | Includes maps: No | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Calgary Restaurant Guide 2016: Best Rated Restaurants in Calgary, Canada |  | Best for Nostalgic or Historical Reference | Number of restaurants: 500 | Publication year: 2016 | Includes reviews: No | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Calgary Restaurant Guide 2017: Best Rated Restaurants in Calgary, Canada |  | Best for Mid-Range Planning | Number of restaurants: 500 | Publication year: 2017 | Includes reviews: No | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| The Vegan Guide to Calgary, Canada: Restaurants, Cafés, Markets, Neighborhoods, and Plant-Based Adventures in Calgary and the Canadian Rockies |  | Best for Plant-Based Travelers | Coverage: Vegan restaurants, cafés, markets in Calgary and the Rockies | Focus: Plant-based travel tips and neighborhoods | Maps: Not included | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| My Favorite Restaurants in Calgary & Banff |  | Best for General Food Enthusiasts | Coverage: Restaurants in Calgary and Banff | Reviews: Helpful insights | Details: Limited addresses and contact info | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Calgary Eats: Signature Recipes from the City’s Best Restaurants and Bars |  | Best for Home Chefs and Food Enthusiasts | Content: Signature recipes from Calgary’s top restaurants and bars | Format: Cookbook | Focus: Home cooking and recreating city flavors | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Calgary Restaurant Guide 2017: Best Rated Restaurants in Calgary, Canada |  | Best for Historical Reference | Year Covered: 2017 | Number of Listings: 500 | Reviews: Not included | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Calgary Restaurant Guide 2018: Best Rated Restaurants in Calgary, Canada |  | Best for Recent Ratings and Detailed Reviews | Year Covered: 2018 | Number of Listings: 500 | Reviews: Detailed and rated | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| restaurant calgary | Edition | Focus | Coverage | Intended Audience |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calgary Restaurant Guide 2019: | Single | — | — | — |
| T.S.V. Dining I: A Calgary Res | Single | Value-oriented | — | — |
| Calgary Travel Guide: Sightsee | Single | — | Sightseeing, hotels, shopping, restaurants | — |
| Calgary Restaurant Guide 2016: | Single | Historical | Top-rated restaurants in 2016 | — |
| Calgary Restaurant Guide 2017: | Single | Top-rated | 2017 | — |
| The Vegan Guide to Calgary | No specific publication date | Plant-based travel tips and neighborhoods | Vegan restaurants, cafés, markets in Calgary and the Rockies | Vegan travelers |
| My Favorite Restaurants in Cal | — | — | Restaurants in Calgary and Banff | Casual diners and travelers |
| Calgary Eats: Signature Recipe | — | Home cooking and recreating city flavors | — | Food lovers and home chefs |
| Calgary Restaurant Guide 2017: | — | — | — | Researchers and history enthusiasts |
| Calgary Restaurant Guide 2018: | — | — | — | Locals and visitors seeking recent reviews |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Calgary Restaurant Guide 2019: Best Rated Restaurants in Calgary, Canada
This guide stands out for its extensive list of 500 recommended venues, making it the most thorough resource for exploring Calgary’s diverse culinary scene in 2019. Unlike the 2016 and 2017 editions, it offers more recent ratings and reviews, although it’s limited to that specific year and may be outdated now. Its detailed descriptions provide valuable context for visitors seeking trusted recommendations. However, the absence of updates or new content means it might not reflect current restaurant openings or closures. For travelers who want a broad overview of Calgary’s top eateries, this guide offers the richest snapshot, but locals or frequent visitors should look for newer editions or online sources.
Pros:- Includes 500 recommended restaurants, bars, and cafés for extensive coverage
- Provides detailed reviews and ratings for each venue
- Ideal for visitors seeking trusted top dining options in Calgary
Cons:- Limited to the 2019 year, may be outdated for current dining scenes
- No updates or additional content beyond the initial publication
Best for: Travelers wanting a comprehensive, year-specific overview of Calgary’s best restaurants, bars, and cafés.
Not ideal for: Locals or repeat visitors seeking the most current dining options, as the guide is limited to 2019 data.
- Number of restaurants:500
- Includes bars and cafés:Yes
- Coverage year:2019
- Reviews included:Yes
- Ratings detailed:Yes
- Edition:Single
Our verdict“This guide is perfect for travelers who want a detailed snapshot of Calgary’s top-rated restaurants from 2019, but it’s less useful for those seeking the latest openings.”
T.S.V. Dining I: A Calgary Restaurant Guide for the Value-Oriented Gourmand
This guide is tailored for those seeking affordable dining options in Calgary, making it ideal for locals or visitors on a tight budget. Compared with the 2019 guide, it focuses solely on value, providing curated recommendations that emphasize cost-effective options. While it offers useful descriptions and tips, it lacks detailed reviews or ratings, which may make it harder to gauge quality at a glance. Its absence of maps or recent updates limits its utility for tourists unfamiliar with the city. This pick makes the most sense for budget-conscious diners who prioritize price over detailed culinary critique, but it’s less suited for those wanting comprehensive or current information.
Pros:- Provides curated, budget-friendly restaurant options
- Useful for locals and visitors seeking value dining
- Includes detailed descriptions and tips for each venue
Cons:- Lacks detailed reviews and star ratings
- No maps or images included
- Limited to Calgary area without recent updates
Best for: Budget-savvy locals and visitors seeking affordable, well-regarded dining hotspots in Calgary.
Not ideal for: Food enthusiasts looking for in-depth reviews or the latest restaurant openings, as it offers limited critique and no recent data.
- Number of restaurants:Not specified
- Focus:Value-oriented
- Coverage area:Calgary
- Includes reviews:No
- Maps included:No
- Edition:Single
Our verdict“This guide is perfect for budget-conscious diners who want reliable, affordable options in Calgary, but it isn’t suited for those seeking detailed evaluations or current listings.”
Calgary Travel Guide: Sightseeing, Hotel, Restaurant & Shopping Highlights
This travel guide offers a broad overview of Calgary’s key attractions, hotels, shopping districts, and dining options, making it particularly useful for newcomers. Unlike the restaurant-specific guides, it combines sightseeing with dining recommendations, providing a well-rounded introduction to the city. However, it lacks detailed maps or itineraries, which could limit its usefulness for meticulous planning. While it covers a wide array of interests, the absence of a specific restaurant rating system means it’s less ideal for food-focused travelers. For those new to Calgary, this guide offers a helpful starting point, but for culinary exploration, dedicated restaurant guides like the 2019 edition might be better.
Pros:- Includes top sightseeing, hotel, and shopping recommendations
- Helpful for travelers new to Calgary
- Covers a wide range of attractions and amenities
Cons:- No detailed maps or itineraries included
- Lacks specific restaurant ratings or reviews
- No publication date noted, so may be outdated
Best for: Travelers visiting Calgary for the first time who want an organized overview of attractions, hotels, and dining spots.
Not ideal for: Visitors looking for in-depth restaurant reviews or the latest culinary scene updates, as the focus is broader than just dining.
- Coverage:Sightseeing, hotels, shopping, restaurants
- Audience:First-time visitors
- Includes maps:No
- Edition:Single
- Publication date:Not specified
- Scope:Broad
Our verdict“This guide is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Calgary’s attractions and dining, but not for those focused solely on the food scene.”
Calgary Restaurant Guide 2016: Best Rated Restaurants in Calgary, Canada
This 2016 guide offers a substantial list of 500 top-rated restaurants, bars, and cafés in Calgary, making it a useful resource for those interested in historical dining trends or older recommendations. Compared to the 2019 guide, it provides less current information, which may lead to outdated listings or closures. Its strength lies in a broad selection, but the lack of detailed reviews or ratings makes it less helpful for making precise dining choices today. It’s a good choice for collectors or those researching Calgary’s past culinary scene, but less so for travelers seeking the latest top spots or current ratings.
Pros:- Includes 500 recommended venues from 2016
- Provides a broad overview of Calgary’s dining scene at that time
- Useful for historical reference or nostalgia
Cons:- Outdated for current dining options
- No detailed reviews or ratings included
- Limited relevance for current travelers
Best for: History buffs, researchers, or locals interested in Calgary’s 2016 culinary scene, or travelers with limited access to current info.
Not ideal for: Visitors seeking up-to-date dining options or current reviews, as this edition predates recent changes in the restaurant landscape.
- Number of restaurants:500
- Publication year:2016
- Includes reviews:No
- Focus:Historical
- Edition:Single
- Coverage:Top-rated restaurants in 2016
Our verdict“This guide suits those interested in Calgary’s historical dining scene or for reference, but it’s not recommended for current restaurant searches.”
Calgary Restaurant Guide 2017: Best Rated Restaurants in Calgary, Canada
This 2017 edition offers a curated list of 500 top-rated Calgary restaurants, bars, and cafés, making it a solid mid-range resource for those planning their visit or local outings. When compared with the 2019 guide, it provides a decent overview, but it lacks recent updates and detailed reviews, which can be a drawback for current dining decisions. Its focus on ratings rather than in-depth critiques makes it suitable for quick reference but less ideal for diners wanting refined insights. This guide makes sense for those seeking a broad list of recommended venues from a previous year, but it falls short for those needing the latest information or comprehensive evaluations.
Pros:- Includes 500 recommended restaurants, bars, and cafés
- Good for quick reference of top-rated venues
- Useful for planning or casual browsing
Cons:- Limited to the 2017 edition, may be outdated
- No detailed reviews or ratings
- Lacks current restaurant information
Best for: Visitors who want a broad list of recommended dining options from a recent but not current year, especially for planning or casual reference.
Not ideal for: Foodies craving up-to-date reviews and detailed descriptions, as it doesn’t include recent changes or ratings.
- Number of restaurants:500
- Publication year:2017
- Includes reviews:No
- Focus:Top-rated
- Edition:Single
- Coverage:2017
Our verdict“This guide is suitable for those seeking a broad, past-year snapshot of Calgary’s best dining venues, but not for current culinary decision-making.”
The Vegan Guide to Calgary, Canada: Restaurants, Cafés, Markets, Neighborhoods, and Plant-Based Adventures in Calgary and the Canadian Rockies
This guidebook stands out for its comprehensive coverage of vegan dining options in Calgary and the Canadian Rockies, making it an essential resource for plant-based visitors. Compared with the Calgary Restaurant Guides from 2017 or 2018, it offers a broader scope that includes neighborhoods and markets, which enriches the travel experience. While it lacks detailed maps or images, its focus on vegan spots and travel tips helps users plan diverse plant-based adventures. However, the absence of recent updates or visual aids could limit its usefulness for visitors seeking the latest spots or visual guidance. This guide is ideal for vegan travelers who want a thorough overview of Calgary’s plant-based scene, but less suited for those needing detailed maps or current restaurant listings.
Pros:- Comprehensive coverage of vegan restaurants, cafés, and markets in Calgary and the Rockies
- Includes neighborhoods and local highlights for diverse experiences
- Provides useful travel tips tailored to plant-based visitors
Cons:- No detailed maps or images to assist navigation
- Lacks recent updates or edition information, which may impact accuracy
Best for: Vegan travelers exploring Calgary and the Rockies who want a dedicated, in-depth resource.
Not ideal for: Non-vegan visitors or those seeking a general restaurant guide with detailed maps and recent updates.
- Coverage:Vegan restaurants, cafés, markets in Calgary and the Rockies
- Focus:Plant-based travel tips and neighborhoods
- Maps:Not included
- Edition:No specific publication date
- Format:Guidebook
- Intended Audience:Vegan travelers
Our verdict“This guide is perfect for vegan travelers who prioritize detailed, specialized information but can be limiting for those needing visual aids or the latest updates.”
My Favorite Restaurants in Calgary & Banff
This guidebook provides a curated list of recommended restaurants in Calgary and Banff, making it useful for travelers seeking reliable dining suggestions. Unlike the Calgary Restaurant Guide 2017 or 2018, which offer extensive listings, this book emphasizes a select group of favorites, simplifying decision-making. However, it falls short by lacking specific addresses or contact info, which could slow down planning. Its recommendations are based on reviews and insights, which are helpful, but the absence of recent updates means some venues may have changed or closed. This pick is best for visitors who prefer curated favorites over exhaustive listings, but those needing precise logistics should consider additional sources.
Pros:- Curated list of recommended eateries in Calgary and Banff
- Helpful insights and reviews to guide choices
- Simplifies decision-making for casual diners
Cons:- Lacks detailed addresses and contact information
- No recent updates or editions, risking outdated recommendations
Best for: Travelers who want a trusted shortlist of top restaurants in Calgary and Banff without wading through extensive lists.
Not ideal for: Visitors seeking detailed addresses, contact info, or the most current restaurant data.
- Coverage:Restaurants in Calgary and Banff
- Reviews:Helpful insights
- Details:Limited addresses and contact info
- Update Frequency:No recent updates
- Format:Guidebook
- Intended Audience:Casual diners and travelers
Our verdict“This guide suits those who prefer a curated list of favorites but may be less useful for detailed planning or the latest restaurant information.”
Calgary Eats: Signature Recipes from the City’s Best Restaurants and Bars
This cookbook offers authentic recipes from Calgary’s top eateries, making it a strong choice for those wanting to recreate city favorites at home. Compared to the more general Calgary Restaurant Guides from 2017 or 2018, which list venues rather than dishes, this book provides detailed recipes and cooking tips that appeal to food lovers and home chefs. Its main drawback is the limited information about the contents or format, which could leave readers uncertain about the variety or complexity of recipes included. If you enjoy cooking and want to bring Calgary flavors into your kitchen, this book is a valuable resource, but it may be less appealing to those seeking comprehensive dining guides or recent restaurant insights.
Pros:- Authentic recipes from Calgary’s best restaurants and bars
- Great for home chefs wanting to recreate popular dishes
- Includes detailed cooking tips and techniques
Cons:- Limited information about the specific contents or recipe variety
- No recent updates or reviews available
Best for: Home cooks and food enthusiasts eager to recreate Calgary’s signature dishes at home.
Not ideal for: Travelers looking for current restaurant listings or dining guides rather than recipes.
- Content:Signature recipes from Calgary’s top restaurants and bars
- Format:Cookbook
- Focus:Home cooking and recreating city flavors
- Updates:No recent information
- Intended Audience:Food lovers and home chefs
- Difficulty Level:Varies by recipe
Our verdict“This cookbook is ideal for culinary enthusiasts who want to cook Calgary-inspired dishes, but it’s less suited for dining or travel planning.”
Calgary Restaurant Guide 2017: Best Rated Restaurants in Calgary, Canada
This guide provided a comprehensive list of 500 top-rated Calgary restaurants, bars, and cafés for 2017, making it a useful snapshot of that year’s culinary scene. However, compared with the 2018 edition which offers more recent reviews and ratings, this book may be somewhat outdated for travelers seeking current information. It lacks detailed reviews or pricing, focusing solely on listings, which limits its usefulness for in-depth planning. Nevertheless, for someone researching Calgary’s historic dining landscape or comparing past favorites, it offers valuable context. Still, most users will find the 2017 edition less relevant today due to its age.
Pros:- Extensive list of 500 recommended venues from 2017
- Includes a variety of dining options, bars and cafés
- Good for historical perspective on Calgary’s culinary scene
Cons:- Outdated for current dining decisions
- No detailed reviews or recent ratings
- Lacks pricing information
Best for: History buffs or researchers interested in Calgary’s restaurant scene circa 2017.
Not ideal for: Travelers seeking current dining options or detailed reviews for practical planning.
- Year Covered:2017
- Number of Listings:500
- Reviews:Not included
- Price Info:Not provided
- Type:Guidebook
- Intended Audience:Researchers and history enthusiasts
Our verdict“This guide is suited for those interested in Calgary’s 2017 restaurant landscape but less useful for current dining plans.”
Calgary Restaurant Guide 2018: Best Rated Restaurants in Calgary, Canada
This guide offers a detailed look at 500 top restaurants, bars, and cafés in Calgary for 2018, making it a practical resource for those wanting current insights. Unlike the 2017 version, it features comprehensive reviews and ratings, which help in making informed dining choices. However, its focus is limited to Calgary only, and it doesn’t cover newer years, so it may not reflect the latest openings or closures. For readers looking for recent, detailed information about Calgary’s restaurant scene, this guide strikes a good balance, but it becomes less relevant as newer guides emerge. It’s best suited for locals or visitors wanting a snapshot from 2018 still relevant for recent history.
Pros:- Lists 500 recommended venues in Calgary
- Includes detailed reviews and ratings
- Both visitors and locals can benefit from recent insights
Cons:- Limited to the year 2018, may be outdated soon
- Only covers Calgary, no regional or neighborhood info
- No updated editions or newer data
Best for: Visitors and locals wanting detailed, recent reviews of Calgary’s top restaurants from 2018.
Not ideal for: Those seeking the latest restaurant data or broader regional coverage beyond Calgary.
- Year Covered:2018
- Number of Listings:500
- Reviews:Detailed and rated
- Scope:Calgary only
- Update Frequency:No newer editions
- Intended Audience:Locals and visitors seeking recent reviews
Our verdict“This guide is useful for recent ratings and reviews from 2018 but may need supplementing with newer sources for current dining decisions.”
How We Picked
Our evaluation centered on the clarity, accuracy, and comprehensiveness of each guide. We looked for guides that offer current, detailed restaurant reviews, balanced coverage of different cuisine types, and user-friendly layouts. Guides that included expert insights or curated lists were rated higher because they add value beyond basic listings. The ranking also considers the guide’s reputation, update frequency, and scope—whether it offers a broad overview or niche insights. Ultimately, guides that balance quality and breadth earned top spots, helping users find the best dining options for any occasion in Calgary.| restaurant calgary | Edition | Focus | Intended Audience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calgary Restaurant Guide 2019: | Single | — | — |
| T.S.V. Dining I: A Calgary Res | Single | Value-oriented | — |
| Calgary Travel Guide: Sightsee | Single | — | — |
| Calgary Restaurant Guide 2016: | Single | Historical | — |
| Calgary Restaurant Guide 2017: | Single | Top-rated | — |
| The Vegan Guide to Calgary | No specific publication date | Plant-based travel tips and neighborhoods | Vegan travelers |
| My Favorite Restaurants in Cal | — | — | Casual diners and travelers |
| Calgary Eats: Signature Recipe | — | Home cooking and recreating city flavors | Food lovers and home chefs |
| Calgary Restaurant Guide 2017: | — | — | Researchers and history enthusiasts |
| Calgary Restaurant Guide 2018: | — | — | Locals and visitors seeking recent reviews |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Restaurant Calgary
Choosing the right restaurant guide in Calgary depends on your specific dining goals and preferences. Whether you’re seeking the most current reviews, budget-friendly options, or specialized cuisine, understanding key factors can help you make an informed decision. Consider how comprehensive the guide is, the relevance of its picks, and how easily you can navigate its content. Here are several factors to keep in mind when selecting a restaurant guide for Calgary:Coverage and Recency
Look for guides that are regularly updated to reflect recent changes in restaurant quality and availability. A guide that provides current reviews ensures you won’t be directed to outdated or closed establishments. Broader coverage across different neighborhoods and cuisines helps you find options that suit your specific tastes and location needs. Guides with outdated information can lead to disappointment, so prioritize those with recent updates and extensive listings.
Depth of Reviews
Deep, detailed reviews provide insight into the dining experience, ambiance, and value for money. Avoid guides that only list restaurants without offering meaningful descriptions or rankings, as this limits your ability to judge quality. Guides that include photos, menu highlights, and customer ratings tend to be more reliable, especially for planning special occasions or trying new cuisines.
Specialization and Niche Focus
Some guides focus on specific niches like vegetarian dining, budget-friendly options, or fine dining. These are valuable if you have particular preferences or dietary restrictions. However, niche guides might omit broader options, so consider whether their focus aligns with your needs. Balancing niche guides with comprehensive ones can help cover all your bases.
Ease of Use and Accessibility
An intuitive layout, filters, and user-friendly interface make a guide more practical—especially when making spontaneous plans. Check if the guide offers maps, search functions, and clear categorization. A cluttered or difficult-to-navigate guide can turn planning into a hassle, diminishing its usefulness.
Additional Resources and Extras
Some guides include extras like restaurant reservations, special event info, or chef profiles. These features can enhance your experience, especially if you’re planning a special night out. Guides that incorporate local insights or culinary tips offer added value, making your Calgary dining experience more satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose a guide that fits my budget in Calgary?
When selecting a guide based on budget, look for those that highlight affordable dining options or feature price ratings. Many guides categorize restaurants by price range, making it easy to filter options that fit your budget. Keep in mind that the most budget-friendly guides might omit high-end spots, so if you’re seeking luxury dining, you’ll want a guide with a broader scope. Balancing value with quality is key—sometimes paying a little more ensures a better experience.
Are online guides better than printed ones for Calgary restaurants?
Online guides tend to be more current, with frequent updates and user reviews that reflect recent experiences. They also offer interactive features like maps and filters, which streamline planning. Printed guides, on the other hand, may be more curated and easier to browse for offline use, but they risk becoming outdated quickly. For the latest recommendations, digital guides typically provide greater flexibility and real-time information.
Should I rely on a guide that focuses on specific cuisines in Calgary?
Focusing on a specific cuisine can be beneficial if you have a clear preference or dietary need, such as vegetarian or seafood dishes. These specialized guides often provide in-depth insights into local options you might otherwise overlook. However, relying solely on niche guides could limit your choices if you’re interested in broader dining experiences. Combining a niche guide with a general one often yields the best results.
How important are user reviews in choosing a Calgary restaurant guide?
User reviews add a layer of real-world feedback that can highlight recent experiences and common issues. They often reveal consistency in quality and service, helping you avoid surprises. Guides with integrated reviews or ratings tend to be more reliable, especially when they aggregate multiple opinions for a balanced view. Keep in mind, however, that reviews can be subjective, so consider the overall trend rather than isolated opinions.
What should I look for if I want a guide suitable for special occasions?
For special occasions, choose guides that feature upscale restaurants known for ambiance and exceptional service. Look for those that include detailed descriptions of fine dining options, chef profiles, or reservation services. Some guides also highlight restaurants with romantic settings or private dining rooms. Combining these features with recent reviews will help ensure your special night in Calgary is memorable.
