Alberta is a western Canadian province renowned for its stunning Rocky Mountain landscapes, vast prairies, and vibrant cities. Home to Banff and Jasper national parks, it offers world-class outdoor adventures alongside dynamic urban centers in Calgary and Edmonton.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
River Cafe
Situated on Prince's Island Park in the middle of the Bow River, River Cafe is one of Calgary's most celebrated restaurants. Features a wood-burning hearth and focuses on Canadian/Alberta ingredients, particularly wild and foraged foods.
25 Prince's Island Park, Calgary, AB T2P 0R1
Ten Foot Henry
A vibrant vegetable-forward restaurant in Calgary's Beltline neighbourhood. Known for creative, colourful dishes with globally inspired flavours. One of Calgary's most popular spots with a fun atmosphere and excellent cocktails.
1209 1st Street SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0V3
The Guild
A grand gastropub in a historic Stephen Avenue building, featuring soaring ceilings, exposed brick, and a stunning bar. Serves elevated pub fare with an impressive beer selection and whiskies. One of downtown Calgary's most impressive spaces.
116 8th Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1B3
Blink Restaurant & Bar
A consistently awarded fine dining establishment on Calgary's Stephen Avenue featuring a menu built around the finest Alberta products. Elegant setting with an exceptional wine cellar and tasting menu options.
111 8th Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1B4
Model Milk
Housed in a converted dairy building on 17th Avenue, Model Milk is a beloved Calgary institution known for innovative dishes, a great patio, and lively atmosphere. One of the anchors of Calgary's 17th Ave restaurant scene.
308 17th Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T2S 0A9
OEB Breakfast Co.
Calgary's premier breakfast destination, OEB (Over Easy Breakfast) transforms classic breakfast fare into gourmet experiences. Famous for creative eggs Benedict variations, gourmet French toast, and exceptional coffee. Extensive waits on weekends but worth it.
Multiple Calgary locations; original 824 Edmonton Trail NE, Calgary, AB T2E 3J8
CRAFT Beer Market
A massive Calgary favourite featuring 100+ craft beers on tap alongside a crowd-pleasing menu of elevated pub food. The expansive space has multiple levels, a rooftop patio, and a fun atmosphere making it one of Calgary's most popular hangouts.
345 10th Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0A5
Mercato
A Calgary favourite for Italian cuisine, Mercato features house-made pasta, exceptional seafood, and an impressive Italian wine list. Located in the vibrant Mission neighbourhood with a warm, upscale atmosphere perfect for special occasions.
2224 4th Street SW, Calgary, AB T2S 1X7
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
Contemporary Canadian
Blake Restaurant
Canmore's premier fine dining destination, featuring a thoughtful menu of contemporary cuisine made with locally sourced Alberta ingredients. Intimate atmosphere with exceptional service and mountain views. One of the Canadian Rockies' best restaurants.
629 8th Street, Canmore, AB T1W 2B8
Park Bistro
Lethbridge's finest dining destination, featuring contemporary Canadian cuisine with locally sourced southern Alberta ingredients. Elegant setting with excellent service making it the go-to spot for special occasions in Lethbridge.
230 5th Street South, Lethbridge, AB T1J 2B5
Alta Dining Room
The signature dining room of the legendary Fairmont Banff Springs hotel, offering Alberta-inspired cuisine in an opulent castle setting with panoramic views of the Bow Valley. Features Alberta beef, game meats, and local ingredients.
Fairmont Banff Springs, 405 Spray Avenue, Banff, AB T1L 1J4
Contemporary
Bundok
A beloved Edmonton neighbourhood restaurant in the ICE District known for unpretentious, bold-flavoured food inspired by world cuisines. Excellent natural wine list, creative cocktails, and a laid-back atmosphere making it a favourite for locals.
10228 104th Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 1B5
Evil Dave's Grill
Jasper's most beloved and quirky restaurant, run by chef Dave Makuk for over 20 years. Creative, globally-inspired dishes with Alberta ingredients in a fun, irreverent atmosphere. Famous for its wacky menu names and consistently excellent food.
622 Patricia Street, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0
Spanish
Tzin Wine and Tapas
A sophisticated wine bar and tapas restaurant in downtown Edmonton offering an impressive selection of global wines by the glass alongside Spanish and Mediterranean-inspired small plates. Popular spot for after-work drinks and dinner.
10115 104th Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 0Z9
Ox Bar de Tapas
A vibrant Spanish tapas bar on Whyte Avenue in Old Strathcona, offering authentic Spanish small plates, sherries, and wines. Known for its authentic pintxos, Iberian charcuterie, and lively atmosphere. One of Edmonton's favourite neighbourhood spots.
9938 82nd Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 6B2
Specialty Coffee
Phil & Sebastian Coffee
Calgary's most celebrated specialty coffee roaster and café chain. Phil & Sebastian sources exceptional beans from around the world and roasts in-house, serving consistently excellent espresso drinks and drip coffee in beautiful café settings.
Multiple locations; original 618 Confluence Way SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0G1
Transcend Coffee
Edmonton's leading specialty coffee roaster with multiple café locations and a commitment to ethical sourcing and quality roasting. Popular with University of Alberta students and coffee enthusiasts throughout the city.
8708 109th Street NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 1E8
Steakhouse
Hardware Grill
Edmonton's most celebrated steakhouse and fine dining institution for over 25 years, housed in a heritage building on Jasper Avenue. Renowned for exceptional Alberta beef, dry-aged in-house, impeccable service, and an extensive wine collection.
9698 Jasper Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 1G0
Belvedere
A sophisticated steakhouse on historic Stephen Avenue featuring prime Alberta beef, an impressive wine cellar, and impeccable service. One of Calgary's premier special occasion restaurants with elegant Art Deco interior design.
107 Stephen Avenue Walk SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1H1
Vegetarian
Communitea Cafe
A beloved Canmore café and community gathering place known for excellent tea, coffee, fresh organic food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Popular among locals and visiting outdoor enthusiasts. Great for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon snack.
1001 6th Avenue, Canmore, AB T1W 3L4
The Coup
Calgary's favourite vegetarian and vegan restaurant on 17th Avenue, offering creative plant-based cuisine with global influences. A vibrant, inclusive space with excellent cocktails and a loyal following of both vegetarians and carnivores.
924 17th Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T2T 0A2
American
Meat Restaurant
A casual but premium smoked meat restaurant on Edmonton's lively Whyte Avenue. Texas-style BBQ meets Alberta beef in slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and pulled pork that has made this a local favourite for meat lovers.
10428 Whyte Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2A3
Breakfast
Papa George's Restaurant
Jasper's go-to breakfast and brunch spot, serving hearty mountain breakfasts since 1924 - making it one of Alberta's oldest restaurants. Simple, unpretentious cooking with generous portions. Located in the Astoria Hotel on Connaught Drive.
406 Connaught Drive, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0
Brunch
Clementine Cafe
Edmonton's most beloved brunch café on Whyte Avenue, consistently praised for its creative breakfast and brunch menu, excellent coffee, and warm neighbourhood atmosphere. Expect waits on weekends - very much worth it.
10328 Whyte Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2A3
Cafe
Sublime Cafe
Drumheller's most popular café and lunch spot, offering excellent espresso drinks, fresh homemade soups, sandwiches, and baked goods. A welcome respite from tourist fare in dinosaur country, with excellent coffee and friendly service.
201 2nd Street West, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0
Cajun
Tooloulou's
Banff's favourite Cajun and Creole restaurant, offering bold flavours from the Deep South transplanted to the mountains. Features jazz music, excellent cocktails, and dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, and po'boys in a colourful, festive space.
204 Caribou Street, Banff, AB T1L 1A2
Canadian
Park Distillery Restaurant + Bar
A craft distillery and restaurant on Banff Avenue using glacial water to create award-winning spirits. Serves innovative Canadian cuisine with camp-inspired cooking over wood fire. One of Banff's most unique dining and drinking experiences.
219 Banff Avenue, Banff, AB T1L 1A3
Casual
Banff Gondola Summit Restaurant
Located at the top of Sulphur Mountain (2,281m), the Summit Restaurant offers panoramic mountain views with a menu of casual dining options including Alberta-inspired dishes, soups, and café items. Accessible via gondola.
Banff Gondola Summit, Banff, AB T1L 1J3
Casual Dining
Lakeview Lounge
The most spectacular view of any restaurant in Alberta - floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the iconic Lake Louise and Victoria Glacier. Offers afternoon tea, casual lunch, and evening cocktails. The views make everything taste better.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, 111 Lake Louise Drive, AB T0L 1E0
Charcuterie
CHARCUT Roast House
A pioneering nose-to-tail charcuterie and roast house in downtown Calgary, celebrated for exceptional house-cured meats, whole-roasted animals, and creative cocktails. One of the restaurants that put Calgary on the culinary map.
899 Centre Street SW, Calgary, AB T2G 1B8
Comfort Food
Blue Plate Diner
A beloved Edmonton institution since 1999, Blue Plate Diner serves elevated comfort food with a focus on local and organic ingredients. Offers one of the best-value menus in Edmonton including exceptional breakfasts and hearty lunches.
10145 104th Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 0Z9
Contemporary Global
Crazyweed Kitchen
One of Canmore's landmark restaurants, Crazyweed has been offering globally-inspired cuisine with Alberta ingredients since 1998. Features creative tapas-style sharing dishes, an impressive wine list, and an intimate atmosphere.
1600 Railway Avenue, Canmore, AB T1W 1P6
Contemporary Prairie
RGE RD
Named after Alberta's rural road numbering system, RGE RD (Range Road) showcases hyper-local Alberta and prairie ingredients sourced within the region. One of Edmonton's most progressive restaurants with a changing seasonal menu and community focus.
10643 123rd Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5N 1N9
Craft Beer
Situation Brewing
A popular Edmonton craft brewery taproom serving house-brewed beers alongside elevated snack and small plate fare. Features rotating seasonal taps, a knowledgeable staff, and a welcoming space in downtown Edmonton.
10359 104th Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 1C2
Deli
Cured Delicatessen
A popular deli and lunch spot on Jasper Avenue known for exceptional smoked meats, creative sandwiches, and Jewish-deli inspired fare. Excellent for a quick lunch or takeaway meal while exploring downtown Edmonton.
10349 Jasper Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 1Y9
French
The Marc
One of Edmonton's finest dining establishments, The Marc features classic French-inspired cuisine with Alberta ingredients in a sophisticated setting. Known for its exceptional service, impressive wine cellar, and consistently excellent execution.
9940 106th Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5K 2R4
Gastropub
The Common
A popular Edmonton neighbourhood pub and restaurant in the heart of the 124th Street arts district. Features elevated pub fare, local craft beers, and a welcoming patio. Great for people-watching on 124th Street.
9910 109th Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5K 2L8
Japanese
Uchi Japanese Restaurant
Edmonton's premier Japanese dining experience, featuring authentic Japanese dishes alongside creative fusion offerings. Exceptional sushi, sashimi, and cooked dishes with high-quality ingredients, in an elegant minimalist setting.
9722 111th Street NW, Edmonton, AB T5K 1L1
Mexican
Coyotes Southwestern Grill
A Banff institution serving Southwestern-inspired food with Alberta ingredients since 1995. Known for hearty portions, great value, and a relaxed atmosphere. Popular with hikers refuelling after a day on the trails.
206 Caribou Street, Banff, AB T1L 1A2
Pizza
Bear Street Tavern
A popular Banff pub and restaurant known for wood-fired pizzas, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere. Great after-hike spot with a deck perfect for summer evenings. One of Banff's most beloved locals' hangouts.
211 Bear Street, Banff, AB T1L 1A3
Pub
Jasper Brewing Co.
Jasper's only craft brewery and pub, brewing beers using Jasper National Park glacier water. Offers a full menu of pub classics and Alberta-inspired dishes alongside house-brewed ales, lagers, and seasonal beers. Popular post-hike destination.
624 Connaught Drive, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0
Rocky Mountain
The Bison Restaurant & Terrace
Banff's premier dining destination featuring local Rocky Mountain ingredients with a focus on bison, elk, and Alberta game meats. Elegant yet relaxed atmosphere with exposed wood and stone interior. One of the best restaurants in the Canadian Rockies.
211 Bear Street, Banff, AB T1L 1A3
Food tours & tastings in Alberta
Eat your way through Alberta with a guide.
Browse food experiences in AlbertaWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Tipping practices vary — check local customs. Service charge is often included.
Restaurants may close between lunch and dinner. Plan meals around local dining hours.
Popular restaurants may not take reservations — arrive early or be prepared to wait.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-15/meal | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |