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Start Your Meal Right with the Best Appetizers in Calgary 

Taste Test: We sampled a wide variety of appetizers, focusing on flavour, freshness, and overall quality. We weren't afraid to try something new and always considered the balance of flavours and textures.

Value for Money: We considered the price point of each appetizer and compared it to the quality and portion size. We wanted to find appetizers that were both delicious and affordable.

Creativity & Presentation: We appreciated unique and inventive appetizers that showcased the chef's creativity. We looked at the presentation, as a beautifully plated dish can enhance the dining experience.

Overall Experience: We considered the atmosphere of the restaurant, the service, and the overall dining experience.

Appetizers are the real MVPs of any dining experience—at least, I think they’re the perfect way to get your taste buds tingling. Sometimes, though, you get stuck with an appetizer that’s pure disappointment.

For example, one time I ordered crispy calamari at a restaurant, and it was more like rubbery rings of sadness. The calamari was chewy, and the dipping sauce tasted bland.

After having enough terrible appetizers for a lifetime, I recruited the rest of the Best Calgary team to help me find the city’s best bites. 

We’ve been crisscrossing Calgary, from cozy pubs to upscale restaurants, sampling everything from classic poutine to innovative small plates. 

Here’s who made it onto our best list.

How much does it cost to get appetizers in Calgary?

It costs at least 10 CAD for a simple appetizer in Calgary. However, this price is just an estimate and the actual cost will depend on what you order, where you eat at, and more. 

1. Craft Beer Market

craft-beer-market-logo

Address: 345 10 Ave SW

Contact Details: +1 403-514-2337

Operating Hours: 

  • Sunday to Wednesday – 11 AM to 12 AM
  • Thursday – 11 AM to 1 AM
  • Friday & Saturday – 11 AM to 2 AM

Website

Craft Beer Market is the perfect fun and lively spot to hang with friends and grab a pint. But while they’re all about the brews, their appetizers are no joke either!

If you want comfort food, the nacho barrel is a classic on their menu for a reason. Cheddar, tomato, jalapenos, poblanos—all the good stuff. You’ll have to come wearing your stretchy pants if you eat it solo!

On our last visit, we tried the kung pao lettuce wraps. The chicken was tender, the vegetables were cooked perfectly, and the cashews added a nice crunch. 

The sauce was a bit spicy but not overwhelming, and it really brought out the flavours of the chicken and vegetables.

The table near us had an order of spicy ahi tacos—we’ll have to try it next time. But from what they told us, the tuna was super fresh, the wonton shells were crispy, and the ginger and garlic vinaigrette held everything together perfectly.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that it can get loud here. If you’re looking for a quiet and intimate dinner spot, this might not be the place for you. 

Pros

  • Fun & lively atmosphere
  • Fantastic beer selection
  • Filling nacho barrel
  • Tasty kung pao lettuce wraps
  • Crispy spicy ahi tacos

Cons

  • Can get noisy

Delicious appetizers at Craft

My husband and I love enjoying our afternoon drink and delicious appetizers at Craft, especially when we get Claudia’s recommends.”

– Catherine Rodriguez Palmi, Google Reviews

10/10 would recommend

“Came here with some friends for some appetizers and drinks. Andrea was our server and made our whole experience great! Not only was she cheerful, but she always made sure our drinks were topped up and was always by our table when needed without being overbearing. 10/10 would recommend!”

– Alla Mahina, Google Review

2. Ten Foot Henry

ten-foot-henry-logo

Address: 1209 1 St SW

Contact Details: +1 403-475-5537

Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 11 PM

Website

Ten Foot Henry has a super chill and welcoming vibe, perfect for a relaxed meal. Their shareable appetizers are a highlight—fresh, flavorful, and packed with creative twists.

We started off with their cauliflower and tuna crudo. The cauliflower was roasted to perfection in a gochujang sauce that made it the right amount of spicy. It was super rich and savory.

The tuna crudo was equally amazing—so fresh, light, and topped with a vibrant chimichurri. The crispy capers added a delightful crunch, balancing the dish beautifully.

We also tried the sourdough with whipped feta and herbs, which got rave reviews from everyone at the table. Simple yet delicious, the toasted bread was perfectly crisp, and the whipped feta was airy and smooth.

The only thing we’d say is that if you’re going solo, their portions are quite large, so you might not finish it all.

Pros

  • Chill and relaxed vibe
  • Creative shareable appetizers
  • Fresh ingredients
  • Good portion sizes for sharing

Cons

  • Portions are too large for solo diners

The tuna and mushroom appetizers were both fresh and flavorful

“Ten Foot Henry is an absolute gem! We had a fantastic dinner with excellent service from start to finish. The tuna and mushroom appetizers were both fresh and flavorful, setting a high bar for the meal. The kale and rotolo pastas were just as impressive—rich, delicious, and served in generous portions. In fact, we had leftovers to take home! The ambiance was warm and inviting, and the staff made sure everything was perfect. We’ll definitely be back for another memorable meal.”

– Marc-Antoine Saumier, Google Reviews

The tomato spread and cauliflower appetizers were amazing

“Excellent food, great atmosphere, and wonderful service at the bar!  The tomato spread and cauliflower appetizers were amazing.  The gigli pasta was outstanding, and the roasted Thai chicken was good. The cider drink was also outstanding.  The bar server was super friendly and helpful to us first timers.  We will certainly be back!”

– B D, Google Reviews

3. Charcut Roast House

charcut-roast-house-logo

Address: 899 Centre St S

Contact Details: +1 403-984-2180

Operating Hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday – 7:30 AM to 10 PM
  • Friday – 7:30 AM to 11 PM
  • Saturday & Sunday – 7:30 AM to 11 AM & 4 PM to 11 PM

Website

Charcut Roast House is where you go if you want to splurge. The entire atmosphere screams posh—especially their signature BYO charcuterie. 

They have all kinds of cured meats, from prosciutto to mortadella, along with cheese and olives. We went with a mix of prosciutto cotto and finocchiona. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and expertly paired.

Even if you’re not a charcuterie fan, they have other worthy appetizers on their menu. Their beef marrow croquettes are famed for their rich and creamy truffle aioli. 

Others raved about the cacio e pepe fries, calling them seriously addictive with their parmesan and pepper combo. 

For a classic, try their fried mozzarella. It’s a must-have! 

Just be prepared for a pretty hefty bill—prices are on the higher side. 

Pros

  • Luxe atmosphere
  • Amazing charcuterie board
  • Rich beef marrow croquettes
  • Addicting cacio e pepe fries

Cons

  • Expensive 

The appetizers and sides are so tasty!

“Great dine in experience. It’s not cheap but the food is great! The appetizers and sides are so tasty!”

– Prateek, Google Reviews

Great selection of meals and appetizers

“High-end restaurant with exceptional service, great selection of meals and appetizers, and fantastic food.”

– Gary, Google Reviews

4. The Wednesday Room

the-wednesday-room-logo

Address: 118 8 Ave SW #100

Contact Details: +1 403-452-5080

Operating Hours: 

  • Tuesday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 11 PM
  • Friday – 11:30 AM to 1 AM
  • Saturday – 5 PM to 1 AM

Website

The Wednesday Room is a cool spot downtown with a 60s vibe. It’s all about plates, perfect for sharing with friends or a group. 

We started off with their popcorn; it was smoky and salty, but the truffle oil and duck fat added that extra something special. 

We also tried the Thai tartare, which almost convinced us we were in Thailand. The beef was so fresh, and the green curry and peanut flavors were perfectly balanced. The cabbage, though, was a bit wilted. 

Others we chatted with raved about the fried chicken that has a 7-spice kick and maple glaze. One group told us they even ordered a second plate! 

Just a heads up—if you go on a weekend, parking is a nightmare. They hardly had any space in their lot, so we had to find street parking.

Pros

  • Cool 60s vibes
  • Smoky popcorn
  • Flavourful Thai tartare
  • 7-spice kick fried chicken 

Cons

  • The cabbage was a bit wilted 
  • Parking was a nightmare 

Appetizer was so unique with the duck fat flavour

“Incredible experience here this past weekend with my wife on our trip to Calgary. The cocktails were very good and all named after quotes from classic films. The popcorn Appetizer was so unique with the duck fat flavour. I enjoyed one of the most flavourful and memorable entrees I’ve ever tasted in the Halibut. Would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a great atmosphere and experience on a night out in downtown Calgary”

– Dustin Ruszkowski, Google Reviews

We love the appetizers 

“Very cozy environment, food were decent. We love the appetizers and the Porchetta we ordered was biggg!  Not a fan of thier cocktail,it’s just meh. Would recommend for date night!”

– J J, Google Reviews

5. Porch

porch-logo

Address: 730 17 Ave SW

Contact Details: +1 587-391-8500

Operating Hours: 

  • Sunday to Wednesday – 11 AM to 11 PM
  • Thursday – 11 AM to 12 AM
  • Friday & Saturday – 11 AM to 1 AM

Website

Porch offers a unique mix of indoor and outdoor seating with its skylight, plants, and bright, airy atmosphere during the day. Come evening, it transforms into a cozy spot that’s perfect for winding down.

It’s definitely a good spot for a pre-dinner hangout with friends since the menu is all yummy appetizers. 

We tried the tirokafteri, which was seriously good. The spicy red pepper feta was so creamy and rich, and the cherry tomatoes and za’atar oil added a nice zesty kick. The warm pita was perfect for scooping it all up. 

We also enjoyed the beef tartare, which was really rich and savoury thanks to the egg yolk and mushroom duxelle. The yam chips it came with were crispy and thick, perfect for dipping. 

Additionally, a few people bragged about the truffle parm fries. The truffle oil and parmesan cheese make them super flavorful and satisfying. 

Just be aware that Porch can get pretty noisy at night, especially when it’s busy. And be prepared for a wait—we waited about 30 minutes. 

Pros

  • Unique indoor/outdoor seating
  • Great for pre-dinner hangouts
  • Delicious appetizers 

Cons

  • Can be noisy at night
  • Long wait time

Amazing appetizers

“Fabulous decor,  Incredible service,  amazing appetizers!. 10/10 Will be returning again.”

– Deidra Frieson, Google Reviews

The appetizers we got were very good

“Went for a couple of drinks after work. Staff was very friendly and the appetizers we got were very good, warm olives and some chips. Nice cozy atmosphere as well.”

– Mario S, Google Reviews

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