I’ll admit it, I’m not a great cook. My smoke alarm has probably worked harder than my stove. So instead of trying to master recipes at home, I’d rather spend my time enjoying great meals around Calgary.
Dining out has always been my favorite indulgence, but I don’t have endless money to throw at fancy restaurants. And truth be told, those places often feel a little too stiff for me anyway.
What I really love are the relaxed spots that serve amazing food without the fuss. Over the years, I’ve found plenty of them, and from all those meals, I’ve put together a list of the best casual dining spots in Calgary.
Here are my top picks.
How much does casual dining in Calgary cost?
Casual dining in Calgary costs between $15 and $40 per person on average, depending on the restaurant and menu choices. For larger groups or special dishes, meals can go up to $60 per person.
1. MADI’S
Address: 1212 9 Ave SE
Phone: (403) 452-4970
Business hours:
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
I first heard about MADI’S from my officemate, and it happened to be payday, so I figured, why not treat myself?
I tried their crafted nachos and quickly realized why they’re so popular. The combination of flavors and presentation is unique in Calgary. Their poke bowls and weekend brunches are just as good, making it easy to mix things up depending on your mood.
What makes MADI’S even better are their daily specials. Taco Tuesday with $2 tacos? Count me in. Wing Wednesdays? Absolutely. And those $1.50 mimosa during brunch on the weekends make it feel like a mini celebration every time.
I also love that they have a dog-friendly patio. It makes the space feel lively and welcoming if you bring your pup along.
The drinks deserve a mention too. Those creative cocktails, especially the customizable margaritas, never disappoint.
Plus, being Calgary’s first crowdfunded restaurant gives it this cool sense of community. It’s easy to feel like you’re supporting a local favorite.
They also offer delivery and takeout, which I love, especially on days when I’m not in the mood to dine in.
I just wish they offered more gluten-free dishes, as the selection is pretty limited.
Great staff, flavorful combinations, lively atmosphere
“BEST. NACHOS. EVER. I flew in all the way from Vancouver to try this place and I wasn’t disappointed. Madison’s takes nachos to a whole new level that I didn’t even knew existed. The flavours combined with crispy, perfectly baked nachos makes you wonder why you never had something this flavourful before. The bar has been raised high and I will come back anytime I’m in Calgary. The staff is also amazing as is the atmosphere and the cocktails. If I could give more than 5 stars I would. Just try it, trust me.”
- Alexandre Guertin, Google Review
Delicious food, attentive service,
“Came in for my boyfriend’s birthday brunch today! Decided to sit inside even though it was one of the last nice weekends before winter, I enjoy their indoor atmosphere just as much as their beautiful patio. Our server was the amazing Laura and she took such great care of us. We got to share the bottle of Prosecco with 2 juices, Bacon Avocado Tomato Benny and Lobster Nachos (if you haven’t had these nachos, you’re missing out). Our drinks were always full and our belly’s full leaving. Thank you for the amazing service and awesome experience as always!
Also we did try these for the first time a couple months ago; if you have the chance to get some of their dessert nachos, like apple pie nachos, HIGHLY recommend. Too delicious to pass up!”
- Taryn Knippel, Google Review
2. Ten Foot Henry
Address: 1209 1st Street SW
Phone: (403) 475-5537
Business hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Christmas is coming, and with all the big meals and holiday treats ahead, I’ve been paying more attention to where I can eat a little lighter. That’s why Ten Foot Henry caught my eye.
Their vegetable-forward menu makes it easier to balance things out without giving up on flavor. The roasted carrots with salsa macha and the mushrooms with soy butter didn’t feel like sides; they’re dishes I’d come back for even without a health kick.
Their Caesar salad also stood out with Kale, chicories, cashews, and egg. The tang was there, but the mix of textures made it more interesting than the usual version you’d find elsewhere.
What adds to the experience is how the menu is designed for sharing. Ordering a few dishes for the table makes it feel more relaxed, and everyone gets to try a little bit of everything.
I also appreciated how flexible the staff was with dietary needs. They were quick to suggest vegan swaps and alternatives.
On weekends, the brunch menu is another highlight. The dishes are just as creative as dinner plates, and the bright, plant-filled space gives the meal an almost garden-like feel.
The only downside is the seating. Some spots, especially along the wall benches, feel a little cramped if the place is busy.
Charming spot with flavorful, well-balanced dishes
“A truly charming spot! I had a table on the patio, which is beautifully decorated with greenery and creates a lovely atmosphere. For food, I started with the signature salad – so flavorful and unlike anything I’ve tried before. Then I enjoyed the fresh marinated tuna – light, refreshing, and perfectly balanced. To finish, I had the blueberry cheesecake, which was delicate and delicious. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a meal that feels light yet fully satisfying.”
- Viktor Levytskyi, Google Review
Friendly staff, well-presented dishes
“What a lovely place! Fully booked so they only had two spots at the bar, which is actually perfect for us 👌 waiters are so friendly and they work together so well as a team: there’s always someone to refill your glass, but it’s never too much. Food was great as well, 4 plates were plenty for 2! Interesting flavours and pretty presentation.”
- Vivian DL, Google Review
3. The Rooftop YYC
Address: 414 3 St SW
Phone: +1 403-262-0080
Business hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
- Saturday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Sunday: Closed
I once tagged along with my cousin to the Rooftop YYC and wasn’t sure what to expect. Their massive rooftop patio was the first thing that impressed me.
It’s huge, with plants, twinkly lights, and neon signs that make the whole place feel inviting. Since the patio is covered and heated when needed, it’s a spot that works even when the weather isn’t perfect.
The menu turned out to be just as versatile as the setting. We shared a wood-fired pizza, and another time I went back and tried one of their larger entrées.
I ended up liking their drinks more than I expected. The cocktails strike a nice balance with interesting flavors but still feel approachable. Happy hour makes them even better.
With the built-in stage and sound setup, I can see why people book it for events or live music nights. I’m even planning to have a simple birthday celebration here soon with my family. It feels like the right mix of casual and festive.
The only thing to watch out for is the crowd. On busy nights, the vibe is lively and fun, but not the place if you’re after peace and quiet.
Delicious, attentive service
“This was an AMAZING EXPERIENCE. The pizza, best pizza I’ve ever had! It’s so sweet with wild mushrooms, white truffle oil, and honey, and SO tasty! The crust is crunchy… I just loved it. They were having a special so the lager was half off. Our server was very friendly and helpful. The dessert was yummy. Great experience.”
- Kelly Davis, Google Review
Prompt, attentive service with stylish, accessible setting
“5/5 highly recommend trying this restaurant. The pizza was delicious. We loved the crust! The service was on point with water and iced tea served promptly prior to ordering our food. Pizzas came out within 15 minutes of ordering. The server and bartender were attentive. The decor was fabulous! There was a DJ setting up before we left.
You can make reservations online.
Doors open at 5 PM.
You can walk up several flights of stairs, or if there are mobility issues, they have an elevator available.
Our bill came to $55. we ordered 2 pizzas and 2 iced teas and left an 18% tip, so a total of $64. We will be back again.”
- M W, Google Review
4. Salt & Brick
Address: 211 10 Ave SW
Phone: +1 403-371-3429
Business hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
The moment I stepped into Salt & Brick, the design grabbed me: exposed brick, floral wallpaper, and wood beams overhead. It felt warm and lively, enough that even if you’re not there for a big occasion, you want to linger.
What kept me interested, though, was their ever-changing “fresh sheet” menu. Since dishes rotate weekly, each visit feels like a chance to discover something new.
Another visit brought a fish entrée layered with subtle global spices. You can tell the sourcing matters here, with good ingredients from both local and international producers showing up in every bite.
The setting itself adds to the experience. You can sit at the chef’s bar and watch the kitchen at work, or settle into the wine bar and lounge for something more relaxed.
After settling into a spot that fits your vibe, the drinks keep things rolling. The Canadian wines and creative cocktails feel just as much a part of the night as the food does.
That said, Salt & Brick doesn’t serve lunch. They open in the evenings, so you’ll have to plan for dinner if you want to get the full experience.
Creative menu, attentive service
“The menu is unique and changes every day. Very cool atmosphere. Not over crowded, but some tables are very close to each other. Best to request for a booth or lower level. Service is friendly and very attentive. All menu items are created and made fresh daily. The house made bread are a little pricey but we’ll worth it. I highly recommend this place.”
- Howard Ng, Google Review
Delicious food, spacious atmosphere
“Such a great atmosphere. The layout allows for it to not feel congested even when at capacity. Food was yummy! Love the homemade chips!! Brussel sprouts, halibut. But what topped my experience was our lovely server Emmery. She was exceptional in many ways and certainly enhanced our experience. The chefs were also very thoughtful and accommodating. Looking forward to my next visit.”
- Menzies, Google Review
5. Pat and Betty
Address: 1217 1 St SW
Phone: Reserve at Open Table
Business hours:
- Monday: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday & Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday & Friday: 11:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Pat & Betty have pretty much earned “go-to” status for me, thanks to their mix of comfort and consistency.
The menu leans on European-inspired recipes, but with a Canadian touch that makes it feel familiar. The pork belly and scallops hold their own just as much as the wild mushroom pappardelle, so you never feel boxed into one type of dish.
What really makes it fun is the small plates. I’ve gone with friends and ordered snacks, caviar toast, and seared foie gras, and it always feels like we’ve covered a lot of ground in one sitting.
On top of that, the drinks keep pace with the food. The wine list and cocktails always add something interesting to sip between bites.
The atmosphere ties it all together. The space balances stylish and warm, and the service hits that sweet spot of being thoughtful without ever coming off stiff.
Happy Hour from 3 pm to 5 pm is another nice perk if you’re around in the afternoon.
If there’s a catch, it’s the popularity. Reservations are usually the way to go, because walk-ins can be tricky, especially on weekends.
Excellent food and service
“What a great experience. Both food and service was 5*. Our party started with the cod as an entree then got the savoy salad and rigatoni. We finished with the Angus steak and fingerling potatoes.
Make sure to save room for dessert. The carrot cake was the best I’ve ever had and the cookies and cream were so soft and delicious.
Everything was paired with a beautiful bottle of red wine. 🍷
Thank you for a great evening.”
- Karen Meyer, Google Review
Stylish, cozy interior
“The interior was very stylish and cozy, with thoughtful touches like discreet spots to place your belongings.
The salad had a strong flavor at first, but as I kept eating, the sweetness of the dates and bacon, combined with the sweet and tangy lemon, blended beautifully and made it really enjoyable.
We shared the main dish, and the balance between the pork and scallops was excellent. The subtle hint of maple syrup really brought out the flavors.
It was a shame we couldn’t make it to dessert.”
- Ciaociao k, Google Review
