The last time I tried to cook an authentic Moroccan lamb dish in my kitchen, my smoke alarm went off. The only trace of “Moroccan” authenticity in my dish was the lingering scent of burnt spices.
That experience taught me an important lesson—some dishes are best left to the experts.
If you’ve ever craved a dish you can’t find at the nearest drive-thru, only to realize that the Pinterest recipe is far more complicated than expected, you’re not alone.
I’ve been there. But trust me, you don’t have to go through that culinary struggle again.
If you’re in the mood for something unique, here are some of my favorite ethnic restaurants in Calgary—where you can enjoy authentic flavors without the risk of setting off your fire alarm.
How much does it cost to eat at an ethnic restaurant in Calgary?
It costs at least 15 CAD per person to eat at an ethnic restaurant in Calgary. However, the price will depend on the type of food you’re eating, where, and more.
Table of Contents
1. Safari Grill
Address: 255 28 St SE #100
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday – 12 PM to 8 PM
- Thursday & Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
The warm hospitality, vibrant decor, and intensely flavorful dishes at Safari Grill transported me straight to the heart of Africa. They have zebra-print tables and chairs. The music added to the ambiance, subtly weaving in traditional African rhythms.
The menu highlights traditional dishes from Tanzania. I appreciated how the staff not only provided recommendations but also explained the origins of different dishes.
Their spicy kuku (chicken) bites were delicious. They were covered in a crispy tempura and drenched in a sweet and spicy chili sauce.
The Kababu Ya Libya—African meatballs—were a crowd favorite. They were praised for their juicy, smoky flavor.
My favorite was their Nyama Ya Mbavu (short beef ribs). The tender meat fell off the bone and melted in my mouth. I could thoroughly taste the smoked honey garlic sauce and the rich African spice blend.
The only dish that didn’t quite hit the mark for me was their Gulab Jamun Samosa. While the crispy shell added a nice contrast, the overall flavors could have been better balanced—it was overly sweet for my taste.
Rich, authentic, and unforgettable flavors
“Safari Grill offers an absolutely incredible dining experience! The flavors are rich, authentic, and unforgettable, with every dish prepared to perfection. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a delicious meal. The owner is fantastic—so friendly and welcoming, making you feel right at home. Whether you’re trying their signature dishes or exploring something new, Safari Grill is a must-visit!”
– Nemanja Miskin, Google Reviews
Incredible flavors and awesome servers
“My husband and I went here at Safari Grill for the first time for lunch this afternoon and both loved our East African dishes we had. My hubby tried the lentils and curry beef with pork skewers and I tried the spinach and butter chicken with pork skewers also. Incredible favours and awesome server too! We will definitely be coming back and adding this restaurant on our favorite list! We highly recommend for anyone to come here and try out their food.”
– Dawn Spurgeon, Google Reviews
2. Taste of Yemen
Address: 1033 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2T 0A9, Canada
Contact Details: +1 825-413-7787
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 11 AM to 12 AM
Taste of Yemen’s portion sizes are huge—I’m a big eater, and I barely finished my Mandi (Yemeni rice).
They also offer a variety of generous family platters, including one aptly named “Heart Attack for Five.” The families who tried it raved about its beef kabab, tender lamb haneeth, and fragrant chicken mandi.
I also tried their pompano, cooked in traditional clay, and it didn’t disappoint. The fish was beautifully charred, smoky exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender.
The fresh-baked Yemeni bread they served with it was amazing too—warm, pillowy, and slightly crisp on the edges. It had a subtle chewiness and a rich, yeasty aroma that made it perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices of the fish.
Their kid’s menu is equally thoughtful, offering a great selection of dishes tailored for younger diners. Your kids can enjoy tender beef skewers, juicy chicken skewers, and more—all perfectly portioned and lightly seasoned.
Unfortunately, the service was disappointing. The waiter rushed me through my order, and I had to flag down a server multiple times for my drinks.
Well seasoned food
“Oh ma goodness there were such big portions for the food we ordered. Highly recommend getting the bread. We only ordered two plates and my friend & I barely managed to finished 75% of the dishes. They were so well seasoned and the little sauces were delicious. Our server, Kawtar, was so friendly and the service was prompt – we got all our food in under 10 minutes. This will definitely be one of my late-night go-to spots!”
– Britney, Google Reviews
Makes the best Middle Eastern food in the city
“This place truly makes the best Middle Eastern food in the city! Trust me, I have tried everywhere. I am always blown away by the quality of the food. I can’t wait to come back again! The Manager and the service his staff offer is just excellent. I have never felt so special!”
– Taha Ale, Google Reviews
3. Kamalig YYC
Address: 24 Midlake Blvd SE
Contact Details: +1 403-452-9192
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday- 12 PM to 6 PM
- Thursday to Saturday, Tuesday – 11 AM to 8 PM
- Sunday – 11:30 AM to 6 PM
Kamalig YYC is a modern, well-maintained spot with ample seating. The service was decent—someone took my order right away.
The menu is limited, but what they do offer hits the spot if you’re craving Filipino food. They feature most Filipino classics, including Pancit Habhab—a stir-fried noodle dish with a mildly sweet sauce.
Their adobo was an absolute winner. It had all the familiar flavors I expected, but with a tangy kick that made it stand out in the best way possible.
However, I was disappointed to find that they were out of their beef bulalo, a hearty bone marrow soup I had been looking forward to. They were also out of several other dishes, which was frustrating.
Despite that, I enjoyed their flavorful Bicol Express. It had a nice kick of heat, though I opted to skip the shrimp paste.
Their garlic rice is another must-have—fragrant, perfectly seasoned, and packed with just the right amount of garlicky goodness.
The leche flan, on the other hand, is seriously good. It was incredibly creamy, silky smooth, and balanced in sweetness.
Ensures that every dining experience is memorable
“Kamalig, formerly known as Kutsara’t Tinidor, is a delightful Filipino restaurant nestled in the charming southern area of Calgary. With its recent rebranding, Kamalig offers an inviting atmosphere and a tantalizing menu that celebrates the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine. Although, I’m not sure if it’s under a new management/owner. From classic favorites to modern twists, Kamalig serves up an array of dishes that will transport you to the streets of Manila. Whether you’re craving traditional adobo, mouthwatering lechon kawali, or the beloved pancit chami, each dish is crafted with care and authenticity, delivering a burst of flavors that will leave you craving for more. The friendly staff at Kamalig provide warm hospitality, ensuring that every dining experience is memorable and enjoyable. The cozy ambiance adds to the overall charm, making it the perfect spot for a casual meal with family and friends. In addition to its menu, Kamalig also offers short orders, allowing patrons to indulge in their favorite Filipino comfort foods on the go. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a full-fledged feast, Kamalig has you covered. Overall, Kamalig is a gem in the culinary landscape of Calgary’s south, offering a taste of the Philippines in every bite. With its delectable dishes, welcoming atmosphere, and top-notch service, Kamalig is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine.”
– Theresa Valera, Google Reviews
Top-notch service
“What a lovely little spot to indulge in some tasty Filipino food! We got the Binagoogan dish and noodles and both dishes were rich in flavor! The staff and service were also so sweet and generous. You can tell it’s family owned and operated — everyone was so nice! The halo halo was also superb 🙂 Definitely a place to come back to.”
– Betty M, Google Reviews
4. The Casbah Restaurant
Address: 720 11 Ave SW Lower Level
Contact Details: +1 403-265-9800
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday & Thursday – 5:30 PM to 10 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 5:30 PM to 11 PM
Eating at The Casbah is like stepping into Morocco. It’s a vibrant, exotic, and delicious experience that I’d recommend to anyone.
The moment you walk in, you’re transported. The intricate carvings, shimmering tiles, and warm, golden lighting perfectly mimic a riad, a traditional Moroccan home.
Their menu is a journey through the diverse regional flavors of Morocco. I decided to go all in with their Tour of Morocco set menu, and it did not disappoint.
The first dish on the menu, Harira—a hearty, tomato-based soup—was delicious and a great way to start the meal. Then came the Bastella, a flaky pastry filled with shredded chicken, almonds, and cinnamon. It was rich, flavorful, and absolutely delicious.
For my main dish, I chose the Fez tajine with lamb. This Moroccan classic involves slowly braised lamb cooked in a clay pot with vegetables, herbs, and various spices. The lamb was incredibly tender, and the sauce was rich and flavorful.
The food and ambiance were excellent, but the service was disappointing. The waiter who attended to me seemed indifferent, barely engaging, and rushed through taking my order. On top of that, my food took longer than expected to arrive.
Charming and romantic place
“First you’re hit by how beautiful the space is it’s charming, romantic, and just really interesting and pretty to look at. Then you try the food and it’s delicious and flavorful. I had the taste of Morocco with soup spinach appetizer and Fez Tajine, it was savoury sweet with cinnamon and it was so good. I also love the mint tea. Honestly, my whole experience here was really amazing definitely recommend I’ll be back soon to try more dishes.”
– Desiree, Google Reviews
Great Moroccan restaurant with delicious food
“Great Moroccan Restaurant with delicious food! I ordered couscous on a Friday and truly the flavour was just perfect! Tea was also great with baklava ice cream, never thought baklava would be a nice mix with ice cream. Enjoy this restaurant if you are around Calgary downtown and you are looking for authentic flavours of North African and Mediterranean delicious food.”
– Karim Imadouchene, Google Reviews
5. The Himalayan
Address: 3218 17 Ave SW
Contact Details: +1 403-984-3384
Operating Hours:
- Wednesday & Thursday, Sunday – 4:30 PM to 9 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM
The Himalayas is a solid spot if you’re craving Nepalese food. Their menu is extensive, packed with curries, stir-fries, momos, and more.
I ordered the classic chicken momo (6 pcs)—traditional steamed dumplings filled with flavorful chicken. They were well-seasoned, with a bold garlicky kick and hints of cilantro and onion. The homemade dipping sauce was mild but added a subtle sweetness.
The chatpat lamb curry was rich and aromatic. It had a gentle heat and a well-balanced blend of spices. The accompanying saffron rice was a welcome addition.
However, the pickled carrots and plain bread on the side were underwhelming. They lacked flavor and didn’t complement the curry well. I would have preferred raita—a spiced yogurt-based condiment—or a tangier pickle to cut through the richness.
The standout dish for me was the mango rice pudding. It was a refreshing and perfectly balanced dessert—sweet but not overly so, with chunks of mango and a creamy texture.
Welcoming and polite staff
“This place has been on my list for a long time and was recommended by friends and colleagues. Finally we made the trip and I am glad we did. It was quite busy on a Saturday night, and I had reserved a table for 2 beforehand. The place looks inconspicuous from outside, but once you enter, it’s cozy and elegant. The staff was very welcoming and polite. The service was impeccable and fast. We ordered the fish from the appetizer and dal bhat (thali) from the mains and New Zealand lamb grill. The fish was too good. Fresh and tasty and came with 2 sauces. We loved the thali as well. It was enough for both of us. The curries were flavorful. The bread was fresh and crispy. The lamb grill, though hot and delicious, was a bit chewy for my liking. My husband, a meat lover, knows his meat too well. He found it a tad tough, too. We did mention this to the server after we finished our meal as we didn’t want to complain right away.
He was very polite and took our complaint to the chef.It was very nice of them to give us a discount on the lamb dish. A very ethical thing to do when running a high end restaurant and I appreciate this gesture. Overall it was a wonderful experience and we will definitely be back to try some more dishes.”
– Iffat Nabeel, Google Reviews
Rich and quality flavor
“Everything was delicious! Really great flavour and you can taste the quality too! Healthy food is a priority for me and this place fits that bill! Will be back! We had the lamb grill and the dhatpat lamb curry! Great flavours! The pork momo was good too!”
– Jonny Klipp, Google Reviews
