I’ve tried making waffles at home—the real, homemade kind, not the frozen ones. But somehow, they never quite turn out the way I imagine. They’re either too dense, not crispy enough, or just…disappointing.
So, I gave up and just trusted experts. Whenever a waffle craving hits, I head out to the restaurants in the city instead.
Over time, I’ve ended up trying quite a few—some classic Belgians, some wildly over-the-top, but all delicious in their own way.
If you’re after waffles that are worth getting out of bed for, these are the Calgary spots that have never disappointed me in the past.
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1. Queens Breakfast Cocktails
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Address: 3927 Edmonton Trl
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 2 PM
Phone: +14037640878
Price: $$
Queens Breakfast Cocktails is the spot for brunch-goers who believe a great waffle is as good as a cocktail. For anyone who thinks waffles are just a vehicle for syrup, the Waffle Dulce will change your mind.
The first bite is all contrast: the waffle’s crisp edge gives way to a soft, almost custardy centre. Meanwhile, the banana and berries bring a gentle sweetness that never overpowers.
The Nutella spread is not excessive, and the whipped cream feels more like a finishing touch than an afterthought.
If you’re the type who leans savoury, the Fried Chicken & Waffles is made for you. The chicken is tender, with a quiet heat from chilli lime that sneaks up just as you’re tasting the waffle’s buttery crumb.
For those who want their brunch with a European twist, the Waffle San Daniele’s Prosciutto and Parmigiano is tied together by a balsamic drizzle.
Pro Tip: The Waffle Sandwich is delicious—smoky bacon and spicy chorizo tucked beneath a yolk that spills just enough to coat every bite.
2. ZCREW Cafe
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Address: 401 11 Ave SE
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 3 PM
Phone: +14034606668
Price: $$
ZCREW Cafe is perfect for anyone who loves capturing every meal or simply appreciates a plate that looks as good as it tastes.
The Signature Belgian Liege Waffles are the centrepiece here, and they don’t just look the part. Each waffle arrives with a golden, caramelised exterior. It cracks gently under your fork, giving way to a chewy, almost toffee-like crumb.
The yuzu custard and browned butter cut through with a bright, citrus edge and a mellow richness that lingers. Vanilla ice cream and a pour of maple syrup bring sweetness in careful measure, never tipping into excess.
Pro Tip: If you want the best light for photos, come early. This place fills up fast, and the morning sun does wonders for both your meal and your camera roll.
3. Benny’s Breakfast Bar
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Address: 7007 11 St SE
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 3 PM
Phone: +14032523443
Price: $$
Benny’s Breakfast Bar is the go-to spot for families or those nostalgic for a classic diner feel. The atmosphere is cheerful and relaxed, with a retro touch that keeps things fun for kids and adults alike.
The Waffle Cordon Bleu is perfect if you’re after something filling. The vanilla waffle is soft and slightly sweet. It provides a great base for the savoury roasted chicken, smoky back bacon, and gooey Swiss cheese layered on top.
It’s simple, hearty, and exactly what you’d hope for from a breakfast bar. Portions are generous too, so you definitely won’t leave hungry.
Pro Tip: If you’re coming with little ones, ask for a booth—the staff are friendly and happy to accommodate families.
4. Monki Breakfast Club & Bistro Beltline
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Address: 1301 10 Ave SW
Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 8 AM to 3:30 PM
Phone: +15873527131
Price: $$
Monki Breakfast Club & Bistro Beltline is a must-visit if you’re after a brunch that’s as lively as it is flavourful. The space itself is full of character, set in a heritage building with exposed brick and quirky art.
The Hot-Honey Chicken & Waffles is my real fave here. The waffles are golden and fluffy, with just the right amount of crispness on the outside. They soak up the gourmet hot honey beautifully, so every bite is a mix of sweet heat and buttery richness.
The chicken strips are perfectly crispy. They’re juicy inside, and seasoned well enough to stand up to the bold drizzle of hot honey.
Pro Tip: Make a reservation—the word is out, and it gets busy fast!
5. A Ladybug Bakery and Cafe
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Address: 2132-10 Aspen Stone Blvd SW
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 3 PM
Phone: +14032495530
Price: $$
Ladybug Bakery and Cafe is where families, friends, and anyone with a love for European-style baking can settle in for a relaxed morning or a treat-filled afternoon.
The café’s roots as artisan bakers are obvious the moment you walk in—there’s always the scent of fresh bread in the air, and the pastry case is filled with delicate sweets that look almost too good to eat.
I recommend trying their Roasted Chicken & Waffles Benny. It’s aged cheddar waffles topped with juicy tarragon-roasted chicken, a layer of fresh spinach, and a punchy roasted red pepper chutney.
Two perfectly poached eggs and a sriracha maple hollandaise finish it off with just the right balance of richness and heat.
Pro Tip: Before you leave, be sure to pick up something from the daily bread or sweets selection. Everything is made from scratch, and it’s the kind of extra treat you’ll be glad you took home.
6. The Beltliner
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Address: 243 12 Ave SW
Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 4 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 8 AM to 4 PM
Phone: +15879551555
Price: $$
If you’re downtown and craving a breakfast spot that’s both dependable and a little bit fun, The Beltliner is tough to beat.
Their Chicken & Waffles is a perfect snapshot of what they do best: comfort food with a thoughtful twist. The buttermilk-marinated chicken thigh comes out juicy and crisp, perched on a waffle that’s light but sturdy enough to catch every drop of flavour.
What really makes it memorable is the duo of maple chilli syrup and chicken gravy—one sweet with a gentle kick, the other rich and savoury.
The Beltliner’s retro-modern vibe makes it easy to settle in, and the staff keep things moving without rushing you.
Pro Tip: Short on time? Swing by their coffee counter for a quick, satisfying breakfast to go. But if you can spare a few extra minutes, grab a booth and soak in the relaxed, retro feel—it’s worth it.
7. Brekkie
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Address: 20 Westpark Link SW #130
Hours: Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 3 PM
Phone: +14034529005
Price: $$
Brekkie draws in people who love starting their day with something fresh. It’s a bright, inviting spot that draws in early risers, breakfast enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates meals made with care and local ingredients.
Their Honey Chili Chicken & Waffle is to die for. The chicken is marinated in chilli and garlic, so every bite is packed with bold, savoury flavour.
It’s paired with a house-made honey chilli pickle slaw that adds sweetness and tang, all layered on a unique corn waffle with a subtle, nutty crunch.
A perfectly poached egg and creamy hollandaise sauce bring everything together for a dish that’s rich, balanced, and anything but ordinary.
Pro Tip: If you’re craving something more classic, you can get waffles served with icing sugar, maple syrup, and soft butter.
8. BROUHAHA / Breakfast,Brunch,Lunch
– Media credit: brouhaha_breakfast
Address: 609 14 St NW
Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 3 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 8 AM to 3 PM
Phone: +1 403-453-0577
Price: $$
BROUHAHA is where you’ll want to gather your crew. This is the place for anyone who loves a playful vibe, inventive dishes, and a setting that feels as fun as the food.
Their Chicken on the Waffle is the star of the show: two crispy chicken thighs and two strips of bacon stacked high on a bubble waffle. The bubble waffle itself has a chewy, airy texture that’s unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere.
Peppery arugula and tangy pickled red onion cut through the richness, while white gravy and maple syrup let you play with each bite—go creamy, savoury, or sweet, depending on your mood.
Families and sweet tooths alike will love the Kids Waffle Bowls. These are mini waffle bowls filled with maple syrup, whipped cream, and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Pro Tip: Be sure to try the Waffle Caesar cocktail—a playful spin on the classic Caesar, topped with chicken bites in a waffle bowl. It’s the perfect brunch drink for anyone who wants to sip and snack at the same time.
9. The Sweatered Hen
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Address: 819 17 Ave SW, Canada
Hours:
- Sunday to Wednesday – 8 AM to 4 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 8 AM to 8 PM
Phone: +1 587-387-7272
Price: $$
The Sweatered Hen is for anyone who craves the comfort of home-cooked classics. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by nostalgic touches—house-made preserves, and their famous maple pork sausage.
Their Belgian waffles are pure comfort: golden and fluffy. They’re served with powdered sugar, butter, and a generous pour of rich Quebec maple syrup.
If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, add berries and chantilly cream for a sweet, indulgent upgrade.
Pro Tip: Before you leave, be sure to pick up some of their house-made canning or preserves. These little jars of goodness are the perfect way to bring a bit of The Sweatered Hen’s homemade charm back home with you.
10. OEB Breakfast Co.
– Media credit: oeb_breakfast
Address: 222 5 Ave SW #110
Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 6:30 AM to 2 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 8 AM to 2:45 PM
Phone: +1 587-352-3447
Price: $$
OEB Breakfast Co. is made for foodies who appreciate artistry on the plate and a menu full of creative twists on the classics.
Their Bacon & Buttermilk Waffle is pure decadence: a golden Belgian waffle crowned with slow-roasted bacon lardons.
It has a generous drizzle of salted caramel and a pour of pure Quebec maple syrup. Each forkful is a perfect harmony of sweet, salty, crispy, and creamy. It’s the perfect example of comfort food with a gourmet edge.
Pro Tip: If brunch isn’t complete without a little bubbly, OEB’s Mimosa Flight is a must. You’ll get to sample all four house-made mimosa flavours, making it a fun, shareable start to your meal.
