Where Calgary Magazine Jan/Feb 2018 | Page 22

WHERE TO DINE AWARDS 2018 - FAVOURITE DISHES 14 LES CLEFS D’OR SILVER SERVICE AWARDS BY RACHAEL FREY This salad doesn’t skimp on ingredients or flavour with local kale, hard-boiled egg, toasted panko, crisp prosciutto and pecorino romano cheese. “The single reason I started liking kale,” says Where reader Danni L. “So delicious; perfectly tossed with the tangy dressing, cheese and the saltiness of the meat. The ideal start to a meal at UNA (page 34).” ESCARGOT AT VINTAGE CHOPHOUSE: For those suspicious of cooked snails, or looking for a new way of eating escargot, this starter is a must. Served with parsley cream and tomato on crostini, the escargot here provides a delightful twist on the traditional French dish thanks to the creamy and delicious sauce (page 34). 16 15 HONEY GARLIC DUCK WINGS AT OXBOW: A guaranteed crowd pleaser on the dinner menu, this dish is a fun twist on the standard wing appetizer. You will be licking your fingers as you nosh on delicious duck wings smothered in honey garlic sauce and Saskatoon berry hoisin, and topped with crushed cashews, black and white sesame seeds and pickled carrot. SPICY SEAFOOD CASARECCE PASTA AT YELLOW DOOR BISTRO: This is a can’t-miss for seafood lovers, arriving on your plate with the most delicious creatures under the sea; B.C. octopus, Humboldt squid, side stripe prawns and more in a spicy tomato sauce. The seafood is cooked to tender perfection and the pasta serves as a perfect complement (page 25). (In numerical order) Caesar’s Steak House; Buchanan’s Chop House and Whisky Bar; Pigeonhole 22 where.ca JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 Rouge ROUGE IN CALGARY Rouge, which is located in the historic former home of prominent businessman A.E. Cross, is a mainstay of Calgary’s dining scene that's well known for elegant and innovative Canadian cuisine. “From the moment you enter Rouge, it is an experience you will not forget,” says Cindy Stewart, chef concierge at the Westin Calgary. “The history of the Cross House is everywhere, from the pictures on the wall to the stories the staff will share.” The chefs at Rouge have an exceptional focus on local ingredients—much of the produce is grown and harvested by them from the large on-site garden behind the restaurant. Stewart recommends a stroll through the garden with a glass of wine or a cocktail before sitting down to eat. “Their garden harvest supplies them throughout the year with preserves, herbs and vegetables, and they work closely with local producers,” she says. “You may even see the beekeepers collecting honey under a cloud of smoke (page 28).” THE GRIZZLY HOUSE IN BANFF It’s fair to say that The Grizzly House is an institution in Banff. From the eccentric décor (such as a stuffed buffalo head and telephones on each table to call other diners) to the exotic menu (which includes shark and rattlesnake), it’s been the place to hobnob over a pot of fondue for over 60 years. “It is a favourite place with the locals as well as people visiting Banff,” says Cindy Stewart. “One of my favourites is the classic beef and scallop dinner, but they have many choices. Francis and his team always do their best to make sure that everyone has a memorable experience!” 207 Banff Ave, Banff, 403-762-4055, banffgrizzlyhouse.com PIGEONHOLE; KALE CAESAR SALAD AT UNA PIZZA: