Craving delicious, plant-based food in Calgary? Look no further! The city’s culinary landscape is blossoming with exciting vegetarian options, catering to every palate and dietary need. For too long, Calgary has been perceived as a haven for meat-lovers, but a delicious revolution is underway. From cozy cafes serving up innovative plant-based burgers to elegant restaurants crafting sophisticated vegetarian tasting menus, Calgary’s vegetarian food scene is vibrant and growing.
This ultimate guide is designed to navigate you through the best vegetarian restaurants and dishes the city has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian, a curious flexitarian, or simply looking to explore more plant-based options, we’ve got you covered. We’ll delve into the diverse culinary offerings, highlighting must-try dishes and hidden gems, ensuring you experience the full spectrum of flavors Calgary has to offer. While this guide acknowledges various forms of vegetarianism, including ovo-vegetarianism (consuming eggs), lacto-vegetarianism (consuming dairy), and veganism (excluding all animal products), our primary focus will encompass options suitable for all these variations.
Calgary offers a diverse and exciting range of vegetarian dining experiences, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, catering to various tastes and dietary needs. Get ready to discover a world of culinary delights that will redefine your perception of vegetarian food.
Why Choose Vegetarian Food in Calgary?
While individual motivations for embracing a plant-based diet vary, the rising popularity of vegetarian food speaks volumes. More and more Calgarians are discovering the incredible benefits of incorporating more vegetables, fruits, and plant-based proteins into their meals.
Vegetarian food offers a delightful departure from the ordinary. Forget bland and boring stereotypes; today’s vegetarian cuisine is bursting with creativity, flavor, and innovation. Chefs are experimenting with global flavors, ancient grains, and inventive plant-based alternatives, creating dishes that are both nutritious and incredibly satisfying. You’ll find vibrant curries packed with aromatic spices, hearty bowls brimming with colorful vegetables, and decadent desserts that will tantalize your taste buds.
And, thankfully, accessing delicious vegetarian food in Calgary is becoming increasingly easier. The city is seeing a surge in vegetarian-friendly restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores, making it simple to enjoy plant-based meals whether you’re dining out or cooking at home.
Top Vegetarian Restaurants in Calgary: A Detailed Exploration
To help you navigate the burgeoning vegetarian scene, we’ve curated a list of some of the best restaurants in Calgary offering exceptional plant-based fare. We’ve organized them by cuisine type and vibe, making it easier to find the perfect spot for your next culinary adventure.
Casual Vegetarian and Vegan Cafes: Perfect for a Quick Bite
For those days when you need a quick and delicious vegetarian lunch or a satisfying snack, these cafes are your go-to destinations.
- Hearts Choices: A long-time Calgary favourite. Hearts Choices at both locations offers flavorful vegan comfort food. From creamy mac n cheese to hearty burgers, their menu is sure to please.
- SaVeg Cafe: Another fully vegan cafe offers fresh salads and soups, sandwiches and burgers, along with sides like fries or onion rings. The menu includes many options for both lunch and dinner.
Upscale Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants: Fine Dining, Plant-Based Style
These restaurants elevate vegetarian cuisine to an art form, offering sophisticated dining experiences that are perfect for special occasions.
- Ten Foot Henry: While not strictly vegetarian, Ten Foot Henry boasts an impressive selection of vegetable-forward dishes that are bursting with flavor. The restaurant’s chic and stylish atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a celebratory dinner or a memorable date night. Don’t miss their grilled halloumi with roasted vegetables, or any of their seasonal vegetable specials. The price range is moderate to high, making it a splurge-worthy destination.
Exploring International Vegetarian Flavors: A Global Culinary Journey
Calgary’s diverse culinary scene means you can find incredible vegetarian options from around the world.
- Rajdoot Restaurant: Indian cuisine is naturally rich in vegetarian options, and Rajdoot is a Calgary institution known for its authentic flavors and generous portions. The vegetable biryani is a must-try, along with the chana masala and palak paneer. The restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Price range is moderate.
- Blue Nile: Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Ethiopian cuisine at Blue Nile. This restaurant offers a wide array of vegetarian stews (wats) served on a bed of injera, a spongy flatbread. The vegetarian platter is a great way to sample a variety of dishes, including lentil stew, collard greens, and spiced chickpeas. The communal dining experience is both fun and engaging. Price range is affordable.
- Pho Dau Bo: Vietnamese cuisine offers a delightful array of vegetarian options, and Pho Dau Bo is a local favorite for its flavorful tofu-based dishes. The vegetarian pho, a fragrant noodle soup, is a must-try, along with the crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables and herbs. The restaurant is casual and bustling, making it a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal. Price range is very affordable.
Canadian and North American Vegetarian Cuisine: Reimagining Classics
These restaurants take classic North American dishes and give them a delicious vegetarian twist.
- Native Tongues Taqueria: Though known for its meats, this restaurant also provides mushroom fillings, that are great for vegetarians. Native Tongues offers great food with high-quality ingredients in its dishes.
- Bridgette Bar: Known for many kinds of food, Bridgette Bar also provides good vegetarian options on their menu. In addition to the food, the restaurant has a great atmosphere.
Hidden Gems: Discovering Calgary’s Best-Kept Vegetarian Secrets
Sometimes, the best vegetarian food is found in unexpected places. These hidden gems are worth seeking out for their unique flavors and authentic culinary experiences.
(To be filled with research) – Find smaller, independent restaurants that have exceptional vegetarian dishes but aren’t widely known. Consider smaller Vietnamese or ethnic spots.
Beyond Restaurants: Expanding Your Vegetarian Horizons in Calgary
Enjoying vegetarian food in Calgary extends beyond just dining out. The city offers a range of resources for those looking to cook at home or explore other plant-based options.
Vegetarian-Friendly Grocery Stores and Markets: Stocking Your Pantry with Plant-Based Goodness
- Community Natural Foods: This health food store offers a wide selection of organic produce, plant-based proteins, and other vegetarian staples. They also have a knowledgeable staff who can help you find the ingredients you need to create delicious vegetarian meals.
- Blush Lane Organic Market: Another great option for organic produce and plant-based products. Blush Lane also carries a variety of locally sourced goods, supporting local farmers and producers.
Farmers’ Markets: Savoring the Flavors of Fresh, Local Produce
Calgary’s farmers’ markets are a treasure trove of fresh, seasonal produce, perfect for creating vibrant vegetarian dishes. The Calgary Farmers’ Market and the Crossroads Market offer a wide selection of fruits, vegetables, and other local goods.
Tips for Finding Vegetarian Food in Calgary: Navigating the Culinary Landscape
Finding vegetarian food in Calgary is becoming easier, but here are a few tips to help you navigate the culinary landscape.
Use online resources. Apps and websites like HappyCow, Yelp, and Google Maps are invaluable tools for finding vegetarian restaurants and dishes. Use the search filters to specify “vegetarian” or “vegan” options.
Ask questions. Don’t hesitate to ask servers about vegetarian options and ingredient lists. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Look for the “V” or “VG” symbol. Many restaurants now mark vegetarian or vegan dishes on their menus with a “V” or “VG” symbol.
Be open to exploring. Don’t be afraid to try new cuisines and restaurants. You might discover your new favorite vegetarian dish in an unexpected place.
Check reviews. Read online reviews to get a sense of the restaurant’s vegetarian options and overall quality.
Conclusion: Embrace the Vegetarian Food Scene in Calgary
Calgary’s vegetarian food scene is thriving, offering a diverse and exciting range of culinary experiences for everyone. Whether you’re a dedicated vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, Calgary has something to offer.
So, get out there and explore the delicious world of vegetarian food in Calgary! Try some of the restaurants mentioned in this guide, discover hidden gems, and share your own favorite vegetarian spots in the comments below. Happy eating!
