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Top 12 Lunch Spots in Calgary That Will Completely Transform Your Midday Meal!

When picking a place to eat lunch, what do we really look for? A good meal? A quick bite?  Sure, but what about great ambiance, wonderful people, and a fantastic vibe too? 

The good news is that Calgary has some seriously mind-blowing lunch spots that you just have to check out. 

Just imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy burger while soaking up the sun on a trendy patio or savoring a fresh, vibrant salad in a cozy café with the perfect playlist in the background. We all deserve a lunch break that feels like a mini vacation, right? 

Well, this is why we’re so excited to share our handpicked list of lunch spots with you! There’s a reason why we always keep coming back to these spots, so read on to find out why!

Ten Foot Henry

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Address: 1209 1 St SW

Website: http://tenfoothenry.com

Contact Details: +1 403-475-5537

Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Cost: $$

Best Food on the Menu:

  • Roasted cauliflower
  • Butterscotch pudding
  • Freshly baked bread

Ten Foot Henry bridges the gap between what you should be eating and what you really want to eat. They serve vegetable-centric dishes that are designed to be shared. You will literally find the best roasted cauliflower here, hands down!

Their bright and airy space, adorned with plants, immediately invites you in. It’s a place where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch or a cozy dinner. Also, don’t miss their freshly baked bread that pairs perfectly with everything.

If you have a sweet tooth, you’re in luck. Their dessert menu is both decadent and creative. Try their famous butterscotch pudding—it’s a crowd favorite and for a good reason.

Pro Tip:

Ask for their off-menu specials. They often have seasonal dishes that aren’t listed but are absolutely worth trying.

Una Pizza + Wine

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Address: 618 17 Ave SW

Website: http://unapizzeria.com

Contact Details: +1 403-453-1183

Opening Hours: Sun-Wed: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM, Thu-Sat: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM

Cost: $$

Best Food on the Menu:

  • 4-maggi pizza
  • Number One pizza (house-made fennel sausage, smoked mozzarella, and spicy chili oil)
  • Margherita pizza

Una Pizza + Wine serves up thin-crust pizzas with a variety of unique toppings like a boss! You’ll immediately fall in love with their 4-maggi pizza, topped with four delectable cheeses. It’s the epitome of pizza perfection—and it comes with your favorite toppings too!

The cozy and bustling atmosphere makes it a fantastic spot for any meal, really. Also, the open kitchen concept lets you see your pizza being prepared, adding a touch of excitement to your dining experience during lunch time.

Pair your pizza with one of their carefully selected wines. Their knowledgeable staff can help you choose the perfect wine to complement your meal.

Pro Tip:

Order the “Number One” pizza—it’s a delightful combo of house-made fennel sausage, smoked mozzarella, and spicy chili oil that isn’t listed on the regular menu.

Holy Grill

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Address: 827 10 Ave SW

Website: http://holygrill.ca

Contact Details: +1 403-261-9759

Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Sat: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Sun: Closed

Cost: $

Best Food on the Menu:

  • Holy cheeseburger
  • Breakfast sandwich (bacon, eggs, and cheese)
  • Sweet potato fries

Holy Grill is the go-to spot for mouth-watering sandwiches and burgers. Their breakfast sandwich, packed with bacon, eggs, and cheese, is a morning game-changer. But their lunch menu is what really brings you into their top-tier food haven!

The casual and friendly vibe makes it a perfect spot for a quick bite. The service is fast, and the food is consistently delicious, ensuring you leave satisfied. 

If you’re a fan of burgers, their holy cheeseburger with caramelized onions and cheddar is a must-try. It’s juicy, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. Also remember to try their sweet potato fries—they’re crispy and addictive.

Pro Tip:

Go for their “build your own burger” option to customize your perfect sandwich with a variety of toppings.

First Street Market

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Address: 1327 1 St SW

Website: https://firststreetmarket.ca

Contact Details: +1 403-555-1234

Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Cost: $$

Best Food on the Menu:

  • Poke bowls
  • Tacos
  • Sushi rolls

First Street Market is a foodie’s paradise with multiple vendors offering diverse cuisines. From tacos to sushi, you’ll find something to please every palate. The bustling atmosphere makes it a lively spot to dine with friends.

Grab a seat in the communal dining area and sample dishes from different stalls. The variety is amazing, and you can mix and match to create your perfect meal. Their poke bowls are especially popular and a must-try.

The market’s modern and vibrant design makes it an Instagram-worthy spot. With so many delicious options, you’ll want to come back to try everything—and we mean everything!

Pro Tip:

Visit during lunch hours for special deals from various vendors that can save you a few bucks while you indulge.

Sammie Cafe

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Address: 123 9 Ave SE

Website: http://sammiecafe.com

Contact Details: +1 403-555-6789

Opening Hours: Mon-Fri: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Sat-Sun: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Cost: $

Best Food on the Menu:

  • Breakfast burrito (eggs, sausage, and veggies)
  • Croissants
  • Homemade banana bread

Sammie Cafe is where you go for the best breakfast and brunch in town. Their breakfast burrito, packed with eggs, sausage, and veggies, is a great way to start your day. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that you’ll immediately love.

The cozy and welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot to relax with a cup of coffee too. As for service, their baristas are skilled, ensuring your cappuccino is always perfect. And oh, please try their pastries—the croissants are buttery and flaky and you won’t regret it!

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, their homemade banana bread is a crowd-pleaser. It’s moist, flavorful, and the perfect companion to your coffee.

Pro Tip:

Ask for their daily special—they often have unique dishes that are not on the regular menu and are absolutely delicious.

Ari Sushi

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Address: 210 11 Ave SW

Website: http://arisushi.com

Contact Details: +1 403-555-2345

Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Cost: $$

Best Food on the Menu:

  • Spicy tuna roll
  • Sashimi
  • California roll

Ari Sushi offers a delightful sushi experience with fresh and high-quality ingredients. Their spicy tuna roll is a favorite among regulars. You’ll love the perfect balance of heat and flavor in each bite.

The modern and clean design of the restaurant makes it a pleasant place to dine. The sushi chefs are obviously skilled, and you can even watch them create your meal with precision and care.

Lastly, pair your sushi with their selection of sake for a complete experience. The staff can help you pick the best sake to complement your meal.

Pro Tip:

Visit during their happy hour for discounted sushi rolls and drinks, which is a great way to enjoy more for less.

Peppino

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Address: 1240 Kensington Rd NW

Website: http://peppino.ca

Contact Details: +1 403-283-6564

Opening Hours: Mon-Sat: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Sun: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Cost: $

Best Food on the Menu:

  • Meatball sub
  • Italian sausage sandwich
  • Cannoli

Peppino is your go-to for delicious, authentic Italian sandwiches. Their meatball sub is a standout, packed with flavorful meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese. It’s a must-try for any sandwich lover out there.

The cozy, laid-back vibe makes it a perfect spot for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. With a variety of fresh ingredients, each bite is a taste of Italy. Also, you have the option to grab a cannoli for dessert—it’s the perfect sweet ending.

Pro Tip:

Ask for extra marinara sauce on your sub—it makes the sandwich even more delicious.

Vero Bistro Moderne

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Address: 209 10 St NW

Website: http://verobistro.ca

Contact Details: +1 403-283-8988

Opening Hours: Tue-Sun: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Mon: Closed

Cost: $$

Best Food on the Menu:

  • Lobster ravioli
  • Braised short ribs
  • Seared scallops

Vero Bistro Moderne gives you a more refined dining experience with a creative twist on classic dishes you grew up loving. 

For instance, the lobster ravioli, filled with succulent lobster and drizzled with a rich bisque, is a must-try. It’s pure indulgence on a plate—and we seriously can’t wait for you to try it out.

The intimate setting, complete with elegant decor and dim lighting, also creates a perfect ambiance for a romantic dinner. Also take a look at their winery because their wine list is extensive, so you can find the perfect pairing for your meal.

Pro Tip:

Reserve a table in advance, especially on weekends to avoid a long wait. 

Blue Star Diner

Address: 809 1 Ave NE

Website: http://bluestardiner.ca

Contact Details: +1 403-261-9998

Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Cost: $

Best Food on the Menu:

  • Huevos rancheros
  • Homemade pancakes
  • Breakfast burrito

Blue Star Diner is a favorite for hearty breakfast and brunch options. Their huevos rancheros, featuring perfectly cooked eggs, black beans, and fresh salsa, is a crowd-pleaser. 

The casual and vibrant atmosphere makes it a great place to catch up with friends over breakfast or lunch (or both). Besides that, their coffee is always freshly brewed, providing the perfect pick-me-up. Don’t miss their homemade pancakes—fluffy and delightful.

Pro Tip:

Arrive early on weekends to avoid the brunch rush, as this place is popular and fills up fast.

Model Milk

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Address: 308 17 Ave SW

Website: http://modelmilk.ca

Contact Details: +1 403-265-7343

Opening Hours: Sun-Thu: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Fri-Sat: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Cost: $$

Best Food on the Menu:

  • Fried chicken
  • Beef tartare
  • Buttermilk biscuits

Model Milk offers a unique dining experience with a menu that celebrates local ingredients. Their fried chicken, crispy on the outside and juicy inside, is a must-have. 

The industrial-chic decor and open kitchen create a lively and engaging dining environment. The rotating menu keeps things fresh, so there’s always something new to try. Pair your meal with one of their inventive cocktails, and you got yourself a great lunch hour if you ask us.

Pro Tip:

Visit during happy hour for special prices on select drinks and appetizers.

River Café

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Address: 25 Prince’s Island Park

Website: http://river-cafe.com

Contact Details: +1 403-261-7670

Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Cost: $$

Best Food on the Menu:

  • Wild salmon
  • Duck confit
  • Chocolate terrine

River Café is perfect for a scenic dining experience if you’re into the whole aesthetic while eating delicious food. 

Their wild salmon, prepared with fresh, local ingredients, is a highlight in our books. You’ll enjoy every bite while soaking in the beautiful views too, just stay near the window by the lakefront view that’ll be too hard to resist!

The rustic, cabin-like setting adds to the charm, making it ideal for a relaxing meal. Their commitment to sustainable practices is evident in every dish as you can really tell that they’re meant to be healthy and taste delicious!

Pro Tip:

Take a walk around the island before or after your meal to fully appreciate the stunning surroundings.

Major Tom

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Address: 707 4 St SW

Website: http://majortom.com

Contact Details: +1 403-555-1234

Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Cost: $$$

Best Food on the Menu:

  • Ribeye steak
  • Truffle fries
  • Grilled octopus

Major Tom provides you with a sleek and modern dining experience with a menu focused on high-quality meats like prime meats and porter steaks! The ribeye steak—cooked to perfection, of course—is our personal favorite (it’s a carnivore’s dream come true).

The chic and sophisticated decor, coupled with panoramic city views, makes it a fantastic spot for a special night out with your friends, romantic partners, or even family. 

To top it all off, their extensive cocktail menu is perfect for unwinding. Be sure to try their truffle fries—they’re addictive.

Pro Tip:

Reserve a window seat for the best views of the city skyline while you dine.

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