sebell's Profile
The Big Taste 2012 (formerly Dine Out Calgary)
Good review cn1822! It was foie gras on the short rib. I love bold, intense and rich flavours and so found the main dish outstanding. I've had a profiterole and foie gras desert before (at Le Pigeon in Portland), this was the clincher for me in going for the Brasserie Big Taste menu - I loved it here. Too bad about the service, we had great service, but were there early with the restaurant less then half full.
Best Burger in Calgary?
I think part of the problem is that we have health regulations in Canada that don't allow beef to be served rare/medium rare/etc. in burgers, which is not the case in the US.
On another note, Eddie Burger Bar in Banff seems to be doing a great job with their burgers. They use a english muffin with a lot of the burgers (they also have a few other buns and let you choose what you want). I've enjoyed them more than anything I've had in Calgary. It was bacon fest last week, which they had a fabulous menu for (and a Bacon Burger that I am still dreaming about...)
The Big Taste 2012 (formerly Dine Out Calgary)
I definitely think it's worth trying out still, I just thought compared to the other places we've tried for Big Taste River Cafe wasn't remarkable. I often find when it's slow that's when service lacks (seems the staff move slower and are almost bored), which was the case when we were there. The food was good, ambiance was amazing, just no 'wow'. Plus taste is so subjective, you may find it blows your socks off, go and enjoy!
The Big Taste 2012 (formerly Dine Out Calgary)
So we were at Wurst last night, and overall really enjoyed it. We've been a few times before and were interested to see how they would execute The Big Taste. The duck salad to start was really great, balanced flavours and the duck (slightly smoked) really stood up it's flavour with the raspberry vinaigrette. The butchers plate was enormous for a main (this is a good thing, to me, when it's a butchers plate)! Great bratwurst, loads of sauerkraut, delicious roasted veg and potatoes, amazing braised bacon, and a glazed pork chop. The only disappointment was the black forest cake, found the cake too dry. Service was good (a few glitches) and the ambiance is always great. Overall amazing value and we left feeling quite impressed.
On to Brasserie Kensington tomorrow!
The Big Taste 2012 (formerly Dine Out Calgary)
Tried out River Cafe on Monday, we've been quite a few times over the years but not recently. It was interesting that their 3 course was cream celeriac soup, carrot salad and duck (the interesting part was no desert - which is fine by me). The wine pairings were really good and the best value of the dinner, as the food portions of all 3 courses were incredibly small.
It's a location and ambiance that can't be beat, and while the food was great there was nothing innovative or really got me excited. The service was poor, even though it wasn't even 25% full. I would recommend River Cafe for it's unique and stunning setting (with the snow outside and sitting next to the big fireplace, you can't get more romantic than that), but we wouldn't plan on going back with all the other incredible restaurants Calgary has to offer. Great to try on The Big Taste, I don't know that we would have gone back again otherwise.
The Big Taste 2012 (formerly Dine Out Calgary)
Made our reservations last night! River Cafe, Brasserie Kensington and Wurst. Can't wait for The Big Taste.
Ice Cream -- it is a problem (Calgary)
I just bought Foothills Vanilla at Co-op, and also found it a bit too sweet. What kind do you get (since we seem to have similar thoughts on Foothills)?
International Sommelier Guild at SAIT
I just finished the level one ISG course at SAIT (in January). It was great, all the basic regions and varietals were covered.
What I found was the learning environment was quite formal, desks in a class room all facing a screen. Most of the content was taught through powerpoint. We also had tastings at each class (6-7), which was the best part! I prefer a more interactive and informal learning environment (especially when it's just for personal interest, I'm not seeking a career in the wine industry).
I am looking at taking the WSET intermediate course next as I've heard that it's informal. As a side note WSET is also more internationally recognized than ISG (which is mainly known in Canada).
Boxwood (Calgary)
I've been to Boxwood 3 times now and while the setting is beautiful (keeps me going back), the food has been mediocre and the service has gone down hill each time. My last visit we waited 25min to order (I had to get their attention and ask them if we could order!), the servers were disorganized (brought our drinks and food to the wrong table - different tables each time) and the place wasn't even that busy. I was really surprised that the service was so terrible, the servers were oblivious - it was almost like it was all of their first day.
Le Garde-Manger Montreal closed down?
I booked through the concierge at the Hotel we're staying at - Hyatt. They confirmed with the restaurant quite a few days later, which seems a bit odd (how long it took). I'm assuming with their popularity Garde Manger does not hurry to respond or respond at all if they are booked.
Le Garde-Manger Montreal closed down?
They are definitely still very open. We just confirmed our reservation for dinner in 3 weeks.
Oishii Village closed, reopening as Sushi Motto (Cgy)
Thanks for the report! Fantastic news about this place, I look forward to trying it myself.
Oishii Village closed, reopening as Sushi Motto (Cgy)
I noticed this change too yesterday when my husband and I were out walking. Could be a great change, I guess we'll see. I absolutely agree with you, John, about O Shima. We have loved having them in the neighbourhood, and indeed amazing Sashimi and Nigiri for excellent prices. We were only at Oishii a couple times when they first opened and were not very impressed. It will be interesting to see what Sushi Motto does and if they can carve out a unique place in the sushi market.
Bacchus Bistro, Domain de Chaberton, Langley
I was visiting the Lower Mainland this past weekend and surprised to find no reviews on this bistro. My brother just recently moved to the coast from Kelowna and we were interested in visiting a local winery, so after a quick search Domain de Chaberton seemed to be the most established. We headed there for the 2 o'clock tour and I was pleasantly surprised by the operations and grounds. On the tour we passed by Bacchus Bistro, and after noticing an herb garden out the back of the kitchen, and smelling the delicious aromas as we stood in the vineyard on our tour, we knew we'd be stopping in for a late lunch.
We ordered a bottle of their Mardeleine Sylvaner, which was crisp and floral (and made with grapes grown in Langley!). Our table ordered the Seafood Chowder, Mesclun Salad, Warm Spinach Salad, and Okra & Onion Quiche. All were delicious, made fresh and so full of flavour. This was all topped off with a beautiful view of the vineyard as we sat on their large covered patio. Even at 3 o'clock the place was full, I would definitely recommend reservations. The bistro focuses on french cuisine and it really felt like we were sitting in the country side of France!
What a great find, I was truly surprised with the quality and value of this local bistro and winery. I should mention that we went home with a full case of wines after a great wine tasting, which was our desert of course!
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Bacchus Bistro
1064 216 St, Langley, BC V2Z1R3, CA
Great restaurants in Whiterock BC
I know this post is old, but over the weekend I was visiting White Rock and looking for a recommendation and unfortunately this seemed to be the only thread going on White Rock. I just wanted to report back on a great place we found, Uli's and it was fantastic! We were seated at the bar as we waited for an outside table (a must when dining on the waterfront in White Rock). The bartenders were great, they were incredibly knowledgable and we enjoyed some really unique beers. Once we settled in to our table outside we were really impressed by the great service staff and fantastic food. Our table enjoyed the Halibut special of the day, Fishermen's Pot, and Fish and Chips. All were of great quality and the value was impressive. I would highly recommend this place!
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Uli's Restaurant
15021 Marine Dr, White Rock, BC V4B1C3, CA
Bison Mountain Bistro, Banff
Unfortunately it seems that Bison has been sold and there is a new Head Chef and Management. My sister, who lives in Banff, just gave us the news. Most of the staff are appalled at the changes being made. The Bison Burger is off the menu and they are no longer making their own ketchup, it seems lots of changes are coming. The owners are apparently the same as Giorgio's and other mediocre restaurants in Banff.
Looks like we have lost all the great places in Banff (Fuze, now Bison).
Romance in Banff?
I was at Beaujolais a couple months ago and had a mediocre experience. Their satellite music wasn't working and so they had Vibe 98.5 blasting (not quite the right music for the setting...). The food was okay, service was standard, and the place was almost empty. Nothing terrible, I just won't be back there. I want to be inspired by the food experience.
Bison delivers fantastic local food, was just there for brunch again on Sunday. Hands down the best Eggs Benedict I've ever had!
Romance in Banff?
I highly recommend Bison. I've been there a number of times and each experience has been fantastic. I find it romantic, amazing food, comfortable and 'mountain casual'. It's definitely my favourite place in Banff, and I've been to almost all.
Maple Leaf use to be one of my favourites, but in the last couple of years I find it not as interesting.
Bison Mountain Bistro, Banff
Thanks for the tips. I think we'll check out the Post Hotel, I've also heard good things.
Bison Mountain Bistro, Banff
Great to read your review! I love Bison, and always make a point of stopping when I'm in Banff. I am curious where you ate in Lake Louise. My husband and I are heading out there in two weeks for the weekend, and neither of us have spent any time there. There doesn't seem to be much info on the boards either.
Bross Sushi Bar and Grill - Calgary
Sounds great. I'll have to check it out next time I'm in the south! I'm always looking for great sushi at good prices.
Breakfast near the Calgary airport
I'm wondering if there are any good breakfast spots near the airport to go to before dropping my brother off tomorrow morning? Any idea's?
Calgary - Vendome Cafe?
Oh, that's good to know. I just assumed it wasn't roasted in Calgary because the website doesn't mention it. Thanks.
Calgary - Vendome Cafe?
I was there about a week ago and had an excellent Butternut Squash soup. It was served with a delicious slice of bread. The space is modern, warm and cozy. I also had a decent espresso, nothing special at all. They serve Doi Chaang coffee, a great cause but unfortunately not locally roasted.
YYC - Capo Tuscany menu
Looks good, I hope to check it out! Thanks for the heads up.
Post theater dinner tonight
Can anyone recommend a great place for 2 mid-20's girls after a show tonight? Want to avoid all the chains and looking for good food in a semi casual atmosphere.
Restaurants near the Delta Chelsea(Toronto)
Thanks for the help. I am looking forward to all the new dining experiences. The Art Gallery is a definite stop for us, thanks for the suggestions on lunch spots around there.
Restaurants near the Delta Chelsea(Toronto)
Sounds great. I am in the coffee industry and always on the look out for good coffee shops in the cities I visit. What are the best in the city?
Rush in Calgary?
I have neglected to report on my experience here recently. My husband and I went for my birthday dinner, and had a fantastic time. I was impressed by the decor and service. When seated we were offered Champagne, which I ordered, and it was served with a complimentary spoon to delight the palate. This was wonderful and a unique experience. We both had the tasting menu and were very impressed. Each course was fantastic. I commented that I would have not ordered some of the dishes from a menu but that was the joy of a tasting menu, you get to try new things and find new favorites.
We found the service to be really good, we have dined at most "top' Calgary restaurants and across North America. Service was flawless. They brought an extra desert course for my birthday and had 'happy birthday' written in chocolate on my sorbet. We had also requested to replace the desert course with a cheese plate and it was a wonderful assortment.
When we got the bill we were both surprised with the total, finding it very reasonable. After dining at Capo just two weeks earlier we found Rush to be a much better experience overall, and much better value.
Restaurants near the Delta Chelsea(Toronto)
Thanks, those sound great. It's our first trip to Toronto and we are looking forward to exploring the city. Sushi is another favorite that I forgot to mention. I am also always drawn to restos that focus on local and organic.
