Looking for the best restaurants in Calgary? Forget the generic "top 10" lists we went straight to the source. When a Reddit user asked r/Calgary "What restaurant has wowed you recently? "locals didn't hold back. From ramen that'll ruin you for anywhere else to Dutch pancakes worth the drive, here are five Calgary restaurants that Redditors swear by
1. Model Milk – Best Contemporary Canadian Restaurant in Calgary
📍 308 17th Avenue SW, Calgary
What they serve: Model Milk is a modern Canadian bistro known for its ever-changing seasonal menu, craft cocktails, and late-night dining scene. Think elevated comfort food duck fat fries, house-made pastas, perfectly executed proteins, and one of the best brunch menus on 17th Ave.
Why Reddit loves it: One user simply called it "the best place in Calgary." Another pointed out that The Last of Us star Pedro Pascal named it his favourite restaurant in the city during filming and as the Redditor put it, "everything he touches is gold." The restaurant has been a Calgary staple since 2011 and continues to deliver consistent quality with a hip, laid-back atmosphere.
Best for: Date night, late-night eats, brunch with friends
2. Shiki Menya – Best Ramen in Calgary
📍 824 1st Avenue NE, Calgary (Bridgeland)
What they serve: Shiki Menya specializes in rich, authentic Japanese ramen with a focus on tonkotsu-style broths. Their menu features classic options alongside signature bowls like the fan-favourite chili goma ramen a creamy, spicy, sesame-based bowl that keeps customers coming back.
Why Reddit loves it: "The chili goma is insane," one Redditor raved. Another said it "opened my eyes to what ramen could be. Nothing compares in the city it's the broth that kills it." The restaurant's commitment to slow-cooked, flavour-packed broths has earned it cult status among Calgary's ramen enthusiasts.
Best for: Ramen lovers, solo lunch, cold weather cravings
3. Tacos Mexico – Best Authentic Mexican Food in Calgary
📍 3725 Memorial Drive SE, Calgary
What they serve: Tacos Mexico serves traditional Mexican street food including tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tortas, and combo plates. The menu sticks to the classics carne asada, al pastor, carnitas, barbacoa with homemade salsas and fresh ingredients.
Why Reddit loves it: "Great atmosphere, amazing food and flavours. And the atmosphere feels pretty authentic," wrote one Redditor. Unlike trendy taco joints that lean into fusion, Tacos Mexico keeps it real with straightforward, well-executed Mexican fare at reasonable prices. It's the kind of spot where you walk in and immediately feel like you're getting the real deal.
Best for: Casual dinner, takeout, family meals
4. Noble Pie – Best Pizza in Calgary
📍 720 11th Avenue SW, Calgary (Beltline)
What they serve: Noble Pie is a Detroit-style pizza shop serving thick, square pies with crispy, cheesy edges (called "frico") and creative topping combinations. They also offer classic pepperoni, margherita, and rotating seasonal specials alongside salads and appetizers.
Why Reddit loves it: "Legit one of the best pizzas I've ever had," one user stated. Detroit-style pizza has been having a moment across North America, and Noble Pie has positioned itself as Calgary's go-to spot for the style. The combination of airy, focaccia-like dough, caramelized cheese edges, and quality toppings makes it a standout in a city full of pizza options.
Best for: Pizza night, casual group dining, takeout
5. Pfanntastic Pannenkoek Haus – Best Brunch Spot in Calgary
📍 2439 54th Avenue SW, Calgary
What they serve: Pfanntastic Pannenkoek Haus specializes in Dutch-style pannenkoek large, thin pancakes served sweet or savoury. Options range from classic sugar and butter to loaded versions with bacon, cheese, apples, or Nutella. They also serve traditional breakfast items and German-inspired dishes.
Why Reddit loves it: "Reasonably priced and AMAZING! It has been featured on You Gotta Eat Here!" one Redditor shared. This family-run spot has been serving Calgary since 1990 and has built a loyal following for its generous portions, unique menu, and cozy, no-frills atmosphere. It's the kind of hidden gem locals guard jealously.
Best for: Weekend brunch, families, something different
Honourable Mentions:
Milpa (1531 5th Street SW) – Authentic Mexican tapas-style dining. "The black bean hummus and salsa tasting we've gotten three times," one Redditor admitted.
Carino (2210 4th Street SW) – Italian-Japanese fusion serving creative dishes like pork katsu curry with spaghetti carbonara.
To Me Vietnamese Sub (5250 Macleod Trail SW) – No-frills bánh mì shop. "Believe the hype the bread was perfect. The toppings were super fresh. The prices were excellent."
