Calgary's Top 10 Must-Visit Restaurants in Kensington

Calgary is a city known for its booming food scene, with a variety of cuisines and flavours to choose from. Among the many neighborhoods with good food, Kensington stands out as a must-visit for foodies. This area is a hub for some of the best restaurants in Calgary. Here's a list of the Top 10 Must-Visit Restaurants in Kensington that are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

Modern Steak Kensington

Modern Steak Kensington is a restaurant that brings together the best of both worlds: modern and classic. The restaurant is a steakhouse that offers a contemporary take on traditional dishes. The menu features an array of dishes that are sure to please any meat lover, including prime rib, ribeye, filet mignon, and even Japanese Wagyu.

In addition to the steak dishes, there are also some unique options available, such as the lobster poutine and the elk meatballs. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list with over 600 bottles to choose from. The atmosphere is modern and chic, with an open kitchen that allows you to watch the chefs at work.

If you’re dining in, we recommend their truffle fries on the side of any dish!

The Mash

The Mash is a popular spot in Kensington for beer lovers. The restaurant is a craft beer bar with a menu that features pub-style food. The Mash has an impressive selection of over 60 beers on tap, with local and international options. The menu features classic pub dishes such as burgers, wings, and nachos. The casual and laid-back, with a warm and inviting feel. The Mash is a great spot to grab a beer and some comfort food.

One of their most popular dishes is the P.E.I. Mussels, which is served in a white wine, garlic, and herb broth. While you’re visiting, we highly recommend trying a flight of beer from their very own microbrewery in Cochrane, Half Hitch Brewing Company!

Blanco Cantina

Blanco Cantina is a Mexican restaurant that offers a modern take on traditional Mexican cuisine. The vibrant and colourful restaurant is known for its tacos, which are made with fresh, homemade tortillas. The menu features an array of dishes, including ceviche, guacamole, and empanadas. Blanco Cantina is known for their Camarones a la Diabla, which is shrimp served in a spicy sauce.  

Our favourite – the Shrimp Taco’s with a Smokey Pineapple Margarita.

Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey

Hayden Block is a rustic and cozy restaurant, that specializes in smoked meats and bourbon. The menu features a variety of smoked meats, including brisket, ribs, and pulled pork. The restaurant also has an impressive selection of bourbons, with over 100 to choose from. One of the standout dishes is the brisket, which is smoked for 14 hours and served with a homemade BBQ sauce.  

We recommend turning your bourbon into an old fashioned and pairing it with their famous cornbread. They even have live music on Friday and Saturday nights!

Winebar Kensington

Located just steps away from the Kenten, Winebar Kensington is a cozy wine bar that offers a selection of wines from around the world. The menu features small plates and shareable dishes, including charcuterie boards and cheese plates. One of the standout dishes is the truffle mac and cheese, which is made with truffle oil and a blend of cheeses. The atmosphere is relaxed and intimate, with a romantic feel.  

We recommend Winebar Kensington for date night or a night out with friends.

Pulcinella

Pulcinella is an Italian restaurant that offers a variety of classic Italian dishes. The menu features pasta dishes, pizza, and seafood. One of the standout dishes is the lobster ravioli, which is served in a creamy tomato sauce. Pulcinella is cozy and romantic, with a warm and inviting feel. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list with over 100 bottles to choose from.

Shijo Sushi

Shijo Sushi is a Japanese restaurant that offers a variety of sushi and sashimi dishes. The menu features classic sushi rolls, as well as some unique options such as the spicy salmon pizza.  One of the standout dishes is the omakase, which is a chef's choice selection of sushi and sashimi. The atmosphere is modern and chic, with an open kitchen that allows you to watch the chefs at work.

Satsuki

Satsuki is a Japanese restaurant that offers a variety of dishes, including sushi, sashimi, and hot pot. The menu features some unique options, such as the wagyu beef tataki and the salmon carpaccio.

We recommend the standout dish – the hot pot, which is served with a variety of meats and vegetables or try the chefs special sashimi paired with the best sake from Japan.

Tu Taco

Tu Taco is a Mexican restaurant that offers a variety of tacos and burritos. The menu features classic Mexican dishes such as carne asada and al pastor. One of the standout dishes is the fish tacos, which are served with a mango salsa. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, with a fun and festive decor.  

We recommend the classic tacos and margaritas on Tuesdays!

PB and J YYC

PB and J YYC is a sandwich shop that specializes in gourmet peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. The menu features a variety of unique sandwich options, such as the Elvis, which is made with peanut butter, bacon, and banana. One of the standout sandwiches is the PB and J with brie, which is made with raspberry jam and brie cheese. The atmosphere is fun and quirky, with a playful decor. PB and J YYC is a great spot to grab a unique sandwich.

We’re huge fans of their classic grilled cheese! The perfect comfort food after a busy day moving into your brand-new luxury condo.  

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Kensington is a foodie's paradise with The Kenten in the centre of it all. These restaurants are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.

Make sure to add these restaurants to your list of must-visit spots in Calgary.