A Guide to Asian Dining in Calgary this 2024

Calgary’s culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, offering a rich tapestry of flavors from around the world. Among its many offerings, Asian dining stands out for its authenticity, variety, and innovation. As we step into 2024, this guide explores the best Asian dining spots in Calgary, showcasing the unique flavors and experiences that await food enthusiasts. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor, discovering the treasures of Asian dining in Calgary is a culinary journey you won’t want to miss.

Calgary is home to a multitude of Asian restaurants, each offering distinct flavors and dining experiences. Here are some of the top spots to explore this year:

1. ExpatAsia. ExpatAsia Restaurant continues to be a standout in Calgary’s Asian dining scene. They are known for its exceptional Asian-fusion cuisine, ExpatAsia combines traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques. Their award-winning service and meticulously crafted dishes make every dining experience memorable. From sushi to stir-fry, ExpatAsia offers a menu that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences.

2. Shokunin. For those seeking authentic Japanese cuisine, Shokunin is a must-visit. This restaurant is renowned for its izakaya-style dining, offering a range of small plates perfect for sharing. From perfectly grilled yakitori to delicate sashimi, Shokunin captures the essence of Japanese dining. The ambiance is intimate and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a night out.

Other Restaurants Included in Top 5 Asian Dining Cuisine

3. Charcut Roast House. While not exclusively Asian, Charcut Roast House offers an intriguing fusion of Western and Asian flavors. Their innovative menu features dishes like Korean-style short ribs and miso-marinated steaks, blending the best of both culinary worlds. The vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails add to the dining experience, making it a favorite among locals.

4. Silver Dragon. For a taste of traditional Chinese cuisine, Silver Dragon is a go-to destination. Located in the heart of Calgary’s Chinatown, Silver Dragon has been serving authentic Chinese dishes for decades. Their dim sum is particularly popular, offering a wide variety of steamed, fried, and baked delights. Whether you’re in the mood for Peking duck or hot pot, Silver Dragon delivers on both flavor and authenticity.

5. Juree’s Thai Place. Juree’s Thai Place offers a warm and welcoming environment along with authentic Thai cuisine. Known for its flavorful curries, fragrant rice dishes, and savory soups, this restaurant transports diners straight to Thailand. The friendly service and beautifully presented dishes make Juree’s Thai Place a beloved spot for both casual meals and special occasions.

Calgary’s Asian dining scene is not just about the food; it’s about the experiences that come with it. Here are some unique dining experiences to explore in 2024:

1. Interactive Hot Pot at Chinatown. Hot pot dining is a communal and interactive experience that’s perfect for groups. Several restaurants in Calgary’s Chinatown offer this immersive dining style. Guests cook their own ingredients in a simmering pot of broth, choosing from a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables. It’s a fun and social way to enjoy a meal, and the customizable options ensure there’s something for everyone.

2. Korean BBQ at Stone Bowl. Korean BBQ is another interactive dining experience that’s gaining popularity. At Stone Bowl, guests grill their own meats at the table, accompanied by a variety of banchan (side dishes) such as kimchi, pickled vegetables, and rice. The DIY aspect adds an element of entertainment, making it a great choice for group outings or celebrations.

3. Sushi Omakase at Nami Sushi. For a more refined dining experience, Nami Sushi offers an omakase menu, where the chef selects and prepares a series of sushi dishes tailored to the guest’s preferences. This personalized approach allows diners to enjoy the freshest and most exquisite sushi, crafted with precision and artistry. It’s a culinary journey that showcases the best of Japanese cuisine.

Beyond restaurants, Calgary’s Asian food markets offer a treasure trove of ingredients and culinary delights. These markets are perfect for those who enjoy cooking at home or want to explore new flavors.

1. T&T Supermarket. T&T Supermarket is a one-stop shop for all your Asian grocery needs. From fresh produce and seafood to specialty sauces and snacks, T&T offers a wide variety of ingredients from across Asia. The market also features a deli section with ready-to-eat meals, making it convenient for quick and delicious meals.

2. Banzai. Banzai specializes in Japanese groceries and kitchenware. It’s an excellent place to find high-quality ingredients for sushi, ramen, and other Japanese dishes. The store also offers a selection of sake and Japanese snacks, perfect for creating an authentic Japanese dining experience at home.

3. Hong Kong Supermarket. Located in the heart of Chinatown, Hong Kong Supermarket is a favorite among locals for its extensive selection of Chinese groceries. The market is well-stocked with fresh produce, meats, and seafood, as well as a variety of Chinese herbs and spices. It’s a great place to find unique ingredients and explore new recipes.

Asian-fusion cuisine continues to grow in popularity, blending traditional Asian flavors with Western culinary techniques to create innovative and exciting dishes. This trend is evident in many of Calgary’s top restaurants.

1. Foreign Concept. Foreign Concept is a leader in Asian-fusion cuisine, offering a menu that combines elements of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese cooking. Dishes like lemongrass chicken wings and miso-glazed black cod showcase the creative fusion of flavors. The restaurant’s sleek and modern design adds to the dining experience, making it a popular choice for food enthusiasts.

2. Two Penny. Two Penny offers a modern take on traditional Chinese cuisine, blending classic dishes with contemporary twists. The menu features items like truffle fried rice and kung pao cauliflower, reimagining familiar flavors in innovative ways. The stylish interior and lively atmosphere make Two Penny a great spot for both casual and celebratory dining.

3. Royale. Royale brings a touch of elegance to Asian-fusion dining, with a menu that includes dishes like soy-glazed pork belly and sesame-crusted tuna. The restaurant’s sophisticated ambiance and expertly crafted cocktails complement the creative cuisine, providing a luxurious dining experience.

Calgary’s Asian dining scene in 2024 offers a rich and diverse array of flavors and experiences. From traditional restaurants like Silver Dragon and Juree’s Thai Place to innovative spots like ExpatAsia and Foreign Concept, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re looking for an interactive dining experience, exploring Asian food markets, or indulging in Asian-fusion cuisine, Calgary has it all. Embrace the culinary journey and discover the best of Asian dining in Calgary this year.

Check out our YouTube Channel for more Asian cuisine videos.

1. What are some top Asian restaurants to visit in Calgary in 2024?

Some top Asian restaurants to visit in Calgary in 2024 include ExpatAsia, known for its exceptional Asian-fusion cuisine, Shokunin for authentic Japanese dishes, Charcut Roast House for innovative fusion, Silver Dragon for traditional Chinese cuisine, and Juree’s Thai Place for authentic Thai flavors. Each offers a unique dining experience with high-quality dishes and excellent service.

2. Where can I find interactive Asian dining experiences in Calgary?

Calgary offers several interactive Asian dining experiences. Chinatown is great for hot pot dining, where guests cook their own ingredients in a simmering pot of broth. Stone Bowl offers Korean BBQ, allowing guests to grill their own meats at the table. For a refined experience, Nami Sushi provides an omakase menu, where the chef selects and prepares a series of sushi dishes tailored to your preferences.

3. Which Asian food markets are popular in Calgary?

Popular Asian food markets in Calgary include T&T Supermarket, which offers a wide variety of Asian groceries, fresh produce, and ready-to-eat meals. Banzai specializes in Japanese groceries and kitchenware, perfect for creating authentic Japanese dishes at home. Hong Kong Supermarket, located in Chinatown, is known for its extensive selection of Chinese groceries, fresh produce, and unique ingredients.

4. What is Asian-fusion cuisine, and where can I find it in Calgary?

Asian-fusion cuisine blends traditional Asian flavors with Western culinary techniques to create innovative dishes. In Calgary, you can find excellent Asian-fusion cuisine at restaurants like Foreign Concept, which combines elements of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese cooking. Two Penny offers modern takes on traditional Chinese dishes, and Royale provides a luxurious dining experience with creative Asian-fusion dishes.

5. Why is ExpatAsia a standout in Calgary’s Asian dining scene?

ExpatAsia is a standout in Calgary’s Asian dining scene due to its exceptional Asian-fusion cuisine, award-winning service, and meticulous preparation. The restaurant combines traditional flavors with modern techniques, offering a diverse menu that caters to various tastes and preferences. ExpatAsia’s commitment to quality and detail ensures a memorable dining experience.

6. What makes Asian dining in Calgary unique?

Asian dining in Calgary is unique due to its diverse array of flavors and dining experiences. The city offers everything from traditional Chinese and Japanese restaurants to innovative Asian-fusion spots. Interactive dining experiences like hot pot and Korean BBQ add a social and engaging element, while Asian food markets provide a treasure trove of ingredients for home cooking. Calgary’s Asian dining scene caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences, making it a culinary destination.