Savor Calgary’s Best Asian Flavors

Calgary, a city renowned for its diverse culinary landscape, is a haven for food enthusiasts. Amidst the myriad of flavors, the Asian culinary scene stands out, offering a symphony of tastes that transport diners to the streets of Tokyo, the markets of Bangkok, and the kitchens of Beijing. From tantalizing street food to gourmet dining experiences, Calgary’s Asian restaurants showcase the best Asian flavors that captivate the palate. This article explores the vibrant Asian dining scene in Calgary, highlighting some of the best places to experience these exquisite flavors.

ExpatAsia is Calgary’s premier Asian-fusion restaurant and catering service, is a culinary gem. Located in the heart of the city, ExpatAsia has gained a stellar reputation for its innovative fusion dishes and impeccable service. It has received numerous accolades, including a platinum award for its outstanding cuisine.

At ExpatAsia, diners can embark on a culinary journey through Asia. The menu features a blend of traditional and contemporary dishes, each crafted with precision and passion. Signature dishes include the Thai Basil Chicken, which combines tender chicken pieces with aromatic basil and spicy chilies, and the Korean BBQ Beef, a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

The restaurant’s ambiance complements its culinary offerings. The modern, sleek interior, with subtle Asian decor, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. ExpatAsia is not just a place to eat; it’s an experience that tantalizes all the senses.

ExpatAsia also excels in catering services, making it a top choice for events and special occasions. Their catering menu offers a wide range of options, from sushi platters to dim sum selections, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all guests. With their commitment to quality and flavor, ExpatAsia truly embodies the best Asian flavors in Calgary.

For those seeking an authentic Japanese dining experience, Shokunin is a must-visit. This izakaya-style restaurant offers a taste of Japan right in the heart of Calgary. The name “Shokunin” translates to “artisan” or “craftsman,” and the dedication to craftsmanship is evident in every dish served.

Shokunin’s menu is a celebration of traditional Japanese flavors, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The Omakase tasting menu is a standout, offering a selection of chef-curated dishes that showcase the best of Japanese cuisine. From sashimi and nigiri to yakitori and ramen, each dish is a work of art.

One of the highlights of Shokunin is its robata grill, where skewers of meat, seafood, and vegetables are grilled to perfection over binchotan charcoal. This method imparts a unique smoky flavor, enhancing the natural taste of the ingredients.

The restaurant’s interior reflects a modern take on traditional Japanese aesthetics. The open kitchen allows diners to watch the chefs at work, adding to the overall dining experience. Whether you’re a sushi lover or a fan of hearty ramen, Shokunin offers a dining experience that captures the essence of Japanese cuisine.

Thai Sa-On is another gem in Calgary’s Asian dining scene, offering an authentic taste of Thailand. Located in the downtown area, this family-owned restaurant has been delighting diners with its rich and flavorful Thai dishes for over two decades.

The menu at Thai Sa-On features a wide range of traditional Thai dishes, from fragrant curries to spicy stir-fries. The Pad Thai, a classic favorite, is made with rice noodles, shrimp, tofu, and a tangy tamarind sauce, garnished with crushed peanuts and fresh lime. The Green Curry, with its creamy coconut milk base and aromatic spices, is another must-try.

One of the standout features of Thai Sa-On is its commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine are showcased in every dish, with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements.

The restaurant’s cozy, intimate setting makes it an ideal spot for a casual dinner or a special celebration. The warm, friendly service adds to the overall dining experience, making every visit to Thai Sa-On a memorable one.

For a taste of traditional Chinese cuisine, Silver Dragon is a top choice. Located in Calgary’s Chinatown, this iconic restaurant has been serving authentic Chinese dishes since 1966. Silver Dragon is renowned for its dim sum, a style of Cantonese cuisine that consists of bite-sized portions served in small steamer baskets or on small plates.

The dim sum menu at Silver Dragon is extensive, offering a variety of dumplings, buns, and other delicacies. The Har Gow, shrimp dumplings with a delicate, translucent wrapper, are a favorite among regulars. The Siu Mai, pork and shrimp dumplings topped with roe, are another popular choice.

In addition to dim sum, Silver Dragon offers a wide range of traditional Chinese dishes. The Peking Duck, with its crispy skin and tender meat, is a highlight. Served with thin pancakes, hoisin sauce, and scallions, it is a dish that exemplifies the richness of Chinese cuisine.

The restaurant’s elegant interior, with traditional Chinese decor, creates a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely dim sum brunch or a lavish dinner, Silver Dragon offers a dining experience that captures the essence of Chinese culinary traditions.

Calgary’s Asian dining scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors and experiences. From the innovative fusion cuisine at ExpatAsia to the authentic dishes at Shokunin, Thai Sa-On, and Silver Dragon, the city offers a wealth of options for those seeking the best Asian flavors. Each of these restaurants brings its unique touch to the culinary landscape, ensuring that diners can embark on a gastronomic journey through Asia without leaving Calgary.

Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, exploring Calgary’s Asian restaurants is a must. These dining establishments not only offer delicious food but also a cultural experience that reflects the rich heritage and traditions of Asian cuisine. So, the next time you crave an unforgettable meal, head to one of these top spots and savor the best Asian flavors Calgary has to offer.

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1. What are the best Asian flavors to try at ExpatAsia?

ExpatAsia offers a diverse menu featuring the best Asian flavors. Some must-try dishes include Thai Basil Chicken, Korean BBQ Beef, and their exquisite sushi platters. These dishes blend traditional and contemporary Asian cuisine, providing a unique and flavorful dining experience that reflects the rich culinary traditions of Asia.

2. Why is Shokunin a recommended restaurant in Calgary for Japanese cuisine?

Shokunin is celebrated for its authentic Japanese dining experience. The restaurant’s focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods, such as the robata grill, ensures each dish is crafted to perfection. The Omakase tasting menu offers a curated selection of Japanese delights, making Shokunin a top choice for sushi lovers and fans of Japanese cuisine.

3. What makes Thai Sa-On stand out among other Thai restaurants in Calgary?

Thai Sa-On stands out for its commitment to authentic Thai flavors and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Signature dishes like Pad Thai and Green Curry showcase the vibrant, balanced flavors of Thai cuisine. The restaurant’s cozy, intimate setting and friendly service enhance the overall dining experience, making it a favorite among Thai food enthusiasts.

4. What are some must-try dishes at Silver Dragon in Calgary’s Chinatown?

Silver Dragon is renowned for its dim sum, with popular choices like Har Gow and Siu Mai. The Peking Duck, known for its crispy skin and tender meat, is another highlight. The restaurant’s extensive menu of traditional Chinese dishes offers a rich culinary experience, capturing the essence of Cantonese cuisine.

5. How does ExpatAsia cater to special events and occasions?

ExpatAsia provides exceptional catering services for various events and special occasions. Their catering menu includes a wide range of options, from sushi platters to dim sum selections, ensuring a memorable dining experience for guests. With a focus on quality and flavor, ExpatAsia is a top choice for Asian cuisine catering in Calgary.

6. What makes Calgary’s Asian dining scene a good place to try best Asian flavors?

Calgary’s Asian dining scene is unique due to its diversity and quality. Restaurants like ExpatAsia, Shokunin, Thai Sa-On, and Silver Dragon offer a wide range of Asian flavors, from fusion dishes to authentic traditional cuisine. This vibrant culinary landscape provides an opportunity to experience the rich heritage and traditions of Asian cuisine without leaving the city.