Fantastic Views (to look at and enjoy during dinner)
restaurantCalgary
(Dec.11.06)
Go on; get gussied up for a fun dinner out. Calgary is renowned for great restaurants (and they're not all just about the beef). But this time, when selecting which hot spot to dine at, use our Best Of list to pick one boasting a fantastic view. Life is, after all, about the scenery...
- Country in the city: The Ranche
15979 Bow Bottom Tr. S.E.; 403-225-3939
Nestled deep in Fish Creek Valley, it is not unusual to catch a glimpse of a deer and her young sauntering past the windows as you dine. (Everyone together, ahh!) This restored 107-year old ranch house also boasts a diverse Canadian menu with hints of French-inspiration as well as a wraparound veranda perfect for prairie sunsets.
- View from the top: Panorama Dining Room
Calgary Tower, 101 9 Ave. S.W.; 403-266-7171
Although no longer the tallest structure on the Calgary skyline (it now ranks third), no one else can offer a full-city view like this. Prepare to see all four corners of our city as the revolving restaurant makes one complete go-around approximately every 45 minutes while you devour deliciously classic Canadian cuisine of beef, game and fish.
- Water feature: River Cafe
Prince's Island Park; 403-261-7670; www.river-cafe.com
Although just a stone's throw from the frenzied hub of downtown, this fine eatery sets the mood by making diners cross the bridge over the Bow River to get to its doors. Surrounded by trees and the soothing sights and sounds of the river to the right, you're tempted to take a quick catnap between courses.
- Garden oasis: The Rouge
1240 8 Ave. S.E.; 403-531-2767; www.rougecalgary.com
A cosmopolitan gathering place for discerning foodies, the global with French influence food is matched step for step by the glorious garden attached to the restaurant's right side. Spanning the length of six city lots, it is filled a plenty with trees, fragrant blooms and native shrubs for a sanctuary vibe.
- Use of a ski jump: Naturbahn Teahouse
88 Canada Olympic Rd. S.W.; 403-247-5452
Although a casual interior atmosphere, there is nothing mundane about the view from the top of this Olympic ski jump. Overlooking east Calgary, the Canadian-style restaurant also commands views of the Rocky Mountains to the west.
by Michaelle LeManne