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If you’re planning a visit to Alberta, Canada, then I’m sure Banff is high on your list of must-visit places. Banff National Park is a world-renowned travel destination but what many might not know is the town of Banff has plenty to offer its guests, as well. Nestled in an awe-inspiring backdrop, this resort town is certainly one that will pull you outdoors.
What many don’t know is that his area is home to some of the best restaurants in the country and, I mean, who can resist the chance to eat some of the best cuisine in the Canadian Rockies? Regardless of whether you are looking for a quick brunch or a fine dining experience, Banff has a lot of great options.
Here are 26 delicious restaurants you’ll only find in Banff. Get ready to enjoy a side of mountain views with your meal. The only problem, it’ll certainly leave you wanting seconds!
1. Eden
Price: $$$$
Address: 300 Mountain Ave, Banff
Although in Banff we’re far from French-speaking Quebec, they still know a thing or two about French cuisine. For one of the best French restaurants in the province, you won’t want to miss out on dining at Eden.
Located inside the Rimrock Resort Hotel, it has some of the top French food in the area, and the delicious menu options will be unlike anything you have ever tried before. In addition, it has an extensive wine list that has been put together by professionals. They would be happy to make pairing recommendations. If you are looking for a five-star dining experience, this is the place to go.
2. Whitebark Cafe
Price: $
Address: 401 Banff Avenue, Banff
Are you looking for a fresh cup of coffee with just a small bite to eat? If so, head directly to Whitebark Cafe. Many people believe that this is the best coffee shop in the region. There are plenty of fair trade coffee options, and you can try some delicious pastries. This includes vegan and gluten-free options.
While not technically a restaurant and certainly a coffee shop instead, for those that want something light and just to keep you energized between meals, we couldn’t overlook mentioning this exceptional cafe.
3. The Bison
Price: $$$
Address: 211 Bear Street, Banff
If you are looking for a restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table food, this is definitely the place to go. The Bison has plenty of staples that you will love but it also has a rotating menu that focuses on seasonal specialties. Although known for its dinner menu, if you’re looking for a fantastic Sunday brunch, The Bison is a great choice.
This restaurant has won a wide variety of awards, so if you don’t trust us, you can trust the experts! If you’re of drinking age, be sure to match your meal with one of their unique cocktails.
4. Park Distillery
Price: $$
Address: 219 Banff Avenue, Banff
Doubling as a distillery and restaurant, Park Distillery claims to uphold the “Spirit of Banff.” Here you’ll be able to enjoy spirits distilled with local mountain water and campfire-inspired meals. It has a nice rustic interior and an ambiance where you can still enjoy the fresh mountain air. Even in the summer, you’ll stay cool while eating and drinking here.
You will immediately feel like you are camping but the food is far better than anything I’ve prepared on a fire. Regardless of whether you are looking for baked beans, tofu bowls, or campfire ribs, I suggest you order a handful of plates to share amongst yourselves. Just be sure to wash it down with a cocktail!
5. Hello Sunshine
Price: $$
Address: 208 Wolf St #101, Banff
If you are interested in some sushi, then you should check out Hello Sunshine. It is located right in the heart of town and is known for its retro, funky interior. You can even eat inside of a private karaoke room, meaning you can eat, drink, and sing to your heart’s content without worrying about any others outside of your group watching.
It is a very small restaurant, so you should definitely make some reservations ahead of time. If you are truly in the mood for sushi, try an 8-course Omakase menu!
6. Saffron Bistro
Price: $
Address: 205 Wolf Street, Banff
Saffron Bistro is one of the most affordable restaurants in Banff. Just next door to Hello Sunshine, it’ll feel like a world away. Saffron Bistro is the spot to go if you’re in the mood for Indian food, and I don’t know about you, but Indian food always hits the spot for me. They have plenty of vegetarian and meat options on the menu so everyone should find something they’ll enjoy.
It’s a great place to hang out with your family members and friends. There is typically a great deal at lunch, but it is also open for dinner.
7. Magpie and Stump
Price: $$
Address: 203 Caribou Street
If you are visiting Banff, you might be a long way from Mexico; however, you can still enjoy some delicious Mexican food at Magpie and Stump. It is one of the best places for a rustic, cantina vibe. There are plenty of cerveza options you can try after you’re done skiing or hiking for the day. Or, you may want to swing by for a meal before you go snowshoeing to make sure you have plenty of energy for your exercise.
There is an amazing rooftop patio that will give you some cool views that you can enjoy while you sip fresh margaritas and munch on a variety of tacos. It is crowded during the summer, so you may want to make a reservation ahead of time.
8. Farm and Fire
Price: $$$
Address: 333 Banff Avenue, Banff
This is another restaurant you’ll certainly want to try if you’re interested in farm-to-table food. Farm and Fire is open for brunch and dinner. Don’t let farm-to-table mislead you into thinking that means they have a limited menu. You’ll be happy to know they have a large and diverse menu year-round. A few fan favorites are the rotisserie chicken or the fried brussel sprouts.
The interior is beautiful, and the full-service bar is exquisite. You can find it located in the Elk & Avenue Hotel.
9. High Rollers
Price: $
Address: 110 Banff Avenue, Banff
Are you in the mood for pizza? If so, you will want to check out High Rollers. Yes, this is a place where you can go bowling, which usually isn’t synonymous with great food, but High Rollers is definitely the exception. Bowling is one of the most popular activities in the local area, particularly when it is raining outside.
You can enjoy some delicious wings, draft beer, and New York-style pizza. This is a great way to enjoy some exceptional food while also hanging out with family members and friends.
10. Storm Mountain Lodge
Price: $$
Address: Highway 93 South near Banff National Park
If you are planning on visiting Banff National Park, then you should check out the Storm Mountain Lodge. The restaurant is known for its mouth-watering food and cozy ambiance. You can choose between eating a full meal in the dining room or opt for a lighter selection of food in the lounge. Regardless of which style of meal you’re after, be sure to try their fresh sourdough bread. That alone will make the trip worth it!
The menu changes depending on the time of year you go, so be sure to take a look at the website to learn more. You should also try to make a reservation ahead of time, as it is one of the most popular restaurants in the region.
11. Sushi House Banff
Price: $
Address: 304 Caribou Street, Banff
Are you looking for a sushi train? If so, you need to swing by Sushi House Banff. You’ll feel as though you’ve stumbled into a secret at this small, hole-in-the-wall restaurant. It isn’t exactly a place that is known for its ambiance, but it is the perfect place to go if you have kids who need to be entertained as they eat. Or, if you just really love sushi and want to eat your fill at a great price!
The staff is friendly, the train looks like it was made out of toys, and the sushi is always cheap. You can eat as much as you want, so don’t hesitate to plan one of your meals here.
12. The Grizzly House
Price: $$$
Address: 207 Banff Avenue, Banff
The Grizzly House is a restaurant that is known as a delicious steakhouse and fondue joint. It has a bit of a quirky feel to it, which you will immediately notice when you pull up outside. To add to the fun, the food is always delicious.
The meat is exceptional, and you can try everything from fresh beef to ostrich and from elk to bison. The waitstaff will cook the food right at your table. Just be sure to save some room in your stomach to finish off your meal with a fondue made out of Toblerone chocolate.
13. Ramen Arashi
Price: $
Address: 215 Banff Avenue, Banff
It took some time for Banff to get a ramen restaurant, but Ramen Arashi is the place to go. You can find it located in the Sundance Mall on the second floor. It is very inexpensive, you have plenty of options from which to choose, and the food is always fresh.
It definitely fills up during lunchtime, but you should never have to wait long for your food. This is the perfect place to do some shopping and warm up when the weather gets cold during the winter.
14. The Maple Leaf Grill and Lounge
Price: $$$
Address: 137 Banff Avenue, Banff
The Maple Leaf Grill and Lounge is one of the most popular restaurants in the local area. It serves a wide variety of Canadian dishes, and all of the ingredients are local to Alberta. This includes everything from the maple Dijon salmon to the beef ribeye.
Steaks are the specialty at this restaurant, but they have a wide variety of seafood towers as well. Don’t forget to take a look at the wine list, as you match some delicious drinks with your meal.
15. The Eddie Burger Bar
Price: $$
Address: 137 Banff Avenue, Banff
If you find that you are exceptionally hungry, then Eddie Burger Bar is the place to go. The burgers are absolutely humongous, and the milkshakes are delicious. It is a perfect place to go if you are looking for a way to feed a crowd.
The Eddie Burger Bar is known for serving some of the best burgers in town. It has a bit of a bar feel to it and is a great place to sit back and watch the game while you eat. Thinking about swinging by if you are looking for a burger that is as big as your face.
16. Banff Ave Brewing Co.
Price: $
Address: 110 Banff Avenue, Banff
There are plenty of delicious breweries in the local area but Banff Ave Brewing Co. is definitely one of the best. Even though you can certainly enjoy some bar food, the beer is truly what is impressive.
It is a two-story bar that has an unprecedented number of taps, and they have plenty of recommendations if you are looking for something that combines beer with some bar food. If you want to spend time on their outdoor patio, get there early.
17. Saltlik
Price: $$$
Address: 221 Bear Street, Banff
It should come as no surprise that there is no shortage of steakhouses in the local area. If you are looking for one of the best, you should check out Saltlik. It is a bit pricey but well worth it for a delicious steak dinner. It’s also a great location for a night out.
All of their meat is certified Angus beef and they have plenty of delicious sides from which to choose from. Two of the most popular choices are lobster mashed potatoes and truffle mac and cheese. It has a modern, rustic interior, and you have plenty of nice cocktails to pair with your meal.
18. Nourish Bistro
Price: $$
Address: 211 Bear Street, Banff
Even though Alberta is known for its fresh meat, there are also plenty of delicious vegetarian dishes. That is the specialty of Nourish Bistro. Their vegetarian food also includes some options that are vegan, gluten-free, or raw, depending on what you are looking for.
There is also a delicious cocktail menu that serves a variety of drinks. Consider checking out this restaurant if you are looking for something a bit different.
19. Balkan Restaurant
Price: $$
Address: 120 Banff Ave, Banff
If you are looking for Greek food, Balkan Restaurant is one of the best places to check out. All of your usual three favorites are on the menu, including Greek salad, homemade pita bread, and baklava.
This is a great restaurant if you are looking for an affordable option for a large group. In addition, they have themed dining experiences throughout the year, so you may want to take a look at the calendar or call in advance.
20. Chuck’s Steakhouse
Price: $$$$
Address: 101 Banff Ave, Banff
Chuck’s Steakhouse is easily one of the top options in the area. It’s in a prime location, right in the center of town, and it has amazing decor. The exposed wood is perfect for the dining theme, and you can enjoy some plush, leather seating as you eat. Of course, the food is top-notch, and the price is a reflection of that.
You have plenty of cuts of meat from which to choose, and there are lots of sides available as well. You should also consider pairing your dish with one of the largest wine lists in the area. Consider giving this restaurant a try.
21. Sky Bistro
Price: $$
Address: 100 Mountain Ave, Banff
If you are looking for the best views in the region, this is the place to go. Given the name, Sky Bistro, they certainly deliver on what they promise: great views and great food. It is a farm-to-summit restaurant, which means that you will have a beautiful view of the surrounding mountain range.
You can find this restaurant at the Banff Gondola Summit, and it promises to give you a panoramic view of the region. They also have some specialty dining experiences, so if you want to elevate your experience, consider checking them out.
22. Three Ravens Restaurant and Wine Bar
Price: $$$
Address: 107 Tunnel Mountain Drive, Banff
Three Ravens Restaurant and Wine Bar is one of the top bistros in the area. It is known for its great service, beautiful views, and extensive food list. It also has a very long line list, so you should have no shortage of options if you decide to swing by.
It is a great place to spend time with friends or go out on a romantic date with your significant other. The restaurant is located inside the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity so before or after dinner, we suggest taking a walk around the grounds.
23. Three Bears Restaurant
Price: $$
Address: 205 Bear Street, Banff
If you need a combination brewery and restaurant, you should check out Three Bears Restaurant. This is a restaurant that is the perfect place to unwind after you spend a long day wandering around the local hiking trails.
The beer is always fresh, they have plenty of bar eats, and you can hang out and chat with your friends. It’s a very relaxing, unpretentious place to eat.
24. Tooloulous
Price: $$
Address: 204 Caribou Street, Banff
Now, this restaurant might have a name that is very difficult to pronounce, but the food at Tooloulous is absolutely amazing. There are not a lot of people who expect to find Cajun food as they visit the Canadian Rockies, but this is one of the best places to go if you’re in the mood for us.
If you like comfort food and spicy food, this is not a restaurant you will want to miss. It even has a great breakfast menu if you want to start your day with something hearty.
25. Shoku Izakaya
Price: $$$
Address: 304 Caribou Street, Banff
If you’re in the mood for authentic Japanese food, this is the spot for you! At Shoku Izakaya, they serve both drinks and a variety of plates. From steamed buns to sushi, they do go outside of the realm of what is strictly Japanese and include some menu items from other places in Asia, as well. This is a popular place for people to go after work, and you can enjoy some fresh sake, some chicken yakitori, or even some takoyaki.
The restaurant does not take reservations, and it is very popular. Therefore, you may want to consider showing up early if you want to guarantee that you can get a seat.
26. The Waldhaus Restaurant
Price: $$$
Address: 405 Spray Ave, Banff
If fondue is what you are looking for, then Banff Springs is the place to go. That is where you will find The Waldhaus Restaurant, situated in the Banff Springs Hotel. There is a delicious Alpine cheese fondue that you may want to explore, and they have a long drink list as well.
Photo Credit: Natulive Canada via Flickr CC2.0
