Canada's Best 2026 list of the nation's top 100 restaurants has been unveiled, and Calgary is well represented with six establishments earning spots on the prestigious ranking. These dining destinations highlight the city's vibrant and diverse culinary scene, offering everything from intimate speakeasies to rustic Italian taverns and sustainable riverfront dining.
Eight Leads Calgary's Contingent
Securing the highest position for Calgary is Eight, which landed at number nine. This modern, speakeasy-style restaurant offers a unique experience that begins with a call from an ordinary white phone in the lobby of the Alt Hotel in East Village. Guests are then escorted through a maintenance hallway to the After Eight Parlour for pre-dinner cocktails and snacks before entering a discreet dining room with only eight stools. With service available just four nights a week, dining at Eight is a coveted experience. Each dish is accompanied by an engaging backstory and draws influence from Japanese cuisine and Canada's multicultural identity. Restaurateur Keegan Ferguson describes Eight as one of Canada's most focused and considered dining experiences. It is located at 631 Confluence Way S.E.
Dopo: Rustic Italian Charm
Dopo claimed the 28th spot on the list, offering rustic fare in a warm, below-ground Tuscan tavern. Evolving from the beloved Calgary restaurant D.O.P., which was demolished, Dopo is viewed by its operators as a relative of its predecessor. The restaurant's website states, 'DOPO is where new experiences meet familiar comfort.' The menu features traditional Italian cuisine with a modern twist. Dopo is situated in Marda Loop at 1907 34th Ave. S.W., unit 10.
River Café: Sustainable Excellence
River Café, ranked 42nd, is nestled in Prince's Island Park and prides itself on using exclusively Canadian and Albertan ingredients. Beyond local sourcing, the restaurant emphasizes sustainability in food sourcing, preparation, and operations. It has eliminated bottled water, reduces energy and water consumption, reuses materials, and composts. River Café is located at 25 Prince's Island Park.
Bar Gigi: Intimate and Creative
Bar Gigi, at number 65, is known for being one of Calgary's toughest reservations to secure, with only 20 seats. It offers a tightly edited selection of creative, shareable plates, with main courses that evolve seasonally and showcase expertly prepared fish and Alberta beef. Bar Gigi is located at 336 9th Ave. N.E.
Gatsby's: A Transportive Fine Dining Experience
Gatsby's placed 74th, offering a fine dining destination that celebrates craftsmanship, storytelling, and sensory discovery. Every detail, from drink pairings to atmosphere and personalized service, is designed to evoke elegance. Guests can choose from a set-menu experience with six or nine courses, or a signature three-course menu. Gatsby's is located at 524 10th Ave. S.W.
Judging Process
The Canada's Best list is compiled by 160 voting judges, including culinary enthusiasts, food writers, critics, chefs, restaurateurs, and other food-service professionals. Judges submit their top 10 restaurant experiences from the previous year, ranking them based on service, decor, wine selection, and food quality. Votes are weighted proportionally by province and region. According to Canada's Best, the 2026 list accurately measures which restaurants excelled in 2025, making them great dining choices today.
