When visiting Alberta, be sure to try the region's unique blend of cowboy culture, indigenous influences, and modern Canadian cuisine, with must-try dishes like Bannock, Pemmican, and Alberta Beef.
Quick Facts
Food Culture Overview
Alberta's cuisine is defined by its rich ranching history, with beef being a staple in many dishes. The region's indigenous communities, such as the Cree and Blackfoot, have also had a significant influence on the local cuisine, with dishes like Bannock and Pemmican being staples. The province's location in western Canada also means that it has been shaped by European settlement, with many restaurants serving traditional dishes like Roast Beef and Mashed Potatoes. Regional variations also exist, with the city of Calgary being known for its cowboy culture and the city of Edmonton being known for its indigenous cuisine.
The province's fertile soil and vast prairies also make it an ideal place for farming, with many local ingredients like wheat, canola, and saskatoon berries being used in many dishes. The region's many lakes and rivers also provide an abundance of fish and game, which are often featured on menus throughout the province. Overall, Alberta's cuisine is a unique blend of traditional and modern dishes, with a focus on local ingredients and bold flavors.
In recent years, Alberta's food scene has also become more diverse, with many restaurants serving international cuisine like Korean BBQ and Indian curries. This diversity has helped to create a vibrant and exciting food culture, with many options available for visitors to try. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Alberta Beef or something more exotic, there's something for everyone in Alberta.
Must-Try Dishes
| Dish | Type | Description | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bannock | Bread | A type of fried bread that is a staple in many indigenous communities | Indigenous restaurants and cafes throughout the province |
| Pemmican | Snack | A high-energy snack made from rendered fat and dried meat | Outdoor gear stores and some restaurants |
| Alberta Beef | Meat | A type of beef that is known for its tenderness and rich flavor | Steakhouses and restaurants throughout the province |
| Saskatoon Berry Pie | Dessert | A type of pie made from saskatoon berries, which are native to the prairies | Bakeries and cafes throughout the province |
| Roast Beef | Meat | A traditional dish made from slow-cooked beef, often served with mashed potatoes and vegetables | Restaurants and pubs throughout the province |
| Bison Burgers | Meat | A type of burger made from bison meat, which is leaner and more flavorful than beef | Restaurants and cafes throughout the province |
| Calgary-Style Ginger Beef | Meat | A type of stir-fry made from beef, ginger, and vegetables, which is a popular dish in Calgary | Chinese restaurants in Calgary |
| Perogies | Pasta | A type of dumpling that is filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, which is a popular dish in many Ukrainian restaurants | Ukrainian restaurants throughout the province |
| Smoked Fish | Fish | A type of fish that is smoked to preserve it, often served as an appetizer or snack | Fish markets and restaurants throughout the province |
| Cowboy Coffee | Beverage | A type of coffee that is made from strong brewed coffee, often served in a tin cup | Cowboy-themed restaurants and cafes |
Street Food & Snacks
- Pemmican: a high-energy snack made from rendered fat and dried meat, typically costs $5-$10 USD
- Bannock: a type of fried bread that is a staple in many indigenous communities, typically costs $3-$5 USD
- Saskatoon Berry Tarts: a type of pastry filled with saskatoon berries, typically costs $5-$10 USD
- Beef Jerky: a type of dried meat that is a popular snack, typically costs $5-$10 USD
- Fried Pickles: a type of snack made from dill pickles that are breaded and fried, typically costs $5-$10 USD
- Churros: a type of fried dough pastry that is often coated in cinnamon sugar, typically costs $5-$10 USD
- Kettle Corn: a type of snack made from popcorn that is flavored with a sweet and salty seasoning, typically costs $3-$5 USD
- Funnel Cakes: a type of fried dough pastry that is often topped with powdered sugar, typically costs $5-$10 USD
Drinks
- Cowboy Coffee: a type of coffee that is made from strong brewed coffee, often served in a tin cup
- Alberta Craft Beer: a type of beer that is made from local ingredients and brewed in small batches
- Saskatoon Berry Smoothie: a type of smoothie made from saskatoon berries, yogurt, and milk
- Maple Syrup Latte: a type of latte made from maple syrup, espresso, and milk
- Iced Tea with Lemon: a type of tea that is made from brewed tea, lemon juice, and ice
- Fresh-Squeezed Lemonade: a type of lemonade that is made from fresh lemons, sugar, and water
Dining Customs
- Tipping: it is customary to tip 15% to 20% of the total bill at restaurants
- Reservations: it is recommended to make reservations at popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Dress Code: the dress code varies depending on the restaurant, but it is generally casual in most places
- Table Manners: it is customary to keep your hands visible on the table and to not leave the table until everyone is finished eating
- Food Sharing: it is common to share food with others at the table, especially in indigenous communities
- Trying New Foods: it is encouraged to try new foods and flavors, especially when visiting local restaurants and cafes
Where to Eat
- Restaurants: there are many restaurants throughout the province that serve a variety of cuisine, from traditional Alberta Beef to international dishes like Korean BBQ
- Cafes: there are many cafes throughout the province that serve coffee, pastries, and light meals
- Food Trucks: there are many food trucks throughout the province that serve a variety of cuisine, from Tacos to BBQ
- Markets: there are many markets throughout the province that sell local ingredients and prepared foods, such as Farmers' Markets and Artisan Markets
- Food Courts: there are many food courts throughout the province that offer a variety of cuisine, from Chinese Food to Indian Curries
Food Markets & Food Experiences
- Calgary Farmers' Market: a market that sells local ingredients and prepared foods, located in Calgary
- Edmonton Food Bank Farm: a farm that grows fresh produce for the local food bank, located in Edmonton
- Banff Farmers' Market: a market that sells local ingredients and prepared foods, located in Banff
- Jasper Farmers' Market: a market that sells local ingredients and prepared foods, located in Jasper
- Saskatoon Berry Festival: a festival that celebrates the saskatoon berry, located in various locations throughout the province