January is quickly coming to an end, and that means that the romantic month of February is almost upon us. Any Valentine's Day pro will have already made reservations and planned out the perfect date for them and their significant other. If you're new to celebrating the holiday, though, have no fear, you've got plenty of time to prepare!
Valentine's Day can be challenging for some people, especially those who have never really celebrated with someone special before. Some people may feel the pressure to go all out and spend ridiculous amounts of money, or plan a super unique, romantic date with a bunch of cool activities for the both of you to enjoy.
If you're lacking an original, creative idea, there's never any shame in taking your date out for a romantic dinner, and lucky for us, Calgary just so happens to be full of elegant, classy spots that will keep your stomach and your date satisfied. Whether you're looking to keep it traditional with some Modern European cuisine, or transport yourself out of the city with some Moroccan or Greek cuisine, you've got no shortage of options.
Of course, some places may be all booked up already, but that doesn't mean you've lost all hope. Pick a few favourites from our list, and call around until you've secured plans to treat your special someone to what they deserve. Even if you don't have a romantic interest in your life this year, you can always plan something fun and sweet to do with your best friend!
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River Cafe
Where: 25 Prince's Island Park // Eau Claire
@maddie_dickinsonnembedded via
@dinnerwithjulieType: Canadian
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: River Cafe is a great casual, but still romantic spot. They offer great brunch and dinner, and the cafe boasts beautiful views of Prince's Island Park that will set the perfect mood for your Valentine's date.
Blink Restaurant & Bar
Where: 111 8 Ave SW // Downtown
@mel_elvin
@alexraemacType: French
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: Blink is widely known as a great special-occasion spot around Calgary, and what occasion is more special than V-Day? The delicious French cuisine will make you feel as if you've transported to Paris for the night.
Cilantro
Where: 338 17 Ave SW // Downtown
@cilantro17thave
Type: Canadian
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: Cilantro is a cozy, elegant spot located in Downtown Calgary. You are your date can enjoy a delicious, romantic meal, and then later take a stroll down Stephen Ave. Popular dishes include the Rack of Lamb and the Elk Gnocchi.
Big Fish
Where: 1112 Edmonton Trail NE // Crescent Heights
@suntarazu
@bigfishcalgaryType: Seafood
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: If your date is one for seafood, Big Fish is where you'll want to find yourself this Valentine's Day. Prices are very affordable, service is impeccable, and the atmosphere is very comfortable and welcoming.
Next Door Wine Bar
Where: 8330 Macleod Trail SE // Acadia
@nextdooryyc
Type: Wine and Tapas
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Wine Bars are the perfect classy Valentine's date. Next Door has an amazing menu; favourites include the Chefs Charcuterie Board and the Flaming Cheese and Shrimp.
Deane House
Where: 806 9 Ave SE // Downtown
@deanehouseyyc
@lisagenestlovesType: Canadian
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Not only is Deane house super affordable, it's also got a very elegant, classy ambiance that will make you forget you're in Calgary. They're perfect for brunch, or a late dinner, no matter what time you plan on treating your date.
Escoba Bistro & Wine Bar
Where: 624 8 Ave SW // Downtown
@escobabistro
@vanessaparisi_xType: Canadian, Wine Bar
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: Yet another YYC Wine Bar to add to your date night list. Escoba has an astounding appetizer menu for you to choose from, with everything from Crab Cakes to Risotto Balls. They interior is nicely decorated, and of course, they have their signature wine cork wall which makes for super cool pictures.
Pigeonhole
Where: 306 17 Ave SW // Downtown
@el_foodspy
@asiasoloType: Cocktail/Wine Bar, Canadian
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Small, shareable plates are what's on the menu at Pigeonhole. The open kitchen is a super cool concept, and allows the two of you to watch your romantic dinner being prepared. Many recommend the Charred Cabbage and the Grilled Duck Leg.
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Modern Steak
Where: 107 10A Street NW // Kensington
@modernsteakca
Type: Steakhouse
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: This is easily one of the coolest spots to grab a very fancy meal in Calgary. Modern Steakhouse cares a ton about your customer experience, and so they'll definitely ensure that your Valentine's Day is one to remember. It may be pricey, but the cost is worth the quality.
Sultan's Tent
Where: 4 14 Street NW // Kensington
@robegiene
@mis_sofiyaType: Moroccan
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: Transport yourself to Morocco this Valentine's Day. Sultan's Tent is extravagantly decorated, the drapes separating each booth give you a unique kind of intimate experience. The service and food are both phenomenal.
Cassis Bistro
Where: 2505 17 Ave SW // Downtown
@eeeinah
@chefstephbayerType: French
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: Cassis has been described my frequent visitors as "the true French experience in YYC", and if you can't go to Paris this Valentine's Day, of course you want the next best thing. Not only is the decor beautiful and elegant, but the menu is also delicious.
anew Table
Where: 3574 Garrison Gate SW // Marda Loop
@anewtable
Type: French
Price: 💸💸💸💸
Why you should go: Talk about going all out. If you want to really impress your date this year, bring them to anew Table. This restaurant is well known all over the city, and is constantly winning awards. After dinner, you can take a stroll around Marda Loop.
Buon Giorno Ristorante Italiano
Where: 823 17 Ave SW // Downtown
@freshy_t_
@n_chuiType: Italian
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Italian is always a romantic choice, and Buon Giorno is the perfect spot. Located conveniently on 17th Ave, this spot is always serving up delicious pasta and seafood dishes. The atmosphere is relaxed and cozy, perfect for date night.
Cleaver
Where: 524 17 Ave SW // Downtown
@lovegastrogirl
@cleavercalgaryType: Modern European
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Cleaver is known for being a smaller Calgary restaurant, but that just makes it much more intimate. The decor is bright and cheery, setting a light and easy mood for your date. Their dinner menu is great, but their dessert menu is to die for; make sure you try the Salted Caramel Fondue.
Shibuya Izakaya
Where: 449 16 Ave NE // Crescent Heights
@k_kavis
@jaygent_Type: Japanese, Sushi/Tapa Bar
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: There's no question that sushi is a favourite among many Calgarians, so why not enjoy some this coming Valentine's Day? Shibuya Izakaya designs beautiful, well decorated plates that taste even better than they look.
Murrieta's Bar & Grill
Where: 808 1 Street SW // Stephen Ave
@murrietas_calgaryembedded via
@fiascogelatoType: Wine Bar, Seafood, Steakhouse
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: Another Stephen Ave hot spot, Murrieta's very well known for having a diverse and delicious menu. They have a low-lit, nicely decorated interior, which helps set the mood for a great date night. Menu favourites include Seafood Hot Pot and the Lamb Burger.
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La Brezza Ristorante
Where: 990 1 Ave NE // Bridgeland
@carlenetimmersyycrealestateembedded via
@labrezza_yycType: Italian
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: This cozy, welcoming restaurant will make you feel like you're on a date in Little Italy. The owner has been known to stop by tables and make friendly conversation with diners, and they're always cooking up top quality, authentic Italian dishes.
The Embarcadero Wine & Oyster Bar
Where: 208 17 Ave SE // Downtown
@cannibal_toast
@embarcaderooysterbarembedded via
Type: Seafood, Wine Bar
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: The delicious, fresh seafood always being served up at this spot will make you feel as if you're dining right beside the ocean. The service is known for being outstanding, and the menu has something that everyone will enjoy.
Vin Room
Where: 2310 4 Street SW // Mission
@juiceimports
@lunch_and_lashesType: Tapa/Wine Bar
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: The Vin Room is a very welcoming restaurant, always providing great service so that you have the best experience possible. You and your date can build your own charcuterie board, and taste a variety of amazing wines with your meal.
Q Haute Cuisine
Where: 100 La Caille Pl SW // Downtown
@qhautecuisineyyc
@sooupdoggType: French
Price: 💸💸💸💸
Why you should go: Easily one of the classiest spots in Calgary, your date is sure to be impressed if you take them here. It is generally a quiet spot, which is perfect for date night, so the two of you can enjoy your dinner and talk in peace. The plates are elaborately designed and delicious.
Vero Bistro Moderne
Where: 209 10 Street NW // Kensington
@hunchforbrunchyycembedded via
@tnphaamType: Italian, French
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: Vero Bistro is elegantly decorated, the bright red seats are super eye-catching, and set a great, exciting mood for you and your date. You can enjoy an amazing Valentine's brunch or dinner here.
The Living Room Restaurant
Where: 514 17 Ave SW // Downtown
@andres.caparros
@calgaryismType: French, Italian, Canadian
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: The Living Room is just as cozy as it sounds, making it the perfect choice for your Valentine's Day. They have an amazing wine menu for you to choose from, and the Cheese Fondue is highly recommended.
Brasserie
Where: 1131 Kensington Road NW // Kensington
@emilymarieaudy
Type: Brasserie
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Kensington is easily one of the best spots to bring a date in Calgary. Enjoy some delicious eats at Brasserie, then afterwards, take a walk around the neighbourhood and explore all the fun shops and sights.
Carver's Steakhouse
Where: 2620 32 Ave NE // Northeast
@llucyrose
@craig.gillisType: Steakhouse
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: If you find yourself in NE Calgary this Valentine's Day, you'll definitely want to make a trip to Carver's. It has a modern, dark, cozy atmosphere that will set the perfect mood for your date. Meals are cooked table side, which is a super unique experience.
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The Lake House
Where: 747 Lake Bonavista Drive SE // Lake Bonavista
@thelakehouseyyc
Type: Canadian
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: The Lake House is a very popular YYC wedding destination, so you already know it fits the definition of "romantic". It's always gorgeously decorated, with elaborate table settings and the most amazing menu for you and your date to enjoy.
Santorini Greek Taverna
Where: 1502 Centre Street NE // Centre Street
@mallorymelissa
@ledinozavreType: Greek
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: If you love Opa as much as I do, then you'll be absolutely obsessed with Santorini. This spot is like a little slice of Greece, right here in Calgary. The menu is very traditional and flavourful; exactly what you'd expect from amazing Greek food.
Alloy
Where: 220 42 Ave SE // Alyth-Bonnybrook-Manchester
@dwallace_23
@rogeliochefType: European, Fusion
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: Alloy is a spot that really has it all; an impressive wine list, high quality ingredients, upscale dishes, and amazing flavour. Popular recommendations include the Lobster Tempura and the Ahi Tuna Tartar.
Bonterra Trattoria
Where: 1016 8 Street SW // Beltline
@bonterracalgary
@fiascogelatoType: Italian
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: Bonterra is well known as one of the best Italian spots in the city, and of course, your date deserves the best. Get extra cozy by the fireplace while you enjoy a tasty, authentic Italian meal.
Oceana Seafood Steakhouse & Bar
Where: 101 7 Street SW // Downtown
@debraross7
@thespeshyycType: Seafood, Steakhouse
Price: 💸💸💸💸
Why you should go: This restaurant is the embodiment of elegance. The staff provides amazing service, the restaurant has something for everyone, and the atmosphere is light, welcoming, and beautifully decorated; all of these things make it well worth the cost.
Pasquales
Where: 6806 MacLeod Trail SE // Kingsland
@southtrailchiropracticembedded via
@daisyho56Type: Italian, Steakhouse, Wine Bar
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: If great service and big portions are important to you, you'll want to make reservations for Pasquales on MacLeod this coming Valentine's Day. This spot also has very reasonable prices, and a diverse menu that will satisfy anyone.
Open Sesame
Where: 6920 MacLeod Trail S // Kingsland
@opensesameyyc
Type: Asian Fusion, Japanese, Wine Bar
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Open Sesame is perfectly for the casual couple. The atmosphere is relaxed and fun, the drink menu is incredible, and the decor is absolutely stunning. Menu favourites include the Build Your Own Stir Fry and the Chocolate Spring Rolls for dessert.
Winebar
Where: 1131 Kensington Road NW // Kensington
@hayleyj666
@wtigleyType: Tapa/Wine Bar
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Again, Kensington is a great place for a date, so why pass up the opportunity to dine there? Winebar is exactly what it sounds like; a class little spot to enjoy some reasonably priced, delicious eats including Charcuterie Boards and Cheese Fondue.
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Caesar's Steak House
Where: 512 4 Ave SW // Downtown
@yutakadesu17
@bgnhkType: Steakhouse
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: Talk about boujee. Caesar's is always an excellent choice for steak in Calgary, not only for the amazing menu, but also for the attentive service and romantic atmosphere.
Añejo Restaurant
Where: 2116 4 Street SW // Downtown
@effshack
@anejoyycType: Mexican
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: You don't have to limit your Mexican experience to Taco Bell. Añejo is a bar-style restaurant with incredible drinks; especially perfect for all you tequila drinkers. Stop in this Valentine's Day for some tacos with your date!
Carino Riserva
Where: 2206 4 Street SW // Downtown
@hakushondaimao
@lovely_kimaType: Japanese, Italian
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: Carino is a small, intimate spot, so you'll definitely want to make reservations. We've heard that everything on the menu is incredible, and if the owner is around, you can ask him to pick the perfect wine pairing for your dish.
Charbar
Where: 618 Confluence Way SE // East Village
@d_beeee
@lotsofmeType: Seafood, Argentine, Canadian
Price: 💸💸
Why you should go: Charbar is the perfect spot for your Valentine's Day brunch. They've got an amazing variety of sweet and savoury treats for you to enjoy, no matter your preference. Prices are super affordable, and service is always great.
Bolero
Where: 6920 MacLeod Trail S // Kingsland
@boleroyyc
Type: Barbecue, Brazilian
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: It may be the middle of winter, but there's no reason you can't enjoy a delicious BBQ. Bolero offers some amazing dishes, including Garlic Parmesan Striploin and Filet Mignon all in a well-decorated, classy, romantic atmosphere.
Sky 360
Where: 101 9 Ave SW // Stephen Avenue
@trissy.nguyen
@chef_amythType: European, Canadian
Price: 💸💸💸
Why you should go: Of course, every Calgarian knows that Sky 360 is one of the most romantic spots in the city, no matter what day of the year. What better way to spend your Valentine's Day than enjoying a delicious dinner with a gorgeous view of the city.