Chef-crafted gourmet meals AND the chance to try multiple cuisines at once under one roof! Surely, we can’t be the only ones in love with this whole food hall trend the Calgary food scene is currently witnessing?! C’mon, it brings together the two best parts of eating out… quality and variety. And the newest cool kid on the block, aka food hall at The District, seems to be excelling at both.
In the rare event (like living off the grid or under a cave) that you still haven’t seen, heard or read about this upgrade of the Beltline streetscape, the IBM corporate park underwent a major revamp. It’s now The District at Beltline and is posing as the new creative hub.
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Matching the lively vibe of this new culture-rich urban space is its food hall which is home to six renowned local chefs. We checked out the six gourmet vendors you’ll find in the culinary paradise. And you can’t call yourself a true foodie until you’ve tried ‘em all!
#1 Takori
Chef Duncan Ly is a master of fusion cuisine, after all, he was the one that introduced us to quite a few “Foreign Concepts”. So Takori at The District shouldn’t come as a surprise when we say you’ll get fusion at its finest. The restaurant is inspired by the South Korean street food tents that are a great place to hang out with friends. Only Takori is indoors and it is a Korean-Mexican fusion. So, you can expect a seriously relaxed vibe, an incredible menu including some gems from their Avenida location (think the likes of char sui pork tacos and bulgogi beef briskets) and an equally exciting selection of drinks.
#2 Modern Burger
Modern Burger is no stranger to the YYC food scene. Their gourmet burgers are simply to die for. They promise to use only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. And if you haven’t tried one, trust us, you can taste the freshness in every bite. It’s bloody brilliant! Oh, and FYI, their plant-based burgers are pretty delicious too.
#3 Oishidesu Ramen Shack
Few meals can soothe your stomach and your soul quite like a steamy bowl of noodle soup. And this family-run business has all the authentic Japanese flavours you need to curb your ramen craving. While the resto is popular for its incredible ramen (it is after all a ramen shack), their rice bowls are just as satisfying.
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#4 Shrub Bloom
Shrub Bloom is chef Adam Ryan’s answer to anyone who’s ever questioned the deliciousness of vegetarian food. From classics like the Quinoa + Lovage Tabbouleh to creative combos like Eggplant Parm on a Bun, you’ll find plenty of drool-worthy delicacies. And don’t forget to try out their smoothies. Our reco: Strawberry Maple.
#5 Greenfish
This sushi lover’s heaven is an offering by two renowned culinary masterminds, chef Duncan Ly and Darren MacLean. Needless to say, they serve up some darn good sushi you’ll find in YYC. But the reason they are such a major rage is because Greenfish (as the name suggests) is Canada’s first-ever fully sustainable sushi joint. They only use green-listed fish by Ocean Wise and completely compostable containers. Basically, they made sushi tasty for the palate and easy for our conscience.
#6 Roy’s Korean Kitchen
Former Anju chef Roy Oh has brought his take on Korean comfort food to The District with Roy’s Korean Kitchen. Expect chef Roy’s best take on Korean cuisine, but with a modern twist. Their menu is full of unique choices. The Spicy Salmon Tacos, KFC Sliders (made with Gochujang) and Beef Bulgogi are topping our list. Don’t forget to grab a Korean signature pop while you’re there!
Ready for this culinary adventure? Well, see you at The District then!
The District at Beltline – Food Hall
Where: 227 11 Avenue SW, Calgary
When: 11am – 8pm
