Photo via @chefpigot / Instagram
There’s a chill in the air and the leaves have started to change colour. Luckily, Calgary has no shortage of comfort food restaurants to grab a bite this fall.
From pasta and cheese to soups and bread, some meals hug you from the inside, and as temperatures drop, you might be in need of an internal snuggle.
Not sure where to go to get yours? We spoke to locally-famed chef, Mike Pigot, about his favourites and he did not disappoint!
The mastermind behind Pigot’s Burger Club, Pat and Betty, and the subscription service, Pasta La Mano, Pigot broke down where to go and what to order in and around the city.
Ready to cozy in?
“I’m a huge fan of the satay chilli beef at Kim Anh on 17th,” he said kicking off his best-of list.
“The sub itself is a comfort-late-night food that I always like to have there.”
For those who want to see what it’s all about, Pigot suggests getting it loaded with all the toppings which include peanuts, fresh cilantro, fresh jalapenos, and pickled carrots.
Where: 626 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB
“The rigatoni has been a favourite since day one,” Pigot said.
Covered in vodka sauce, half a ball of burrata, chilli oil, and fresh local basil—it’s unsurprising why.
“It’s always a nice comfort staple.”
In addition to this, the chef recommended their pork belly and scallop dish which is served with a maple cognac reduction, a truffle and Foie Gras potato puree, Hokkaido scallops, braised greens and black truffle.
Where: 1217 1 Street SW, Calgary, AB
Known for its ramen and a good sense of humour, Pigot suggested checking out Shiki Menya, as well as their First Avenue Corner Store.
“Always love their stuff,” he explained.
“I’ll do a fried katsu sandwich from there, or any one of the bowls there. I’m partial to the ‘garlic bomb’ that they put on there—so that’s the one I would go for.”
Where: 824 1 Ave NE Calgary, AB
“The classic cheeseburger is always my favourite there,” he said—reminding us that we had yet to eat lunch.
“I’ll get a double and add jalapenos and bacon to it. That’s the way I usually get it.”
Where: Online here
Described as a “casual dining experience with quality food made in-house,” Pigot suggests getting a bowl, salad, or a wrap.
“Everything at Beirut, you can’t go wrong with,” he gushed.
“It’s absolutely delicious. I’ve never been let down, it’s always so tasty and super fresh. They do house-made pickles there that are very, very good.”
Where: Bay C, 7220 Fairmount Drive S.E., Calgary, AB
Lastly, Pigot added the “always great,” Class Clown.
“It’s just a fun little spot. I got there probably way too much, but I always love it. I love the Szechuan chicken or the hot cod. Obviously, all of their burgers are amazing, but those two are my favourite. They’re kind of interesting and kind of a little bit different.”
Where: Suite 106, 1711 4th Street SW, Calgary, AB
Hungry? We know we are, but now you’ve got some suggestions if you’re craving comfort food in Calgary, Alberta!
While everything on this list is probably a 10/10 we’d definitely recommend checking out Pat and Betty for their upcoming season menu, Pigot’s Burger Club, or ordering from Pasta La Mano first, if you haven’t already.
Not only do they have a ton of tasty offerings, but they’ve also got some pretty cool holiday gifts for those planning ahead!
Happy eating and enjoy!
In our opinion, fall is the most wonderful (and most delicious) time of the year, so treat yourself.
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