It’s officially holiday shopping season, people. And we recently had an epiphany— as much as we love shopping, it is a tiring task. In between picking gifts for our loved ones, holiday decorations and holiday wardrobe essentials, we do need our breaks to refuel and curb the appetite we built store-hopping.

So, we put together this list of 4 cool restos and bars in downtown and near Chinook Centre (our go-to shopping destinations). They are perfect for a scrumptious grub and a thirst-quenchingly delicious cocktail (or 2).

The best part— these restos are pretty lively and fun and add some nice, festive cheer to our day out.

Recent Posts
6 stocking stuffers under $30 for those who love their cocktails above all else
Marble Slab Creamery just dropped new treats for the holiday season and new year

Now, to the list we go—

Goro + Gun

Executive Chef Tomo Mitsuno’s Stephen Avenue Japanese noodle bar is a foodie fave. The resto is inarguably one of the best places in town for a steamy, spicy bowl of ramen. Of course, once you’re there you chow down more than just ramen (read sushi, sashimi and that oh-so-delicious houjicha mousse). Frankly, we’d go there with or without a shopping spree.

Where: +15 Scotia Centre, #245 – 225 7 Ave SW, Calgary

Goro + Gun
Photo via Goro + Gun

Major Tom Bar

Everything looks, feels and tastes delicious at 40 floors high. And that’s where this beautiful restaurant sits in Stephan Avenue Place, right next to CORE. They promise award-winning global fare and craft cocktails. But they deliver a lot more. From an upscale vibe to exceptional service to incredible city views, Major Tom is a whole mood. One that we’d like to carry through the holiday season.

Where: 40th floor, Stephen Avenue Place, 700-2 ST SW, Calgary

Major Tom
Photos via Major Tom

Surfy Surfy Bar

Beachy vibes in winter, Cali beers, refreshing margs and frosty faves and a menu full of our favourite comfort foods (think wings, fries, tacos, burgers and more). Clearly, this Southern California-themed bar is just what you need to sit back and refuel for your next leg of store-hopping.

Where: CF Chinook Centre, 6455 Macleod Trail SW, Calgary

Surfy Surfy
Photos via @surfysurfybar

Double Zero Pizza

You might not be able to buy happiness or the perfect gift for everyone on your list. But you sure as hell can buy one of the best pizzas in town. From their gourmet pizza selection to their impressive pasta and curated wine, Double Zero is pretty much unskipable, holiday shopping or not!

Where: 1133, 6455 Macleod Trail SW, Calgary

Double Zero
Photos via @doublezeropizza

Here’s to a fabulous food and merry moments!