Welcome to Calgary, where the food scene is bursting with flavor and variety. In this article, we're embarking on a culinary journey to explore the city's top seafood spots.
Even though we're nestled in the heart of the prairies, Calgary's seafood restaurants are making waves with their fresh and innovative dishes. From delicious lobster to delicate scallops, there's something here to tantalize every taste bud. Join us as we dive into the local seafood scene, uncovering hidden gems and beloved favorites along the way.
Whether you're craving a fancy seafood feast or a laid-back fish and chips experience, Calgary has it all. Each restaurant on our list offers a unique dining experience filled with flavor, freshness, and coastal charm. So, grab your appetite and get ready to savor the best seafood Calgary has to offer.
Whether you're a seafood connoisseur or just looking for a delicious meal, come along as we discover the finest seafood restaurants in Calgary, one mouthwatering bite at a time.
1. Rodney's Oyster House
If you're in search of fresh and flavorful seafood dishes in Calgary, Rodney's Oyster House is a must-visit. Established as a casual yet vibrant spot, this eatery specializes in oysters and a variety of seasonal seafood that promises to tantalize your taste buds.
Whether you're a fan of the briny depths of the sea or just looking for a delightful dining experience, Rodney's offers an atmosphere and menu that won't disappoint.
One of the standout items at Rodney's is their scallop sliders. Available exclusively during happy hour, these sliders are renowned for their perfect balance of flavors and have become a favorite among locals.
Make sure to time your visit to catch this delectable offering! Additionally, the oysters and fish tacos are stellar choices that highlight the quality and freshness of the ingredients Rodney's prides itself on.
The experience is further enhanced by their impressive selection of beers, which are a steal at just $5 during happy hour.
The combination of great food, refreshing drinks, and the welcoming, well-informed service makes Rodney's Oyster House a top contender for the best seafood spot in Calgary.
Location: Rodney's Oyster House - Google Maps
2. Big Fish & Open Range
If you’re seeking both surf and turf in Calgary, look no further than Big Fish & Open Range. This relaxed chophouse serves up a compelling blend of locally sourced seafood and game meats in a warm, rustic atmosphere.
A staple among the city’s food lovers, Big Fish & Open Range is a hit with diners who crave hearty flavors and a welcoming dining experience.
The menu reflects a distinct Canadian flair, balancing the freshness of seafood with the boldness of steaks and game meats. Whether you’re drawn to the delicate flavors of Arctic char or the richness of venison, you can expect each dish to showcase the quality of locally sourced ingredients.
The kitchen’s commitment to sustainability and freshness is evident, delivering meals that are as ethical as they are delicious.
Customers frequently commend the staff for their attentive, professional service, ensuring each meal is a pleasant and enjoyable one.
Combined with the distinctive décor that blends the coziness of a cabin with the sophistication of an upscale eatery, Big Fish & Open Range embodies Calgary seafood cuisine at its finest.
Location: Big Fish & Open Range - Google Maps
3. Pelican Pier - Seafood Restaurant & Fish Market
Pelican Pier - Seafood Restaurant & Fish Market offers a distinctive experience, transporting you to a seaside dock with its maritime-themed décor.
The casual setting is cozy and inviting, combining the feel of sitting on a pier with the charm of a family-owned seafood haven.
While its ambiance is delightful, it's the food that keeps patrons coming back for more. Known for its fish and chips, Pelican Pier serves up this beloved dish in golden, crispy perfection. The fish is always fresh, and the chips are delightfully seasoned, creating a comforting, satisfying meal that locals rave about.
But the highlights don't stop there—housemade chowder and desserts are also menu staples, providing rich flavors and a homemade touch that elevate the dining experience.
The restaurant doubles as a fish market, so you can also grab some fresh seafood to take home after indulging in their delectable fare.
The staff's commitment to quality is evident in both the service and the selection, with every dish served promptly to ensure it's as fresh as possible.
Location: Pelican Pier - Seafood Restaurant & Fish Market - Google Maps
4. Modern Ocean
Modern Ocean is a standout seafood destination in Calgary where every element, from ambiance to cuisine, combines to create an unforgettable dining experience.
The atmosphere is sleek yet inviting, with a contemporary vibe that sets the stage for fresh, high-quality seafood presented with flair.
The freshness of the seafood shines in every dish, emphasizing Modern Ocean's commitment to exceptional quality. For a truly indulgent experience, the seafood tower is a must-try.
It's brimming with a variety of ocean treasures, each prepared to bring out its natural flavors.
Beyond the tower, you'll find an array of carefully crafted dishes showcasing the chef's expertise. From rich shellfish to flaky fish fillets, Modern Ocean caters to diverse tastes, ensuring every seafood lover leaves satisfied.
Attentive service enhances the overall experience, with staff dedicated to making your visit memorable. The combination of polished, contemporary decor and top-tier cuisine makes Modern Ocean one of the best seafood dining spots in Calgary, offering a modern take on ocean-to-plate freshness.
Location: Modern Ocean - Google Maps
5. Murrieta's West Coast Bar & Grill
Murrieta's West Coast Bar & Grill is a refined dining spot in Calgary that marries upscale ambiance with exceptional seafood and steak dishes.
The space is elegant yet welcoming, making it perfect for a range of occasions, from lively celebrations to intimate dinners.
The menu reflects the restaurant's focus on quality, offering a diverse selection that includes seafood and steaks prepared with precision. The polenta fries and trio dip are popular starters, each bursting with flavor and providing a delightful introduction to the meal.
The steaks, cooked to perfection and expertly seasoned, are a testament to Murrieta's dedication to quality. Pair them with one of the chef’s signature sauces or the housemade accompaniments for a truly memorable experience.
The drink menu is equally impressive, boasting a curated selection of cocktails and an extensive wine list that beautifully complements the cuisine.
Live bands play regularly, enhancing the sophisticated atmosphere with soothing melodies that create the perfect backdrop for an evening out.
Location: Murrieta's West Coast Bar & Grill - Google Maps
6. Charbar
Charbar is a sophisticated outpost in Calgary that seamlessly blends seafood, wood-fired steaks, and craft cocktails into one memorable dining experience.
What sets it apart isn't just its menu but also the ambiance: it offers an incredible rooftop patio with sweeping city views, providing a perfect spot for drinks or a leisurely meal on a warm evening.
The menu features a range of flavors that highlight both the sea and the land, with their seafood and steaks benefiting from the smokiness of wood-fired grilling.
A standout starter is the blistered provoleta cheese served with chimichurri, which tantalizes taste buds with its blend of rich, smoky flavors and zesty herbs.
Craft cocktails at Charbar elevate the experience even further, with bartenders mixing up fresh, inventive drinks that complement the cuisine perfectly.
Location: Charbar - Google Maps
7. The Captain’s Boil
The Captain's Boil is a lively, maritime-themed restaurant in Calgary that puts a creative spin on seafood dining.
Specializing in boil-in-a-bag seafood infused with Cajun and Asian flavors, it delivers an interactive and mouthwatering dining experience.
Start by donning a bib and diving into the straightforward menu, which offers various seafood options like Dungeness crab, shrimp, and crawfish. The seafood is boiled to perfection, then tossed in your choice of sauces, ranging from mild to fiery, with the Captain's Boil flavor—a blend of garlic, lemon, and butter—being a fan favorite.
You can customize your order with sides like corn and sausage to soak up the sauce, creating a rich and filling feast.
The casual, maritime-inspired décor and upbeat vibe make it easy to relax and enjoy cracking open shellfish while chatting with friends or family.
The staff’s friendly and attentive service adds to the experience, ensuring your seafood cravings are fully satisfied.
Location: The Captain’s Boil - Google Maps
To Sum It All Up
With so many fantastic seafood restaurants to explore, Calgary’s dining scene is truly a delight for seafood lovers.
Whether you're craving an elaborate seafood tower at Modern Ocean or the boil-in-a-bag flavors of The Captain's Boil, each spot offers its unique take on ocean-to-plate dining. From Rodney's Oyster House's briny, fresh oysters to Big Fish & Open Range’s surf-and-turf expertise, there's a little something for everyone. Pelican Pier brings you back to the cozy, casual feel of a seaside pier, while Murrieta's West Coast Bar & Grill combines sophistication with live music. Finally, Charbar's wood-fired steaks and rooftop cocktails add a special flair to the dining experience.
Each of these top seafood restaurants in Calgary promises fresh, flavorful dishes and memorable moments. So go ahead and embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and introduce you to the incredible flavors of Calgary's finest seafood cuisine.