Banff
:For the Scottish town that Banff was named after, see Banff (Scotland) The town of Banff in Banff National Park, in the Canadian Rockies, is the larger of the two populated areas in Banff National Park, about an hour and a half drive west of Calgary and four hours south of Jasper. Banff is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site. Like many mountain towns, Banff has a very different character in winter and summer. There is a decent selection of bars and restaurants but predictably a few too many souvenir shops and boutiques. European travellers will especially welcome the sidewalks that facilitate exploration of the town on foot.
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- Drink
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23 places match
- Eat
Balkan Restaurant
The Balkan restaurant first fired up its grill on Banff Avenue in 1982. The restaurant was the creation of Greek families out of their element in the cold Canadian Rockies who wished to bring the authentic flavors and warm festive atmosphere of the Mediterranean to this high mountain town. Check out their Tuesday and Thursday night "Greek Night" with live belly dancing, Greek dancing and plate smashing.
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Cows Ice Cream
Ice cream cones, shakes, sundaes, and fun cow-related novelty t-shirts and mooooer.
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Eden
French restaurant using many local ingredients, with some Asian influences. Choice of several set menus (prix fixe) that change seasonally, one of which is vegetarian. 10-time winner of CAA 5-Diamond and "Best of Award of Excellence" Wine Spectator awards.
4-course menu $160; 7-course menu $185
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Grizzly House
A must-see, this was once a swinger's bar. This uniquely shaped restaurant downtown has telephones at every table with placemats that serve as a map so you can call tables to chat through your dinner. It is a laid-back, fun atmosphere and the food does not disappoint. A typical meal may consist of a Caesar salad to start, then a cheese fondue served with freshly steamed veggies and mouth-watering bread for dipping. The second course is where things get exciting; opt for the hot-rock style of fondue. Rocks are brought to the table and heated to 300 f. Each rock gets its own pot of garlic butter smeared on, first by your server and then by you; each person receives a customized plate of raw fish, chicken, bison, frog legs, AAA-beef, shark, snake, whatever you wish, or dare, to try. Accompanying the exotic mix of possibilities are dipping sauces like chipotle and teriyaki.
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IGA
This large grocery store also sells ready-to-eat meals to take away.
7AM-10PM
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Magpie and Stump
A Mexican restaurant that specializes in margaritas and typical Mexican dishes. There is usually at least one night per week where margaritas are half-price, and if you go in early you are almost guaranteed to leave late.
$25-40
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Mountain Chocolates
Reportedly the only chocolate shop in town where the products are manufactured on site. They also have caramel apples, ice cream and other sweet things.
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Nesters Market
For those that need a supermarket instead of a restaurant, Nesters has a great range of organic products.
8AM-10PM
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Rose and Crown
Serves a substantial, eclectic menu, along with 11 beers and one cider on tap.
$30-40
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Saltlik Steakhouse
Features unique cocktails and a varied wine menu downstairs and a full on steakhouse upstairs.
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Seoul Country Korean Restaurant
This Korean BBQ restaurant smells fantastic as you enter. Value for money.
$20
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The Maple Leaf
Seafood and chophouse showcasing salmon, duck, bison, and Alberta beef, amongst other offerings. Impressive wine list that runs to some 40 pages.
Brunch/lunch around $30; dinner $60-100
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The Meatball Pizza & Pasta
Truth in advertising: the dinner menu includes pizza, pasta, and some creative meatball options. Several different takes on bacon, sausage, & eggs for breakfast, alongside the offer of a boozy start to the day if one so desires. Vegetarian choices available too.
Breakfast around $20; dinner $30-40
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Three Ravens Restaurant and Wine Bar
Fine dining with fine views. The restaurant uses fresh local ingredients and has an ambitious and creative kitchen that mostly succeeds in meeting its goals. The service is reportedly superb. Expect about $100 per person for a decent meal.
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Vistas Dining Room
This buffet restaurant in the Banff Centre shares a floor with The Three Ravens (see below), but provides more food for less money.
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Welch's Chocolate Shop
The Banff Candy Store
Candy and chocolates from all over the world. Ice cream cones, fudge, and locally-made chocolate treats.
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Wild Flour Bakery
Artisanal bakery cafe. Their menu includes sandwiches, croissants and different soups.
7AM-5PM daily
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Beaver Tails
Deep-fried pastry topped with many sweet options.
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Chaya
Tiny Japanese noodle shop.
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Chucks Steakhouse
High-end steak and dining.
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The Fudgery
Hand-made fudge and chocolates.
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The Keg Steakhouse and Lounge - Caribou Lodge
Steaks and a casual ambiance.
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The Keg Steakhouse and Lounge - Downtown
The Keg steakhouse also has another restaurant downtown.
23 of 23 places have map locations.