Why have I not been here before? This is a great town. Despite the fact that it was 78 degrees and sunny outside my door in Sausalito during the first week of November, and Calgary was a consistent 29 degrees, it was at least a sunny 29 degrees. This city is booming with the oil and cattle industry, and many independent restaurants and shops have sprung up to service the new urban center. The people are friendly, the food is great, and the scenery is stunning.
At left, Chris of 100 Wines; at right, How they take a break at 100 Wines.
One of my first stops was a fine wine store called “100 Wines by David Walker” (www.davidwalkerwines.com) where I met and tasted with David’s business partner Chris Wilson. The store is filled with wines of all origins and every price point. The common thread which runs through the selection is that each wine comes from a small producer. It is great to have the Craig included. Be sure to stop in and check them out. Hopefully you won’t get to read the coolest “back in a minute” sign going!
Bites were had with GM Lucas Wood at The Metropolitan Grill (www.themetropolitangrill.ca) and Sommelier Garth Brown and Wine Director Francois Gaulin at The Tribune Restaurant (www.thetribunerestaurant.ca). Both places are excellent and are Calgary staples.
At left, Chef Andrew Richardson and Leslie Echino at their terrific restaurant Blink; at right, the bistro's dining room.
I crossed the street from The Tribune to find Chef Andrew Richardson, formerly of French Laundry, working away in his immaculate kitchen side-by-side with his lovely wife and business partner Leslie Echino in their beautiful urban bistro Blink (www.blinkcalgary.com). Watching Andrew put together some raviolis while a savory reduction sauce bubbled away on the stove was almost too much to bear. From the looks of the food in the back of the house, this is one place to get a great meal. Unfortunately, I was unable to eat three lunches in one day so I had to move on.
I did a staff training for the Craig wines at Buchanan’s Restaurant (www.buchanans.ca) at which all the locals tell me the best burger in all of Canada can be obtained. Michael and Carol Buchanan have been in business for many years, and their attention to detail shows clearly in every aspect of the restaurant.
After a sparkling evenings’ visit with Sommelier Andy MacDonald at The Bears Den (www.bears-den.ca) just outside of Calgary where a nice rib eye was consumed with a sturdy bottle of Mourvedre from the South of France, it was time to bid Alberta Province adieu. Do not go through life without spending a long weekend here. Lake Louise is just up the road about an hour’s drive with all the splendor of the Canadian Rockies about (aboot), and Calgary is a perfect kick off point.
From top left: Brian Heck of Winerunners, braving the chill; a frosty sunset in Calgary; sommelier Andy MacDonald with a little of the Craig at the Bear's Den.
Next stop is Chicago -- possibly the best food city in the US!
Salud Amigos,
Elton
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