ATP’s Recommends: Pre-Show Food and Dining

What better way to amp-up your theatre-going experience than by grabbing some delicious pre-show eats? Calgary boasts an embarrassment of riches when it comes to fantastic downtown restaurants in the theatre district, so which one do you choose? Well, we’ve got a few recommends to narrow your choice a little. Plus, hit any of these places up, and not only will you be treated to some incredible culinary creations, you’ll also be supporting restaurants who support ATP and share in our passion for bringing as much awesome as possible to Calgarians!

Deane House

The Globe and Mail named Deane House one of the best new Calgary restaurants of 2016, awarding it 3.5 out of 4 stars in their review. Just a short jaunt away in Inglewood and housed in the historic Deane House (see what they did there?), their chefs craft incredible contemporary Canadian Cuisine, plus…

“I have no qualms about saying that this is the best bread I have ever had in a restaurant in Alberta.” – Dan Clapson, The Globe and Mail

Best. Bread. In Alberta.
And for all you matinee-goers, Deane House offers a delectable weekend brunch starting at 10am!

ONE18 Empire

Location? Check – ONE18 Empire is a mere block away from the theatre, right across the street from the Calgary Tower.

Bevvies? Check – They carry over 100 whiskies, ryes, bourbons and scotches – as well as a wide array of craft beers, wine and a selection of whiskey tailored cocktails made with local, Alberta-sourced ingredients.

Hungry? Check – ONE18 Empire was voted one of 2016’s Best New Restaurants by Avenue Magazine.

Kinda Hungry? Check – They have a focus on sharable, locally inspired cuisine – so you and your theatre-going mates can silence the growl without getting the pre-show-sleepies.

Always Hungry? Check – They offer breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner AND late night dining options.

River Café

What is better during the fall season than an early evening walk by the river? The crispness of the air, the crunch of leaves under your feet, and those gorgeous fall colours popping off the landscape like your own personal Bob Ross painting. How about enjoying an incredible meal in that setting? How about enjoying an incredible meal made from the highest quality ingredients in the region, in that setting? How about eating an incredible meal made from the highest quality ingredients in the region, in that setting, WITH A FIREPLACE?

River Café, everyone!

TEATRO

If you’re looking for dining that’s fine, Teatro Ristorante has been one of Calgary’s go-to locales since it’s opening in 1993. Set in a historic and beautiful space (built in 1911), Teatro boasts a stylish, quality seasonal menu; one of the largest, finest wine lists in the city; and consistently impeccable service. One of Avenue Magazine’s 2017 Top Restaurants in Downtown Calgary, Teatro is still raking in the praise after twenty-four years. Plus, with pre- and post-theatre selections, you can keep the conversation going long after the show is over.