The Holy Grill
827 10th Ave. S.W.
If you’re anywhere near the Beltline neighborhood at lunchtime, do as the locals do and make a beeline for . The quick-serve eatery has big portions and affordable prices, with a range of grilled paninis, burgers and all-day breakfast sandwiches on the menu. If you’re extra hungry, go for the daily soup and a “New Californian” panini—it’s packed with cream cheese, provolone, banana peppers, pickled eggplant, grilled zucchini and artichoke hearts.Native Tongues Taqueria
235 12th Ave. S.W.
One of the best restaurants in Calgary for authentic Mexican street food is Native Tongues Taqueria. Located in the Beltline district, the hip and lively spot draws a crowd for its weekday happy hour (3-6 p.m.) and taco deals on Tuesday nights ($2.50 each). In addition to sampling the tacos, we recommend trying the elote (grilled corn on the cob topped with chipotle crema and cilantro) and the mini donas (doughnuts) served with whipped queso dipping sauce.Read MoreOEB Breakfast Co.
825 1st Ave. N.E.
With multiple locations around town, should be on your radar for the best brunch food in Calgary. Sweet and savory options abound at OEB, with dishes like steak and eggs, short rib poutine, lobster scramble, traditional eggs Benedict, Belgian waffles and French toast topped with berries and lemon curd. If you’re visiting at prime breakfast time there may be a bit of a wait, as they don’t accept reservations, but check the website for information about joining a virtual waiting list.Ten Foot Henry
1209 1st St. S.W.
Vegetarians and vegans will feel right at home at Ten Foot Henry, a vegetable-focused eatery named after a 1930s comic strip character that later became a Calgary icon. Dishes are served family-style and showcase seasonal, good-for-you ingredients like cauliflower with spicy harissa, yam tortillas, charred cabbage with Manchego cheese and fried potatoes with green goddess dressing. There are some options for fish- and meat-eaters, too.Read MoreUNA Pizza + Wine
618 17th Ave. S.W.
Ask a local for the best pizza places in Calgary and UNA Pizza + Wine will most likely be on the list (if not at the top). The kitchen—open daily until 1 a.m.—turns out mouthwatering thin crust creations topped with everything from house-made pepperoni and smoked bacon to honey and truffle oil. You won’t be rushed out the door at this neighborhood pizzeria; Una encourages guests to linger over appetizers, glasses of wine, coffee and dessert.Read More