Canadian Food Scenes to Discover this Spring, Part 2: Banff & Lake Louise

The Banff Grizzly House Restaurant is a landmark destination for thousands of visitors and locals in Banff National Park! Since 1967, this fondue and hot rock restaurant has been serving classic cheese, oil, and chocolate fondues, along with regional classics like bagna càuda and fondue Bourguignonne. Protein options include standards like Alberta beef, buffalo, chicken, and fish, alongside wild game and exotic meats like rattlesnake and ostrich.

Barbara and Peter Steiner opened the Grizzly House in 1967. At the time, it was Western Canada’s first disco and was known for its touring bands and go-go dancers! While disco may not have stood the text of time, the fondue tradition has endured for nearly sixty years. Enjoy this memorable dining experience in a unique setting during your next visit to Banff!

Juniper Bistro is on a journey to become Banff’s most nature-positive restaurant. This means a menu brimming with gorgeous, nourishing veggies, as well as a selection of animal proteins from producers that care about the planet. Enjoy brunch, lunch, or dinner while taking in the mountain views from the panoramic windows or spacious patio.

Inspired by the glory days of Canadian mountaineering, Alpine Social is the place to eat, meet, and celebrate in Lake Louise. It’s the perfect location to enjoy hearty, gourmet comfort food after a day of mountain adventure. Its artisan, locally-grown, alpine-inspired food and it tastes even better at 5,200 feet! Claim your seat at the bar or gather your crew and dig in to dishes that will satisfy your mountain-size appetite. We’ve got enough local craft beer to satisfy the thirst of the entire town. Looking for something more elevated? Our cocktail menu features aged spirits for sipping along with a number of savoury options. Don’t miss the selection of 20 Bourbons and 20 Canadian Whiskeys.

For a breathtaking sightseeing experience, hop on the Lake Louise Summer Sightseeing Gondola and soar to 2,101m (6,893 ft) for a stunning view of the Rockies ... and a chance to spot wild grizzly bears! At the top, head to Whitehorn Bistro for thoughtful farm-to-table cuisine in an unlikely location. Gondola runs seasonally from June to October. This restaurant is accessible by skis or a snowboard only during the winter months.

Ready for a true western experience? Immerse yourself in the Old West charm as you embark on Cowboy Cookout & Wagon Ride tour along the scenic Bow River, followed by a cowboy cookout with delicious BBQ comfort food. Enjoy some western-style activities like lassoing and horseshoes. The journey takes you to the historic 3 Mile Cabin, nestled amidst the picturesque beauty of Banff National Park. This is a unique way to experience the area! Tours run from May to October.

The majestic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is located in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks, which became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984. The Eat the Castle guided food tour allows you to experience it through food! The tour includes mile zero microgreens, house-made sourdough, and house-smoked meats in the castle’s larder; a wine tasting in the cozy wine and charcuterie bar; a dish that shines a light on great Alberta produce in 1888 Chop House; and a classic French Brasserie dish and beverage pairing in The Vermillion Room. Tours run Wednesdays-Fridays in the summer.

The Cliffhouse Bistro began as a mountaintop gathering place in the 1950s for the brave skiers tackling the steep slopes of Mount Norquay. Today, this inviting eatery above the clouds welcomes explorers fresh off the summer chairlift. Sip local beers alongside an artisanal charcuterie board and drink in the views from high above the town. Open seasonally from June to October.