Explore Calgary’s Culinary Landscape with Unique Food Tours

Food tours are becoming a popular way for both locals and visitors to experience the culinary culture of cities, and Calgary is no exception. Earlier this year, I participated in the Iconic Eats of Calgary program, organized by the local company, Alberta Food Tours. As I enjoyed delicious dishes like ginger beef and drank Caesars with a small group, I discovered the rich history of Calgary’s dining scene while strolling down Stephen Avenue.

The tour exemplified how food tours operate: a small group of people, guided by an expert, visit multiple eateries while learning about the local food culture. Despite living in Calgary for nearly my entire life, I found myself uncovering new aspects of the city’s culinary heritage that I had not previously known. This experience showcased the unique value of guided food tours, which have gained popularity worldwide over the last decade.

According to Karen Anderson, founder and president of Alberta Food Tours, participating in a food tour is an ideal way to start exploring a new city. “I always say my number one travel tip is to do a food tour the first day you land in a new city,” she stated. Visitors not only sample local cuisine but also receive recommendations for other places to visit during their stay.

The concept behind food tours is straightforward: expert guides collaborate with local food-related businesses that best represent the area’s flavors. As guests walk from one stop to another, they enjoy a progressive meal while engaging with chefs and business owners. This personal interaction often reveals the hidden stories of a city’s food culture that cannot be found in online reviews.

For instance, Andy Olson, owner of A Taste of Victoria Food Tours, emphasizes the importance of connection in his tours. He noted that the relationships he has developed with local vendors over the past nine years enhance the experience for participants. “Typically, you are hanging out with a local who provides a connection to the vendors and can share insider tips and local history,” Olson explained.

While food tours are commonly associated with travel, they also offer residents a chance to rediscover their own cities. Calgary’s food scene is rapidly evolving, and even lifelong residents can struggle to keep up. Alberta Food Tours offers various options beyond the Iconic Eats program, such as a brunch tour around the Calgary Farmers’ Market West and the popular “Eat the Castle” tour at the Banff Springs Hotel.

In addition to public tours, Alberta Food Tours provides private experiences tailored to corporate groups, birthdays, and family reunions. This flexibility allows customers to customize their culinary adventures according to their interests. Other local options include bicycle food tours offered by Food Bike Tour and curated tasting routes by Taste the City, which utilizes an app for self-guided tours.

The impact of food tours extends beyond sharing delicious meals. Anderson remarked, “These tours are a morale boost. We now have serial food tour travellers. Because once they do one, they get it, and they want to do more.” This enthusiasm illustrates how food tours foster a deeper appreciation for local culinary traditions and create lasting memories for participants.

As Calgary continues to grow, food tours present an opportunity for both newcomers and long-time residents to connect with the city’s vibrant culinary landscape. Whether you are new to the area or a seasoned local, exploring the city through its food can lead to delightful discoveries and a greater understanding of what makes Calgary unique.