Living in Calgary and being so close to the mountains means I’m always looking for an excuse to drive west. A recent birthday made for the perfect excuse, so we decided to head to the Rockies. Only an hour’s drive away, we make Tooloulou’s in Banff our destination for a birthday brunch. As it’s a weekday, we... View Article
One of the most iconic spots in the town of Banff is easily the Fairmont Banff Springs. Originally built in 1888, it’s also one of the most historic. Its halls are rumoured to be haunted, and (living) guests include royalty and celebrities – Marilyn Monroe stayed here while she shot River of No Return. Even a casual... View Article
It’s November and I am embarking on my first European adventure: Ireland. I step out of the airport and into the brisk island air, barely containing my excitement. Admittedly, I knew little about the country save for beers and rolling green hills. As we drove through the luscious green landscape, our only predetermined plans were... View Article
Once inside the Fairmont Banff Springs hotel, it was easy to find the Grand Tasting Hall for the third annual Banff’s Big Taste — we just followed our noses. Enticing smells from the night’s à la minute prepared food led us to in the Castle in the Rockies’ elegant Riverview Room. Over a dozen local restaurants each offered two food samples paired... View Article
Alberta is no stranger to great steak, and neither is Banff. The town has many steakhouses to choose from if you want anything from an open-faced steak sandwich to a premium steak. The newest, Chuck’s Steakhouse, recently joined the crowd on Banff Ave. Shortly after its opening, I spoke with owner Mike Mendelman and executive... View Article
Your time in Banff is precious. There’s so much to see and loads of tempting restaurants to visit. The best way to fit it all in? Eat while you sightsee. Mount Norquay’s summer sightseeing lift not only whisks you to 7000 feet-high mountain views, but the delectable Cliffhouse Bistro too. Perched at the top of... View Article
Special occasions always call for an evening at The Bison. Whenever I’m asked for a “local” recommendation, The Bison is first to come to mind. The relaxed yet romantic atmosphere paired with a menu to suit any palate makes this restaurant a prime choice for locals and visitors alike. The Bison’s food is known for... View Article
Last month, I went horseback riding with Banff Trail Riders for the first time in about 15 years. Not only was our group treated to mountain views from almost everywhere on the trail, we also got to fuel up on a steak, beans and baked potato lunch in the middle of the ride. This is... View Article
My uncle Allen’s beef burgers are the best. When our family gets together for a barbecue, everyone agrees that you’ll never find a burger as good as his. I thought the same…until I went to Saltlik. This trendy Banff steakhouse finally did what I thought couldn’t be done and topped Allen’s barbecue skills. I visited... View Article
“What do you want for lunch?” This question has stumped many a hesitant diner. Fortunately for me, it’s a pretty easy choice when I’m in Banff. With a surplus of patios and heaps of delicious fare, I can always find something to suit. On this particular day, a few friends of mine were passing through Banff... View Article
