Rise and Shine: Calgary's Must-Try Brunches

When it comes to the most important meal of the day, breakfast is often touted as the king. But for those who like to sleep in or have a leisurely morning, brunch is the perfect solution. Calgary is a city that takes its brunch seriously, with an abundance of restaurants and cafes offering delicious and innovative dishes to satisfy any craving. Here are some of Calgary's must-try brunch spots.

OEB Breakfast Co.

If you're looking for a brunch spot that takes breakfast classics to the next level, OEB Breakfast Co. is the place to go. With multiple locations across the city, OEB is known for its creative takes on traditional dishes, such as the Breakfast Poutine, which features crispy potatoes topped with cheese curds, hollandaise, bacon, and a fried egg. For those with a sweet tooth, the French Toast Fondue is a must-try, with brioche toast sticks and a bowl of warm maple syrup for dipping.

Yellow Door Bistro

Located inside the Hotel Arts, Yellow Door Bistro offers a sophisticated brunch experience with a menu that focuses on locally-sourced and seasonal ingredients. The Avocado Toast is a standout dish, featuring avocado, goat cheese, and poached eggs on sourdough bread. The Eggs Benny is another favorite, with a choice of smoked salmon or bacon, and a unique dill hollandaise sauce.

Monki Bistro

For a cozy and inviting brunch spot, head to Monki Bistro in Inglewood. The menu features dishes that blend international flavors with classic brunch fare, such as the Korean Fried Chicken and Waffles, and the Croque Madame, a French-style grilled ham and cheese sandwich topped with a fried egg. Be sure to save room for the Monki Breakfast Sundae, a dessert-like dish that features layers of yogurt, granola, fresh fruit, and house-made raspberry coulis.

Dairy Lane Cafe

Located in the vibrant neighborhood of West Hillhurst, Dairy Lane Cafe is a popular brunch spot that has been serving up delicious dishes for over 60 years. The menu features classic breakfast items with a twist, such as the Huevos Rancheros, which comes with chorizo, black beans, and house-made salsa, and the Breakfast Poutine, with tater tots, cheese curds, and gravy. Don't miss out on the house-made cinnamon buns, which are large enough to share but so delicious you may not want to.

Native Tongues Taqueria

For those who prefer a savory brunch, Native Tongues Taqueria offers a Mexican-inspired brunch menu with plenty of bold flavors. The Chorizo and Egg Tacos are a standout, with spicy chorizo, scrambled eggs, and avocado crema on house-made corn tortillas. The Huevos Rancheros are another favorite, with a spicy tomato sauce, refried beans, and sunny-side-up eggs.

Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters

While not technically a brunch spot, Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters offers some of the best pastries and baked goods in the city, making it the perfect spot for a quick breakfast or brunch on the go. The Croissant Breakfast Sandwich is a popular choice, with egg, bacon, and cheese on a flaky croissant. Pair it with a perfectly crafted latte or cappuccino for the ultimate morning pick-me-up.

The Beltliner

Located in Calgary's historic Beltline neighborhood, The Beltliner offers a classic diner-style brunch with a modern twist. The menu features a wide variety of dishes, from the classic Eggs Benny to the more unique Breakfast Grilled Cheese, which is stuffed with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheddar cheese. The restaurant also offers a build-your-own Caesar bar, where guests can customize their own Caesar cocktails with a variety of garnishes and spices.

The Nash

For a more upscale brunch experience, The Nash in Inglewood is the perfect choice. The restaurant offers a refined menu with dishes that showcase the best of Alberta's local produce and meats. The Shakshuka, a Middle Eastern dish of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, is a standout, as is the Chicken and Waffles, which comes with a smoked honey butter and a side of coleslaw. The Nash's brunch cocktails are also not to be missed, with inventive takes on classic drinks like the Mimosa and the Caesar.

Yum Bakery and Bistro

If you're looking for a cozy and welcoming brunch spot, Yum Bakery and Bistro in the neighborhood of Tuxedo Park is a hidden gem. The menu features classic brunch dishes made with high-quality ingredients, such as the Eggs Benny with smoked salmon, and the Breakfast Sandwich with avocado and bacon. The bakery side of the restaurant offers an array of freshly baked pastries and breads, as well as delicious cakes and desserts.

In conclusion, Calgary's brunch scene is diverse and exciting, with something for every taste and budget. Whether you're in the mood for classic breakfast dishes with a twist, international flavors, or creative takes on brunch favorites, Calgary's must-try brunch spots will not disappoint. So rise and shine, and start your day off right with a delicious brunch in one of Calgary's top restaurants.