Ramen Arashi

PHONE:

403.760.0908

ADDRESS:

215 Banff Ave

MAINS:

$ 12 - 16

 

 

 

 

Tucked away in the Sundance Mall might not be the first place you think to look for a great ramen place, but let me tell you - that’s exactly where you should go if you’re lusting after authentic Japanese ramen. Try the tonkatsu ramen, a super popular classic - it’s authentic and delicious. Head chef Kentaro Seki is passionate about his Japanese roots and brings a deep commitment to excellence to every item on the menu. Whether you prefer seafood, vegetarian, beef, pork, or chicken, you’ll find something to tickle your fancy here. It’s almost like popping into a popular neighbourhood ramen place in  Tokyo - except, of course, you are surrounded by the Rockies. If that doesn’t sound like the best of both worlds, I don’t know what does! 

Ask about the daily specials and no, don’t be put off by the sometimes long line. That’s a good sign!  Good things come to those who are patient…



Bamboo Garden

PHONE:

403.985.6688

ADDRESS:

211 Banff Ave

MAINS:

$18 - $36

 

 

 

 

In the mood for good (real) Chinese food? You can’t do better than Bamboo Garden. Great service, marvelous views, and treats like Szechuan Prawns prepared the traditional way. You’ll find plenty of vegetables cooked to perfection and a good range of familiar dishes (beef with broccoli, pork or chicken selections, rice and noodle dishes), but also other Asian specialties like Korean BBQ Beef Ribs or Thai Cashew Nuts Chicken. I’ve got a few items on my ‘next-time’ list including the Soft Tofu Red Curry and, for a special treat, the Coconut Surprise Gelato and Mango Sorbetto. My plan? Round up a gaggle of hungry friends so we can eat family-style (and I can taste more dishes!)

Prefer to wind down in your hotel? (or, lucky Banff residents, at home….), take advantage of Bamboo Garden’s take-out menu and then settle in for a snuggle with your sweetie, Chinese food, and Netflix.



Indian Curry House

PHONE:

587.222.8779

ADDRESS:

225 Banff Ave

MAINS:

$ 14 - $ 19

 

 

 

 

Oh, my but this is good food!! Curry fans, make sure to add this restaurant to your ‘must-eat-here’ list. It can be a little tricky to find (access is via a flight of stairs on the Banff Avenue side, but if you have a stroller or a senior, there is an elevator around back - from the Bear Street parking side). Once inside, you’ll find lots of vegetarian and vegan dishes as well as seafood, chicken, beef, and lamb options. There’s even a goat curry, something you don’t see on the menu here too often. Several rice options (including coconut rice with shredded coconut and curry leaves) as well as a couple of varieties of naan bread and roti round out whatever other dishes you select. 

What I haven’t tried (yet) is the intriguing dessert dish, Gulab Jamun described on the menu as ‘spongy milk balls soaked in rose-scented sugar syrup.’ I’m game! I’ll report back right here after I’ve had a chance to taste these!



Nourish

PHONE:

403.760.3933

ADDRESS:

211 Bear Street

MAINS:

$11 - $24

All vegetarian and mostly organic, Nourish offers a Mecca for those non meat eaters in Banff. With creative dishes that range from Kimchi Burgers to Poutine, even proud carnivores can delight. A funky and eclectic atmosphere offers a fun and uniquely Banff experience. Go for the veggie options and stay for the organic wine list and extensive beer collection.

Do you have a sweet tooth? Don’t miss dessert. With different options every day, as it says on their menu “plate licking is encouraged” and judging by the tasty treats they offer, happens often.