The arrival of fall tends to stir up cravings for dishes that warm, sustain and soothe us. And, while whipping up our own comfort-food favourites at home can be both cozy and cost-effective, getting out of the house to enjoy some of the hearty, hug-you-from-the-inside creations on offer from nearby eateries can turn a cold, dreary day into something special.
Here, we shine the spotlight on a handful of locally owned Calgary and Airdrie restaurants — all within a short walk or drive from Genesis Land communities — that are sure to satisfy your comfort-food cravings.
Sorso Lounge, Espresso & Wine Bar
This Airdrie-based favourite is a true-blue go-to for comforting foods. The vibe here is casual, warm and inviting, and the dishes — made with local and ethically sourced ingredients — are equally appealing. Menu items range from sweet or savoury brunch options (like chicken & waffles or strawberry cheesecake French toast) to lunch and dinner selections that include gourmet burgers, tacos, pastas and shareables like the wonderfully decadent confit duck wings or pork belly skewers. Sorso also boasts a dynamite cocktail menu, as well as what some Airdrie locals say are the best lattes around.
Comfort food must-try: The Buffalo Chicken Poutine (crisp fries with shiitake gravy, cheese curds, buffalo chicken and ranch drizzle)
Tequila & Tacos
Another local favourite for Airdrie-dwellers, this understated spot serves up spicy, authentic Mexican food that’s sure to add some heat to your dining experience. We suggest starting with a margarita and an order of tortilla chips and guacamole (the guac is incredible), then digging into one of the heartier entrees, like the beef back ribs (served with rice and beans), the shrimp chimichanga or one of the enchilada dishes.
Comfort food must-try: The Enchiladas Verdes (corn tortillas filled with chicken dipped in green sauce with cheese and sour cream; served with rice and beans)
Ferraro Truly Italian
Now in a new location on Airdrie’s Mackenzie Way, family-owned Ferraro Truly Italian is a popular spot for date nights and family outings alike, thanks to the warm hospitality of its front-of-house staff and the rich, made-from-scratch pastas, pizzas and meat dishes created by chef Manny Ferraro and his culinary team. While hearty entrees like the lamb or veal chops are sure to please those looking for beautifully prepared, meat-forward meals, when it comes to pure comfort food, it’s the pasta dishes that really deliver.
Comfort food must-try: The Formaggio (ravioli stuffed with ricotta and spinach in a creamy arugula sauce)
Flores & Pine
Situated in Bearspaw, about a 10-minute drive from Genesis Land’s Sage Hill community, Flores & Pine opened in 2019 and has been drawing in happy customers ever since. The space is bright, modern and welcoming, and the chef-driven menu features locally sourced ingredients and elevated dishes that include creative appetizers like the much-loved brussels sprouts (prepared in house-made Szechuan sauce), warming entrees like the wild mushroom risotto, and filling platters like the highly popular “Tomahawk Board,” which features bone-in certified Angus beef served with brown butter whipped potatoes, truffle bacon mac & cheese, fries, seasonal veggies and more.
Comfort food must-try: The Meatballs & Pierogies (smoked house-ground meatballs paired with potato and cheese pierogies, pickled oyster mushroom and creamy mushroom ragout)
Indian Delights
Specializing in North Indian cuisine, Indian Delights is a family-owned, under-the-radar gem in the heart of Sage Hill. The menu here isn’t overly extensive, but it’s well curated, and the dishes on offer are packed with earthy, vibrant flavours. From the thick, beautifully spiced curries (both vegetarian and non-vegetarian) to the soft, pillowy naan (order the garlic butter option!), the food at Indian Delights is both soothing and immensely filling.
Comfort food must-try: The Tandoori Chicken (with creamy spinach and marinated paneer)
The Bro’Kin Yolk Creekside
Just a stone’s throw from Sage Hill, this popular breakfast/brunch spot — one of three locations in the city — is co-owned by Calgary-based brothers Jeff and Gil Carlos. The atmosphere at Bro’Kin Yolk Creekside is bright, bustling and slightly retro, and the menu is chockful of fun and filling morning meals. Those with a sweet tooth will swoon over the apple and cinnamon waffles and the Nutella hot chocolate, while diners who prefer the savoury side are spoiled for choice thanks to the number of eggs Benny, breakfast poutine and hash options on offer.
Comfort food must-try: The Fili Breakfast Bowl (with Longanisa sausage, sunny-side up eggs, jasmine rice, house-made tomato salsa and chili soy sauce)
Tell us your local comfort-food favourites at info@genesisland.com or tag us on social!
