- Opened: May 30th 2012
- Address: 1012 17th Ave SW
- Kid Friendly: Yes w/Kids Menu & High Chairs
- Brunch: No
- Website: http://cibocalgary.com/
- Google Pics: Link
Of all the restaurants on 17th ave, Cibo is the one I have been to the most. In 2016 I think my daughter and I were going once a month, with a phase early in the year being every three weeks.
Cibo is at 1012 on 17th ave SW in a brick building with a storied history, in 2012 it was reborn as Cibo, Italian for food. Our first visit was a few months after opening. On that occasion we tried several appetizers and main dishes, we came away really having enjoyed the evening but finding it a bit expensive. Now after many more visits with family, friends and with only my daughter, I find it to be appropriately priced for the food, atmosphere and location.
Cibo’s atmosphere is an open two stories with exposed brick, tiles and wood beams. Coming in the front at street level are tables looking out to 17th ave, then a step up is a bar with seating. Heading back from there the space opens up to a large opening kitchen that also has a few seats right at the pizza prep area. Beside the kitchen are ten tables and stairwell heading up.
Upstairs is a mezzanine area the looks down to the tables and kitchen, another bar is at the top of the stairs with the front area being the largest single area featuring a few larger tables. Washrooms are upstairs and down, with a continuation of the decor. Outside is a hidden gem of a patio, sheltered from the street it offers no people watching, but allows one to escape. The patio continue the natural surfaces from the interior with wood used extensively. The tables are spaced decently apart, and the are plants decorating the area.
“At Cibo, traditional dining rules do not apply. Our food is made to share, made fresh, and is served when it’s ready.” taken from Cibo’s website. I enjoy this take on the dining experience, however to say you can order salads and spaghetti for the table to share would be a mistaken impression. I don’t think the portions are anywhere near that size. Ordering an appetizer, salad, Gnocchi, and a pizza for a table of four would satisfy some people, but hardly evokes family meals where dishing out from a serving dish at the center of the table where no one left until Nonna said it was time.
Over the years of coming to Cibo, I’ve ordered the Gnocchi, Ravioli and the Risotto from the pasta menu. From the appetizer menu called Scodellina, I’ve ordered about half the items, and I believe a salad only once. Which is terrible I need to take the opportunity to try more of them. For goodness sake order the arancini. These little stuffed rice balls are coated in breadcrumbs and filled with tomato and chili’s, they are a delightful mix of textures and flavours. What I can’t comment on at all are their meat features, appropriately called Carne. Given the quality of everything else I’d be willing to bet they are excellent, however I love their pizza’s too much to give them a try.
Well, there it is, the Pizza, the main event, for me anyways. I love this pizza, it has quickly become what I judge all other pizza against. The toppings, distinct and flavorful. The crust, to die for, fluffy, crispy chewy, it’s everything I want and look for now.
Because when I enjoy something I seek out other’s experiences and reviews. I’ve read of many mentioning and/or complaining about the pizza crust’s being burnt. As my daughter and I have watched the kitchen many a time, this isn’t from being forgotten about this is from a purposeful charring of thin bubbles in the crust. Everyone has their own opinions to what they enjoy, I however enjoy this texturing and flavour.
Some highlights of the pizza menu for me.
Pineapple – The ham on this excellent, married with the sweetness from the pineapple it is my daughter’s favorite.
Mushroom – The mushroom speak for themselves, flavoured with a little garlic and rosemary, there’s nothing else to get in the way.
Wild Boar Bacon – Yes, this is their meat lovers, eat it and love it. The salami and bacon combo can be a little salty for some.
Pepperoni – Sweet peppers and mushrooms escalate this to another level. I need to have this one again.
Pear – Is it different? Yes. Incredible, Yes? Pear, walnuts and cheese, together on that incredible crust. Order this call it an appetizer, pair it with a salad and then enjoy some Gnocchi. You’re welcome.
I believe they have a small dessert menu, but I couldn’t find it online. I’ve only ever ordered a single scoop of Gelato for my daughter and I to share because I’m always to full from all the pizza I eat.
Do you like Pizza? Do you like saving? Then Cibo has a deal for you. Weekdays they have “Pizza Happy Hour” from 3-5, these pizza’s feature only two toppings but are only five bucks each. Additionally they have 12oz local beers for $4, or house wine also $4 for a 6oz. As well as specials throughout the week, Sunday all regular pizza’s are half price, with the same $4 drink specials. Indulge with an appetizer to start and with the saving you’ll only enjoy it’s taste.
Conveniently Cibo has a parking lot right next door. They are mostly accessible to strollers, with two stairs at the entrance, they have high chairs and a kids menu.