• Opened:  Before 2012
• Address:  1112 – 17th Ave SW
• Kid Friendly:  w/Highchairs, w/Kids Menu
• Website: http://www.goldenbell.ca/
• Google Pics: Link

I grew up in a B.C. mountain town in the eighties.  Restaurant options were, steak, burgers, pizza and pastas.  As a result years ago when I was asked if I liked Vietnamese food, I could only say I’d never had it.

My first experience with Vietnamese was a spicy phở.  I didn’t like it much, but enough that we went back soon and I tried a vermicelli dish, I loved it!  It’s been sixteen years and I should try pho again, but I really just enjoy my vermicelli too much.  Maybe soon.  I hear you’re less open to new foods the older you get, so I need to push that clock back.

We started going to Golden Bell in 2013, a few years after it opened.  It was excellent.  I’m not going to say it’s the best in the city, I even have one on my own list that I hold a little higher.  However we go here more.  Why then?  Because it’s good, consistent and at the right price point for frequent visits.

When our daughter was less than a year old we took her here.  We both wanted her to be familiar with more flavours and spices at a younger age than either of use were.  Well it was a big hit, she ate lemongrass chicken, spring rolls, bean sprouts, rice vermicelli and developed a love for fish sauce.

We frequent Golden Bell about once a month, however we were there last week in addition to this week, and that’s hardly rare.  If you need a more accurate count let’s just say 18 times a year.  We always get an order of spring rolls for our daughter and cut them up to cool for her.  She get’s a little dish of fish sauce for dipping.  Honestly she’s all about dipping.  If you can dip it, she’ll eat it.  

Golden Bell is located on a busy area of 17th ave right next door to the Boston Pizza.  They have a small patio out front that holds four tables.  Inside is a modest interior with about twelve tables and a bar that seats another three.  However I’ve never seen anyone sit at the bar.  That being said we are usually there between 5-6, and I have seen the restaurant much busier around 7.  Golden  Bell is licenced and you can enjoy from a small selection of beer.

My wife and I mostly order the same rice vermicelli dish I’ve been ordering for a decade and a half.  At Golden Bell that is number 72B,  Charbroiled lemongrass chicken and a single diced spring roll, served on rice vermicelli noodles with bean sprouts, lettuce, shredded cucumber and carrots, topped with ground peanuts and green onion.  On the side is a bowl of the beloved fish sauce for you to add to your desired mixture.  I’m told that an intention is to preserve the various textures of the food and not let it turn soggy.  As a result you should add fish sauce to the dish sparingly, only enough to coat the vermicelli so that they’re not in one big clump.  I pour the whole bowl in and look for more.

What I love about my rice vermicelli dish is the mix of textures.  The rice noodles are so fine and then the chicken and few spring rolls mixed in and bean sprouts, it’s just fun to eat.  The flavours of the lemongrass chicken with the fish sauce together is what makes the meal for me.  What is fish sauce?  Well really it is Nước chắm, this accompanies many vietnamese dishes and is a sweet, spicy, sour and fishy sauce.  It’s made with fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, chili peppers and some shredded carrot.  There are various of course, but this gives you an idea if you’re not familiar.

Where I do change things up is with appetizers, which I almost always order.  At Golden Bell they have a smallish list of appetizers, but all the favorites are here.  There are spring rolls, (both pork and vegetable), shrimp salad rolls and chicken salad rolls as well as chicken wings and ginger beef.  I haven’t seen canadian style ginger beef at other vietnamese restaurants.  However let’s not fool ourselves and call it chinese, so why not have it here too.  Afterall our daughter also loves the ginger beef.  

When bringing little ones out for vietnamese start with spring rolls.  The texture is easy and approachable.  Our daughter likes the vermicelli noodles, however has a hard time chewing and breaking them down, she might cough and even choke.  I prevent this by cutting them up superfine.  Don’t do it to mine, but she needs it.  The lemongrass chicken I also cut up small for her, like any other food.  Golden Bell uses nice tender cuts of chicken and our daughter has never had difficulty chewing them, neither have I.  The ginger beef, also requires cutting up for her and is mildly spicy, so depending on your child’s feeling about spice you may need to consume this one yourself.

One last thing must be mentioned when talking about Vietnamese cuisine.  The sauces, hoisin, fish, peanut, shrimp paste, tuong, soy and hot chilli.  Try them all, add them to everything, dip everything.  Hoisin sauces are nearly the same everywhere, but peanuts sauces can have a lot of variety.  Golden Bell’s peanut sauce white it is distinctly peanut, it isn’t overwhelmingly so.  I’ve had peanut sauces where it tastes like a thinned down peanut butter.  Not necessarily bad, but good to know.

I feel that Vietnamese cuisine is “fresher feeling” without the abundance of deep fried items.  There can be a great variety of unique spices and cooking styles in the appetizers at other Vietnamese restaurants and that’s a great way to share and try things out.

I think my revisit to phở is long overdue, maybe a phở soup for me and my daughter to share is in the near future.

• Opened: 4th Quarter 2015
• Address: 723 – 17th Ave SW
• Kid Friendly: Sure
• Brunch: Yes
• Website: https://blancocantina.ca/
• Google Pics: Link

Nearly two years ago Blanco Cantina opened on 17th Ave.  To say we were excited for another Mexican option would be putting it mildly.  We have had an influx of Mexican spots (actually since Blanco opened two of them have disappeared) but I think Calgarians have a hunger for it.

First off Blanco comes from the group behind Añejo, The Mission and The Living Room.  They have transformed the space once occupied by Brava Bistro, opening up the restaurant with a rustic vibe and enlarging the patio with, of course, roll up doors.  While the decor is rustic, it is a clean modern rustic with neon signs filling the walls.  The bar of course is a focal point with more tequila options than I’m close to familiar with.

The food menu at Blanco is outstanding, it’s filled with all of the Mexican favorites with a special emphasis put on nachos (these are not to be missed!).  The burritos are huge ($16/$20) with vivid flavours, however I’ve only had them once.  The nachos ($12/$20/$28) on the other hand, we’ve been for three times.  There’s a separate ordering card for the nachos, what size, what toppings, what meat, how about more toppings.  They are huge, and excellent.  I no longer order nachos elsewhere because what would be the point, they’d only be disappointing after these.

On another visit to Blanco we had brunch.  You didn’t know Mexicans did brunch?  Well of course they do, they just do it spicier!  Forgive me as this was some months back.  I had the Blanco Benny ($17) (poached eggs, toasted english muffin, chipotle beef brisket, spicy hollandaise, hash browns, fresh fruit).  I remember it being good, just as described and satisfying, but really just as one would expect it to be.  My wife on the other hand had the Huevos Rancheros ($14) (crispy corn tortillas, refried beans, hash browns, salsa rojo, two fried eggs, crispy bacon, fresh fruit) nothing unusual there right?  Right.  Except this was basically breakfast nachos and amazing.  Do yourself a favor go order this next Sunday.  My daughter had a bacon and eggs with fruit ($12), not actually on the menu.

So here’s where I answer my usual, how is it for kids?  Well there is no kids menu, or high chairs.  However they have been extremely great with my daughter.  On multiple occasions they have made extra effort with her, making her slushy juice drinks ($5) and a cheese quesadilla ($?) .  Taking notice when she wasn’t interested in the world’s greatest nachos (because we were expecting to share them),  so she ordered the Mexican flatbread ($14).  While I wouldn’t suggest their intention is for a “family” restaurant, with a child that can sit and be patient Blanco is a great family spot.

• Opened: 2016
• Location: 1331 17th Ave SW
• Kid Friendly:Yes w/Kids Menu
• Brunch: Yes
• Website: http://homeandawayyyc.com/
• Google Pics: Link

Opened in 2016 at the corner of 17th and 13th you may remember it as where Moxies used to be, is Home & Away.  They completely gutted the building to concrete and studs, there is no trace of Moxies’ layout and aesthetic.  They have gone all out with a sports aesthetic, but that doesn’t mean they have 20 or 30 screens, they have several and a large projection screen they lower for events. Rather it’s the atmosphere that shouts SPORTS, their flooring is made from reclaimed gym floors, their ceiling is styled like a small arena, they have a skateboard wall, as well as many other decorative touches.  Lastly they have games to play, Basketball hoops, Skee Ball, a hockey table and I’m told connect four boards you can bring to your table.  Not to be forgotten is their giant spacious patio, and roll-up windows with outfacing bar seating, it’s like front row seating to the Avenue without the full heat of the patio sun.  The patio itself has been enlarged and now runs the full length of the building, and has some tree’s added it that will be great for some shade in a few years when they get a little bigger.

First let me say Home & Away has improved hugely from my first visit when they’d been open for only 2 months.  I wish I could say for certain but I think they have knocked their prices down a buck or two across the board as well.  They are very active on social media with daily menu creations.  I’ve enjoyed a few of their Wednesday burger creations.  Most recently it was a half priced Thursday taco creation.  Their Facebook and Google albums are filled with unique menu creations, but they also have regular menu items you can depend on it that’s more your speed.

I like Home & Away’s Daily features, unlike some places where it’s just a soup that changes, this really feels like a timely feature you have been lucky enough to catch.  Additionally they have great happy hour specials that run in an extended happy hour from 11am to 6pm.  There are six items for $6 before 6:00.  They also have more game day specials than I can keep up with.  If you’re hoping you can bring kids, well no worries Home & Away has a kids menu and the games are free on Sundays, so it’s ideal to come by then.

Visit Thursday July 27th

It was Taco day, an excellent day to try a daily special.  This week I really feel that Home & Away’s team has outdone themselves these were delicious.  As taken from their Facebook Post “Tonight’s taco feature from Sous Chef Jeremy are “Pretzel Fried Chicken Taco” with Pretzel Breaded Chicken, Swiss Cheese, Honey Mustard, Shaved Lettuce and Pickled Red Onion”.  These were so good I could have eaten two orders but we also had the Chili Glazed Calamari which I forgot to get a picture of, but expect one at a later date.

These tacos were a wonderful melody of flavours starting with the Pretzel Breaded Chicken, tasty with a wonderful texture, crisp on the outside and tender inside.  The honey mustard and pickled onion was a delicious complement and more fitting than I would have imagined.

My wife enjoyed the “Tijuana Chicken Salad – Queso Fresco, Pico de Gallo, Corn, Black Beans, Cilantro, Radish, Crispy Tortilla Strips, Jalapeno Lime Dressing.  She said it was excellent and enjoyed the freshness really fitting for summer.

My daughter had the “Little League Mac & Cheese – White Cheddar Fondue, Bread Crumbs”.  She gave it a thumbs up, but the really testament was that she ate every last bit, where as our visit nearly a year early she only picked at it.  Truthfully I think she wasn’t that hungry on the previous visit.

My only suggestion, offer a heat rating when you order the Chilli Glazed Calamari, they were excellent and just as advertised, but done with some sauteed hot peppers and “3rd Inning heat” would push it into something unique.

Home & Away is an excellent addition to the Avenue, they have real character in their venue and menu, I fully recommend it.

• Opened:  2013 – 2018 Closed Now
• Address: 933 17th Ave SW
• Kid Friendly: Yes w/High Chairs (Welcomed until 9pm Daily)
• Brunch: Yes w/free Mini Milkshakes &  Mini Donuts
• Website: http://www.rooseveltcalgary.com/
• Google Pics: Link

My wife was working late, so my daughter and I were off on another culinary adventure.

I plan weeknight dinners with her for the early evening, after picking her up from day care, and getting cleaned up. At this earlier hour she is in a good mood, patient and places are typically less busy.

We’d been to Cibo a lot recently so I wanted to go somewhere else and try something new for her. We’d been to Roosevelt for lunch back in February and previous to that for brunches but nothing recently.

Roosevelt has a good mix of table heights as well as highchairs; they don’t have a kids menu. However they do have a large appetizer selection and we have shared entrées before.
When we arrived shortly before five it was still quiet with only a half dozen tables seated. We took a low table by the front windows where we had sat several times before.
I ordered her usual Apple juice and I had a Rolling Rock. She’s very close to handling regular short glasses with straws however that day she had a rather large spill. The manager (who has previously visited with us) rushed over and helped us clean up.

I explained to our waitress that I was planning to introduce her to Calamari, but could only hope it would go well. She took our order of Calamari and the Diablo Flat Bread.

The Diablo Pizza is Diced Chicken, Smoked Bacon, Roosevelt’s Buffalo Sauce, Jalapeños, Scallions and a Ranch Drizzle.

Dinner didn’t take too long, and soon I was trying to get her to try the Calamari. When our waitress checked on us I said that the Calamari wasn’t going well. She suggested I cut it up. Sure enough once she had some manageable pieces she was chomping it down.

• 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.