The 8 Best Cheap Date Restaurants in Calgary with Food and Prices That Couples Are Sure to Fall in Love With
Just recently, one of my closest friends and her husband purchased their dream home. They’ve been saving up for it for so long, and I’m so proud that they finally got to do it.
Shortly after that, she called me up asking for suggestions on affordable restaurants. She says that they’re trying not to splurge after such a huge investment, but they still wanted to celebrate a win.
Well, she asked the right person. Over the years, I’ve been to so many places that wowed me without costing an arm and a leg. In case you need recommendations as well, you’ll find a list of the most amazing cheap date restaurants in Calgary below.
Under $20 per Person
1. Shiki Menya
– Media credit: shikimenya
Address: 824 1 Ave NE
Contact details: +1 403 454 2722
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Sunday – Closed
Must-order: OG Katsu Sando
Shiki Menya is not your typical Japanese restaurant. Sure, they’ve got all the classics — ramen, tonkotsu, and takoyaki — but that’s about it. Everything else makes it the most unique date experience ever.
For starters, the first thing that’ll welcome you is loud music blasting from the speakers. Some people even mistake the place for a club, if it weren’t for all the customers slurping their noodles.
But though it may not be as cozy as other ramen bars, you can still count on the flavors to wow you and envelope you in a warm, delicious hug. I especially love recommending the OG Katsu Sando ($15) since people tend to overlook it for the ramen.
The meat is always crispy with breading, while the bread is fluffy and soft. And if you choose the cheese-stuffed pork version, it becomes even more savory and rich. After a bite, your date will likely thank you for introducing this to their life.
| Pro tip: Despite its popularity, Shiki Menya is a really small restaurant. It’s best to arrive right after they open if you want to avoid a line. |
2. Sidewalk Citizen Bakery
– Media credit: sidewalkcitizen
Address: Simmons Building, 618 Confluence Way SE
Contact details: +1 403 457 2245
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Must-order: Quiche
Sidewalk Citizen Bakery looks and smells like it belongs in a rom-com. It’s the kind of place for a spontaneous meet-cute between two charming people (I’m thinking Sydney Sweeney & Glen Powell or Meg Ryan & Billy Crystal, for those who love the classics).
But those who have already found their significant others are sure to fall in love with the bakery’s brunch items. It’s known for its sourdough bread, so any sandwich that has this is guaranteed to be a winner.
For me, though, the Quiche ($13) is the way to go. This superb savory pastry has a soft crust and lots of delicious bacon and cheddar inside. It also has a veggie version for those with dietary preferences.
| Pro tip: You can easily continue your date after a meal at Sidewalk Citizen Bakery. The restaurant is situated right beside the beautiful Bow River, which offers numerous pathways and activities ideal for couples. |
3. UNA Pizza + Wine
– Media credit: unapizzaandwine
Address: 618 17 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403 453 1183
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM
Must-order: Margherita Pizza
Anyone who loves pizza in Calgary has surely tried UNA Pizza + Wine. With its hip vibes and relaxed atmosphere, it’s a great place for young couples and those young at heart.
During peak hours, almost all of their popular dishes are worth more than $20. But if you drop by during happy hour, you wouldn’t believe just how much you’ll get to save.
Firstly, you have to get their Kale Caesar Salad ($7.5). So many people are surprised to hear that this is one of this pizza place’s best sellers. But with the crispy prosciutto and pecorino mixed in, it’s irresistible.
As for the mains, their Margherita Pizza becomes available at half price ($10.5), but still comes with full flavor.
This delectable pie tastes just the right amount of tangy with the San Marzano tomato sauce, and incredibly creamy, thanks to the blend of Grana Padano and Fior Di Latte cheeses.
| Pro tip: UNA Pizza + Wine’s Happy Hour happens between 2 PM to 5 PM and 9 PM onwards. Besides the food, a glass of their house wines and sangria is available at $6 during this time — what a steal! |
$20 to $30 per Person
4. Vin Room
– Media credit: vinroomyyc
Address: 2310 4 St SW
Contact details: +1 403 457 5522
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Must-order: Charred Pulpo de Feijoada
Vin Room is a great choice for the couple who wants to be stylish and sophisticated without having to spend too much. This is the largest wine bar in the country, with more than 85 wines available by the glass.
What’s so great about going here is that you can sample their drinks by the ounce and discover which one you love the most. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a great bonding moment for two people.
It’s even better that they serve classic small plates for you to enjoy, so you’re not just getting full on alcohol. The seafood options are especially stellar.
There’s the Charred Pulpo de Feijoada ($22), which is a hearty stew full of grilled octopus and lima beans. We also love the delightful Lobster and Cod Nachos ($14) that are so good, you’ll be getting a second order before you even know it.
| Pro tip: Those who love Vin Room don’t always have to leave the house just for their favorite meals. The restaurant offers Date Night Packages with ready-made gourmet meals that you can serve at home. It comes with three courses for two and a bottle of wine. |
5. Pigeonhole
– Media credit: pigeonholeyyc
Address: 306 17 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403 452 4694
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Friday – 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Saturday – 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Sunday – 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Must-order: Mushroom Croquettes
Couples who love watching TV together would love Pigeonhole. First off, it’s where the cast of HBO’s hit show The Last of Us dined when they were filming, and they even posted it online.
It’s also a great late-night restaurant after you and your partner finish bingeing on a series for the whole day. On weekend nights past 10 PM, they offer significant discounts on their food, wines, and other beverages.
I strongly suggest getting a bunch of their small plates to share between you and your date. They’ve got burgers, wieners, and fries on the menu.
However, our go-to is their famous Mushroom Croquettes ($11). They’re crispy, yet also light and delicate. The Avonlea White Cheddar also complements the earthy mushrooms really well.
If you’re in the mood for something fancy, they’ve also got some seafood available. Both their East Coast Oyster ($23) and Scallop Crudo ($20) are favorites among regulars.
| Pro tip: This is a great place if you want to impress a musically inclined partner. Instead of a playlist, the Pigeonhole sets the tone of the restaurant with a great collection of vinyl records from a variety of genres and eras. |
6. Blanco Cantina
– Media credit: blancocantina
Address: 723 17 Ave SW
Contact details: +1 403 228 1854
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Must-order: Blanco Nachos
Blanco Cantina is for the couple who likes living it up. It’s pretty much a never-ending fiesta in this restaurant.
It’s got an electric atmosphere and lively music that’ll make you want to get up and dance. But if you manage to resist the urge to samba, it might be their food that’ll make you want to bust a move.
I know their Blanco Nachos ($22) are listed under the For Sharing section of the menu, but everyone agrees that that’s a lie. Believe me, you’re going to want to keep all the goodness to yourself with its creamy queso, jalapenos, and delicious salsa roja.
You also shouldn’t miss their amazing guacamole. The staff will make it fresh tableside, and they’ll ask you just how you like it.
| Pro tip: Visit Blanco Cantina on Margarita Mondays for a huge discount on drinks. All of their margarita flavors are available for $7. |
$30 to $40 per Person
7. Alloy
– Media credit: alloydining
Address: 220 42 Ave SE
Contact details: +1 403 287 9255
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Friday – 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM
- Saturday – 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM
- Sunday to Monday – Closed
Must-order: Pork Tenderloin
Even though Alloy is already a Calgary staple, it still feels like a hidden gem. It’s located in a quiet area surrounded by trees, so it’s nice for a more intimate date. The menu is inspired by a variety of cuisines, namely Mediterranean, Asian, and Latin flavors.
As an appetizer, make sure to get the Truffle Gnocchi ($22). The gnocchi is soft, and the truffle tastes like you should be paying more than what you already are.
For the mains, the Pork Tenderloin ($42) is fantastic. It always comes out of the kitchen juicy and melt-in-your-mouth tender. It’s also served with a Waldorf Salad that’s super refreshing.
Throughout your meal, you’ll be taken care of by servers who will make you feel like royalty. The level of service they provide is sure to get anyone even more dates in the future.
| Pro tip: Make your date feel even more special by dining on Alloy’s outdoor patio. It’s a beautiful area with fresh air and lots of vibrant plants and succulents. |
8. River Cafe
– Media credit: rivercafeyyc
Address: 25 Prince’s Island Park, SW
Contact details: +1 403 261 7670
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Must-order: Pan-Seared Yukon Arctic Char
River Cafe is a great setting for romance. Here, you can live out your fairytale love story as you enjoy the picturesque views of the Bow River. And if you’re lucky, it feels even more magical when the birds decide to sing.
Since you’re already by the water, it feels fitting to go with some seafood. Their Pan-Seared Yukon Arctic Char ($30), in particular, is divine. It’s buttery, fresh, and the green goddess dressing ties the fish really well with the mixed greens.
Don’t forget to check out their seasonal offerings as well. They usually have a rotating menu of drinks and desserts that’ll make your time in the restaurant even more memorable.
| Pro tip: River Cafe is also a great source of food if you want to have a picnic date. They’re located right beside Prince’s Island Park, and they have a picnic menu to choose from. When you drop by, they’ll even have your order ready in a basket. |