Calgary’s annual dining festival, YYC Food & Drink Experience (YYC EXP), returns March 13–29, celebrating the city’s dynamic and diverse culinary scene with its largest lineup to date.
More than 115 restaurants across Calgary have signed on to participate, the highest number in the festival’s history, inviting diners to explore bold flavours, creative menus, and exceptional value at every turn, according to a news release.
“We have an incredibly exciting lineup this year, from collaborations with celebrity chefs to interactive cocktail classes and immersive themed dinners. These events are designed to give guests a truly memorable culinary experience, whether they’re looking to indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime evening or explore something new. With a range of formats and price points, there’s genuinely something for everyone,” said Irena Knorr, Culinary Program Director at Culinary Marketing Strategies, which produces the event.
Participating restaurants will present specially curated, value-priced prix fixe menus for brunch, lunch and dinner. Most three-course menus average $50 per person, while select gourmet experiences feature five or more courses averaging $75 per person.
Reservations for YYC EXP prix-fixe experiences and signature events can be made directly through each participating restaurant’s booking platform. Calgarians are encouraged to secure their tables early, as reservations fill quickly throughout the festival.
“Calgary boasts one of the most dynamic food scenes in the country, and the festival offers a fun, approachable way for people to discover and savour its diverse culinary talent. With a record number of participating restaurants in our event’s history this year, YYC EXP will deliver a meaningful boost to tourism and the local restaurant community while showcasing the creativity and excellence that define dining in Calgary,” said Donald House, Founder and President of Culinary Marketing Strategies.
In addition to set menus, YYC EXP will present 12 exclusive, chef-led culinary events hosted at some of Calgary’s most exciting restaurants. These intimate dining experiences will showcase thoughtfully crafted dishes from Michelin-starred and award-winning chefs, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience world-class culinary talent right here at home, explained organizers.
The festival is sponsored by Calgary Downtown Association.
“Having worked in Calgary restaurants for almost two decades, I’ve seen firsthand the energy and economic activity YYC EXP brings to downtown Calgary each March. With 36 downtown restaurants and 8 hotels participating this year, our strongest representation to date, the festival will create meaningful momentum for local businesses. The Stay & Dine hotel packages, paired with Downtown Calgary Gift Cards, are a powerful way to encourage visitors to experience, stay, and spend in the downtown core while celebrating our city’s culinary talent,” said Andrew Doudican, Director of Urban Strategy for Calgary Downtown Association.
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