Well, it’s been one heck of a year.
There have been many ups and downs in the Alberta food and beverage industry, the recession causing some of us – like Escoba Bistro & Wine Bar, The Drum & Monkey and Bar C Food & Drink, to name a few – to close their doors and sadly, say goodbye for good.
But the end of 2016 also marks a time of celebration as we commemorate local spots that have stood the test of time (check out our article on Calgary restaurants celebrating 10+ years), and welcome new places we can’t wait to try out. Again, a big thank you to all Culinaire readers and supporters – this year marks our five year anniversary, and we couldn’t have done it without all of you!
Looking back over this year (we still can’t believe how fast it’s gone by!), here are 12 of our favourite stories and memories that helped make 2016 a memorable year for Culinaire Magazine:
1. 2016 Alberta Beverage Awards
One of our biggest events of the year, the Alberta Beverage Awards recognized the best in beverages judging more than 750 entries from 30 countries around the world.
2. Three Exciting Restaurants Opening in Calgary
Saying goodbye to many awesome spots in Calgary this year, we’re excited to celebrate the opening of three, highly anticipated restaurants in the city.
3. Eight Vietnamese Spots and Dishes They Do Best
We love Vietnamese food, and unbeknownst to some, Alberta has a reputation for hosting some of the best Vietnamese food in North America.
4. Alberta Food Tours: Sharing stories bite-by-bite
Touring Alberta: Karen Anderson’s commitment to sharing the joys and delicacies of Alberta’s food scene.
5. Culinaire: We’re expanding!
One of the most thrilling moments of our year was our expansion to Edmonton, making Culinaire an official Alberta-wide publication!
6. Culinaire’s Annual Treasure Hunt
Whether you participated in our Calgary or Edmonton Treasure Hunt, we’re sure you can attest to the hunts being one of our funnest days of the year. Get ready for our 2017 event!
7. Calgary’s Cocktail Queens
Who says it only has to be boys behind the bar? Four ladies pave the way for mixology in yyc.
8. Calgary and Edmonton: Secret patios
Ahh, summer. We miss you everyday. Four great Alberta patios we look forward to visiting again next year!
9. 10 Reasons to Celebrate Canada’s Food Industry
From “Souper Kids” to national awards, there are many great reasons to celebrate Canada’s food successes.
10. Calgary and Edmonton: Media personalities
What do Mayor Nenshi and Premier Rachel Notley have in common? A love of Alberta food and drink!
11. Five Cool Wineries for 2016
What’s in your wine cellar? A list of some of our favourite Canadian wineries and what they do best.
12. Beyond YYC: Banff and Canmore
There aren’t many natural marvels that rival the Rocky Mountains. A list of great restaurants in two of the most popular tourist destinations in Alberta.
