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At my latest and greatest client, I’ve had work and meetings in Calgary. I do look forward to the beef when I get here, but sometimes you’re so tired after work, that you’re really not up for heading outside the hotel for dinner. (Disclaimer : I’m not a fan of hotel restaurants by nature – they’re typically overpriced and underwhelming). I’m not the biggest fan of the Sheraton Cavalier, so I was not expecting a great experience at the steakhouse.
From a location perspective, it’s nice to be able to find a decent dining establishment that doesn’t require a $25 cab ride get downtown in the evening. Having dinner without a reservation, was a breeze and the wait staff are very good and the menu offered a wide choice of cuts to your preference. (Note : I’ve never been a fan of steak sizzling on a hot plate – steak is a very precise dish to very specific taste – some people like bloody red meat and I like my meat completely burnt – so if you don’t want your meal served on a hot cast iron plate, don’t order a meal specifically listed as being served on a hot cast iron plate)
So after being seated, we got around to drinks – then proceeded to watch two table-side preparations of Caesar salad, Steak D*, and Cherries Jubilee. I was impressed – but of course – a Flambe presentation always impresses the masses. It also tells of the service level of the waiters. While you’re watching the flambes, you can’t help but notice the upscale decor with couples in the corner. So it’s definitely a place for a special occasion. (BTW : Watching the waiter make the caesar salad was pretty impressive. He only used a bowl and a spoon, chatting all along while throwing in the various ingredients and whipping the dressing up by hand – my hands get tired from beating eggs!)
As for the food … we did away with appetizers and went straight to our mains, as we were famished from a long day. I ended up with a 14oz center cut New York strip, while my colleagues ended up with Salmon with steamed veggies and a 12 oz Rib Eye.
In the end, this is a good choice and while the atmosphere is not as serene as other choices in Calgary, the service, and food more than make up for it. For your wine choices, they have a decent sommelier, and their 3 signature dishes are definitely worth the try : Caesar Salad, Steak Diana, Strawberry Pepper Crepes
Carver’s Steakhouse
Address 2620 – 32nd Avenue N.E., Calgary, AB T1Y6B8
Phone (403) 291-0107
Hours Mon- Sun 5pm-11pm
