Insta-Food: Calgary Eats & Treats

Since it's my last month in Calgary, I thought I'd share a few more places that I've been frequenting as a follow up to my Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner in Calgary post. You know... in case any of you ever happen to be in town (the likelihood of which, I realize, is probably quite slim). But I like food posts, so here we go!


Craft Beer Market

I'm not a huge fan of beer but Craft apparently has the largest selection of draft beer in Canada so I was actually able to find one that I like (in case you were wondering, it's Fruli, which tastes exactly like strawberries). They also offer a wide variety of food, including some amazing nachos which come served in the sawed-off bottom of a keg.

And some good news for Vancouverites: Craft is set to open up in the False Creek/Olympic Village area soon. I know it's been met with some controversy from area residents but  the city could really use a bar like this - if not there then somewhere else.

Address: 345 10th Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta
Website: http://www.craftbeermarket.ca


Cruffs

Who doesn't like cream puffs? Especially ones that you can customize! At Cruffs, you choose the shells and they will fill up your cream puffs with whatever filling you want, from the typical Chantilly cream to mango or Baileys (plus more). As a coconut lover, I especially love the coconut shell filled with coconut cream. Yum!

I wish we had a place like this in Vancouver (Beard Papa's is good but not the same) because they make the perfect treats to share with friends or for parties. Hint hint, Cruffs...

Address: 2312A 4th Street SW, Calgary, Alberta
Website: http://www.cruffs.com


Clive Burger

Clive Burger is a hip burger joint on 17th Avenue with some great minimalist decor and a cool ambiance. Using locally sourced products, they make simple but delicious burgers with your choice of fixings. I'm told their fries are to-die-for as well, but unfortunately can't eat them since they're cooked in peanut oil and I'm deathly allergic. So sad!

Instead of classic milkshakes, Clive is also known for their custard shakes which come in 4 flavours: chocolate, vanilla, coffee, and cherry. They are as decadent as they sound and so so good.

Address: 736 17th Avenue SW, Calgary, Alberta
Website: http://www.cliveburger.com


Jelly Modern Doughnuts

You may remember that I went on a bit of a gourmet doughnut bender last summer, so I was excited to find Jelly Modern Doughnuts here in Calgary. They are considered Canada's original gourmet doughnut bakery, and I've even seen them on the Food Network before.

Unlike the heavier/cakey doughnuts that I'm used to, Jelly Modern's classic doughnuts are light and fluffy with a range of different fillings. I've tried quite a few now and I'd say my favourites are the Coconut and the Carrot Cake (which you saw in this post).

Jelly Modern also makes sandwiches out of their doughnuts, which you can buy if you're looking for something more savoury.

Address: 1414 8th Street SW, Calgary, Alberta
Website: http://jellymoderndoughnuts.com

CHARCUT Roast House

Alberta is known for its beef and I was determined to find some good steak somewhere in the city. Well, I'd say CHARCUT has it. In fact, I think CHARCUT may actually be my favourite steak restaurant. Ever.

This place is on the more expensive side since the menu is à la Carte but it is so worth it. The Spring Creek Butcher Steak I had was cooked to perfection and the Smashed Poplar Bluff potatoes with sour cream, rosemary, and house-smoked bacon were divine.

And don't even get me started on the dessert... cheesecake in a jar. I am drooling just thinking about it. I could seriously eat at least 2 of these (or more but then I'd probably be accused of gluttony).

If you are ever in Calgary and you like steak, you have to go here!

Address: 899 Centre Street SW, Calgary, Alberta
Website: http://www.charcut.com

Sanctuary Spa Bathtime Bliss Set

I love trying out new brands and was recently introduced to Sanctuary Spa by their PR. Sanctuary Spa, an actual spa located in London's Covent Garden, developed their namesake line of skincare and body products based on the expertise of their therapists and feedback from thousands of guests. Because all of the products are used in the spa's actual treatments, what you get are spa-quality products that are widely available (in the UK, at least) at fairly affordable prices (products start at £10).

I was sent the Bathtime Bliss Set to try out, which is a great sampler of products. It includes Sanctuary's Luxury Bath Float and Body Lotion, along with a Classic Fragrance Diffuser and candles to create a relaxing atmosphere.

The Luxury Bath Float creates clouds of frothy bubbles and though I'm not usually a fan of oriental scents, this one is not too heavy. A bath with this is the perfect way to wind down after a stressful day.

The Body Lotion is a light moisturizer that absorbs quickly. Scented with a mix of ginger and fragrant spices, I was expecting something similar to the popular Origins Ginger Souffle line. However, the ginger here is not very strong so it's good for those with sensitive noses.

I thought the votive candles were a nice touch (you can never have too many!) but my favourite product from this set was the Classic Fragrance Diffuser. Unlike other diffusers I've used in the past, this one actually works to constantly impart a comforting fragrance of citrus, bergamot, and jasmine, followed by a sensuous combination of vanilla, patchouli, and sandalwood. I put this in my living room and love how it now smells like a spa!

The BB Dakota Koa Coat

You guys might remember when I managed to hunt down that Marc by Marc Jacobs Babylon Stripe Cardigan I had been lusting after on major sale. Well, I think the BB Dakota Koa Coat is this year's MBMJ sweater.

BB Dakota had a version of this coat out last year that first caught my eye when I saw a girl on the bus wearing it. I went home that day and did some Internet sleuthing to find out who made it but of course it ended up being sold out everywhere. When they released a similar coat again, I immediately added it to my wishlist and was able to snag one at 65% off from Hautelook!

While the Hautelook sale has come and gone, this coat is now on sale on a few websites. Try here, here, here, here, and here.

Coat: BB Dakota (here) / Jeggings: 7 For All Mankind / Boots: Steve Madden

Bag: Matt & Nat / Headband: Anthropologie (similar) / Gloves: Club Monaco

Honestly, I never have any luck with these flash sale websites (I'm always surprised at how quickly items get snatched up) but this time my frantic refreshing of the page actually worked!