This fine-dining establishment has quickly become one of Calgary's best spots for a special-occasion dinner. Set in a refurbished bank building, the restaurant features a large skylight, wall-hung mirrors, and atmospheric lighting. Up front, separated from the dining room, is a lounge for those who want to soak in the ambience. The menu is updated Continental, culling ingredients and preparation techniques from all over the world. Dishes are complex and exotic, including rack of lamb in artichoke crust with peppermint beet glaze, Angus beef tenderloin with truffled mushroom confit, or grilled Arctic char with saffron risotto. Appetizers and desserts follow suit, and although dishes are elaborate, the quality of cuisine is outstanding. Allow for a leisurely evening.

Deliciously creative food is the hallmark of this bistro, which is a latter-day incarnation of one of the city's best former catering companies. The cuisine is incredibly innovative, and diners often come to discover the newest combinations and entrees. Salads and appetizers benefit from what's seasonal, as do the main courses. Representative dishes include grilled pork, pheasant, roasted pumpkin soup, chanterelle-dusted beef tenderloin, squash seed-crusted ahi tuna, and grilled salmon. Each dish is laced with unusual flavors too, whether it be tropical fruit, fresh herbs, or a rich infusion of bacon. The desserts follow the same tack and add innovation to tradition. It's a formula for success all the way around. A wide selection of wines by the glass.

High ceilings, bold colors, and the stir of ceiling fans ­ you'll almost think you're down in the Big Easy. The spicy decor is only a prelude to the meal, which is most certainly centered around the regional favorites that have made New Orleans cuisine such a big hit. Blues and jazz set the mood, compounding the Southern flair that everything in the restaurant attempts to establish. The menu is zesty and flavorful, just as you've come to expect. You'll be delighted to sample a well-filled po' boy or dig into rich, chunky jambalayas and gumbos. The food is judiciously seasoned, perfect for those who crave Cajun cuisine and those who are in the mood to give it a go.

These two venues both serve seafood with a New Orleans flair and offer live jazz during the week. Cannery Row, on the lower level, is a more casual establishment and has an oyster bar. It offers live jazz Friday and Saturdays. McQueens sits above it and is dedicated to more elegant dining. It has live music from Wednesday until Saturday. If you've got a craving for crab, lobster, shrimp, oysters, fresh fish, and even steak, lamb, duck, or veal, you'll find it at these sibling restaurants. The ambience at both is warm and inviting, and you'll often find friends and colleagues gathered for a drink and a delicious meal. If seafood is on your mind, this is the place to get it. A local favorite.

A mix of textures defines this casual spot, which surrounds patrons with brick walls and wood accents. It's somewhat like a spacious pub, and the layout ensures that you feel comfortable either on your own or as part of a larger group. The food is southwestern in nature, featuring the rustic goodness of ground corn, spicy peppers, and earthy seasonings. You'll find everything from enchiladas and quesadillas to signature dishes like Albuquerque Corn Chowder or Steak Chipolte. If you're searching for diversions while the food is being prepared, you'll find a pool table and a big-screen TV. If the weather's agreeable, head for the outdoor patio, which provides a vista of Stephen Avenue.