Congrats to Candela for coming in 2nd place for "Best New Restaurant" and 3rd place for "Best Decor" in Avenue's 2013 Food Issue (www.avenuecalgary.com). After dining there last week, I think Candela deserves this recognition.
The decor is modern Moroccan chic with vintage silver lighting, tile floors and really quirky black-and-white framed art along its back wall (these were my favourite decorator pieces!). Oh and the lighting in the large group dining area was perfect.
Food-wise, the tapas are solid and creatively conceived. There is a solid selection of tapas influenced from flavours around the world: Mexican, Spanish and Asian. Definite must-trys include the ahi tuna ceviche (the water melon is so refreshing and a nice change from rice) and the chicharron (deep fried pork with sinfully tasty crispy skin served with black bean puree, sour cream and salsa). My favourite dessert was the chocolate pot au creme- it has a nice spicy kick! The cocktail list is also fun; I had a delicious bourbon based drink with fresh cherry puree.
Candela would be a great place for a date, post-work cocktail or girl's night out.
We love supporting our local Mission eateries and businesses. Candela is a welcome addition to the neighbourhood and Calgary's dining scene.