rev:text
| - Cannibale is the 3rd in the successful series of family-owned diner/restaurants here in Calgary. The others are the well-known and relentlessly popular Dairy Lane diner and the Blue Star diner.
Cannibale is a different concept: a "speak easy" fronted by a barbershop. In side it's cozy and inviting. Not unlike Dairy Lane and Blue Star, it's casually elegant, and tasteful. You could easily miss the attention to detail. Again like its sister venues, they specialize in excellence in value and service delivered in a friendly, casual, welcoming style. Don't mistake the casual style with a casual approach to business -- they never miss a beat when it comes to their service which is impeccable. Staff are knowledgeable about their offerings, ready to help with recommendations.
Nifty as is the concept for this joint, there's no pretension. As with the other restaurants, the owner is often around, and always has a welcoming smile. Personally, I admire a boss like this who leads by example, and is never above joining it with serving, bussing or slinging a mop.
After going there the first time, 2 weeks ago, I've been back two more times. I've enjoyed a few among a good selection of beers, and have yet to try their other beverages, but look forward to exploring some of those.
For food, I've enjoyed the charcuterie plate, the Rueben made with duck, and the Cuban sandwich, as well as a couple of deserts. The quality of the offerings is exceptional! Gourmet level, I thought. Am I going too far? You tell me.
Not just a unique concept for Calgary, this is a comfortable, warm and inviting place to hang out for a drink and a snack, get a hair cut while there if you like, have dinner with friend or business colleague. I think this is going to be a regular hang out for me. See you down there!
|