9 Alberta restaurants worth the road trip this summer
From Banff's Alpine Italian to Drumheller's smokehouse, these spots make the drive worth it.
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Road trip season is almost here, and Alberta has no shortage of restaurants worth the detour. Whether you're heading to the mountains, the foothills, or the prairies, these five spots stand out.
In Banff, The Fat Ox specializes in Alpine Italian cuisine, drawing from Northern Italy's culinary traditions. It's a recent addition to the mountain town, having opened in 2024 at the High Country Inn on Banff Avenue.
Last Chance Saloon in Drumheller is a meat lover's destination. The spot smokes its brisket, St. Louis ribs, and pork shoulder in-house using cherry or apple wood. They also serve salads, handhelds, and dishes for your dog.
For a cozy, iconic Alberta experience, Chuckwagon Cafe in Diamond Valley serves steak and eggs, burgers, and freshly baked pie. The spot has even been visited by major stars like Shania Twain.
In Bragg Creek, The Italian Farmhouse is known for its rustic Italian fare—antipasti, pasta, pizza, and more. In warmer months, the patio overlooks the surrounding forest and is worth planning a visit around.
Longview Steakhouse & Country Inn, located at 562076 Highway 22 W. in Longview, is notoriously hard to book—there's even a dedicated Facebook group for trading reservations. It serves only Alberta beef with incredible views of the foothills and an award-winning cocktail program.
For Texas-style BBQ, Big Sky BBQ in Okotoks offers sandwiches and plates loaded with smoked meats, plus Caesar cocktails. The enormous space boasts one of Western Canada's largest patios.
In Canmore, Änkôr showcases contemporary Canadian cuisine under Chef Danny Beaulieu. The restaurant offers both a la carte dishes and a six-course tasting menu alongside an award-winning wine list.
These spots, along with others across the province, make Alberta's food scene worth exploring beyond the city.