This famous Calgary address is centrally located near city hall, across from the convention centre, in a Victorian era former Dominion Bank. Teatro is more than a culinary destination. The architecture alone is an experience: a well preserved and restored neoclassic interior consisting of high ceilings, tall columns and granite bar counter top sets the stage. You will notice the windows framed in limestone and detailed Victorian era carvings mixed with modern art and peerless furnishings. Crisp linens, crystal glassware and a showy baroque bar will make an immediate statement of elegance but the energy of Teatro’s young professional staff causes even a hint of pretension to fade. They are very friendly and knowledgeable about the food and wines because before every evening shift all wait staff meet with the chef who explains the evening specials.

The food is a Moderno Italian. The fare includes Canadian ingredients like Quebec veal osso bucco, Atlantic lobster ravioli and Alberta beef and lamb created with Italian ingredients like sopresetta sausage, pangritata and pancetta and then presented with French flare.

On top of this, the owner Dario Berloni, has family in Italy who operate a farm in Fermo on the Adriatic. This is where he gets his exclusive Italian ingredients found nowhere else but here. Martinozze olive oil, Truffles, porcinis and figs and not to be missed Mozzarella di Buffala. The classic cheese made with milk from water buffalo! Marvelous! A unique taste and buttery texture are a taste experience you will never forget. Teatro has a saltwater tank for live lobsters and crabs and there is a bakery and pastry shop in the basement making everything fresh.

Sleeping beneath Teatro is an Enoteca (Wine library) holding a very impressive collection (10,000) of beautiful, carefully chosen wines. Dario’s family is in the wine business also. His temperature controlled cellar, in the old bank vault holds a collection you won’t find just anywhere. His connections in the wine world have secured real treasures for someone who knows their wines. For example, Chateau Lafite-Rothschild and Haut-Brion wine labels are just a few of the offerings your new sommelier friend can suggest to create a dinner experience that will be one of your most memorable.

When in Calgary remember Teatro in the theater district.

Teatro Ristorante

Olympic Plaza

200 8^th Ave. SE

Calgary, Alberta

 2002 Premier Cru Classe $660

JOHN MICHAEL MACNEIL