While visiting Calgary for Spring break, I realized how much I missed the city — the sites, the sounds, and especially the food.
Something that really stood out to me during my trip was the new and more frequently used lavender flavour in food items. This flavour started showing up in food establishments all over the city and even made its way into some of my favourite spots.
1. Lavender Shortbread from Brulee Bakery
722 11th Ave SW
Located in the heart of Downtown Calgary, Brulee Bakery is a local favourite. They managed to put a delightful spin on a classic favourite cookie.
2. Apricot Lavender Macarons from Yann Haute Patisserie
329 23 Ave SW
I don’t know about everyone else, but I am semi-obsessed with macarons. I am pretty much in love every single flavour, especially this new lavender one. If you can’t meet your macaron needs with macarons from Laduree in Paris, then Yann Haute is always a close second.
3. Lavender Vanilla Bean Gelato from Fiasco Gelato
221 19 Street SE
Who doesn’t love ice cream? Fiasco Gelato has built their legacy in Calgary, and they’re slowly continuing to spread across Western Canada. While their lavender vanilla bean gelato is a nice change from regular vanilla, its light taste is perfect for those who like to play it safe when it comes to flavour options.
4. Lavender White Hot Chocolate from Wild & Raw Superfood Juice Bar
1119 Kensington Rd NW
Anyone from Calgary knows that during eight long months of Winter, there are some days when you just really need a pick me up. This spin on white hot chocolate is perfect for days like that. Wild & Raw Superfood Juice Bar is a family-owned business in Calgary, and it’s always nice to know that you’re supporting local businesses.
5. Frozen Pink Lemonade’s with Lavender from Earl’s Restaurant and Bar
2401 4th Street
Earl’s Restaurant is a happy-hour fave and a prime patio season spot. This delicious drink is perfect for kicking off the summer. I ordered this beverage not even knowing it had lavender in it, as it was listed as Frozen Pink Lemonade, but was delightfully surprised when I tasted it.
6. Organic Lavender Lemonade by Ollia Macarons & Tea
810C 16 Ave SW
Ollia’s, another great macaron destination in Calgary, really switched it up when they began selling this succulent bottled beverage. It tastes great and it has just the right amount of sourness. It is definitely an ideal drink option for this summer.
If you’re a local or if you’re just visiting, take advantage of all the lavender-filled food items that Calgary has to offer. You won’t be sorry.