Bear Street Tavern

Image above appears courtesy: Ski Big 3 / Banff Lake Louise Tourism

So, you’re hungry, but where to go? The best way to figure out is by talking to the locals. After getting input from some folks in town, our minds were made up – Bear Street Tavern. This place has been on “You Gotta Eat Here” which is the Canadian version of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. From the outside it seems unassuming with a small sign inviting you to step inside. Upon entering, the restaurant is narrow and cozy making you feel at home. Saddling up to the bar we ordered a pizza and mac n cheese. We know what you’re thinking…it sounds like typical bar food. Oh boy are you in for a surprise! The pizza comes out and it has homemade bison donair along with the rest of the ingredients found in a donair. What’s a donair? Its like the Canadian version of a gyro.

Honey On A Pizza?!? As They Say When In Rome

Next the server asks, “You want to eat it like a Canadian?” Like they always say when in Rome… He whips out some honey and makes a circle on the dish. Then the honey circle is filled with chili infused oil! Lastly and most importantly he gives on final instruction…”Dip your pizza!” It nothing like you’ve ever tasted! The oil adds an extra spiciness and the honey finishes the bite with a hint of sweet. Fantastic! Next, the mac n cheese is waiting. It’s a cheesy adventure filled with roasted cauliflower, smoked pork belly, and topped with breadcrumbs. The cauliflower adds a whole new crunchy element that is unexpected. The scrumptious piece of smoked pork belly provides the salty element and makes the dish. Bread crumbs coat the cheese giving it a slightly gritty texture that is shockingly enjoyable. Along with the meal, we had a couple local beers and even met a new friend.