Three Squares

Rise and Shine

Over Easy Breakfast might be the tipping point that unofficially anoints Edmonton Trail as Calgary’s breakfast district. If the lineup to get in is any indication, there is plenty of business to go around. Basics from eggs Benedict, blueberry pancakes and breakfast burritos are served to the 14-seat communal table running down the centre of the space and the other 38 seats at tables lining the geometric-print wallpapered walls. Menu items you would be less likely to find at the neighbouring competition include the uova alla Toscana, which draws on chef and owner Mauro Martina’s Italian roots for garlic rye bread, sun-dried tomatoes and smoked prosciutto to go with poached eggs ($9.89). Sweet standouts include the ultimate crunchy French toast with MacKay’s pure vanilla ice cream, shaved almonds and caramel sauce ($9.49) as well as the CPS special, a giant donut topped with seasonal berries that’s named after the Calgary Police Service ($8.99). Add a Cappuccino King espresso or cocktail from the Eyes Wide Shut menu to start the day off right for under $15. (824 Edmonton Tr. N.E., 403-278-3447) —Jaelyn Molyneux

Let’s do Lounge

The hamburger has taken a step up in the world. No longer relegated to greasy fast-food joints, it has gotten more sophisticated, mature and, well frankly, cool. Nowhere is this more evident than at Loungeburger. Located just across from Stampede Park off Macleod Trail, this upscale restaurant and lounge puts patties on a pedestal. There are more than a dozen specialty burgers to choose from, including beef (AAA Alberta, $11), elk ($15.50), Ahi tuna ($19), tiger shrimp ($16), lamb ($14), salmon ($14.50) veggie ($11) and more. Or you can build your own from a long list of options of not only patties, but toppings and even buns — the pretzel bun is a fun choice. Accompany your burger with a good selection of sides including several options for fries — I recommend the waffle cut. And if burgers are not your thing, try the many appetizers (stuffed meatballs, $10), entrees (fish tacos, $12) or salad (Thai salad, $14.50) options. (270, 14 Ave. S.E., 403-250-2747, loungeburger.com) —Anthony Charron

Locavore’s Delight

District bills itself as a place where foodies like to drink, but it’s also a cozy watering hole where you want to eat. Locally grown organic produce and naturally raised meats are the name of the game at this gastropub; the beer is brewed onsite and all the bacon, ketchup, aiolis and mustards are made in-house. It’s also the kind of place where they forgo printed menus in favour of chalkboards all around the room. Despite what your conscience may be telling you, get the bucket of house-cured smoked bacon with a side of maple syrup ($6). Then, build your own cheese and charcuterie board with generous portions of Noble Farms duck prosciutto ($3.75), Regina’s chorizo sausage ($6.72), Chalatine dor brie ($3.75) and Sylvan grizzly gouda ($3.75). The vast selection of poutine ($7.95, small), starters (Hairy Eyeball beer marinated lamb ribs, $10.95) salads (duck confit salad, $14.50), sandwiches (grilled salmon, $13.50) and mains (smoked Broek Acres pork chop, $21.95) promises something for everyone. And on Saturday nights, they’ve got live music, 15 cent wings and drink specials. (607 11 Ave. S.W., 403-233-2433, enjoydistrict.com) —Lynda Sea