The Buzz
This popular West Coast eatery made its Calgary debut in November 2005. With 15 other locations throughout B.C. and Alberta, it was a logical step for the upscale steak and seafood house to set up shop in Canada’s beef capital. Just off 17th Avenue, the restaurant is popular with the power lunch crowd. Dark woods and leather upholstery give it a time-honoured feel, while eclectic fixtures and flat screen TVs bring the rooms into the 21st century. Ric’s prides themselves on making their sauces, dressings and desserts from scratch, using traditional cooking methods to achieve contemporary tastes. A fully-wired private room is available for corporate functions. There is also a huge south-facing patio.

The Food
Ric’s is first and foremost a chophouse, but before picking up that steak knife, consider getting things started with a selection from one of their 20 appetizers. There’s the familiar, like bruschetta, calamari and chicken fingers, but also some offbeat selections, like almond herb-crusted goat cheese or toasted coconut prawns. When you’re ready for the main course, hand-carved Alberta Sterling Silver is the beef of choice and they offer up half a dozen different cuts for any appetite. You can also add some surf to your turf; lobster tails, prawns, scallops and crab legs are all on the menu, and are just as fresh as Calgary's renowned seafood establishments.

Not a Big Meat Eater?
For those not looking for beef, the menu includes an assortment of seafood, chicken and pasta dishes. All the dinner selections come with a choice of side and a starter soup or salad. The restaurant also offers a lighter menu for those watching their waistlines and all of their starter salads are available in meal size. There is also a kids’ menu available. An in-house sommelier will help you choose from their expansive wine list for a vintage to complement your meal.