Constantly busy and perennially popular, this cozy restaurant is one of Calgary's best for northern Italian cuisine. The interior has a traditional Mediterranean flair and a team of animated servers who enjoy the lively ambience of the restaurant. Pastas are the real treat here, and no matter how you order them, they're satisfying and delicious. The seafood is also delectable, as are the chicken and veal dishes, which are all homemade. If you're indecisive, the chef is happy to pick a three-course meal that affords you a taste of the kitchen's best options. Comfort holds a steady rein throughout the restaurant, and you're sure to walk away sated and content.

Homemade pastas, light-as-air and cooked to perfection, are the forte at this restaurant. The menu itself breaks them down into categories, helping to lessen the agony of choice. Of course, each category has a multitude of options, so it's still a difficult matter of deciding. But with luscious cream and marinara sauces, how can you go wrong? If you choose to avoid the issue altogether, there's veal, seafood, and chicken, although you still have to pick something from the lists. Even better, the kitchen is happy to tweak a dish to your specifications, and most of the entrees come in half-orders if you'd like. Plus, weekly pasta nights bring the already-reasonable prices even lower. What else could you want? Mange!

This charming, congenial restaurant is a great option for affordable Italian along Stephen Avenue. The interior features high ceilings, aged brick walls, and simply-matted artwork. Linens in gold and navy blue add a note of color. The menu is quite extensive, featuring steak, seafood, salads, and an array of pastas. The caesar salad is well-dressed; the veal scalopine is gently breaded and served with a light sauce. Although the menu doesn't attempt to break new culinary ground, it does present good, solid food at reasonable prices. The restaurant also offers wine, cocktails, and tasty desserts. If you want a spot on the outside terrace, come early to find a table. It makes for good people-watching.

Simultaneously classy and casual, this bistro tempts Calgarians with its terrific cuisine, intimate charm, and original artwork. The Italian fare is robust and looks to pastas, chicken, and steak for its main courses. Bolstering the menu are items like herb-crusted salmon and grilled lamb. Divino also makes a terrific burger, whether it's crafted of lamb or Alberta beef, and you'll find a selection of soups and sandwiches as well. Given its reputation as a wine bar, Divino carries a host of vintages available by the bottle and glass. Most come from Italy, France, and the States, although you may find a few renegade bottles occasionally. Perfect for dinner, but call for reservations since the place fills up quickly.

A simple, welcoming decor characterizes this restaurant, which is a great mainstay any time of day. A bistro ambience presides, and the menu takes cues from all over the world. As a result, burgers and steaks appear alongside Hunan kung pao pasta, tandoori chicken satay, and Thai green chicken curry. Ribs, chicken, and pizzas also appear, and there's a nice selection of wines and beers. Earls is particularly good when you want comfort, reliable food, and to hang out in a relaxing environment. Plus, they have regular drink specials and a couple of signature brews.