Food courts usually come with certain expectations — primarily quick, convenient, cheap food. But high quality isn’t always among those expectations. Yet some of the most underrated corners are home to affordable, full-of-character spots that are genuinely worth seeking out.
We made our way through food courts across the city, from malls and supermarkets to farmers’ markets and office towers, to find the spots that stood out and the dishes worth keeping on your radar.
EL GRINGO LOCO
Address: The & Food Truck, The Ampersand, 112 4 Ave. S.W.
Hours: Monday to Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Hidden inside a sleek office tower, this small indoor food truck setup brings a playful, street-style energy to the workday, making a quick lunch break feel a little more fun. The rotating mix keeps things interesting, with everything from burgers and poutine to more globally-inspired bites.
Don’t miss the El Gringo Loco, known for its authentic take on Mexican street food. Tacos start at $6.50 and come loaded with flavour, from chicken tinga and beef birria to fish, shrimp, and veggie options. You can keep it simple with a breakfast burrito ($12), or go for churros ($12) if you’re in the mood for something sweet. Open Monday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., it’s a short window, but long enough to break out of the office routine for a more easygoing lunch.
HAPPY VEGGIE HOUSE
Address: City Plaza, 109, 303 Centre St. S.
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
City Plaza might look like your typical Chinatown spot at first glance, but tucked away in a corner of the mall, you’ll find some real hidden gems in the food court. Happy Veggie House is one that’s easy to miss. They do traditional Chinese vegetarian food in a way that’s way more interesting than expected, re-creating meat-like textures that make you pause for a second, like, wait, this is veggie?
The wonton soup ($5.95) is pure comfort in a bowl. The vegetarian drumsticks ($8.40 for 4) have a slightly chewy outer layer and a tender centre, with a bite that feels surprisingly close to the real thing. Add a big plate of fried rice or noodles for around $15. For vegetarian food lovers, this is one to know about.
KOR KOREAN STREET FOOD
Address: Seoul Street Food Hall, Plus 15 level TC Energy Tower, 450 1 St. S.W.
Hours: Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Head up to the Plus 15 level at TC Energy Tower downtown, where Seoul Street Food Hall brings a Korean night market vibe, with Korean street signs, a wishing fountain, and cherry blossom trees adding a slightly dreamy feel. A nice contrast to the usual office rush.
At KOR Korean Street Food, you’ll find both classic and more playful takes on bibimbap. There’s the traditional beef version loaded with vegetables, or a California-style option with imitation crab meat and avocado, served in a hot stone bowl. If you’re in the mood for something more snacky, go for the sweet-spicy tteokbokki or a cheese corn dog with that perfect pull, a moment that lets you step away from the workday and slip into a K-drama for a while.
EXPATASIA
Address: Avenida Food Hall and Fresh Market, D426, 12445 Lake Fraser Dr. S.E.
Hours: Thursday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m to 5 p.m.
At Avenida Food Hall and Fresh Market, a mix of global food spots sits alongside fresh produce and baked goods, making it an easy stop for a weekend food run. Expatasia is one of the spots I’d come back to. Founded by a father-and-son duo, Jeff and Joel Matthews, the team brings years of culinary experience from Asia back to Calgary, with a fully gluten-free menu. If it’s your first time, the Pork Belly Meal ($20.95) is the one to go for, with a crispy skin that gives way to a juicy, tender bite, served with pan gravy, jasmine rice, and market veggies. It’s the kind of meal that just hits and leaves you fully satisfied. They also sell house-made seasonings, such as Cajun Mix and Chicken Salt, to take home. And if you love the food but want a more upscale vibe, this team also operates Ibu in Marda Loop.
