Rouge - Calgary, Alberta

Perhaps it was because it was during Mother’s Day, that the overall service and quality of the food felt sub-par, however I must say that I was quite disappointed with the overall experience. I booked this restaurant a month in advance as a treat for my family, due to the stellar ... reviews and beautifully crafted pieces posted by many other diners (exquisite looking, with mini decorated flowers, and overall looked as though each piece was executed to perfection and embodied the very essence of fine dining itself). We went with the 6 course chef’s tasting menu. Needless to say, the food that was present to us came out looking rather poorly assembled (see the pictures) and just felt like somebody slapped everything together due to it having been a full house for Mother’s Day. Our server was very nice, however often stuttered and quite obviously did not know what food they presented us with, as they struggled to find the words and ingredients while explaining each detail of the dish they brought out. My family member’s dessert was burnt and almost a dark-brown colour, compared to the other dessert which was a lighter brown colour as in the picture. We didn’t bring it up as it was over closing and would’ve taken further time to prepare another. Read more

The best part was the service... Staff are very friendly and attentive. 3 stars because the food was just okay and for the price point I would have expected better. Lamb was a little too rare, flank steak was pretty good but the sides left a lot to ... be desired. The Agnolotti was the best dish. Overall definitely not a bad dining experience but if you're looking to be wowed by the food then probably choose somewhere else. Read more

Impressively one of the top 10 dining I've had in the past decade. The flavor profiles, textures, presentation and plating was thoughtful and deliberate. The service was on point and never had to ask for anything. The menu was so good, it was hard to choose. We got the ... pork belly and it was like candy and melted perfectly. The halibut was perfectly cooked and seasoned. Dessert. I could of had several. Love the small touches with extra complimentary bites as well. Read more

Rouge is located at the corner, off the main path with off-street parking. It has an atmosphere of the past, entrance door Mail slot, fireplace below and huge outdoor patio. Delightful gourmet menu for a special occasion dining won't disappoint you.

This review is based off of the two times I have experienced dining at Rouge (once in the summer outside near the garden and once inside this NYE). I’m a fan of both menus though I must say there is something super special about dining here in the summer compared ... to winter. They allow you to walk through the garden where you’re able to see all of the beautiful produce you’re about to dine on. You also get a chance to see the bees in action making the delicious honey that is incorporated into a dessert or dressing or some aspect of your meal and you’re also granted the viewing of seeing you chef personally select the produce prior to your meal coming out. It’s a lovely experience. I highly suggest the wine paring, though the staff are not necessarily sommeliers there is something charming about each introduction and a down to earth feel of the experience. My summer meal was perfection from the amuse bouche to the mignardise (and yes even the palate cleansers!) My winter meal was wholesome and an homage to Alberta cuisine. It was full and comforting with a touch elegance. Read more