Cardinale
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Walking time to the Saddledome: 8 minutes
Do as the hockey players do and carb load before the game. At this lively Italian joint by the same team behind the Hayden Block/Comery Block/South Block barbecue empire, you’ll find homemade pasta dishes, from lasagna with braised beef shank and ricotta bechamel to squid ink pasta with prawns, scallops, jalapeno and hazelnuts. Game nights are busy, so reservations are highly recommended.
Must-try dish: No matter what you order, the baked-fresh-daily focaccia with cacio e pepe butter is the perfect accompaniment (and goes well with the carb loading theme).
401 12 Ave. S.E., 403-264-6046, cardinale.ca
Village Ice Cream – Victoria Park
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Walking time to the Saddledome: 9 minutes
If you’re saving yourself for a Pocket Dawg at the Dome, why not pre-game with ice cream? This is Village’s original spot (there are now five locations of the beloved scoop shop across the city), and it’s known for its outdoor parklet that attracts families, run clubs and “general merrymaking.” Just like all Village locations, there’s a selection of “Always” flavours (like Melted Chocolate and Guide’s Mint), plus seasonal varieties that change monthly.
Must-try dish: Ditch the cone and go for the Village Sundae: Village Vanilla Bean ice cream, freshly toasted pecans, hot fudge, whipped cream and, of course, a cherry on top.
431 10 Ave. S.E., 403-261-7950, villageicecream.com
Embarcadero Wine & Oyster Bar
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Walking time to the Saddledome: 10 minutes
Oysters aren’t typically what comes to mind when we think of game-day foods — but, why not? They’re hand-held bites that are incredibly satisfying. Located right on the Red Mile, this converted historic house is home to a wide selection of oysters (both east and west coast options), plus a large seafood-centric menu of appetizers and mains.
Must-try dish: Order a half- or full-dozen of the always-changing daily featured oysters for $1.50 per piece.
208 17 Ave. S.E., 403-263-0848, oysterbar.ca
King Eddy
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Walking time to the Saddledome: 12 minutes
The historic venue located next door to the National Music Centre is one of the most happening pre-game spots in the city, thanks to its proximity to the Dome, live musical performances and Hockey Happy Hour (more on that below). The menu will satisfy every palate, with options ranging from tuna poke and cheese and charcuterie boards to buttermilk fried chicken sandwiches.
Happy hour alert: The King Eddy hosts Hockey Happy Hour when the Flames are home at the Dome. Find drink specials and discounted happy hour snacks, including a smash burger with lots of toppings and vegetarian samosas.
438 9 Ave. S.E., 403-829-6016, kingeddy.ca
First Street Market
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Walking time to the Saddledome: 16 minutes
A great place for groups, this food hall allows everyone in your cheering squad to choose what they’re craving before the game. Home to 11 restaurant vendors, from pizza slingers Actually Pretty Good to experts in Indian street food Saffron Street, you can order what you like, then grab a table with your group by the central bar, which serves a selection of wines, Alberta brews and creative cocktails.
Happy hour alert: Swing by before the game for the food hall bar’s happy hour, which runs every day from 4 to 6 p.m.
1327 1 St. S.W., fsmyyc.com
Home and Away
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Walking distance to the Saddledome: 17 minutes
For pre-game food, drink and entertainment, head to Home and Away. In addition to great vibes, there are plenty of TV screens and even some arcade games. Just be sure you don’t get so into a game that you’re late to your seats at the Dome.
Happy hour alert: Mondays to Fridays from 2 to 6 p.m., Mondays to Thursdays from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. and all day on Sundays, happy hour offers a wide range of drinks and bar snacks ranging from $4 to $12 each.
1207 1 St. S.W., 403-455-9789, homeandawayyyc.com
Deane House
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Walking time to the Saddledome: 21 minutes
If you’re looking for a fine dining experience before hitting the crowded concourse at the Dome, book a table at the Deane House. The historic home-turned-restaurant located just east of The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland makes for a beautiful pre-game setting — with dishes to match.
Must-try dish: Fuel up for a night of cheering with a selection of Alberta beef, served with triple-cooked potatoes, creamed kale and red wine jus.
806 9 Ave. S.E., 403-264-0595, deanehouse.com
The Palomino Smokehouse
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Walking time to the Saddledome: 24 minutes
This is the furthest spot on our list, but it’s by design: After feasting on this iconic smokehouse’s meats and sides, you’ll be thankful for the opportunity to get some steps in before taking your seat at the game.
Must-try dish: Get a few of your fellow fans together and go for the platter for three to four people, heaping with applewood smoked pulled pork, Alberta beef brisket, Spolumbo’s smoked sausage, Kansas City ribs, smoked chicken, Palomino slaw, pickles and pickled red onions, beans, garlic fries, bacon-wrapped corn, mash and Kentucky bourbon apples (woah).
109 7 Ave. S.W., 403-532-1911, thepalomino.ca
[Note: This story has been updated to reflect the correct address for The Embarcadero.]