“This delicious vegetarian/vegan restaurant immediately became my "go to" choice for lunches while in Banff. It was recommended to me by a local, and for good reason! The food is creative, incredibly tasty, and - well - nourishing. ? The service is friendly and personal. Very welcoming. Highly recommend.“
“Nestled in the highlands of Banff , Maclab Bistro offers an exquisite culinary journey that transcends the ordinary. During our recent visit, we indulged in an array of shareable plates and mains that left us utterly captivated.To start, the Falafel & Trio of Dips presented a tantalizing fusion of flavors. The chickpea falafel was perfectly crispy on the outside and delightfully tender on the inside, complemented by the creamy textures of hummus, ajvar, and smoked eggplant dip. The addition of garlic sauce and bursts of pomegranate seeds elevated the dish to new heights, creating a symphony of Middle Eastern flavors on the palate.Next, the Fried Halloumi Cheese & Shishito Peppers transported us to a realm of culinary bliss. The harmonious marriage of harissa maple glaze and green onions infused the crispy halloumi cheese with a delectable sweetness and a hint of spice. Each bite was a revelation, a delightful interplay of textures and tastes that left us craving for more.The Mushrooms and Truffle Oil flatbread showcased the chef's mastery of flavors and ingredients. The caramelized onions, sweet peppers, and arugula pistou danced in harmony atop a canvas of crispy flatbread, while the creamy garlic sauce and shredded mozzarella added a touch of indulgence. Every bite was a symphony of earthy flavors and delicate aromas, a testament to the Bistro's commitment to culinary excellence.For mains, the Classic Maclab Burger proved to be a culinary masterpiece in its own right. The succulent beef patty, adorned with crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and a medley of mushrooms and caramelized onions, created a symphony of flavors that delighted the senses. The addition of fresh lettuce, tomatoes, dill pickle, and horseradish aioli further elevated the dish, resulting in a burger experience that was nothing short of extraordinary.Lastly, the Grilled Char Sui Tofu Bowl offered a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The perfectly grilled char sui tofu, nestled atop a bed of sushi rice and black quinoa, was complemented by creamy avocado, tangy orange segments, and crisp carrots and cucumber. The vegan XO sauce added a depth of umami flavor, while sesame seeds and rice crisps provided a satisfying crunch. Each spoonful was a revelation, a harmonious blend of ingredients that showcased the Bistro's commitment to innovative and flavorful cuisine.In conclusion, Maclab Bistro is a culinary gem that delights the senses and captivates the palate. From the shareable plates to the mains, each dish is a work of art, meticulously crafted to showcase the finest ingredients and flavors from around the world. Whether you're a culinary connoisseur or simply looking for an unforgettable dining experience, Maclab Bistro is sure to exceed your expectations.“
“New to Banff, no knowledge of any restaurants or cafes. Directed to the Cascade Food Court. A choice of about 4 small cafes. Yan’s looked good and proved ok. Difficult to eat out of containers with plastic forks but, hey, for the price, great.“
“Everything is freshly made daily including the bread and English muffins used for breakfast items, to the pastries and chai tea, also serve locally brewed coffee! The breakfast sandwich was such a pleasant surprise, it seemed simple at first glance but what a perfect combination of flavors and whatever seasoning was used blew me away. We also got the avocado toast which was elevated with a poached egg, goat cheese, and balsamic on freshly baked sourdough. The homemade chai tea like the owner’s grandma used to make was amazing. I normally don’t drink chai but loved my husband’s so much I had to get my own cup. It’s just a short drive from downtown, we noticed mainly locals and regulars coming in to this husband and wife owned shop. Update: After trying some other breakfast spots in town, nothing can compete with Bare Bistro so we revisited today getting to try to eggs benedict and omelette, the sauce used for the benedict was amazing (homemade of course). We also tried some of the pastries which were all perfectly baked and delicious. We’ve tried just about everything on the menu and haven’t been disappointed in anything. We will be back tomorrow to finish trying everything (mainly pastries left). Very friendly owners and you can tell they take pride in what they do (as they should). Thank you so much Fonda and Alfredo!“