🍽️ Restaurant Review
📍 Quick Facts
- Location: 1131 Kensington Rd NW
- Phone Number: (587)319-6776
- Website: continentalyyc.ca
- Cuisine Type: French, Elegant
We were celebrating a special occasion the night we dined at the Continental.
It was the first anniversary of getting the keys to our new home. That may not seem like a big deal to some, but considering the life-changing decision to move, followed by the cross-country trek we had made to get here, for us it was absolutely epic.
We had also timed our visit, so it was a part of the YYC EXP, an annual foodie extravaganza where a multitude of restaurants lay out a set menu for an excellent price. Their way of helping make March a better month for the restaurant industry and giving them the chance to show off their stuff to a new clientele.
It was beneficial to the public, as it gives diners the chance to try dining establishments they wouldn’t ordinarily be able to afford. The predetermined menu also offered a stress-free dining experience; there were no decisions to make in most cases…once you chose which restaurant you wanted to try.
For us new Calgarians, it was a smorgasbord of ‘we wanna try that one…and this one…and ooooh, don’t forget this one too!’ Game on!
The Beef Wellington was what attracted us to The Continental’s menu. I mean, who didn’t love a good Welly?
Following the GPS was probably the hardest part of getting there the night of our reservation. Once we got to Kensington, the GPS led us a bit astray; we had an unscheduled tour through the area’s back alleys. Once we figured out it had led us to the back of the restaurant, it was smooth sailing all the way.
We easily found a parking spot within walking distance and thoroughly enjoyed the quick stroll to get there. It’s a beautiful neighbourhood.
The entrance to the Continental was found by following a small metal staircase up one flight of stairs. We opened the door, and we were immediately transported to France.
Directly to the left of the door was the maître d’ station, and behind that the well-stocked bar. Straight ahead was a fireplace that served as a cozy visual focal point for the whole room. The soft amber glow from the hearth enhanced the welcoming feel.
We were shown to our table, a cozy window seat with upholstered bucket-back chairs, and chilled water glasses were promptly delivered.
After explaining that neither of us indulged in alcohol, we were both pleasantly surprised when the mixologist brought us two glasses of non-alcoholic sparkling champagne to help celebrate our social occasion. Delightful.
We were asked if we were choosing from the Prix Fixe menu or from the regular menu for the evening.
We chose the Gourmet Dinner Menu as it was presented with the YYC EXP event.
FIRST COURSE
Amuse Bouche du Chef
The first course arrived promptly: a small tasting spoon of crème fraiche, with a drop of balsamic glaze.
It did its job of waking up the palate, but I would dare say most refined diners would expect a little more.
SECOND COURSE
Soupe du Jour Gourmande/Chef’s Daily Soup
The Cream of Leek and Asparagus Soup was finished with green herb oil. It was a bright and rich velouté that features a sweet, mild onion flavour, a velvety texture, and a warm, savoury taste.
Excellent!
THIRD COURSE
Tartare De Boeuf Fumé/Smoked Beef Tartare with Classic French Condiments
Bright microgreens and finely chopped green onions topped smoked beef tartare, which was served under a glass dome with classic French condiments and house-made potato crisps. The domed, smoke-filled dish was brought to the table, then lifted tableside. The released aroma filled our senses with the essence of smoke, enhancing the flavour of the beef.
Perfectly seasoned!
FOURTH COURSE
Pétoncles Hokkaido,Velouté aux Fruits de Mer/Seared Hokkaido Scallops Baby Shrimps Seafood Velouté
This dish combines tender, seared scallops and delicate baby shrimps with a rich, velvety French seafood sauce. Its layered textures and a velvety shellfish reduction are fresh, flavourful, and perfectly balanced.
FIFTH COURSE
Boeuf Wellington with Sauce Gourmet
Just perfection. Perfectly seasoned, perfectly cooked and perfectly plated. The pomme purée, broccolini and sauce gourmet were the perfect accompaniments.
Excellent execution.
SIXTH COURSE
Cherries Jubilee Flambé Tableside , Sweet Cherries & Brandy, House Vanilla Bean Gelato
* We asked for an exception for the fixed menu, and because it was our anniversary, the staff were ever so kind. A tableside cart soon arrived alongside. Truthfully, we would have been happy with the crepes Suzette, but the Cherries Jubilee was the ‘cherry on top’ of a perfect night’s dining.
The whole restaurant and its menu are designed with a polished, refined, yet playful look reminiscent of a high-end French bistro. Comfortable, with a side of classy built in. The vibe was romantic and unhurried. European.
📊 Scorecard
🍴 FOOD — 5 / 5
✨ EXPERIENCE — 5 / 5 Average of Service & Hospitality, Atmosphere & Vibe, and Value for Money.
- Service & Hospitality — 5 / 5
- Atmosphere & Vibe — 5 / 5
- Value for Money — 5/ 5
