John Gilchrist's top 10 new restaurants in Calgary

Calgary is quickly earning a reputation as a hot spot in Canada for clever, creative new restaurants and a number of these new dining options appeared in the city in 2013.

Restaurant reviewer John Gilchrist sampled a number of them for the Calgary Eyeopener. Here is his list of the top 10 new restaurants in the city.

1. Market

Market takes the top spot in this year's list.

It's a first-time effort from a first-time restaurateur (Vanessa Salopek) and Gilchrist says that they've "knocked it out of the park." 

John describes the farm to table concept (created by chef Dave Bohati) as outstanding and this is definitely a place to add to your list of restaurants to try.

Located at 718 17th Ave. S.W.

2. Bistro Rouge

Bistro Rouge is located in Sirocco, west of Sarcee Trail, in a spot that Gilchrist says is "really coming alive with new restaurants." 

It's a bistro-style version of Rouge, with lower prices but the same quality food from chef Ron Jacobson.

Located at 1919 Sirocco Dr. S.W.

3. Posto

Posto is a new pizzeria from the people who run Bonterra Trattoria and Cibo.

It is located next door to Bonterra on Eighth Street S.W.

Gilchrist describes Posto as halfway in between Bonterra and Cibo, calling it a lively, noisy, upbeat spot with a really nice tone to it.

Located at 1014 8th St. S.W.

4. Sabroso

Gilchrist describes Sabroso as a "nuevo latino" restaurant, which means it has the flavours of Central and South America without many of the starches and fats.

He says it is a "really lovely, interesting restaurant."

Located at 1504 16th Ave. S.W.

5. Yellow Door

Yellow Door has taken over the old space occupied by Saint Germain in Hotel Arts. 

According to Gilchrist, they do breakfast, lunch and dinner very well.

Located at 119 12th Ave. S.W.

6. Xocolat

Gilchrist describes Xocolat as upscale Mexican — a bit on the pricey side but with terrific food.

You won’t find the normal Mexican cuisine at Xocolat. Instead, the food here is more modern and contemporary.

Located at 816 11th Ave. S.W.

7. SAIT Culinary Campus

The school for chefs in-training has opened a downtown operation. It’s not a restaurant for sit-down service but you can go in and pick up hot or cold food on weekdays to go.

For the downtown lunch crowd, it’s an excellent option for a quick and tasty bite.

Located at 226-30 8th Ave. S.W.

8. De Thai Cuisine

Gilchrist says De Thai offers food that is lovely, fresh and bright.

He calls it a wonderful addition to the dining scene in Marda Loop.

Located at 101-2215 33rd Ave. S.W.

9. Sho Sushi

There are lots of sushi restaurants already in Calgary, but Gilchrist put Sho on his list because of the unusual cuts and dishes such as sea urchin that are sure to surprise and entertain even the most jaded of palates.

Located at 7212 Macleod Tr. S.

10. Briggs Kitchen and Bar

According to Gilchrist, this eatery's use of a Josper oven is what really makes it stand out.

Gilchrist says food at Briggs Kitchen and Bar takes on a fantastic rich, smoky flavour by using the wood-burning oven.

Located at 317 10th Ave. S.W.