While Calgary has dozens of incredible local eateries to explore, some huge international chains have also made their way to the city this year.
Several buzzworthy spots opened in Cowtown this year, drawing in plenty of hungry Calgarians keen to know what all the hype is about.
So, in case you missed the news or you’re simply in need of a reminder, here are the biggest international chains that opened in Calgary in 2024.
Nothing got YYC going quite like Chick-fil-A in 2024. After rumblings of an outpost for months (and the opening of its first Alberta outpost in Edmonton), it finally opened its doors in November. The spot was met with hoards of hungry Calgarians, some of whom had been in line for 12 hours.
The Georgia-based chicken chain is known for its signature chicken sandwiches, waffle fries, and Chick-fil-A sauce.
Address: 9223 Macleod Trail SW, Calgary
Calgary’s first automated and zero-contact dumpling spot, Brooklyn Dumpling Shop, opened its first Canadian outpost in Inglewood earlier this year.
Diners can order from a selection of dumplings inspired by diner classics online or using a kiosk in-store. The food is prepped, and the freshly cooked dumplings can be retrieved from the store’s heated automats.
Address: 6, 1113 – 9th Avenue SE, Calgary
Floridian spot Firehouse Subs finally expanded into YYC this year, opening its first outpost in the northeast Cornerstone neighbourhood. It has since opened two more in Calgary and one in Airdrie.
The spot offers fully loaded handhelds. What sets Firehouse Subs apart is its careful process of steaming its meats and cheeses before assembling the sandwich to melt those flavours together perfectly.
Address: #910 1155 Cornerstone Boulevard NE, Calgary
Address: 9650 Harvest Hills Boulevard NE, Calgary
Address: 80 Mahogany Rd SE, Calgary
Address: 2967 Main Street, Airdrie
Popular UK cafe chain Chaiiwala rapidly expanded in the city this year, opening three locations in Calgary.
The chain draws inspiration from the East, offers all-day Indian-style breakfast and street food, and serves 25 hot and cold drinks and specialty chai blends.
Address: 10474 Cityscape Drive NE #902, Calgary
Address: 298D MacEwan Hall, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary
Address: Unit 150, 115 Carrington Plaza NW, Calgary
Since 2023, Crumbl has been making huge moves in Alberta, but 2024 was finally Calgary’s year. The US cookie chain opened a whopping four outposts in the city over the year.
Known for its weekly rotating menu of unique cookies, Crumbl has become a social media favourite.
Address: 840-8180 11th Street SE, Calgary
Address: 274 Stewart Green SW, Calgary
Address: 163 Quarry Park Boulevard SE, Unit 218, Calgary
Address: 901 64 Avenue NE, Unit 2140, Calgary
Elephant & Castle may technically be a US chain, but the concept is all about replicating the feel of a good old British pub.
The Calgary outpost has taken over the location of the old Rose & Crown pub. The space received a major facelift to create a cozy and comfortable atmosphere that’s perfect for chilling with a pint, watching soccer, or grabbing a quick bite to eat.
Address: 1503 4th Street SW, Calgary
With files from Hogan Short
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