Calgary's African and Caribbean restaurant scene provides a rich variety of flavors and experiences.  

A decade ago, if I had tried to make a list like this, the options would have been somewhat limited. As a proud Ghanaian-Canadian, I remember searching for a taste of home, something spiced, soulful, familiar, and coming up nearly empty. But now, narrowing it down to ten is quite a challenge.  

As you navigate this list, you’ll notice it’s divided into two sections: Best African Restaurants and Best Caribbean Restaurants. While these cuisines are distinct, they’re included together to celebrate their presence in Calgary and to encourage exploring the richness of both. 

Best African Restaurants 

Calgary’s African restaurants are rooted in warmth, flavour, and tradition. From smoky rice dishes to rich stews and pillowy fufu, these spots bring home-style cooking to the city’s growing culinary scene. Each restaurant offers a glimpse into the heart of the continent and it’s served with a side of community and joy. 

The Casbah Restaurant 

Step into The Casbah in the Beltline and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a royal Moroccan kitchen. This immersive dining experience features stunning decor, fragrant tagines, and fluffy couscous crafted with locally sourced, organic ingredients. As a special touch, guests are treated to a rose water hand wash before indulging in the rich, North African flavours.   
Location: Lower Level, 720 11 Ave SW 
 

Ahinke's Restaurant 

In the heart of Dover, step into what feels like your West African auntie’s dining room - warm, welcoming, and filled with the mouthwatering aromas of Nigerian cooking. From rich jollof rice to wholesome egusi soup, every dish is made with care and just the right amount of heat. Prefer brunch? Ahinke’s Restaurant has that covered too.  

Make sure to order Efo riro with pounded yam, a classic Nigerian dish traditionally enjoyed with your hands. Don’t worry though, utensils are welcome! 

Location: Unit 6, 2650 36 St SE 

Safari Grill   

Located in Franklin, Safari Grill brings the smoky flavors of East Africa and India together in one unforgettable bite. From expertly grilled meats to spice-packed dishes, it’s more than just a meal; it’s a unique dining experience wrapped in warm hospitality.   

Location: Unit 100, 255 28 St SE 

Yenny Delights 

Want the choice between African or Caribbean food while in the Sunridge area? Say no more, Yenny Delights has you covered with their exceptionally blended dishes. The restaurant offers a classy and serene atmosphere to savor authentic flavors.   

Craving some dessert? Yenny Delights serves traditional West African Puff Puffs, a golden, doughy treat that’s like Timbit’s fluffy, sweet, and savoury cousin. 

Location: Unit 81, 3131 27 St NE 

Habesha Ethiopian & Eritrean Restaurant 

Tucked in Lower Mount Royal, Habesha serves up rich, flavorful stews, both meaty and vegan, paired with fresh, spongy injera bread perfect for scooping. The space is filled with vibrant African art and features a cozy patio ideal for warm summer evenings.   

Dining with friends? Order the Mahberawi platter to sample a little bit of everything.   
Location: Unit 103, 1039 17 Ave SW 

Best Caribbean Restaurants 

Craving the vibrant taste of the islands? This list features some of Calgary’s best Caribbean restaurants, where you’ll find everything from spicy jerk chicken and flaky beef patties to roti wraps, doubles, and rich oxtail stew. It's your guide to discovering the city’s most comforting and crave-worthy Caribbean eats. 

King Solomon's Kitchen 

Located in the Meridian Park community, King Solomon’s Kitchen brings the comforting taste of traditional Jamaican cuisine to Calgary. Every bite is packed with genuine island flavor, from tender oxtail to smoky, mouthwatering jerk chicken. The easy-going, cafeteria-style setting is perfect for good food, great conversation, and plenty of laughter. 

Location: 104 Meridian Rd NE 

Island Experience   

The Marlborough neighbourhood is home to Island Experience. They serve classic Jamaican dishes like jerk chicken, oxtail, and flavorful curry goat. The lively, welcoming atmosphere pairs perfectly with the rich cuisine. If you’ve never tried curry goat roti, this is the spot to give it a go.   

Location: Unit 109, 920 36 St NE 

JamRock Lounge and Grill 

Head to JamRock Lounge & Grill in SE Calgary for island vibes, live DJs, and karaoke nights. Their menu is filled with tasty small plates, including ackee and saltfish spring rolls, juicy wings, and Jamaican patties. At JamRock Lounge and Grill, you’ll come for the food, stay for the rhythm.   

Location: Unit 150, 5335 Dufferin Blvd SE 

Lloyd's Patty Plus 

Lloyd’s Patty Plus is a Calgary staple serving homemade Jamaican patties in beef, chicken, and veggie varieties. For over 40 years, Lloyd’s has been crafting these flaky, flavour-packed pastries using fresh, Alberta-sourced ingredients. Available hot and ready for dine-in or frozen to-go, these patties are in a class of their own and a delicious piece of local legacy.   

Location: 255 28 St SE 

Ricardo's Hideaway 

Ricardo’s Hideaway is a cozy Caribbean-inspired bar on 17th Ave that serves up tropical vibes and island flavours. With an impressive rum selection, creative cocktails, and tasty small plates like Trinidadian doubles and Jamaican beef patties, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy your own little island escape in the bustle of the city.    

Location: 1530 5 St SW 

Whether you're craving the spices of Jamaican jerk chicken, the richness of an Ethiopian stew, or the delicate sweetness of a Moroccan pastry, Calgary’s culinary scene reflects the unique heritage and traditions of each country. Enjoy!