Banff On A Budget-Frugal Healthy Eating

Yes, it is possible to eat healthy on a budget even in Banff. Here is what some locals do because it works – as simple as that.

How on earth  can you do the same?

Check out these suggestions – maybe they’ll give you a few ideas…

Banff On The Cheap-Food and Drinks

The BIG savings you can create right off the bat - prepare your own breakfast and lunch. There are two “very capable” supermarkets in town. They offer you a huge selection of breakfast items from cereal, milk, fruit, yogurt, breads, cheeses, sliced meat, premade salads…etc.

It is so simple and easy to do … and your wallet keeps the change (for the times when you want to really treat yourself with a special meal in a Banff restaurant).

Nesters Marketplace located on Bear Street has a unique selection of various items that we love. If you are looking for a “familiar” store – the Safeway grocery store on Elk Street carries almost everything you need. (Plus…there’s even a bigger Safeway store in Canmore and right beside that one…there’s Sobey’s Supermarket and the nearby Nutter’s – a natural health food store).

The Food Court occupies the lowest level of the Cascade Plaza on 317 Banff Avenue. Whether you are looking for hot curry foods (Taste of Sri Lanka), Edo’s, subs (Subway), Chinese food (Lotus), pizza (Mrs. Vanelli’s), burgers, ice cream (Dairy Queen), hot tasty coffee (Second Cup), freshly squeezed juices you will find a bargain and great-tasting healthy food. The choice is, of course, yours  .

This unique food court is surrounded by an open skylight and a gigantic rock fireplace. A great spot for the budget-conscious hiker.

“Now, if you are like us and love an outdoor picnic here is a cool idea. Ask for everything “to-go” and remember the forks/spoons/napkins. Got everything? So, now head on Wolf Street going west all the way to the Blue Canoe Dock (towards the Bow River).

You will find benches, rocks, nooks and crannies to sit down and enjoy your feast. The best part of all: the surroundings – from the quiet Bow River, to the paddle sounds of the blue canoes – tall evergreens and mountain peaks keep you company. A picnic made in paradise – just for you.”

There’s one small spot, but a BIG surprise… Barpa Bill’s (from Greek Uncle Bill’s). These special juicy burgers almost hide tucked into the corner of Wolf and Bear Street.

Well, Barpa’s nestled on the side of the Home Hardware store. This yummy Greek kiosk has some amazing culinary delights that help satisfy a “hunger strike” – still on a budget.

Banff Restaurants-Here Are Some Ideas For You

Want to sit down and enjoy a restaurant meal, here are some fun spots that we like:

The Sushi House Train Station on the corner of Caribou & Banff Avenue – offers a Sushi Bar served via a model train! You can pick Sushi right off the train. And it keeps on going and going and going…made fresh right in front of your eyes (note: sometimes it’s packed so check for availability).

The Eddie Burger & Bar #6, 137 Banff Avenue – Eddie crafts and sells custom-ordered gourmet burgers. To add to your dinner you can choose from a cocktail to beer or wine or moo-moo milkshakes.

Pad Thai in the Clock Tower Mall on Banff Avenue – a good selection of Thai food. You will find their scented or coconut rice, unique spicy or mild dishes – absolutely delightful…and easier on the wallet when on the go.

Chaya at 118 Banff Ave – Gives you an opportunity to sample noodle dishes, sushi and other Asian foods. This is a small cozy restaurant but offers unique items.

Opa! – The Balkan Restaurant – if you want atmosphere, good food and great prices don’t miss out on the Balkan restaurant. The platters are huge. We usually order a big platter and share it! Greek Nights with belly dancing and plate smashing…gotta love that…on Tuesdays/Thursdays. Reserving a spot ahead of time is a wise idea.

Silver Dragon located on the 3Rd floor of 200 block of Banff Avenue – offer a gigantic selection of Chinese food with a view (if you sit by the window facing Banff Avenue).

MagPie & Stump at 203 Caribou St. – will awe you with easy-on-the-budget Tex Mex cuisine served in a rustic environment.

The Old Spaghetti Factory 2nd Floor Cascade Plaza – the name says it all. Great Italian feasts that go easy on your budget. Perfect for families! Without paying extra, your meal comes with a lot of extras – .

Tony Roma’s at the Mount Royal Hotel – large menu and great prices. They are known for their great tasting ribs.

Chili’s – 461 Banff Avenue – discover fajitas, ribs, burgers and other tasty treats.

McDonalds Restaurant at 116 Banff Avenue – what would life be without the big “M”, eh?

Melissa’s Restaurant & Bar at 218 Lynx street – offer casual dining in a historic 1928 log building.  It’s a family-friendly spot to go to.

Special Interests

Canmore Cooking Classes – @ The Box – visit the Paintbox Lodge for more details.

From dirt cheap to an honest amount to pay for a prepared meal, there you have it when in the town of Banff and taking care of the “bottom line” at the same time. From day one, you can be creative and hit the road (or trail) each day with a good idea on where to eat in Banff – Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada.