I am a firm believer that eating should satisfy your soul along with your hunger. A meal isn’t worth eating unless it looks good and tastes good – and makes you feel great. Generally, it is those brightly coloured vegetables that make me feel fantastic – so I try to incorporate them into as many meals as possible. It is just a rule of thumb I follow – even when I am cooking at home. Presentation of your food goes a long way as does the ingredients . Along with already being gluten-free for well over a decade, I have been incorporating more plant-based meals into my diet on a regular basis. Not only am I feeling healthier, but I feel like I have more energy and stamina.

I’ve rounded up my favourite healthy eating spots between here and the Rocky Mountains. Each one of these places truly satisfy the soul when it comes to food (and drink) and they are all great for various dietary concerns; ie. gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian.

Banff

If you are looking for delicious vegan or vegetarian eats while you are nestled among the Rocky Mountains, you will want to pop into Nourish Bistro for share plates. This adorable eaterie features extremely healthy eats while not comprising a single ounce of taste. With both vegan and vegetarian options available, Nourish also offers up wheat and gluten-free so you can plan for eating healthy your entire stay. The Num Num Nachos are a Nourish must-have with over 27 fresh toppings including strawberries and garlic dills! Nourish Bistro, 110 211 Bear Street, Banff 

A long time favourite of Banff locals, Wild Flour Bakery is place to gather with friends and catch up over organic baked goods and a delicious cup of coffee. Everything you find in the bakery is made in house, from the fresh bread for sandwiches to the hearty vegan and gluten-free soups that are featured daily. Pick up a tasty loaf of vegan bread to go - you’ll be dreaming of the mountains all week while you enjoy your daily sandwich.  Wild Flour Bakery, 101 - 211 Bear Street, Banff

Calgary

Ask any foodie in Calgary where they go out to eat for a healthy meal - almost guaranteed that their answer will be The Coup. This vegan and vegetarian-friendly joint has become a staple in 17th Avenue’s culinary scene. Not only does it have an amazing menu (you need to try the Messy Jane for brunch) but they also have an incredible cocktail menu. For the past five years my go-to beverage has been the Iggy Pop - it is delicious. The Coup, 924 17th Ave SE

Ever try juicing? The girls behind CRU Juice are killing it in the organic raw cold-pressed juice department. They’ve taken the juicing trend and turned it into a daily ritual for many Calgarians.  Beyond that they also offer up delicious salads and smoothies to continue your health journey into organic, raw, green bliss. CRU Juice, 816 16th Avenue SW

The décor at MARKET is worth a visit alone; the room is completely monochromatic black and white with a distinct op art vibe to it. But don’t just stop at the décor – their farm to table concept is delicious. Try their Market Burger for a great sampling of what they can do. Be sure to peek at their in-house Urban Cultivator where they grow their own micro greens and herbs – it is beautiful! Market, 718 17^th Ave SW

A new addition to downtown Calgary’s culinary offering, Dirtbelly is a great place to grab lunch on the go. With some seriously beautiful superfood-packed salads on the menu (completely customized to you) and their delicious bacos – Dirtbelly’s answer to the taco sandwich, you’ll never feel awful after a grab+go lunch again. Dirtbelly, Plus 15 Level, TD Square – 317 7^th Avenue SW

Even if you love dining out or indulging in takeout, it is just so nice to be able to cook at home. CRMR Kitchen is a foodie’s best friend with their gorgeous selection of chef-made sauces, jams, condiments and salsas just ready for you to create your culinary masterpiece. Also offering up ready-made meals like Cilantro’s Pear and Gorgonzola Pizza will keep the guesswork out of meal plan for your busy week. CRMR Kitchen, Available at all Second To None Meat Shops

Canmore 

One of my absolute favourite places to visit in Canmore is the Communitea Cafe. With plenty of vegan and gluten-free friendly menu items, my whole family can eat off the menu. I always order one of their amazing grain bowls like the Buddha Bowl – full of great nutrition. The Communitea is also home to some seriously great concerts so check their calendar for upcoming shows. Communitea Café, Corner of 10^th Street and 6^th Avenue Downtown Canmore

I first discovered this sushi gem in 2015 and I honestly wish it was closer to me so I could eat here all of the time! Wild Orchid Bistro is quietly tucked away in the Silver Creek Lodge in Canmore with amazing views of the Rocky Mountains. The entire menu is 100% gluten-free meaning if you are Celiac or just trying to avoid gluten, this is a great place to dine at with absolutely no worry. I am partial to the ginger beef but they also have a wide variety of vegetarian menu items as well. Wild Orchid Bistro, 1818 Mountain Avenue Canmore

Planning a weekend getaway to the mountains but not sure where to stock up on all of your favourite superfoods? Canmore’s Nutter’s Bulk & Natural Foods is my go-to place to pick up all of my healthy kitchen essentials. They have a great selection of gluten-free products, not to mention all of the vegan and vegetarian options.  Nutter’s Bulk & Natural Foods, 900 Railway Avenue Canmore

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