Chef Darren MacLean's Hidden New Restaurant, EIGHT
It’s no secret that we’re fans of Chef Darren MacLean. You may recognize him from The Final Table on Netflix, and we first had a taste of his brilliance at Shokunin, a contemporary izakaya-style restaurant serving up Japanese dishes and drinks in Calgary. His commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and detail brings a very distinct point of view to the dining scene in Canada. In fact, it’s no doubt these values that helped place Shokunin on the list Canada’s Best 100 Restaurants.
Since then, Chef Darren has opened up a few new ventures in Calgary. There’s Greenfish Sushi, serving up 100% sustaintable seafood in a takeout concept at Avenida Food Hall & Fresh Market, NUPO a plant-based sushi restaurant in the new Alt Hotel Calgary East Village, and, tucked away behind that, you’ll find EIGHT, an intimate and exclusive new fine-dining concept — serving just 8 seats at a time. Although it’s positioned as a speakeasy, it’s no doubt going to become a very open secret among foodies in the months to come.
Watch the video of our dining experience!
EIGHT expands and amplifies the foundation built over at Shokunin. It’s a true celebration of the diversity of Canadian cuisine using the authentic & innovative techniques and sustainable & seasonal ingredients that Chef Darren is celebrated for. The service and presentation are immaculate and only serve to enhance what is already a stellar menu. Who knew Canadian cuisine could mean things other than poutine?
We had a chance to attend the inaugural dinner at the start of the year and — we’ve said this before about Chef Darren’s work — it was truly one of the best dining experiences we’ve had.
Check out some photos below, and book your reservations today.
Check out some other cool spots in Calgary, and yes, Shokunin is on the list!
