One day in Calgary: Musician Matt Blais

The alternative blues rocker on his favourite places for food and drinks 

Matt Blais musician Calgary
photo courtesy of MAP Photography.

Matt Blais is one of Calgary's most energetic performers who has taken to stages all over the world to share his lively vocals and blues skills, be it on harmonica, guitar or both.

His most recent single, "Fire From The Spark", features top-tier Candian rocker Sam Roberts, and we think that's pretty damn cool. A good musician never just rests on his or her laurels, and the blues rock talent is currently working on his third full-length album, which is slated for release later this year.

JunoFest may be kicking off tonight at venues all across Calgary, but promise us you'll save some dancing, rocking out energy for tomorrow night when you can catch Blais live onstage at The Gateway!

When he's not playing to crowds or on the road, Blais spends time eating and drinking at these quality Calgary eateries.

Breakfast

I’m not a morning person, but when I find myself up early enough to crave some huevos rancheros or an eggs Benny, I like to go to Blue Star Diner. I like their homegrown mandate, locally-sourced ingredients and their willingness to bring me breakfast mimosas without any judgement!

 

A photo posted by Blue Star Diner (@bluestar_yyc) on

Lunch

The Main Dish is my favourite place for lunch or just for a meal on the go. They make fast, healthy options accessible and simply delicious. Not only is the food is good, I love the idea behind what they do. They are community focused, sponsoring athletes and hosting live music. They provide a lifestyle, not just a meal.

 

A photo posted by The Main Dish (@maindishcalgary) on

Dinner

I go crazy for all kinds of seafood, so Raw Bar at Hotel Arts is the natural choice for me. The food is really exciting, always interesting combinations of ingredients. They have a salmon and tuna tartare that I obsess about. I think I’ve almost made my way through the entire menu now and have never been disappointed. One of the most beautiful dining rooms too, and the staff is incredible!

 

A photo posted by Raw Bar (@rawbaryyc) on

Drinks

One of my favourite places in the whole city to grab a cocktail is Offcut Bar inside of The Nash on Calgary’s Music Mile. They make a mean Old Fashioned and the barkeeps aren’t afraid to get creative. If I don’t know exactly what I want, I can give a few guidelines and they will create something from scratch. It’s a dark, yet comfortable room that has elements of both history and mystery!

 

A photo posted by The Nash Restaurant (@thenashyyc) on