Vegan Options Rating: ★★★★☆ | Food Rating: ★★★★☆
Modern Love, located in the heart of Calgary, offers a refreshing vegan dining experience that doesn’t rely heavily on avocado, making it a great option for those looking for alternative choices.
Nestled in the heart of Calgary, Modern Love is not just a vegan dining haven but also a vibrant hub for music enthusiasts. The restaurant comes alive with the melodic notes and rhythms of live music, hosting a diverse range of genres that cater to every musical palate. The ambiance is a perfect blend of sophistication and dive bar charm, with glimmering orange seats that add a touch of glamour to the cozy setting. As you savor your delectable vegan dishes, the stage becomes the focal point, where local talents and touring artists take you on a musical journey, creating an unforgettable dining experience that transcends traditional restaurant boundaries. Modern Love truly offers an upscale yet laid-back oasis for those seeking both vegan cuisine and live music in a chic and welcoming atmosphere.
During our visit, we had the pleasure of trying the Fish & Chips and the Mushroom Burger with Poutine.
Fish & Chips
Let’s start with the “Fish & Chips”. While the chips may have been more like fries, it’s understandable given that we’re in Canada, but they weren’t over cooked and dry like lots of places do them. The dish was a commendable take on a classic, with the “fish” offering a satisfyingly crispy exterior and tender interior that imitated the real deal quite convincingly. There was beer in the batter for those not wanting the alcohol.
The coleslaw was creamy, fresh and yet light. I good compliment to go with the “Fish”.
Mushroom Burger
The Mushroom Burger was fantastic. The bun was light and delicious, serving as the perfect vessel for a well-rounded and flavorful burger. The balance of flavors was wonderful and complimented the well cooked Beyond Meat burger. A little hint of sweet from the onions but lots of savory, making it a satisfying choice for any burger enthusiast. It was a nice touch adding the spinach. The aioli was great, nice and creamy tasting. We’re not big fans of overly sticky vegan cheese like Daiya, but it didn’t detract from the taste of the burger too much. An alternative cheese option would really take this burger to the next level.
MoLo Poutine
Moving on to the Poutine, which is always a Canadian favorite. Modern Love’s version had its highs and lows. On the positive side, the fries were expertly cooked, avoiding the common pitfall of overcooked and dry skin. The cheese curds provided a pleasing texture, though they fell a bit short in the taste department. However, the gravy on the poutine left something to be desired, as it lacked the depth of flavor we were hoping for.
One aspect to consider is the heavy reliance on cashew-based ingredients in some dishes. While this adds creaminess and flavor, it may not suit everyone, especially those with nut allergies or concerns about water production. It would be a thoughtful touch to see alternatives provided for such individuals.
In conclusion, Modern Love is a fantastic vegan restaurant in Calgary that offers a diverse menu without overdoing it on avocado-based dishes. The Fish & Chips and Mushroom Burger were definite highlights, showcasing the kitchen’s creativity and skill. While the Poutine had its hits and misses, there’s no denying the restaurant’s commitment to delivering vegan comfort food. With a few tweaks, it has the potential to become a top destination for vegan dining in the city.
We’ll keep updating this review as we visit this place more. Watch this space.
