BANFF NATIONAL PARK - Canadian Rockies: Including Banff and Jasper National Parks - page 100

Mountain Lodge is a 25-minute drive northwest from Banff; take the TransCanada High-
way toward Lake Louise and head west at the Castle Mountain interchange.
Canadian Contemporary
Occupying the prime position on one of Banff's busiest corners is the Maple Leaf (137
Banff Ave., 403/760-7680, 11am-11pm daily, $26-42). Take in the dramatic Canadian-
themed decor—exposed river stone, polished log work, a two-story interior rock wall,
and a moose head (tucked around the corner from the street-level lounge). Some tables
surround a busy area by the bar, so try to talk your way into the upstairs back corner.
The cooking uses modern styles with an abundance of Canadian game and produce. The
lunch menu has a bison burger, along with lighter salads and gourmet sandwiches. Some
of Canada's finest ingredients appear on the dinner menu: Stuffed halibut and the bacon-
wrapped bison tenderloin are standouts. Treat yourself to a glass of Canadian ice wine to
accompany dessert.
Bison Restaurant and Terrace (Bison Courtyard, Bear St., 403/762-5550, from 5pm
daily, $25-38) is an upstairs eatery featuring the very best Canadian ingredients. The in-
teresting decor sees chic-industrial blending with mountain rustic. Tables are inside or out
at this upstairs dining room, and almost all have a view of the open kitchen. The food is
solidly Canadian, with a menu that takes advantage of wild game, seafood, and Alberta
beef.
M Juniper Bistro (The Juniper, Norquay Rd., 403/763-6205, 7am-9:30pm daily,
$24-39) is well worth searching out for both Canadian cuisine and unparalleled views
across town to Mount Rundle and the Spray Valley. The stylish interior may be inviting,
but in warmer weather, you'll want to be outside on the patio, where the panorama is most
spectacular. The menu blends traditional tastes with Canadian produce. If your taste runs
toward seafood, there's grilled calamari as a starter. For those looking for something a little
more local, the elk roast is a good choice. Most breakfasts are under $15, while at lunch,
the Taste of the Rockies platter for two ($28) is a treat.
Southwestern
Banff's original bistro-style restaurant, which opened in the early 1990s, is Coyote's (206
Caribou St., 403/762-3963, 7:30am-10pm daily, $18-25). Meals are prepared in full view
of diners, and the menu emphasizes fresh, health-conscious cooking, with just a hint of
Southwestern/Mediterranean style. To start, it's hard to go past the sweet potato and corn
chowder, and then choose from mains such as a flank steak marinated in Cajun spices and