Most Canadians never want summer to end. We see so few snow free days, that we really try to make the most of the season. Getting out and being active in the Rockies isn’t just for winter. The world class summertime hiking, golfing, rafting, and mountain biking have become a draw for locals and tourists from other countries as well. Summer season at The Fairmont Banff Springs is high season and while it’s often difficult to book a stay during the summer, the Banff Springs welcomes hungry and thirsty travellers to dine among the 13 on site restaurants, pubs, and lounges. There’s something for every appetite, whether you’re looking for a more substantial meal (see previous post), lighter fare, or just pre or post dinner cocktails. There are several summer menu culinary options available at Fairmont Banff Springs, where the ‘lighter fare’ is anything but boring, it’s specifically designed to take you on a flavour journey…a ‘staycation’, if you will.
The Lookout Patio – Pick a gorgeous sunny, summer’s day and have lunch on the Lookout Patio, so named for the gorgeous views of the mountain valley. Chef Kate Symes has taken her love of Mexican cuisine and created a tempting menu filled with the spices and flavours of Mexico. Don’t worry, there are tacos, guacamole, and nachos but you will be pleasantly surprised at the unique flavours chef has captured in these dishes. Some notable dishes to try are the Rocky Mountain Trout Ceviche made from locally caught trout ‘cooked’ in a tequila cilantro vinaigrette and served on a tortilla chip, Charred Sugar Cane Chicken Skewers served with pickled red onion and cabbage slaw with mint green chile vinegar sauce for dipping, Carnitas Tacos with slow braised pork shoulder on a tortilla with salsa, pickled onion, radish, crema, cilantro, lime, and jalapeno, and to finish a Spicy Lime Cucumber, and Coconut Paleta. (Open Daily – 11:00am to Sunset, Weather dependent) Want to save this recipe? Enter your email below and get this post sent straight to your inbox. Plus, I'll send you my weekly newsletter featuring the newest and best Dish 'n' the Kitchen recipes every week!
Upper Rundle Lounge – Back by popular demand at the Upper Rundle Lounge is the tantalizing Indian Summer menu inspired Vancouver chef Vikram Vij. Delhi born Chef Gaurav Gaba has always been fascinated by the combinations of Indian spices and enjoys layering flavours in his dishes over time. The Indian summer menu includes appetizers such as spicy veggie Subz Samosas, Achari Paneer Tikka (a beautiful dish of cottage cheese with peppers, onions, pickled spices), Murgh Tikka, and chef’s favourite, Dahi Papdhi Chat (savoury discs topped with yogurt, tomato, onion, mashed potato). Each dish is a feast for your eyes, as well as your soul! There’s a great selection of traditional curries and even some sweets to end your meal. Do try the Pistachio Kulfi and Gulab Jamun, they are most recommended! Adding to the menu’s authentic flavour experience is the well equipped table side ‘Chutney Cart’ which delivers the accompanying chutneys, cucumber raita, and spicy pickles that complete every Indian table. (Open daily from 6:00pm to 9:30pm)

