We had a mixed experience at Foreign Concept. We decided to go for small plates only to be able to try more. What we liked: the spring rolls, the papaya salad, the beef slides. What we missed: somehow missed the ‘excitement’ / ‘spice’ for some dishes (eg Nashville chicken would have deserved a dip; Tuna tataki was missing some salty touch); also, service was below what I would expect (no explanation of the menu, we had to ask for new water ourselves, …). Anyways, some nice dishes, but definitely room for better! 4 stars in benefit of the doubt, given staff situation is difficult these days!
We had one of the best dining experiences of our lives tonight at Foreign Concept! The papaya salad was sweet and delicious with its wonderful dried satay. The duck dish was just perfect and very filling, and the calamari with green curry was creative and perfectly salted to my taste. Oh and the lemon curd beignet was to die for ! Also contrary to another review I read, we felt portions were generous.What really put the meal over the top was the very kind and genuine attention from Lanny who took care of us. Another highlight of the night we appear to have by coincidence been sat next to the owner of the restaurant Duncan Ly!
Really great food, the composable dishes like the Lemongrass Glazed Duck Breast are super good - all the food is interesting, and very tasty.Mama Ly's Pork & Shrimp Imperial Rolls were awesome (and really filling), next time we were told to try the Fish Sauce Caramel Brussels Sprouts with rice.
I found the food was good. However the service was extremely rushed which ruined the experience for me. When I go out for dinner to an establishment like Foreign Concept, the ambiance, taking my time to enjoy dinner, and enjoying conversation is all a part of the experience for me. Our server over served. A good server knows how to find the sweet spot in allowing guests the opportunity to enjoy their dinner while also offering great service. Our conversation was interrupted on multiple occasions, dishes were cleared in the middle of the table while in the process of eating, plates were cleared and my drink taken away when I wasn’t even finished them. Our main dish ended up being cold because it was brought out so quickly while still eating our appetizers. I probably should have said something, but that is not my style. I would like to give this place another shot and hope this was just a server issue. But she ruined the experience for me.
I visited here to grab food before attending Mozart's Requiem on May 14 by the marvellous Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra and Karl Hirzer. And I am glad that I made this decision.Food tasted great, and I was happy to say I enjoyed something i wouldn't experience otherwise. I usually ask the server what food I should get if I want to experience something that's unique to this restaurant. I also ask which appetizer goes along with whatever food I chose to go with. The server, Jeremy, was knowledgeable, and answered every question I had with great care. Also, I had a chance to overhear the conversation between Jeremy and the table next to me who had dietary restrictions (allergies). Jeremy was super-attentive, cautious, and patient enough to check everything with the kitchen to ensure they get the best experience there. I could tell that this restaurant goes above and beyond in terms of service.I specifically asked the server his name because I wanted to say positive things about my experience. If I am visiting Calgary again (hopefully for another marvellous concert by the Calgary Philharmonic), I would not hesitate to visit here again!
Amazing food. I really enjoyed the dishes we ordered. They are creative and delicious. Definitely my favourite Asian fusion restaurant
My husband and I, walk in for dinner for the first time. This place is great! The atmosphere is chill and cool the staff is extremely knowledgeable and make great recommendations. Excellent food. We're definitely heading back.
Everyone of six dishes (3 appetizers and 3 mains) was excellent! On top of that, the atmosphere is very nice and not over-crowded with tables. Great location in the heart of downtown Calgary. Highly recommended.
Server was very annoyed to be working there the night we tried this place. Won’t return.
I came here with my girlfriends for their Chinese New Year dinner special. The food was absolutely savory and delicious. I didn't think I would be full as the portions are more traditional "fine dining" portions, but the flavors were remarkable, and by the end of the last course I was full. I was overall very impressed with the food and service here. Our waitress was very friendly and attentive. There was a Chinese Dragon Dance performance as well, it was a lot of fun to watch the dragons and to hear the drums. My girlfriends and I had a memorable experience here. I will be going back for sure.