Rockies’ Secret
In 2017, Emma, Ben and their two sons opened Rockies Tavern & Grill. Their vision was to create a welcoming place where families and friends could meet to relax and enjoy authentic homemade cuisine. Over the years, they succeeded, but lately, they are outdoing themselves in new and intriguing ways. What is going on?
Their menu offers dishes that are clearly a cut above typical tavern offering. Friday’s fish and chips are now Friday’s fish and seafood platters, complete with healthy tempura shrimps, salads or home-cut French fries. Don’t feel like seafood? How about braised beef shanks with Frangelico and Grand Marnier, served on Wasabi mashed potatoes? Or, one of their multiple versions of a hamburger that are made in-house with no filler accompanied with a variety of trimmings that give you pause. Obviously, something’s going on in the kitchen.
Sure enough, Ben’s team has grown to include Red Seal chefs with extensive international experience, such as Dimitri, a newcomer to Canada. They worked in fine restaurants in several countries including Iceland and apparently, even cruise ships. In short, the kitchen staff are clearly having a blast. They are dreaming new dishes, sometimes trying them on Rockies’s customers, carefully watching their reactions, then going back into the kitchen to refine the offerings. Their goal is to create menus of wholesome fresh food with flavours that are a notable notch above the ordinary – menus fusing multiple cultures – Asian, Italian, and even French. “Casual fine dining,” one says. Inspired by the like of Banff ’s, another would say.
This summer you can expect a continuous stream of new offerings. For example, the other day, I was given the head’s up on upcoming pork medallions in a demi- glazed gravy and seasonal vegetables. Furthermore, another burger will be added to the list – a classic double-decker burger with all the juicy bits that go perfectly well with that pint of beer.
But there is more! It’s a secret — and I am pleased to spill the beans.
You see, many dishes are NOT on the menu – such as beef tartare. If you want it, you must call beforehand, make a reservation, preferably when the place is not too busy and request the dish. This is because beef tartare is time- consuming to prepare and requires the finest and freshest ingredients.
Also, apparently, several wine labels are NOT on the menu. The only way to know about the wine list is to ask either Slobodan or Stefan who serve the tables. The duo has extensive knowledge of wine and food pairing and will happily share what’s available that day including what would go best with your dish.
Rockies’ approach is congenial and customer focus. They want to get to know you, share their passion for what they do, and make sure you have a good time. And so, if you want to find out what other dishes or labels are offered beyond what is on the menu, you have to ask. Engage, find out, have fun. That’s the secret.
Worth mentioning is the summer patio located at the back of the restaurant amongst the trees and passing deer. They’ve also booked some hot Latin bands from July to September and tribute orchestras featuring music from the like of Ray Charles, Motown and others for the cold months.
Finally, if you are looking for a caterer give Rockies’ a call. Give them the particulars of your event and a culinary theme – they will be quick to whip up a tantalizing menu just for you. Find out more about Rockies Tavern & Grill in Bragg Creek visit their Facebook page or www.rockiestaverngrill.com
Cheers!
Renée Delorme, Sommelier
www.tastingpleasures.ca
403.200.9961
mail@tastingpleasures.ca
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