How does a place become a landmark? How does it grow a loyal gathering of local regulars? How do you ensure that after a devastating flood you get back on your feet and re-open to a full house for the entire day? The answer is to just be good. Make good food, have good staff and make your place so good-looking that no one would ever want to leave. And that is exactly what Earl’s Tin Palace in Mission has done. After a brief hiatus from feel-good food and raucous good times (due to that nasty flood), Earl’s is back and with a fresh new look.
Last week, I got a chance to sit down with a great group of local bloggers and some of the wonderful people who work behind the scenes at Earl’s. The new look is gorgeous. Bright and open, filled with original Canadian artwork (and not the cheesy kind involving bronze statues of forest animals), the dining room is beautiful with gorgeous light fixtures and mid-century modern inspired booths. My favourite piece in the restaurant is this incredible installation wall piece by Vancouver artist Ricky Alvarez (above). He calls it a topo map and shows where the Bow and Elbow Rivers converge. Absolutely beautiful. The patina will change over time since people won’t be able to keep their hands off of this tactile artwork.
With an inspired new cocktail menu and all of the classics dishes that people have come to know and love, Earl’s has also thrown in some incredible new eats like this dim sum style appetizers including steamed pork buns and these delightful little sushi soy wrapped cones.
An institution for over 20 years, this Tin Palace (as it is affectionately known) won’t be going anywhere anytime soon.
Earl’s Tin Palace
Calgary, AB
