Elk & Oarsman Pub & Grill, Banff

Thankfully, the news is not all bad. After a period of closure for refurbishment, the owners of Banff's St. James's Gate Pub reopened the sports pub and restaurant as the Elk & Oarsman.

The remodelled interior has the feel of a mountain lodge thanks to the extensive use of timber along with the two stone fireplaces. The restaurant has a nice laid-back atmosphere and the menu features a wide range of dishes, including gourmet burgers and sandwiches, specialty pizzas, certified Black Angus steak, Country Meatloaf, and Thai Green Curry.

On a nice day, try and grab a table on the outdoor patio. We can confidently say that it's probably the best in Banff, with amazing mountain views in every direction.

The bar area is a popular hang-out for sports fans watching a game on the large flat-screen TVs, and regularly features live music. Happy hour in the bar is 4pm - 7pm every Friday, usually with specials such as 2-for-1 appetizers.

The Elk & Oarsman is located on Banff Avenue on the second floor of the Kirby Lane Mall above the Banff Ski Hub.

Dress code: Casual
Cards: MasterCard, Visa, Amex
Hours: Sun - Thu: 11am - 1am; Fri & Sat: 11am - 2am

www.elkandoarsman.com