Magpie & Stump Restaurant & Cantina, Banff

Housed in a distinctive weathered-looking timber clad building on the corner of Caribou Street and Bear Street, the restaurant is reminiscent of a wild west saloon. Inside, the western theme continues, with dark wood walls and ceilings decorated with neon signs, old bottles, sombreros, hanging plants, mounted animal heads, antlers and horns.

The Magpie and Stump serves authentic Mexican favourites until 2 am daily, such as burritos, fajitas, quesadillas, enchiladas and tacos. Portions are huge, and child-friendly dishes are available, along with gluten-free options. A novel touch is that drinks such as margaritas and beer are served in mason jars rather than conventional glasses.

The Magpie is a great spot to enjoy some apres ski in winter or a drink outside in summer. The venue gets livelier as the night goes on, with happy hour after 10 pm and an unlimited supply of peanuts (which explains the peanut shells on the floor). Live music entertainment is a frequent fixture along with regular open mic nights. There is also a large-screen TV showing major sports games.

History
The Magpie and Stump's building, called the Caribou Building, has been home to a restaurant in some form or another for decades. Before the Magpie & Stump, there was a pizza and spaghetti house, and prior to that, the popular Modern Café, and even further back still, Bill's Restaurant and the White Owl Coffee Shop.

Hours:
12 noon - 2 am
Happy hour: 10 pm - 2 am
Full menu served till 2 am