I’m always excited to try new plant-based restaurants popping up in Calgary. On the weekend, TR and I went to an all you can eat vegan buffet at Padmanadi, a family-owned restaurant in south Calgary.
Years ago, I enjoyed the tasty vegan delights at the original Padmanadi in Edmonton so I was thrilled to dine at one closer to my home. The restaurant offers a diverse range of plant-based dishes inspired by Asian cuisine. (You can read about the Padmanadi origin story here.)
A few weeks ago, I celebrated my birthday at their Calgary location. The spicy ‘chicken’ dish I tried was absolutely fantastic—perfectly seasoned and bursting with flavour. It left me excited to return for their monthly buffet.
My dining companion is a devoted carnivore, but she loves exploring new dishes and bold flavours. We arrived just before our 12 p.m. reservation and were warmly greeted by one of the friendly staff members, who showed us to our table.
He explained how the buffet worked and their “no waste” policy. Leftovers will be weighed and charged at $2 per 100 grams. The money would go to a non-profit charity in the city.
We had a 90-minute time slot. The dining space is not big so I understand putting a time limit on the dining.He explained the buffet and the no waste policy. Leftovers will be weighed and charged at $2 per 100 grams. The money would go to a non-profit charity in the city.
We had a 90-minute time slot. The dining space is cozy, and the time limit ensures everyone has a chance to enjoy the buffet without feeling rushed.
Buffet variety
The buffet featured an impressive array of dishes, making it a feast for both my eyes and palate. It ranged from gaylan, fried taro, curry, noodles, eggplant to vegan chicken and beef and more. My personal challenge was to finish three plates with room left for desert. (I ate a very light breakfast in anticipation of this buffet.) Speaking of deserts, the buffet featured chocolate mousse, gingerbread cupcakes, jello and brownies. There was enough choice and variety to satisfy the non-believers of plant-based entrees. (Check out their regular menu here.)
Taste and quality
As a fan of Asian-inspired dishes, I knew this would be the buffet for me and it delivered on all fronts. I loved every dish. Some of the standouts was the fried taro and the curry chicken. The sauce for the curry was amazing (and filling).
Tofu and seitan featured prominently in many dishes. I successfully ate three plates (varying sizes) and I forced myself to savour the chocolate mousse and the cupcake. I was so full!
Overall I thought the buffet was fantastic. My friend said she quite enjoyed the flavours and would eat there again.
Disclaimer: Please ignore how badly I mispronounce the name. Make a reservation or food order at Padmanadi here.