Ambrosia at Angela...

In a word, our experience at Ox & Angela was exquisite. We arrived fully half an hour earlier than our reservation, and were nevertheless immediately and courteously seated by a very friendly and attentive staff member - a theme which continued all night - the professionalism, knowledge, and friendly interaction with all four (!) waitstaff who ensured we had all we needed promptly and without any waiting ranks up there with anything we've ever experienced in Calgary. But really, it's ultimately about the food as well - and it was fantastic, a true flavor-craver's delight. We selected nine items from the extensive and varied tapas menu, and not a single dish failed to impress. This chef stays absolutely true to the classic tapas dictum - if the quality is bang-on, you don't NEED Costco-sized portions to fill the craving. From the Manchego cheese with crushed almonds and pomegranate molasses, to the perfectly fresh seared scallops (of which even our decidedly non-seafood eating members took more than one bite), to the unctuous braised chicken drumsticks, to the simple yet powerful array of olives with citrus and hot peppers, to the dense nutty power of the almond and citrus cake - every dish absolutely fired up its respective place on the tongue. The extensive wine list did not need to go further than the very first Spanish selection - matched exactly to the meal at hand. And for the tequila lovers in the crowd - eleven bucks is not too much to pay for this margarita (or two). Presentation is classic and understated - arriving in earthenware glazed pottery and simple wooden cutting boards, the focus is on the beautiful food. And don't miss this - if you are celiac, and MUST have your food wheat-free, absolutely everything except three dishes on this menu can be made gluten-free. That includes the classic mushrooms on toast, with poached egg and that pinnacle of gastronomic power, the truffle. This restaurant deserves top billing for any foodie, celiac or otherwise, looking for a deeply satisfying taste adventure in Calgary.