In the heart of Alberta's cattle country, a remarkable mix of cultures has created a culinary scene that's anything but ordinary.
When you think of southern Alberta, a few things probably come to mind: wide-open prairies, cattle ranches, big skies and a really good steak.
And you'd be right. But spend a little time in Brooks, Alberta, and you'll discover something you might not expect.
In this small prairie city, the flavours of the world are never far away. Indian curries, Vietnamese noodle soups, Mexican tacos and Japanese sushi share the culinary landscape with traditional Alberta beef.
Welcome to the City of 100 Hellos, where the story of food is also the story of the people who call this place home.
A Prairie City with a Global Story
Located between Calgary and Medicine Hat, Brooks has long been shaped by agriculture, ranching and the beef industry. Over the past several decades, however, its story has become increasingly international.
Employment opportunities in the region's meat-processing industry attracted newcomers from around the world. As people settled, raised families and established businesses, they brought their languages, traditions and food cultures with them.
Today, Brooks is recognized for its extraordinary cultural diversity. The nickname City of 100 Hellos reflects a community where more than 100 languages are spoken, bringing together people and traditions from across the globe.
And while that diversity is evident throughout the community, one of the most delicious places to experience it is at the dinner table.
Around the World, One Meal at a Time
You don't have to travel far in Brooks to find something deliciously different.
Start with Indian Pan Flame, where fragrant curries, tandoori dishes, biryani and freshly baked naan bring the flavours of India to the Alberta Prairies. Whether you're craving a comforting butter chicken or exploring the vegetarian menu, there's plenty to discover.
For Southeast Asian flavours, Wasana Restaurant offers Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese dishes, including favourites like Pad Thai and aromatic curries.
A steaming bowl of Vietnamese pho is another welcome discovery in Brooks. North Star Pho serves the comforting noodle soups that give the restaurant its name, alongside vermicelli bowls and other Vietnamese dishes.
If tacos are calling your name, Don Chava Taqueria brings Mexican flavours to the city, with tacos, birria and other favourites. Meanwhile, Nikko Sushi adds Japanese cuisine to the mix, with sushi, sashimi and noodle dishes.
These independently operated dining establishments offer a glimpse into the cultural influences that have helped shape Brooks. They're also a reminder that some of the most interesting culinary discoveries happen in places you might not expect.
Where Food Brings Cultures Together
In Brooks, food is more than something to eat. It's a way to share traditions, celebrate heritage and build connections between neighbours.
The city's annual Taste of Nations event brings this idea to life, inviting residents and visitors to experience traditional dishes from cultures represented throughout the community.
At the 2026 celebration, participating countries included Brazil, Cameroon, China, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, El Salvador, France, India, Jamaica, Mexico, the Philippines and Somalia.
Visitors could sample dishes from different countries while enjoying cultural entertainment and performances, all in one place.
It's an opportunity to discover new flavours, learn about food traditions and experience the community through the people who make it special.
Because sometimes a shared meal is the beginning of a much bigger conversation.
Alberta Roots, Global Flavours
Of course, Brooks hasn't forgotten its prairie roots.
The Brooks Newell Region remains deeply connected to agriculture and Alberta's beef industry. The surrounding landscape is home to ranches, farms and agricultural businesses that have helped shape the region for generations.
For visitors, that means the opportunity to experience two sides of the region's culinary identity.
One evening might involve grilling your own Alberta steak at the Patricia Hotel Steak Pit, a longstanding regional tradition in the nearby community of Patricia. The next could be spent discovering a dish you've never tried before at one of Brooks' internationally inspired restaurants.
It's this combination of local heritage and global influence that makes the region's food culture so interesting.
The story of food in Brooks isn't about replacing old traditions with new ones. It's about the many traditions that now exist alongside one another, contributing to a community with a distinctive sense of place.
Come Hungry, Leave Curious
For travellers exploring the Canadian Badlands, visiting Dinosaur Provincial Park or passing through southern Alberta, Brooks is well worth a culinary detour.
Come for the wide-open landscapes and prairie hospitality. Stay for the unexpected flavours, independently operated restaurants and opportunity to discover a different side of Alberta.
Because in the City of 100 Hellos, every meal is an invitation to discover another story.
Ready to explore? Discover more restaurants, local flavours and culinary experiences with Brooks Region Tourism.
