Calgary, known for its oil, rednecks, and sports fanaticism, is Canada's most American city. And, like any true American city – that is actually Canadian – Cowtown has a kind of go 'big or go home' attitude that tends to be quite nauseating. Good thing then that the new restaurant to enter the big restaurant scene in Calgary is not another Keg or Montana's, who depend more on their portion size than they do on their quality, but rather, a little place that specializes in fresh and seasonal items.

Petite is the name and keeping things small, modern, and tasty is its game. In what was formerly the Inspiring Grounds coffee house, Petite restaurant shines in all of its 30-seat glory. The space, boasting exprosed brick walls, wood banquettes, and ochre coloured walls, is so warm feeling you feel as if you are eating within an antique hearth (without of course being scorched to death). Without becoming too large and in charge, the Calgary restaurant will double its capacity in the coming weeks with the addition of its garden terrace.

But Earl's it will never be. Speaking of which, although the restaurant's chef, Jared Alvey, spent his early years slinging out dry ribs and burgers at the high-class Hooters joint, don't hold it against him; he does have quite a pedigree. Chef Alvey has studied and worked in many kitchens, among them: The Culinary Institute of America, Michelin star-toting Country in Manhattan, the Four Seasons in Toronto, and Neteller in Calgary.

Despite Petite's size, it's bound for a big reputation, especially when the seasonally rotating menu carries a lot of weight. And with small plate offers of Dungeness crab ravioli, stuffed morel mushrooms, wild Alaskan sablefish with gnocchi and pancetta vinaigrette, Spring Creek striploin, a selection of house cured meats and more, the restaurant should have no problem establishing itself among the Calgary culinistes as the big man on campus.

There is, however, a drawback to small restaurants when compared to larger scale dining rooms and usually it comes in the form of a deficit in the booze department. But, with an owner who has spent time exploring the wine regions of the Pacific Northwest and California and who is also a sommelier, Petite promises the perfect selection of wines that will never limit you in options.