intage Group continues to tighten its hold on Calgary's dining scene with the introduction of its latest venue: Rush. Already counting the eponymous Vintage Chophouse, numerous Redwater Grille locations, and the bakery, Rise, in its stable, Rush will further entrench VG in the minds and mouths of Calgary foodies.

Globally-trained Justin Leboe is at the helm, a chef who has an impressively extensive CV that features tenures at Waterloo House in Bermuda and the Belvedere at the Peninsula Hotel Beverly Hills. He also logged hours in Vancouver as a Tournant at Century Grill and a Saucier at C restaurant. His positioning at Rush is his first Calgary term.

For Rush, Leboe et al have a contemporary ethos that will have a staunch malleability thanks to a reliance on seasonal ingredients. Featuring fixed, a la carte, and tasting menus (depending on whether you're in the lounge or dining room), this is luxurious multi-pronged dining. Expect innovative art plates and an out-of-the-gate exuberance.

While the amicable host describes the room as "relaxed but elegant," Leboe has grander aspirations. His series of tasting menus feature the best of what the market has to offer that particular day, including some "outside the box" appetizer items that really delivers.

Offered in three- or five-course packages, the tasting menu rotates daily, and for slightly more timid souls, Leboe's delightful, Mediterranean-inspired menu includes plenty of classic entrées, such as caviar and lobster starter plates to a rather tame selection of mains: fork-tender pork that's been slow-cooked for 12 hours, superthick lamb chops, and a grilled halibut - served over a cushion of mashed potatoes.