[Local Biz Spotlight] Polar Bear Kitchen

If there was a go-to phase competition in the Chinese community, “have you drank your soup yet?” could certainly come out on top. It is something many parents in the world, especially of Asian descent, have asked.

“That’s why we want to create a very homey and cozy environment here,” said Ian, the owner of Polar Bear Kitchen located in Dragon City Mall at the heart of Calgary Chinatown. “Soup has played a major part in Chinese cuisine and culture, not only for taste, but for nutritional and health benefits.”

“You know, Chinese people believe that soup helps restore the balance of the yin and the yang in the body. Our signature dish, lemon & orange in ice sugar soup which comes in a coconut bowl, heals your throat and it “clears heat” in the body. It is just so fitting for patrons during the pandemic.”

The husband-wife (Ian & Jennifer) duo have been entrepreneurs since they arrived in Canada. They have worked extremely hard to overcome many obstacles, including these times.

“This is a critical time for many but our heart is still here to serve clients. We spend a lot of time in the kitchen to get our dishes to the tables and we must maintain the quality.”

By the way, there is absolutely no MSG in their dishes. If there are actual additions, we must as well focus on their attention to interior design details of the dining room which yells out a modern ambience with an unique Asian flare.

“I built some of the woodwork and decors that include the front desk, lighting fixtures, and our welcoming ’coconut tree, we strive for authenticity.”

The Chinese believe that hot soup can nourish one’s beauty, strengthen physical health, and even prevent and cure diseases. The infamous soup base at Polar Bear Kitchen is also a secret recipe to their other dishes such as Vietnamese style Pho and a wide variety of Southern Chinese traditional soup selections.

“My wife and I have trekked through tough periods before, we believe and are confident that we can grind through this trying time again, let’s Add Oil Calgary!”

Address: 328 Centre St S (Dragon City Mall)