The Sensory was voted to the shortlist of Canada’s Best New Restaurants in 2019, an exceptional honour for the upscale eatery opened by Terry Jensen.
“I worked for McDonalds for 30 years and owned the one in Canmore and Banff for 12 years,” explains Jensen. “I wanted a new challenge and felt Canmore could use a restaurant that offered an elevated dining experience.”
The Sensory’s menu is created by Executive Chef Anthony Mason. “He really cares about using local Canadian products with fresh and house made ingredients in every dish,” says Jensen.
The Sensory is designed to provide a dinning experience that engages all the senses. The food and drinks are eye catching and have the perfect blend of taste, texture and aroma. Diners eat overlooking some of the most beautiful views in town.
Jensen adds, “We try to elevate the service but still keep it fun and comfortable for our guests. Our whole team really cares about the customer having a great experience at The Sensory. Our three course Trust The Chef Meal has been a huge success. It now runs for a two week period where we celebrate a certain farm, product or cuisine. The guests trust the chef and don't know what they are going to eat until it is described to them when it is served at the table. People love it!”
The reception to The Sensory and the chef’s menus has been great. However, opening a restaurant in 2019 was not without challenges.
“Our greatest challenge has been surviving COVID. Being less than a year into the business when COVID hit and having to deal with all the restrictions and closures have made it really hard to build traction,” Jensen admits. “It is also a challenge with the increasing costs for products and supply chain issues after COVID. We are doing our best to continue to have fresh quality products at a price that isn't crazy for our guests.”
Despite the challenges, Jensen finds plenty to love about the successful new business.
“What I love most is seeing guests enjoy their experience, whether it is a couple having their wedding reception here, someone enjoying a special meal or others just having fun with family and friends.”
Being new to the scene and still working through the challenges of COVID has delayed The Sensory’s plan for greater community engagement, but that has not stopped Jensen and the team from giving back. To date they have helped several local charities and have plans for a fundraiser later in the year.
“What I love about the business community is there are many great business owners that care about each other and the community, and really care about all of us succeeding. Like every small business in town, we can best be supported by shopping and eating locally,” says Jensen. “I would like to thank the customers that have continued to support us over the last three years. I also want to thank our employees for the work, effort and dedication in caring about our guest experience everyday. We have a great team!”
There are some exciting things happening in the near future at The Sensory. During the summer, the kitchen will stay open until 11 pm nightly. There will also be special offers for locals, seniors and families. Right now sports teams, bachelorette parties and other groups (up to 20) can enjoy the community table in the lounge.
Experience The Sensory by visiting the location at 101-300 Old Canmore Rd, and learn more online and on Instagram.
