We've all heard that "distance makes the heart grow fonder," but what about the other organs? Perhaps the only other organ that really demonstrates fondness is the stomach. (Stay with me here.)

Connor Turner, a Calgarian who moved to Washington a few years ago, recently came back to Cowtown for a visit and found himself in a land of gastronomic opportunity that he'd only observed from afar. His recent blog post about his return to the grazing lands of Calgary is enough to make your stomach grow fonder, too. Or at least rumble for a mid-afternoon snack.

From Turner's blog:

There’s a bunch of different factors that have probably ignited this change. Obviously, one of the most overstated initiatives was the Mayor’s move to get The Food Truck concept off the ground. But a dramatic change in demographics, with a younger population benefiting from above average levels of disposable income has to be one of the strongest reasons for this growth. But what I’ve noticed is that over the past few years the number of must see eating establishments in the city has tripled. Clearly a city as young and as vibrant as Calgary is ripe for an influx of innovative new restaurants....

Since arriving back home, my wife and I have had the pleasure of devouring heaps of heaven at Diner Deluxe (which I understand is really only new to me) and gorging on delicious Gluten-Free wings at the newly renovated VooDoo Lounge. During my own work-related trips into the core, I’ve had the pleasure of sampling some of Calgary’s freshly minted Food Trucks with Charcut’s Alley Burger and Perogy Boyz Food Trucks. I’ve also spent far too much time sharing conversations with old friends and downing far too many cups of divine coffee at the various Phil & Sebastian locations. Not to mention spending far too much time salivating and stocking up at the racks of spices at the Silk Road.

If I've lulled you into a food blog mood, you may want to check out Food Holes, Calgary Slop and Dan's Good Side for more local restaurant reviews.

Know a great local restaurant review blog that you think people should know about? Feel free to post about it—or muse about your own afternoon cravings—in the comments section.

Hot dog-eating anecdotes suggest that consumption of an average Tubby Dog hot dog requires the eater to use at least seven napkins to clean up during and after the meal. Blogger Connor Turner made a stop at the hot dog restaurant during his visit to his hometown. Blog photo by Raj Taneja, via Flickr.