Discover Fonda Fora: Modern Mexican Dining in Calgary
Fonda Fora is a contemporary Mexican restaurant located inside The Westley Hotel in Downtown Calgary. Inspired by Mexico's traditional fondas, it offers breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and craft cocktails with a seasonal, corn-forward menu rooted in authentic Mexican cuisine. Led by Chef Jhonattan Lona, Fonda Fora blends regional Mexican flavors with modern techniques in a welcoming, design-forward space ideal for locals, travelers, and private events.
Chef Jhonattan Lona
Chef Jhonattan Lona is the Executive Chef at Fonda Fora in Calgary and brings more than 21 years of professional culinary experience. Originally from Mexico, he has built his career across acclaimed restaurants, boutique hospitality venues, and international kitchens, specializing in authentic Mexican cuisine while incorporating techniques learned abroad.
Early in his career, Chef Jhonattan became one of the pioneers of Holbox Island's emerging culinary scene, where he lived and cooked for four years as the destination gained recognition for its food culture. His international experience includes working and training in Italy for nearly a year, along with time in Spain and Brussels, where he expanded his knowledge of European ingredients, regional cooking techniques, and hospitality.
Returning to Mexico, he opened a Mexican-Italian restaurant in Playa del Carmen, combining traditional Mexican flavors with Mediterranean influences. His entrepreneurial experience strengthened his approach to menu development, seasonality, and ingredient-driven cooking.
Since moving to Canada, Chef Jhonattan has worked in respected hospitality establishments, including the Marriott in Vancouver, Amici Restaurant in West Vancouver, and restaurants in White Rock, British Columbia. His experience spans luxury hotels, fine dining, and contemporary restaurants, allowing him to blend technical precision with approachable hospitality.
At Fonda Fora, Chef Jhonattan leads the culinary program with a focus on regional Mexican cuisine, house-made tortillas, fresh seasonal ingredients, and modern techniques that respect traditional recipes. His menus celebrate the diversity of Mexico's culinary heritage while reflecting the local ingredients and multicultural spirit of Calgary.
A Contemporary Mexican Restaurant Inspired by Traditional Mexican Fondas
Fonda Fora is a nod to the celebrated fondas found throughout Mexico. Traditional, unpretentious, mom and pop eateries with just a few tables serving breakfast, snacks or inexpensive Comida Corrida.
Today, the definition of fonda has become blurred and is used to describe a range of restaurants, from classic white tablecloth joints to modern, chef-driven restaurants.
Fora, the plural of forum, is a place where ideas can be exchanged. We want Fonda Fora to be a place to gather, converse, and enjoy an incredible meal amongst friends. Let us take you on a journey through the rich heritage of Mexican cuisine.
Fonda Fora by Cody Willis and Thank You Hospitality
Fonda Fora was founded by Cody Willis, President and Founder of Thank You Hospitality, a Calgary-based restaurant group known for concepts including Native Tongues Taqueria and Calcutta Cricket Club. His vision for Fonda Fora was to create a contemporary Mexican restaurant that honours the traditions of Mexican cuisine while showcasing local ingredients, thoughtful hospitality, and modern design. Today, Fonda Fora is recognized as one of Calgary's destination restaurants for authentic Mexican food, craft cocktails, brunch, and private dining.
AWARDS
Honorary Mention by The Consulate of Mexico and Culinaire Magazine for the “Best Contemporary Birria in Calgary 2026”.
Runner-up for Best Mexican/Latin American 2024 - Avenue Magazine
Runner-up for Best Mexican/Latin American 2023 - Avenue Magazine
Runner-up for Best of Downtown 2023 - Avenue Magazine
