Hankki Story: Where It All Began — The Heart of Hankki at Bow Valley Square
The First, the Fastest, the Best — Hankki Bow Valley Square
Behind every great Hankki story are passionate people — and at the heart of it all stands Manager Ella Park, who has led Hankki Bow Valley Square, the very first Hankki location, since its earliest days.
Ella Park, Manager of the Hankki Bow Valley Square
Opening in the summer of 2019, Hankki Bow Valley Square became more than just a food court restaurant. Under Ella’s leadership, it has grown into a symbol of resilience, teamwork, and service with heart — the very values that define Hankki.
Through the challenges of the pandemic and the revival of Calgary’s bustling downtown, Ella and her team have continued to thrive, serving hundreds of office workers every day with healthy, tasty, and fast meals — especially the beloved Hankki Bowl.
Today, we sat down with Ella Park to hear the story behind this remarkable team, the energy that fuels Bow Valley Square, and what truly makes it the “No.1 of the food court.”
A Store Built on Purpose — Inside Hankki Bow Valley Square
“When people think of Hankki, they often think of Bow Valley Square, It’s where everything started.”
Unlike other Hankki locations, this store focuses exclusively on the Hankki Bowl — the perfect choice for Calgary’s downtown professionals who want something quick yet nourishing during their busy lunch hours.
“Our customers are mostly office workers. Every minute matters. We make sure every bowl is healthy, hearty, and fast — that’s what makes us different”
Inside this compact kitchen, seven team members move in perfect sync — precise, fast, and full of energy that guests can feel the moment they arrive.
“Even though our space is small, people can feel the energy.
They often tell us, ‘You make the food court feel alive.’ That’s what I love the most.”
Teamwork That Moves as One
When asked what makes the Bow Valley Square team so strong, Ella doesn’t hesitate.
“Teamwork. That’s everything!”
Each morning begins with a short team huddle — a moment to share updates, shout their chant, and start the day as one.
“We remind each other that enjoying what you do is the key. When you love your work, you naturally do it better. I try to create an environment where everyone can learn, grow, and have fun together.”
Ella also gives special recognition to Supervisor Songi, whom she calls “the heart of the team.”
“She’s incredibly kind and dependable. Even though she joined recently, she genuinely loves Hankki and always thinks about how to make the store and the team better.”
This connection shines during unexpected challenges. Ella recalls a city-wide power outage on 6th Avenue when her team stayed calm and took care of every customer.
“No one panicked. They followed procedures, helped customers, and stayed positive. That day, I felt so proud — it was real teamwork.”
Customers Who Feel the Energy
Ella says their team’s energy doesn’t just stay in the kitchen — it reaches every customer too.
“We’ve been open for more than five years now, and about 90% of our customers are regulars.”
She recalls one memorable moment:
“A customer came back just minutes after finishing their meal and said, ‘Your food was amazing — and your kindness made my day.’ That’s the kind of feedback that keeps us going.”
Many guests call Bow Valley Square their favourite lunch spot in downtown Calgary — not only for the food but for the welcoming atmosphere.
“Someone once told us, ‘You’re the best restaurant in downtown Calgary.’ Comments like that give us so much motivation to keep improving.”
Growing Together Toward the Future
As Hankki’s first location, Bow Valley Square holds special meaning for Ella.
“This place is the starting point of everything — not just for Hankki, but for me too.”
Her vision is clear:
“I want this to be more than just a place to eat. I want it to be a space where people can recharge — even during their busiest day.”
Ella’s goal for the coming year isn’t about numbers or expansion.
“I want every team member to grow together with Hankki. When they grow, the store grows too.”
And above all, she hopes Hankki will continue to be remembered not only for its food but also for its warmth.
“We want to be known as a brand that truly cares — where kindness and great food come together.”
Final Thoughts
Under Ella’s leadership, Hankki Bow Valley Square continues to embody everything Hankki stands for: speed, genuine service, and teamwork that feels like family.
“We’re not just a store,” Ella concludes. “We’re the beginning of the Hankki story — and we carry that pride every single day.”
🎥 Watch the Full Interview:
Experience the full story of how the first Hankki store came to life, told by the people who made it happen.
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💛 Every story begins somewhere — and for Hankki, it all started here at Bow Valley Square.
