It’s patio weather on 17th Ave, and there’s nothing more Canadian than sprinting to the nearest patio the second the sun begins to shine and the frigid winter temperatures finally spike above 10 degrees ºC. There’s something so satisfying about a local brew under the Calgary sunshine after 4 long months of winter. Here are some of your favourite 17th Ave spots where you can munch on appies, toss back a few cold beverages and enjoy these dreamy spring temperatures.
Lulu Bar
Lulu Bar’s patio is the perfect spot to post up for tiki cocktails and their selection of small plates, even during Calgary’s spring season, which is known for its unpredictable weather. Encased in glass, this 17th Ave patio gives you the best of both worlds: views of Calgary’s bustling downtown, as well as wind cover from any weather changes that may occur. They also have their Honolulu Hour running each weekend from 12-5 p.m.
510 17 Ave SW, lulubar.ca
Chakalaka
17th Ave’s newest culinary experience boasts a globally influenced menu with delicious tapas, unique cocktails and a rooftop patio overlooking 17th Ave. Ring in the first days of spring with Chakalaka’s exotic selection of dishes featuring ingredients like ostrich or frog legs, and paired with beverages inspired by cities from around the globe, all while soaking up as much sunshine as you can.
1410 17 Ave SW, chakalaka.ca
Browns Socialhouse
They don’t call it Browns Socialhouse for nothing. This 17th Ave favourite has all the essentials for a perfect afternoon of COVID safe socializing: a central downtown location, an awesome social hour from 3-6 p.m. and again from 9 p.m. until close, and a sprawling patio overlooking Tomkin’s Park. In addition to their extensive lunch and dinner menus featuring everything from burgers and shareables to desserts, they also have an outstanding brunch menu each weekend.
880 16 Ave SW #140, brownssocialhouse.com
Good Earth Café 11th Street
Pop into the original Good Earth Coffeehouse to enjoy an afternoon of people watching from their central 11th Street and 15th Ave patio, along with a piping hot cup of coffee paired with one of their many fresh baked goods. Find ethically sourced goods on both their drink and food menus, along with a number of different breakfast and lunch options ranging from steel cut oatmeal to mac and cheese, as well as several gluten-friendly and vegan options as well.
1502 11 St SW, goodearthcoffeehouse.com
Philosafy
Who says Patio weather means that you have to drink beer? A warm coffee and a buttery baked treat can be just as satisfying while enjoying warmer weather and the hustle and bustle of 17th Ave. This central location is the perfect spot to dig into Philosafy’s selection of Butterblock pastries such as cinnamon buns or croissants, and wash them down with some sort of espresso based drink, complete with frothy, steamed milk.
632 17 Ave SW, philosafy.com
Jamesons
Sports fans, beer lovers and patio enthusiasts alike, come on down to Jameson’s on 17th, where you can enjoy $6 Budweiser and Bud Light and ½ priced wings during all Flames and Oilers games, 20+ HDTV’s showcasing Rugby, Soccer, NHL, NFL and more, as well as their expansive patio, which backs right onto 17th Ave.
1230 17 Ave SW, jamesonspubs.com
Ceili’s
Sunshine, beer and outdoor TV’s – can it get any better than that? Check out Ceili’s 17th Ave patio for tons of happy hour specials, outdoor televisions broadcasting your favourite live sports events, and mouthwatering menu items like their spicy BBQ burger, hot chicken sandwich or classic nachos.
933-A 17th Ave SW, ceilisdt.ca
Ship and Anchor
Ship and Anchor is one of Calgary’s most legendary patios, known for its optimall 17th ave location, its rotating local taps and inclusive and community-oriented vibe. Stop by this bustling downtown spot for beers from local favourites such as Eighty Eight Brewery, Banded Peak Brewing and more. You can also dig into eats like pizza, salads, burgers, starters, and brunch on weekends.
534 17th Ave SW, shipandanchor.com
Trolley 5 Brewpub
This community brewpub has opened their expansive 17th Ave patio for the season, and even when the weather cools down, their massive two floor location offers tons of sunshine and views of the Ave even if you can’t sit outside. Enjoy Trolley 5’s never-ending menu of eats ranging from dim sum plates to smoked meats sold by the half pound or full pound. And no trip to this 17th Ave mainstay is complete without a Trolley 5 Beer.
728 17th Ave SW, trolley5.com
Blanco
We may not be able to travel right now, but you can experience a taste of Mexico with Blanco’s selection of delicious tacos, tequilas and Margaritas available in flavours like smoky pineapple and chilli coconut. Head to their 17th Ave patio for an afternoon of sunshine, and their “halfy hour,” which runs from 3-5pm and 9pm-close, where you can enjoy 1/2 price tequila, $6 margaritas and $6 select draft beer!
723 17 Ave SW, blancocantina.ca
Check out our complete list of 17th Ave patios here!
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