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Patio Season On 17th Ave!

As Calgarians, we know our patio season is often short and sweet so we need to make the best of it while we can, and there’s nowhere quite like 17th Ave when it comes to number and variety of outdoor dining options. Find sprawling patios made for long saturday afternoons filled with cold pints and friends, or intimate and secluded patios, perfect for a romantic date night out. Spend your lunch at one of the cute coffee shop patios people watching while sipping on your iced latte, or take in the views of the Ave from one of the two story spots. Whatever you’re looking for, you will find it on 17th Ave so check out our list below to get started!

 

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Model Milk  

Shared between two Calgary hot spots, Model Milk and Pigeonhole, this patio is just a few short blocks away from the legendary Stampede grounds, and of course the Calgary Saddledome, making it the perfect spot for pre-event drinks and appies. Peruse their extensive list of wines, and pair it with shared plates such as East Coast oysters or calamari fricassee.  

308 17 Ave SW, modelmilk.ca

Zaafran Lounge  

Just steps away from some of Calgary’s most iconic events, Zaafran Lounge serves Arabic and continental dishes on their 17th Ave patio. Stop in between Monday and Thursday from 2 to 6 p.m. for happy hour specials on salads, appetizers, and hookah.  

311 17 Ave SW, zaafran.ca

Calcutta Cricket Club 

This picturesque patio is tucked away on the east side of Calcutta Cricket Club, Calgary’s favourite Indian restaurant located in the heart of 17th Ave. Enjoy Calcutta essentials such as their famous kati rolls and lamb ribs vindaloo paired with a crushable gin and tonic, all under the twinkling lights and lush greenery that complete this secret patio.  

340 17 Ave SW, calcuttacricketclub.com

 

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PinBar  

In between rounds of pinball, make sure you sneak away to enjoy PinBar’s central patio, located smack dab in the middle of two of Calgary’s favourite communities: 4th Street and 17th Ave. This bustling locale is the perfect place to bring the crew (it is family-friendly until 8 p.m. Sunday to Wednesday, and until 4 p.m. on Thursday to Saturday) and enjoy old school arcade games, ice-cold local pints and pub fare.  

501 17 Ave SW, pinbaryyc.com

 

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Lulu Bar  

Lulu Bar’s famous tiki cocktails and pacific Asian style cuisine is made to be devoured on a patio. Complete with industrial style interiors and vibrant pops of colour, plus a garage-door style opening onto 17th Ave, this trendy spot will be bumpin’ all summer long. 

510 17 Ave SW, lulubar.ca 

The Living Room 

This charming 17th Ave patio is complete with an outdoor fireplace and overhead twinkling lights, making it the perfect destination for an intimate date night on 17th Ave. Not only are the home to the legendary ‘shaft,’ a summery concoction made up of vodka, Kalua, espresso and a splash of milk, they also have a substantial list of wines and cocktails, all of which pair splendidly with their assortment of small and large shared plates.  

514 17th Ave SW, livingroomrestaurant.ca

 

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One Night Stans  

Self-proclaimed divery and Friday night hot spot One Night Stans is always a good place to enjoy a round of shots or pub grub. This summer, stop into their two-floor patio — they’ve got a rooftop and street seating — and enjoy their daily happy hour, and variety of fun cocktails.  

520 17 Ave SW, onenightstans.ca

 

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Cleaver  

It’s unlikely that you will find a patio in Calgary with a bigger cocktail list than Cleaver. Pair drinks like their dodgy disco, complete with spiced rum, orange fizz, aperol, grapefruit, lime, and orange bitters with their selection of Irish inspired fare — standouts include their bone marrow served with garlic butter and crispy leeks, or the, ahem, Cock for 2, complete with stuffing, bread sauce and duck fat fries.  

524 17 Ave SW, cleavercalgary.com

 

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Gringo Street 

Latin American-inspired, Gringo Street is an essential stop this summer on 17th Ave. With an extended patio and a daily 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. happy hour on margs and mojitios (yes, you heard that correctly), we expect some wonderful summer afternoons to be spent at this 17th Ave eatery.  

524 17 Ave SW, gringost.com

 

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Lonely Mouth  

Lonely Mouth’s contemporary interior and sleek design now opens up onto 17th Ave, allowing patrons of this Japanese restaurant to throw back sake and fried tempura while enjoying the summer sun and all that this iconic street has to offer in the summer months. 

528 17 Ave SW, lonelymouthbar.com  

 

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Café Med 

Located in the heart of 17th Ave between 4th Street SW and 5th Street SW, this authentic Mediterranean spot is the perfect place to dig into dishes such as chicken shawarma, shish tawook and Café Med’s wide selection of shisha, all while taking in the sights of Calgary’s most iconic street on their patio.  

529 17 Ave SW, cafemed.ca

 

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The Ship & Anchor  

This legendary patio has been one of the most popular watering holes among Calgarians for over 30 years. With tons of outdoor seating and a rotating tap of local and national beers, there is really no way to go wrong here. Bring your crew and dig into pub eats ranging from burgers and pizza to a selection of salads and brunch.  

534 17 Ave SW, shipandanchor.com 

 

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National on 17th  

This iconic Calgary bar has a few locations around the city, however the wrap around patio located on 17th Ave and 5th street is always a good time. Stop in and explore their long list of pints, while munching on menu items such as pizza and brunch. 

550 17 Ave SW, ntnl.ca 

Amato Gelato  

Sure, beer on a patio tastes good, but on Amato Gelato’s patio, you can indulge in more than 72 flavours of authentic Italian gelato. In addition to their namesake treat, you can also get an assortment of Italian coffee, cocktails and eats such as grilled paninis, Roman pizza, Italian mista salad and more. 

602 17 Ave SW, amatogelatoalberta.com

 

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Una Pizza + Wine  

Enjoy Una’s legendary pizzas all summer long on their extended 17th Ave patio, perfect for a quick afternoon slice (available at their takeaway location on 17th) or for a romantic date night over a glass or two of wine.  

618 17 Ave SW, unapizzeria.com

 

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5 Senses Ramen and Sushi 

This 17th Ave sushi spot boasts a dog-friendly patio, an epic selection of ramen featuring their delicious Tonkatsu broth, as well as other Japanese fusion eats such as sashimi, poke bowls and more. Don’t forget to grab an ice-cold Sapporo to wash it all down.  

634A 17 Ave SW, 5sensesyyc.com 

 

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Comery Block  

With an extended patio for the summer, which spans onto both 17th Ave and 6th Street SW, Comery Block has plenty of patio space for you and your crew to enjoy their West Tennessee-inspired barbecue and whiskey-based cocktails all summer long.  

638 17 Ave SW, comeryblock.com

 

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Simply Irie  

Stop in to Simply Irie’s patio just steps off 17th Ave for a little taste of the Caribbean. Dig into authentic dishes like Jamaican patties filled with Caribbean spices and fillings such as goat or chicken, and rotis made with curried potatoes wrapped up in a dhalpuri shell with your choice of protein. Finish off your meal with their selection of imported beers or rum, and desserts like their rum and raisin cheesecake.

1510 6 St SW, simplyirie.ca

Blanco Cantina 

Tacos and tequila were basically made to be consumed on a patio, am I right? Blanco Cantina’s newly renovated patio is equipped with a fireplace for those chilly summer nights, and tons of cozy seating for long afternoons filled with a couple rounds of margaritas, paired with munchies such as tableside guac and Blanco nachos.  

723 17 Ave SW, blancocantina.ca

 

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Trolley 5  Brewpub

Trolley 5 has become a Red Mile staple over the years with their selection of made-in-house craft beers, two-story location with views of 17th Ave and an extended patio, and good times to boot as the home to numerous different community events and activations. Stop in for a couple cold ones, or dig into their menu, which features everything from burgers and brisket to weekend brunch.  

728 17 Ave SW, trolley5.com

 

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Porch 

The name Porch suits this Instagram-worthy restaurant quite nicely ⁠— this modern 17th Ave spot’s light and airy atmosphere, complete with indoor swings and lush greenery, feels like you’re enjoying an al fresco meal somewhere warm. And through the summer, their massive exterior opens up onto 17th Ave for additional patio seating, perfect for sipping on Porch cocktails like the lambrusco spritz, paired with shareables such as beef carpaccio flatbread and Humboldt calamari.  

730 17 Ave SW, porchyyc.com

 

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Clive Burger 

Clive Burger’s small but mighty location packs a big punch with their famous 100% natural Alberta beef patties accompanied with all the fixin’s, as well creamy custard shakes, crinkle cut fries and a small selection of beer, best enjoyed on their 17th Ave patio.  

736 17 Ave SW, https://www.cliveburger.com/ 

Fire N Ice  

Located right across the street from Tomkins Park, this sheesha bar and night club also doubles as a charming patio spot with an assortment of eats including fish tacos, calamari and spinach and artichoke dip. Wash them down with creative cocktails like their root beer mule or a spicy mango mojito.  

854 16 Ave SW, firenice.club

Brown’s Socialhouse  

From weekend brunch to late night happy hour, Brown’s Mount Royal location has all the ingredients for a perfect patio outing. Situated in the heart of 17th Ave between 7th and 8th street SW, dig into shareables like their Kung Pao lettuce wraps and sesame ginger gyozas between rounds of basil grapefruit martinis.  

880 16 Ave SW #140, brownssocialhouse.com 

 

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V Burger  

You can now enjoy all your favourite plant-based treats under the sunshine on V Burger’s extended patio, with views into the always bustling Tomkins Park located right across the street. Cool down with iced sweet treats such as their V Mix, available in flavours like cherry cheesecakes and gooey brownie batter, sundaes, shakes and more.  

819 17 Ave SW, heyvburger.com

 

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The Coup 

This long-standing veg-forward spot has been a staple among vegetarians and meat eaters alike for almost two decades. Their focus on sustainability shines through in their menu, which is made up of dishes featuring fresh, local and organic ingredients whenever possible. Enjoy comfort food classics like Vietnamese bun-me or their tempeh shawarma with a vegetarian (or vegan) spin, paired with cocktails inspired by the elements on their 17th Ave patio.  

924 17 Ave SW, thecoup.ca

 

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Maven 

This 17th Ave brunch spot has really made a name for itself over the past year with its crafty cocktails and globally inspired menu — Chef Michelle Lee Hobbs grew up in Singapore with a Chinese mother and a Canadian German father, and her roots shine through in all of her dishes. Although their patio is not large, it has a handful of tables, perfect for a warm morning over coffees and their signature dish, the Kaya French toast

1006 17 Ave SW, instagram.com/maven_yyc

Lounge 18

Lounge 18 recently opened ‘The Terrace,’ a Californian-inspired year-round patio, perfect for long sunny afternoons sipping on cocktails and chatting with friends.  The menu features globally-inspired eats such as Karaage bites in flavours like honey Sriracha or sweet chilli, as well as bao buns, tacos and more. Plus, the Terrace has some new tropical menu items you have to try including their Coco 18, complete with fresh coconut juice and your choice of liquor topped with fresh fruit and served in a coconut!

1005 17 Ave SW, loungeeighteen.com

 

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Whiskey Rose Saloon 

If you’ve frequented this Nashville-inspired saloon, then you’ve probably two stepped on their dance floor in front of the WR live band on a Saturday night, but did you also know that Whiskey Rose has an outdoor patio complete with its own bar? Stop in for happy hour on Monday through Friday for $25 buckets of Corona and $5 shots of Jim Beam.  

1012 17 Ave SW, whiskeyrosesaloon.com 

 

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Midori Japanese Café  

This quaint Japanese café serves up authentic sushi, sashimi, maki and temaki, all of which are best served with a cold green tea or sake on their 17th Ave patio.  

1054 17th Ave SW, midorijapan.ca

 

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Lure Lounge 

Stop into this 17th Ave lounge and enjoy fusion dishes with a global flare, cocktails and pitchers perfect for patio afternoons, and waterpipes in a multitude of flavours. They also have ladies night on Thursday, industry night every Sunday and tons of happy hour specials throughout the week.  

1127 17 Ave SW, lurelounge.com 

 

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Hankki 

Hankki serves up Korean street eats such as cupbop and hot dogs on a stick (similar to a corn dog but filled with ingredients like mozzarella or coated with crunchy potato chips). Enjoy their quick and authentic on-the-go eats on their quaint 17th Ave patio this summer.  

1058 17 Ave SW, hankkica.com

Watchman’s Pub & Eatery 

You can’t go wrong with classic eats such as British fish and chips, mozza sticks and poutine at this quintessential pub, all of which will taste just a little better on their spacious 17th Ave patio, accompanied by a lager or two from their long list of premium draft beers. P.S., they are pup friendly and even have a doggy food menu. Does it get any cuter? 

1109 17th Ave SW, watchmanspub.ca

Las Canarias  

Feel as though you’ve been transported to Spain at this 17th Ave spot with their authentic selection of Spanish tapas and paella, paired expertly with an extensive wine list — sangria is obviously on the menu, too. And be sure to take this feast outside and enjoy it on their massive 17th Ave patio.  

1129 17 Ave SW, lascanarias.ca

 

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Jamesons 

Meet me at Jamo’s, because this classic 17th Ave pub has a pet-friendly patio, daily food and drink specials and a little Irish flare to boot. Stop in this summer for their weekend brunch, cold beers and classic pub food, too!  

1230 17 Ave SW, jamesonspubs.com

Chilitos Taberna

Cheers because it’s time for a cerveza at Chilitos Taberna, a Calgary restaurant serving up authentic Mexican street food on 17th Ave. Stop by their festive patio for Mexican classics such as tacos, empanadas, fajitas, burritos and more, all of which should definitely be accompanied by a couple cold ones or a margarita.  

1309 17 Ave SW, chilitos.ca

 

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YYC Pasta Bar  

Post up on YYC Pasta Bar’s 17th ave patio with a glass of Italian wine, and savour in their authentic and massive pasta dishes such as Spaghetti aglio e olio or veal tortellini. You can also build your own pasta at this Red Mile spot! Start with your pasta — options include penne, spaghetti or fettucine — and then move onto sauce, which includes favourites such as creamy pesto or Bolognese, and then top it all off with veggies and protein.  

1322A 17 Ave SW, yycpastabar.ca 

 

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Tropical 

Tropical brings a little taste of Mexico to you with their authentic street eats, live latin musical performances and festive Mexican-inspired décor throughout their interior. Plus, they’re the home of a private little patio tucked away behind their 17th Ave location, adorned by twinkling lights and vibrant murals, creating the perfect atmosphere to enjoy some tacos over many rounds of margaritas.  

1424 17 Ave SW, tropicalon17.com 

Coffee Shops and Cafes

 

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Element Café  

Enjoy Element’s selection of caffeinated and non–caffeinated beverages alongside their decadent pastries, available in both sweet and savoury flavours on their outdoor seating area, right on 17th Ave this summer.  

331 17 Ave SW, elementcafe.ca 

 

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Philosafay  

Located in the heart of 17th Ave, this quaint patio makes for the perfect coffee-date destination this summer. Philosafy’s got plenty of hot and cold beverages made with their exceptional and philosopher-inspired espresso , which pairs pretty deliciously with their assortment of butterblock pastries.  

632 17 Ave SW, philosafy.com

 

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Higher Ground  

Kensington transplant, Higher Ground, has already made a name for themselves at their newest 17th Ave location, where they serve up all day breakfast and a handful of hot entrees, along with organic and specialty coffee, tea and some perfect-for-summer cold beverages, best consumed outdoors.  

715 17 Ave SW, highergroundcafe.ca 

 

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Analog 

Analog has been a core fixture on 17th Ave for nearly 10 years, serving up their expertly brewed espresso and drip coffee alongside freshly baked pastries. They are located right across the street from Tomkins Park in the heart of 17th Ave, and also have plenty of outdoor seating to get your people watching on.  

740 17 Ave SW, analogcoffee.ca 

 

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Socality House  

Socality House just opened their dreamy backyard patio with ample seating and an outdoor firepit, complemented by hanging twinkling lights and vibrant foliage. Stop into this community hot spot for all your favourite caffeinated beverages, courtesy of Monogram coffee, as well as snacks from Butterblock and Empire Provisions.  

831 17 Ave SW, socalityhouse.com  

 

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Caffé Beano 

Beano has been a hub on 17th Ave for more than three decades, keeping the community well caffeinated and well fed over those many years. Their outdoor patio is always buzzing with life, and is a welcoming space for any and all to come for their morning coffee.  

1613 9 St SW, caffebeano.ca 

 

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Deville  

Deville is one of 17th Ave’s newest coffee hot spots, but it has quickly garnered a reputation for its excellent coffee and delicious baked goods.  Grab a Nutella cold joe, (yes, this drink tastes like Nutella) and enjoy a sunny afternoon on their 17th Ave patio.  

1103 17th Ave SW, devillecoffee.ca 

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