FFQing in 17th Ave West
Everybody in Calgary knows that 17th Avenue Southwest (AKA the Red Mile or Uptown 17th) is a happening place but the west side (west of Crowchild Trail) is catching up. According to the 17th Ave Business Improvement Area (BIA) website, 17th Avenue runs from Macleod Trail to 15th Street Southwest. But one has to ask themselves what is happening past this street?
It turns out that there is a lot going on. New businesses are starting up, modern condos are being built, and some wonderful places are just dying to be explored. If you have a sense of adventure or are looking for a place to sit and relax, here are some good suggestions for anyone who is looking for the fun, funky, and quirky.
A Romantic Spot: Cassis Bistro: Feeling up for a little rendezvous with your amour? What better place than a little French bistro at the corner of 24th Street to get a little romantic? Known for its delicious wines and delightful dinners, a person gets a true Parisan experience. Picture some gentle candlelight, delicate bouquets, and warm atmosphere that sings the south of France. Make sure you get a table outside on their patio for the full effect with a glass of blanquette de limoux along with the le plateau de charcutier. You will have a blissful evening at this sweet spot. 2505 17 Ave SW #105, Calgary, AB T3C 1J7,
Great Patio: Newcastle Pub: A favourite for the neighborhood. If you are wanting a cold brew on a hot day than look no further than this west-end treasure. The patio is set up on the other side of the pub. Picnic tables with giant umbrellas are a dead give away. You will want to stay with that big-screen TV and lovely flower boxes which make it that much more comfortable. A long list of beers and wines are at your beck and call along with some tasty English nibbles to enjoy with them. Have yourself a glass of house red wine with some deep-fried cheese curds and you will see how true that is. 2703 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3E 0A6, Newcastle website
Cup of Coffee: Drug and Bean: There is always time to have a good cup of coffee. While you are on your exploration, why not stop at this combined pharmacy/coffee shop for a little pick-me-up. Serving coffee of the local roasters of Rosso, you know that you are in for a special treat. If you are also feeling a little hungry, they also make some excellent waffles. Grab yourself a hot cuppa, sit out on one of the little café tables and enjoy a few quiet moments. And don’t worry, if you know that you are going to have a headache later, the pharmacy is right there. 3114 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3E 0B2
Live Music: The Waterloo Kitchen and Bar: Night on the town? Stop at this easygoing and unpretentious eatery where you can catch some local musicians playing some of your favourites. Not just a place where you can catch some live music, they also have trivia nights that promises to boost your brain power as well as your funny bone. If you have kids, they are welcome until 9 PM and their happy hours tend to be one of the best. So, grab a glass of their house wine, order some arancini, and enjoy the evening with a buddy. 3975 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3E 0C3,
Waterloo Kitchen and Bar website
Shopping for Clothing: 17th Ave Thrift: A mixture of vintage finds and modern elegance can be found in this sweet little store. Whether you are looking for that perfect little cocktail dress or that power suit for an important business meeting 17th Ave Thrift can help you out. The best part is that their proceeds go to local animal shelters to help our four-legged friends find their furr-ever homes. It is not just clothing they have either. They sell shoes, accessories, books, and other bric-a-bracs that would make an excellent gift for someone special. 2631 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3E 0A5,
Most Things to Do: Killarney Recreation Center: Feel like a swim? Or maybe you just want to pump some iron at the gym for a little while? If that is not your thing, let’s not forget the dance classes or martial arts will also get your blood pumping. At the Killarney Recreation Center you can do all that and more. Good for kids, adults, and families alike, it is easy to spend a whole day there if you are bored and are looking for a new hobby. Nothing will give you better motivation and inspiration like this recreation hub. 1919 29 St SW, Calgary, AB T3E 2J7, https://www.calgary.ca/rec-locations/pools/killarney.html
Feeling Risqué: PoleJunkies: Great exercise? Check! Fun? Check! Learning something completely unique and daring? Double check and then some! What better way to get fit than learning to climb, swing, and dance around a pole? Meant to be for both men and women, pole dancing fitness classes have taken the world by storm. You can get healthy while feel like you are not working. It makes for a good new skill and boosts your confidence in ways you did not think could happen. Why not give it a go? 2629 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3E 0A5
Yoga Studio: Hot Yoga on 17th: On those cold rainy or snowy days, nothing warms you up better than hot yoga. Maybe a cup of tea but this is the best way to stay warm when there’s a deep freeze outside. Not just a good way to keep warm but also a brilliant exercise that will chase away any blues you may be feeling at the time. Burn calories and bad vibes in only an hour. It is a pretty sweet deal and a good way to take a break when you need one. 2749 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3E 7E1,
Pizza, Pizza: Peak Pizza: Who does not love a wonderful slice of pie after a full day of adventuring? Peak Pizza has you covered there. With its sourdough crust and unique flavours, you get a whole new level of comfort when it comes to food. Two favourites (so far) are Peter Piper Pickled Peppers and Fun Guy Pizza. Picture one pizza with pickled jalapenos, banana peppers, and pepper galore with a special sauce that gives you a spice. The other pizza has garlic, mushrooms, arugula, and cheese which makes a scrumptious combination. What are you waiting for? 2741 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3E 6K8.
Last Word
Calgary is a city that is constantly growing but it never forgets where it came from. 17th Avenue west is no different. It too is evolving into a modern but eclectic area where people can hang out, get something to eat, or have some excitement. It all takes a little time to see what unfolds and it is something to look forward to.
Everyday Tourist’s 17th Ave West Picks
In addition to Erika’s 17th Ave West pick there are two of my favourite spots.
If you are into music you have to check out Melodiya Records, you will be glad you did.
And if comics are your thing, Phoenix is you place, even if you aren’t it is a fun place to browse.