The green is everywhere. People are dressed in their finest green clothes, feeling a little frisky thanks to that touch of spring in the air. It is March and the leprechauns are coming out to play. You can almost hear the lively flute music soar along with the sparrows singing their way out of winter.
After you picked up your Saint Patrick’s Day party gear of green hats, beads, and “Kiss me I’m Irish” T-shirts, you are off to find that one special venue to throw the best jig ever! Luckily in Calgary, there are several good options for those love to celebrate all things from The Emerald Isle.
Here are a couple of places that are Saint Paddy’s approved:
Jameson’s Pub – 17th Ave: Even the Irish must start their days out right. Why not stop in here the first thing for a spot of all-day breakfast? Jameson’s is a traditional Irish pub with a touch of industrial to keep it fresh, fun, and full of life. Many parties and events are happening here from the national cup sports to some energetic entertainment. A person can start the day with an Irish breakfast at 9 AM with the additional bonus of a glass of Guinness So start your day off green! 1230 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2T 0B8 https://www.jamesonspubs.com/
St. James Corner Restaurant & Irish Pub: Straight from Ireland, all the way to our lovely city comes the St. James. Everything you see in this pub from the woodwork, antiques, and stained-glass comes straight from Ireland. The good folks here wanted to create an authentic Irish pub and clearly, they have succeeded. They have plenty of Guinness, a menu that has both Alberta and Irish staples like Guinness Ginger Beef and Shepard’s Pie, and live music on the weekends. Although they are counting down the days until the next Saint Patrick’s Day, everyday is a green day here. 1219 1 St SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0V3, https://stjamescorner.ca/
James Joyce Irish Pub & Restaurant: Located in the hip and happening Stephan Avenue is none other than James Joyce. A family that had immigrated from Ireland in 1997 wanted to show Calgary what The Emerald Isle is all about. So, they did not just open a pub but a small museum about all things Irish. There are various historical items from various counties to admire along with an innovative menu and the best whiskey a person could ask for. You can treat yourself to some Bangers & Mash and a Bearface Old Fashioned while gazing upon an armoire full of memorabilia. 114 8 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1B3, http://jamesjoycepub.com/
Lennox Irish Pub: The spirit of the Ireland meets the land of Alberta beef. In one of Calgary’s most beautiful spots, nestled in Signal Hill is the Lennox. Known for its live music every Saturday, its unique appetizers, and a glorious view of the mountains, the Lennox makes you experience an adventure without taking away the feeling of home. You can see this with their menu from the East Coast Garlic Knots to the Cottage Pie. Everything is worth a try. Come in anytime because when you come here, everyday is Saint Patrick’s Day! 5909 Signal Hill Centre SW, Calgary, AB T3H 3P8, https://lennoxirishpub.com/
Ceilis Modern Irish Pub: Modern with a capital M! Not just about Ireland (even though the theme is apparent) but has various flavours from around the world. Whether you are looking for a local comfort food or an exotic taste from across the ocean, this is the pub for you. You must have the Mom’s Meatloaf or the Thai Cashew Bowl to know that is true. Come see what the future holds for all Irish fare in this cool little spot in Royal Oak. You will get a true Irish welcome. 8650 112 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T3R 0R5, https://ceilisroyaloak.com/
Since that fateful century that St. Patrick got rid of all the snakes in Ireland, people have been toasting him with green beer, dancing around to fun music, and feasting on Irish fare. Saint Patrick’s Day reminds us that it is important to celebrate the good despite the bad. Sure we are going through an inflation and covid hasn’t been kind but when you get a chance to turn strangers into friends, try a new dish, or get into a new groove; how can you say no? Cheers everyone! Do not get pinched.
