In Calgary, there really are only two seasons: winter and patio. When it comes to the latter, any Calgarian worth their salt knows that the brief interlude between snow and more snow necessitates making the most of the sunshine.
From favourite haunts to brand new spots, Calgary is chock-full of places to soak up some rays and cold ones. Let’s explore them. Welcome to The Scene’s Guide to Patio Season!
New Patios
IBU Restaurant and Bar
From the father and son team behind Expatasia comes IBU, where patrons are promised “casual dining — serious food.” Featuring an Asian-inspired menu with a Western flair, diners can expect a refined version of what Expatasia offers (think crispy roasted pork belly and tiger cauliflower), a killer cocktail menu, and a selection of local draft beers. Opening this August, cozy up at a fire table on the south-facing, 45-seat patio and soak in the good vibes.
2915 14 St. S.W., ibuyyc.com
Small Bar
It’s said good things come in small packages, and Small Bar — which has replaced much-loved Bridgeland staple Cannibale Bar & Barbershop — is no exception. While plans are in the works to update the patio, for now regulars familiar with the location can continue to enjoy patio highlights like the cozy fireplace. Happy hour runs from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., and includes an old-fashioned for $10, and Canadian-made drafts for $6.
813 1 Ave. N.E., smallbarbridgeland.ca
Union Social Room Bridgeland
This new neighbourhood haunt highlights “good food, good drinks and good company” without any fuss. Locally owned and operated, Union Social Room unites chef-driven dishes, unique cocktails — including the Bridgeland 75, which features Empress gin, lemon juice, simple syrup and prosecco for $13 — and locally crafted beer, all designed to be shared with friends, family and the community.
60 9 St. N.E., unionsocialroom.com
Lusi Italian Kitchen and Bar
Brought to Calgary by the team behind Broken Plate Greek Restaurant, Lusi offers classic Italian dishes married to a casual-contemporary style. Warm and welcoming, Lusi’s quaint patio seats about 20. Located in a bustling area complete with greenery and flowers, it’s the ideal spot to sip on a chilled rosé, nibble on the antipasto board, and people-watch.
1772 33 St. S.W., lusiyyc.ca
Acme Pizza & Pasta Co. – Sunnyside
After a sad farewell to Sunnyside’s beloved Vendome, the community excitedly welcomed Acme Pizza to the historic spot. Along with offering lunch and dinner, with pizzas like the parmigiana ($21) and chicken alfredo ($23), the newly opened location also offers brunch, including traditional brunch dishes such as eggs benedict on house-baked focaccia. The patio will be open intermittently throughout the summer, and sidewalk construction is pending.
940 2 Ave. N.W., acmepasta.ca
True Wild Distilling
Built inside a heritage building constructed in 1911, the interior design at True Wild is truly show-stopping. The newly opened patio, however, is not to be overlooked. With ample seating in keeping with the distillery’s classic aesthetic, while away the hours sipping on a build-your-own martini, integrate the distillery’s Breaker Box gin or vodka. Or, cozy up around one of two fire pits and partake in a whisky tasting.
3115 11 St. S.E., truewilddistilling.com
