What do the best patio restaurants in Calgary have in common? In our opinion, they all have diverse menu options, unbeatable views, and top-notch customer service.
If you want to make the most of the city’s vibrant outdoor dining and drinking scene with a patio restaurant trip, dive into our top picks below!
Table of Contents
1. Bottlescrew Bill’s Pub
This local watering hole serves pub favorites like chicken wings, nachos, and fish and chips, as well as a massive selection of brews.
What makes Bottlescrew Bill’s Pub a Calgary staple is their covered and heated pet-friendly patio, where your dog can come hang out on the patio with you.
About the Place
Bottlescrew is also a great spot for your and your friends’ nightlife, especially now that they’ve recently started brewing their own beer. Happy hour is a must there.
- Address: 140 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0A3, Canada
- Contact Number: +1 403-263-7900
- Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM
- Price Range: $5 – $50
Things to Look Forward to
The pub hosts live music and other events, making it a must-see for locals and visitors alike.
The venue is also available for booking; whether it’s a corporate event or a gathering of family and friends, they have plenty of space for that.
They even have customizable options to make your group even happier.
2. Broken City
Broken City’s patio is Calgary’s best-kept summer secret. Their patio, nestled on a quiet rooftop overlooking 11th Avenue SW, has become a second home for those who have visited.
Whether it’s sipping pints with friends on a beautiful summer evening or chasing a hangover brunch with their famous ice-cold Caesar, their intimate patio has become synonymous with flawless summer memories.
About the Place
For over 15 years, the venue has been Calgary’s premier home for music and art. It’s a gathering place for like-minded friends, new and old, to enjoy top-notch service, cold drinks, and mouth-wateringly good pub food.
- Address: 613 11 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0E1, Canada
- Contact Number: +1 403-262-9976
- Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM | Saturday – Sunday: 8:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Price Range: $2 – $25
Things to Look Forward to
Many Calgarians visit Broken City for the weekly events that capture the heart and imagination of their vibrant city. Comedy, pub trivia, live music, DJ sets, and home-spun karaoke are all part of the mix.
People also come to see them because they’re known for the countless touring bands that have graced their stage from all over the continent, Europe, and Asia.
3. National on 17th
National’s 17th Avenue location is ideal for those who enjoy eating and sitting while sightseeing. From there, you can relax while taking in the sights and sounds of Calgary’s most vibrant streetscape.
About the Place
Whether you’re looking for a mid-afternoon beverage, a dinner with that special someone, or a night out with friends, National on 17th has got you covered.
They’re famous for dishes like cheese empanadas and hot smoked bacon burgers, and they serve a variety of beverages.
- Website: https://www.restaurantji.com/ab/calgary/national-on-17th-/
- Address: 550 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2S 0B1, Canada
- Contact Number: +1 403-229-0226
- Operating Hours: Monday – Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Thursday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM | Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Price Range: $8 – $30
Things to Look Forward to
You can start a bar hop at National on the 17th, with Ricardo’s Hideaway just behind it for tiki drinks and the Ship & Anchor next door for more people to watch.
4. CENTRAL Taps + Food
Take a seat on Victoria Park’s large patio. There are numerous tables on the sidewalk patio of CENTRAL Taps + Food, as well as additional seating inside.
On a hot summer day, you can order their top-notch foods and drinks while watching the people go by as you sit on their comfortable chairs outside.
About the Place
CENTRAL Taps + Food is a neighborhood gathering place, perfect for an afternoon cocktail, dinner with friends, or a late-night celebration.
It serves good food and drink to both locals and tourists.
- Address: 224 12 Ave SW #110, Calgary, AB T2R 0X5, Canada
- Contact Number: +1 403-984-6200
- Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Price Range: $4 – $27
Things to Look Forward to
Their street tacos and Nashville hot chicken are among the best in town, and they are what many of their customers look forward to when they dine there.
Central also accepts event bookings for groups ranging from 200 to 1,000 people. Menus are tailored to the occasion.
5. CRAFT Beer Market Calgary Downtown
If you’re looking for a trendy patio in downtown Calgary, look no further than Craft on 10th Avenue.
This chic rooftop patio features an adorable VW bus, lawn games like corn hole and bocce, and, of course, stunning views of downtown that are perfect for photos.
About the Place
Craft boasts Canada’s largest selection of draught beer, along with a wide array of delicious food items, cocktails, and wine. The restaurant offers a daily happy hour, with an all-day happy hour on Sundays.
- Address: 345 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0A5, Canada
- Contact Number: +1 403-514-2337
- Operating Hours: Monday – Wednesday, Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Thursday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM | Friday & Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:30 AM
- Price Range: $4-$35
Things to Look Forward to
Even though the venue is ideal for a night out, children 12 and under can enjoy Craft through a menu tailored to them that includes sandwiches, burgers, mac ‘n’ cheese, desserts, and juices.
This Craft location in downtown Calgary gets very busy, so plan ahead of time.
6. River Café
The River Café patio, located in Prince’s Island Park, can provide you with the most elevated yet approachable outdoor dining experiences.
While you indulge in food and drink, you can literally listen to the sounds of tree leaves rustling in the wind and water rushing down the Bow River.
Too sunny? Every table on the patio has an umbrella to shield you.
Spacious, airy, and aesthetically pleasing, locals can easily tell that this place has one of the best patios in the entire city.
About the Place
River Café is an open-air space that is very popular among city visitors.
With a fieldstone fireplace; an open kitchen with an oven and grill fueled by orchard wood; and a bar made from a real boat, the place is very comforting.
- Address: 25 Prince’s Island Park, SW, Calgary, AB T2P 0R1, Canada
- Contact Number: +1 403-261-7670
- Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 11: 00 AM – 10:00 PM | Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Price Range: $5 – $50
Things to Look Forward to
Picnic baskets are available for purchase at the River Cafe and can make an excellent gift, especially during the spring and summer seasons.
This is perfect given that they have a picnic garden available for customers.
7. Lulu Bar
The patio at Lulu Bar is a popular hangout in Calgary. Customers can enjoy the nightlife of this bustling strip because the patio is right on 17th Ave.
With its open, airy feel and comfortable, spacious seating arrangement, the patio gives off a relaxing vibe.
Their almost half-patio interior is also very appealing, as it is designed for the summer and spring seasons.
About The Place
Lulu Bar’s tropic-themed bar serves delectable drinks such as beers, wines, and alcoholic beverages, as well as food, desserts, and late-night snacks.
The place is always crowded, so you’ll want to reserve in advance.
- Address: 510 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2S 0B1, Canada
- Contact Number: +1 403-930-5707
- Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday, Sunday: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM | Friday & Saturday: 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM
- Price Range: $7 – $50
Things to Look Forward to
Group hangouts can easily be accommodated in Lulu’s Bar. They offer a selection of different fixed-price menus for group bookings of 10 or more guests.
You can also hold a large party or corporate event there.
8. One Night Stan’s
One Night Stan’s patio isn’t particularly trendy, but it is located in the 17th Avenue entertainment district – just a few storefronts down from Lulu’s Bar. It’s still very lively and ideal for a quick or full meal.
Through their elevated patio tools, taking in the view of one of Calgary’s busiest streetscapes is a breeze. The patio is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your well-behaved pooch with you to this low-key bar.
About the Place
One Night Stan’s is the type of place where you can feel at ease wearing a three-piece suit, yoga pants, or anything in between because it is so low-key.
It has a pub-like atmosphere with fewer seating options than other larger venues.
- Address: 520 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2S 0B1, Canada
- Contact Number: +1 403-452-4407
- Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Price Range: $4 – $100
Things to Look Forward to
For heavy music lovers, One Night Stan’s is the place for a night hangout. They’ve been known to play our music a little on the loud side until two o’clock in the morning.
They offer happy hours from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM every day and have a new featured food every week.
9. Hotel Arts
You don’t have to be a Hotel Arts guest to enjoy their unique patio experience. It’s pretty outstanding because you’ll be able to dine poolside.
Their patio has a variety of seating options, ranging from lounge furniture to traditional tables and chairs.
If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Calgary, this is the place to be.
About the Place
The Hotel Arts patio is located on the hotel’s Poolside, giving visitors the impression that they are at a tropical resort.
It is surrounded by dazzling art and design-centric décor, and it exudes South Beach vibes in a vibrant poolside setting.
- Address: 119 12 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0G8, Canada
- Contact Number: +1 403-266-4611
- Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Price Range: $10 – $50 (Menus only)
Things to Look Forward to
The licensed patio at Poolside Hotel Arts will provide you with the flavors of summer in the form of cocktails, wines, or beers.
Traditional breakfast items are also available, as are desserts such as mango pina coladas and house-made ice cream.
10. Free House
Free House at Kensington Calgary has a fantastic rooftop patio. For those who don’t like the sun but still want to experience outdoor dining, they have a beautifully covered rooftop patio too.
If their rooftop patio is too crowded, check out their street-side patio in the middle of Kensington sidewalks.
About the Place
The vibe at Free House is that of a casual beer house with 24 rotating beer taps. As said, the bar is situated in Kensington, so it’s perfect for grabbing a drink after a riverside walk or nearby shopping.
- Address: 1153 Kensington Crescent NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1X7, Canada
- Contact Number: +1 403-452-1339
- Operating Hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 PM | Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Price Range: $4 – $65
Things to Look Forward to
In Kensington, Free House is known for hosting fun and exciting events such as open mics, brunches, and other holiday-specific happenings.
Regulars that visit the bar always look forward to their daily specials.
11. Murrieta’s
Murrieta’s, located in the former Alberta Hotel Building, has one of Calgary’s most unique rooftop patios.
You can relax on the balcony patio, which overlooks Stephen Avenue and has views of the Calgary Tower and Telus Sky.
Their patios have a section reserved for dining and private events.
About the Place
Since Murrieta’s is located in the former Alberta Hotel Building, it still boasts some of the hotel’s original walls and fixtures.
Murrieta’s cuisine best reflects West Coast culture, with a large selection of seafood, steak, and pasta.
- Address: 808 1 St SW #200, Calgary, AB T2P 1M9, Canada
- Contact Number: +1 403-269-7707
- Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM | Friday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM | Saturday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Price Range: $31 – $50
Things to Look Forward to
Murrieta’s attracts customers not only for their delicious food but also for their extensive selection of Pacific wines. It truly complements their west coast-themed cuisine.
Every Friday and Saturday, they are crowded with customers because of their live music. With that, they do charge a $10 cover for the bands.
12. Joey Eau Claire
Despite being one of the busiest patios in downtown Calgary, Joey Eau Claire’s is without a doubt one of the best.
It features spacious tables and comfortable seats in the restaurant’s spacious outdoor section, making your patio experience very convenient.
Plus, their patio’s heating lamps and large umbrellas will keep you warm or cool (depending on the weather) throughout your entire dining experience.
About the Place
Joey Eau Claire is just steps away from RiverWalk, the Bow River, and Prince’s Island Park, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
It’s simply because of the restaurant’s excellent food, lively atmosphere, and memorable dining experiences.
- Address: 208 Barclay Parade SW 200 Eau Claire Market, Calgary, AB T2P 4R5, Canada
- Contact Number: +1 403-263-6336
- Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Price Range: $20 – $50
Things to Look Forward to
Almost all of Joey Eau Claire’s customers look forward to their happy hour, which is available twice a day from Sunday to Thursday. It’s the ideal way to enjoy Calgary’s (occasionally fickle) summer weather.
For first-time customers, you must try their fan-favorite Ahi Tuna Club Sandwich.
13. Cold Garden Beverage Company
Cold Garden is a fantastic place to enjoy an outdoor drink, especially for dog lovers.
Their patio is dog-friendly, so owners can bring their four-legged companions regardless of the weather.
The said outdoor setting also includes fire pits and an astroturf lawn, making guests (and their pets) feel right at home.
About the Place
Cold Garden is a funky, industrial-style brewhouse with a patio that serves snacks and craft beers.
- Address: 1100 11 St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4T3, Canada
- Contact Number: +1 403-764-2653
- Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Price Range: $3 – $25
Things to Look Forward to
Customers enjoy the fun-sounding names of the beers offered by Cold Garden, which is something that people look forward to when they order.
14. Vin Room West
Another dog-friendly patio spot in town is Vin Room West’s outdoor dining.
There’s even a “Fur-baby Fare” option with three courses of treats for your pup on the menu.
If you’re patio-hopping on a budget, this is the perfect place for you and your furry friend.
About the Place
Vin Room West is an extensive wine selection plus small plates in a warm and stylish venue with a dog-friendly patio.
- Address: 8561 8A Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3H 0V5, Canada
- Contact Number: +1 587-353-8812
- Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Friday and Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Price Range: $20 – $50
Things to Look Forward to
Vin Room is a wine restaurant which is why patrons are encouraged to try their large selection of wine.
They have samples available by the ounce or the glass so that you can explore options before committing to one.
15. Trolley 5 Brewpub
Trolley 5 has a fantastic double-floor patio, one above and one below ground level, with plenty of seating around the area.
Like any other patio restaurant on 17th Avenue, this craft brewery patio is ideal for watching Calgarians enjoy the summer weather while strolling down the busy street.
About The Place
Trolley 5 Brewpub is an industrial-style restaurant with outdoor seating that serves house-brewed beers as well as brunches, burgers, pizza, and BBQ.
- Address: 728 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2S 0B7, Canada
- Contact Number: +1 403-454-3731
- Operating Hours: Monday and Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 1:00 AM | Wednesday – Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM | Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 Am – 2:00 AM
- Price Range: $5 – $25
Things to Look Forward to
Trolly 5 Brewpub has great food and drink specials every day of the week.
They also have a large selection of draft beer, making it a great pub to watch the Flames play or visit after seeing them play at the dome.
With all these options, we are confident you’ll find the perfect spot for you to embrace the city’s patio scene. Let us know what your experiences are like after you visit them!
