Calgary’s Best Breweries
Calgary breweries have been around for over 100 years and each has its own unique story or character that defines it.
There is a wide variety of breweries in Calgary, from microbreweries to brewpubs and large breweries.
Some breweries offer tours while others do not so be sure to check before you go! It is also important to note that breweries may differ depending on your interests such as beer styles, food options, children’s menu availability, vegetarian dishes offered etc.
Table of Contents
1. Cold Garden
Title | Information |
|---|---|
Contact Number: | (403) 764-2653
|
Address: | 1100 11 St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4T3 |
Website: | Cold Garden Website |
Cold Garden Beverage Company is not your average microbrewery. They have a wide variety of beers on tap and offer an eclectic vibe that will make you want to stay for hours!
The Cold Garden team has put down roots in Inglewood, where it seems like there was never anything but craft beer before them:
Highlights
- Pet Friendly
- Great Beer and Selection
- Huge patio space
- Very reasonably priced
Customer Reviews
Cold Garden has a 4.7 Google Rating (September 2021), and customers say that they love the great beers and pet friendly patio.
Here’s is what some of their customers said.
“The beers I got were absolutely delicious the peach cobbler one was the best. The patio vibe was cool, loved to see the dogs around that was great. No host however to greet people at the front just kind of sit wherever.
I got the salsa and chips, didn’t come in a bowl or anything fancy just a bag of chips and jar of salsa. If you want some delicious beer and to be around the dogs this is the place.”
and
“This is definitely the coolest outdoor hangout in Calgary. Open year round rain or snow. On cold days you can have a fire or they will bring a portable heater to your table.
They don’t serve food but you can order whatever you like or bring outside food. You can also bring your dog with you “
2. Prairie Dog Brewing
Title | Information |
|---|---|
Contact Number: | (403) 407-2448 |
Address: | 105D 58 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2H 0N8 |
Website: | Prairie Dog Brewing Website |
The newly opened family-owned craft microbrewery and 200 seat BBQ restaurant in Calgary, Alberta has been receiving rave reviews from both locals as well as visitors.
The establishment’s founder established their vision early on of making it not only an integral part of the community but also achieving something where people would aspire to be either patrons or staff members at this amazing little spot!
Grab a beer at the cavernous, contemporary pub and enjoy some Texas-style BBQ.
Highlights
- New Large Patio
- Wide Beer Selection
- Located in Calgary’s newest brewery district
Customer Reviews
Prairie Dog Brewing currently holds a 4.4 Google rating (September 2021) from over 1500 reviews. People are happy with the service offered here and that tipping isn’t encouraged.
Customers say;
“Came for the beer but will have to return for the BBQ some time soon.
Stopped at Prairie Dog Brewing on a sunny Labor Day afternoon for a couple of beers on their patio and was not disappointed.
The staff were efficient and friendly getting us to a table as soon as one became available and a big plus is the patio welcomes dogs and is well spaced so the four legged visitors can chill in peace.
We tried the Coconut Brown Ale, the Belgium Blonde Ale and the Garrison Red and all were excellent especially when helped along with plate of loaded sweat potato fries (pictured).
Viewing the satisfied customers chowing down on some amazing BBQ fare we need to return with an appetite.
It is worth noting that the place does not promote tipping – posted on a big blackboard above the bar – stating their staff are paid a real living wage. Tips are still appreciated but not sought after – if only this concept would take off in other establishments.”
and
“I’m well overdue to write this review, and for that I apologize… I’m a big fan of Prairie Dog, often making the 20min trip down for Friday lunches to enjoy the Pit Master Special with friends, or finding a way to work a stop in to a service call nearby.
The food is great, there’s absolutely no debate here, I haven’t had a meal I didn’t enjoy, and I’ve tried a number of their selections… Sometimes I would even come by late after working a Stampeders’ game, just to sit down, have a drink and down a 1lb of a-la-carte brisket or a 1/4 chicken.
Their salads, burgers, soups, and starters, really everything are nice healthy portions and they’re very open to modifications or adding stuff (try adding Baja sauce to the Mac & Cheese, this is one of my favourite recent change-ups).
Google tells me that I’ve been to Prairie Dog over 100 times, and I can’t really argue with the results, but I can tell you that if you like BBQ, and/or good beer, and you haven’t been here even once, you are missing out. “
3. Annex Ale Project
Title | Information |
|---|---|
Contact Number: | (403) 475-4412 |
Address: | 4323 1 St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2L2 |
Website: | Annex Ale Project Website |
Annex Ale Project is dedicated to the idea that small, calculated changes can yield great results.
By being constantly experimental and ambitious in our brewing process they are able bring guests new experiences they never thought possible before!
Highlights
- Nice Modern Decor
- Good Range of Beers and Soda
- Burgers available on site
Customer Reviews
Annex Ale Project is currently rated as 4.8 on Google (September 2021) and they have collected over 300 reviews thus far.
Customers have advised;
“Great brewery, fantastic beer, really well designed space. We came on the Urban Pedal Tour with a dozen people and had a great time trying their beer for the first time.
I recommend trying the Formative Years, after having my flight I went back for that one and would say it’s their best. Also the non alcoholic ginger beer is amazing and would go well in a cocktail.”
and
“Great place to grab a beer or fill a growler. If you have time to hang out for a bit they offer some great snacks too.
If you’re exploring any of the other breweries in the area then it’s definitely worth making the trip to Annex Ale Project. “
4. Banded Peak Brewing
Title | Information |
|---|---|
Contact Number: | (403) 283-5133 |
Address: | 519 34 Ave SE #119, Calgary, AB T2G 1V1 |
Website: | Banded Peak Brewing Website |
Grab a flight of beers in the warehouse!
Banded Peaks beers are highly regarded and have now spread to liquor stores across calgary.
There is a nice patio outside the front of the brewery that makes a it a good spot for an afternoon beer in the sun.
Highlights
- Great Beer
- Located in Calgary’s new brewery district
- Pet & Child Friendly
Customer Reviews
Banded Peak Brewing currently holds a 4.7 Google Rating (September 2021).
Here’s is what some of their customers said.
“Banded Peak is an awesome brewery along the Barley Belt. Probably my favourite in the area. Beer is always fresh, with good flavour combinations and they do the classics right. I tried a flight to get my bearings and then went with the amazing Guava Gose.
Highly recommend stopping in and checking this place out if you in the area. Patio is large and has some great seating combinations for you and anyone else.”
and
“Probably some of the best beer in the barley belt. Very comfortable setting. I’m hesitating writing this but after some convincing by the server, I tried a mixed beer and it wasn’t awful.
Actually it was pretty good. I’m still a purest at heart but I won’t turn down trying something new just on principle..”
