charbar

Calgary’s coveted patio season is finally here!

With warmer weather beckoning, restaurants across the city are extending their reach outdoors, offering diners a chance to enjoy delicious food and refreshing drinks in a vibrant, sunny atmosphere.

Photo Credits (Hero image): River Cafe | (Inline image) Charbar

Whether you’re seeking a rooftop view, a charming sidewalk cafe, or a hidden gem tucked away on a side street, Calgary boasts a diverse range of patios to suit every taste. This guide highlights some of the must-try patios to experience the best of Calgary’s outdoor dining scene this summer.

Cold Beer and Pizza
Newly opened on 17th Avenue, this beer and pizza place is serving up food and drinks until 2 a.m. in the morning! Grab a slice of one of their Roman square pizzas, available in a variety of flavours, along with a beer from one of several local breweries and find a spot on their corner patio. Settle in for some people watching while getting caught up with friends.

Vin Room
No need to leave your pet behind when you’re dining on the patio of Vin Room on 4th Street. Their dog-friendly patio lets you enjoy a glass of wine or prosecco with your four-legged friend at your side. Be sure to try their decadent lobster and cod nachos and Wagyu AAA beef tartare, showcasing fresh seafood and premium cuts for a truly memorable patio experience.

Ship and Anchor Pub
The Ship and Anchor, is one of the most popular patios on 17th Avenue, and always packed. If you’re lucky enough to find a spot outside, it’s the ideal place to have a pint or two while people watching. Minors are allowed until 8 p.m., so take the family.

Bonterra Trattoria
A Calgary mainstay for years, Bonterra Trattoria offers a delightful patio experience. This Beltline gem transforms into a charming backyard oasis, perfect for soaking up the summer sun. Their menu features Italian classics like Caprese salad and Spaghetti alla Carbonara, ideal for enjoying a delicious meal al fresco.

River Café
Enjoy bucolic park views while feasting on the lovely patio at River Café. Located in Prince’s Island Park, the restaurant highlights Canadian seasonal cuisine. Keep those summer vibes going; the location is ideal for a walk before or after your meal. Keep an eye out for the odd duck, or Calgary’s cobra chickens.

Una Pizza and Wine
Una Pizza and Wine, nestled in Calgary’s Bridgeland neighbourhood, boasts a delightful patio perfect for savouring the summer months. Their menu features Italian favourites like Fried Garlic Bread and Kale Caesar Salad, ideal for enjoying al fresco alongside a glass of wine or a handcrafted pizza.

Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant
Step back in time at the Bow Valley Ranche. Built in 1896 by William Roper Hull, this historic house boasts a stunning wraparound veranda, offering a picturesque escape from the city. Settle into a seat and soak in the panoramic views of Fish Creek Provincial Park. As you relax, imagine Alberta’s pioneering past and envision Hull or Senator Patrick Burns, the second owner, enjoying the same idyllic setting.

Lulu Bar
17th Ave gem, LuLu Bar, boasts a stellar patio. Expansive L-shaped seating wraps the restaurant, perfect for soaking up sunshine. A retractable roof ensures year-round enjoyment. Inside, sliding doors blur the lines between patio and light-filled interior. Indulge in Asian-Pacific cuisine and extensive drinks.

ROOFTOP PATIOS

Craft Beer Market
Craft Beer Market elevates the patio experience with breathtaking 360-degree city views from its three-season rooftop. Featuring a retractable roof and a unique VW camper, the space offers a vibrant atmosphere for both sun and shade seekers. Challenge your friends to a game of bocce or shuffleboard, then delve into their extensive shareables menu. From queso dip and lettuce wraps to fried pickles and wings, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Quench your thirst with a refreshing summer cocktail like a Spicy Watermelon Margarita or a Rosé Lemonade – perfect for soaking up the sunshine with good company.

Modern Steak Roof Top
Located on Stephen Avenue, the Modern Steak rooftop patio boasts views of the Calgary Tower and the Telus Sky building. Modern Steak is the only steakhouse in Calgary to own its own Black Angus bull, so you can be sure you’re eating local. Dive into the Club Steak Frites during premium happy hour or their weekly classic brunch.

Connie and John’s Rooftop
Connie and John’s Rooftop Patio is located on top of the Simmons Building in East Village. Dig into their New York style or Detroit style pizzas while delighting in panoramic views of the Bow River and downtown Calgary. They even have their own lager in collaboration with Village Brewery and offer lots of snacks which include salad, chicken wings and breadsticks.

One18 Empire
Perched atop the Marriott Downtown Hotel, OneUP Patio at One18 Empire offers a vibrant escape in the heart of Stephen Avenue. Soak up the summer sun and city views from this rooftop haven. One18 Empire boasts a diverse beverage menu, featuring local craft beers, refreshing wines on tap, and their signature whiskey-centric cocktails, all crafted with Alberta-sourced ingredients.