Kensington is an inner-city community nestled along the Bow River and hop, skip and a jump from downtown Calgary. It’s a mecca for shops, restaurants, pubs, cafes and public art accessible by the LRT Station, river pathway, bus routes and parking. Surrounded by the communities of Hillhurst, Sunnyside and Rosedale, Kensington is a short walk to Riley Park located below SAIT, Alberta University of the Arts and the Jubilee Auditorium.

It’s a place bustling with activity in both summer and winter. Discover boutique hotels, shopping, summer patios, a historic threatre plus eateries, cafes and restaurants. Kensington is where tourists flock to and the locals hang out.

Container Bar

Calgary’s first fully recycled patio is built inside a shipping container, in an alley. This fun, eclectic outdoor bar operates almost year-round (weather permitting) and is one of the most unique experiences in the city. A simple menu of snacks and starters is available from sister company EATCROW Snack Bar next door complimenting the local beer offerings, wine and cocktail list.

1131 Kensington Rd. NW | containerbaryyc.com

Freehouse Local Beer & Food Hall

Freehouse is a beer hall for food lovers with 24 taps showcasing local craft beer. A long bar features 40 seats, complete with a tasting room and shop. More than just a beer hall they offer a selection of fun cocktails featuring local spirits and wine by the glass. Pair your beverages with chips and dip, moules frites, any of their sandwiches or order the rib sticking bison chili.

1153 Kensington Cres. NW | freehouseyyc.com

Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey

A favourite amongst locals, Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey boasts two patios, more than 100 whiskeys’ from around the world and some of the best Texas style barbecue in Calgary. Larger appetites can enjoy a tray of food with several sides, or if you prefer something lighter any of the sandwiches or sides are a good idea. Stop in after 10pm and all meats are ½ price off.

1136 Kensington Rd. NW | haydenblockyyc.com

Higher Ground

Coffee holds a special place in the hearts of Calgarians. It’s not grown here, yet the coffee culture has grown and Calgary loves it’s independent coffee shops. Higher Ground Café is located in the heart of Kensington offering organic and fair-trade teas, coffee, an all-day breakfast, hot entrees and any time snacks.

1126 Kensington Rd. NW | highergroundcafe.ca

Modern Steak

Hungry for a delicious steak that’s a cut above the rest? Modern Steak sources ingredients from local ranchers, farmers and they have their own prize-winning Black Angus Bull. Start with oysters, move on to the warm crab in a jar, choose from a variety of steaks and sides and finish with the baked Alaska. This elegant and intimate steak house will keep you coming back for more.

107, 10a St. NW | modernsteak.ca

Pulcinella

The only pizzeria in Calgary to serve authentic Napoletana pizza in Calgary is Pulcinella. Owner and Chef Dominic Tudda grew up in the restaurant business before studying at the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners becoming certified as a master chef. Ingredients are imported from Italy ensuring the best tasting pizza and pastas are available for lunch and dinner.

1147 Kensington Cres. NW | pulcinella.ca

Pie Junkie

It’s easy to get distracted while trying to pick a pie for your next meal in this pie shop off the beaten path. Flaky, buttery handmade pies are available in sweet and savory options in personal and family sizes. Start with the chicken pot pie, Aussie style beef or the brie and chutney pie. Seal the deal with a key lime, class apple or fruit cheesecake.

1081 2nd Ave. NW | piejunkie.ca

Sultan’s Tent

Taste Morocco when you dine in this authentic and traditional Moroccan restaurant. This colourful eatery serves quality Moroccan staples such as couscous, tagines and B’Stilla , a North African dish blending chicken, eggs, onion, ginger, saffron and almonds wrapped in pastry and dusted with sugar and cinnamon. To round out the meal be sure to try the traditional green tea, poured from high above into decorated glasses.

4, 14 St. NW | sultanstent.ca

YYC Pasta Bar

This small, casual eatery offers authentic Italian comfort food with a twist by Chef Yash Sharma. Build your own pasta bowl by choosing noodles, sauce and ingredients cooked by the kitchen or choose one of the chef’s specialty pastas from the menu like the Lobster Ravioli Alla Vodka or Spaghetti Carbonara. Enjoy a glass of wine or beer with your meal and save room for dessert.

314D, 10 St. NW | yycpastabar.ca