Recently, I found myself at Charlie\u2019s Watch Repair, a new speakeasy hidden behind one of Calgary\u2019s newest restaurants, Salt & Brick. There\u2019s something about specially curated cocktails, dim lights, cushy seating and a hidden entrance that has us all intrigued. Really, I think it comes down to the mystery, allure and the way these places can transport us to a totally different time.<\/p>\n
It seems as if our city has had a boom in the speakeasy concept, starting with some of the original icons, like Betty Lou\u2019s Library<\/a> and Shelter<\/a>. To make it easier for you to choose a spot for your next GNO or date night, see some of my favourite recommendations below!<\/p>\n We\u2019re starting off with the OG of Calgary speakeasies, Betty Lou\u2019s Library<\/a>. Located in\u2014you guessed it, a library setting\u2014this local spot has everything you could ever want, from an intimate feel to a large menu of tapas, delicious cocktails, and desserts. Hidden in the basement of the Devenish building on 17th Ave, you can find the entrance by its iconic pinky-red hue of light.<\/p>\n With a home in the bustling neighborhood of Marda Loop, La Hacienda<\/a> establishes itself as a beautiful local spot that specializes in tequila-forward drinks, tapas and more. It reminds me of your grandma\u2019s 1970s basement – just make sure you watch the stairs on your way in, they\u2019re steep! With roughly 25 seats (that\u2019s my guess), you\u2019ll want to make sure you make a reservation ahead of time here<\/a>.<\/p>\n I haven\u2019t been to this one yet, but B&P<\/a> (as many so lovingly call it) is the latest restaurant concept developed by none other than Brett McDermott of Our Daily Brett<\/a>. Walk down the alleyway next to Plant in Inglewood, and you will find a quaint, cozy spot of a few tables and bar seats. This one fills up fast, so reservations will also benefit you here. They have lots to choose from to keep you satisfied all evening long – their cocktails and appies are always a hit!<\/p>\n Head to the underbelly of Comery Block and find yourself in Prickett Richard<\/a>, a dim transportation back in time to the era of Mad Men. Vaulted brick ceilings and tufted leather couches just beg scotch lovers to find themselves here. The beef tartare and fried mushrooms are only two of the many delicious appetizers on the menu. Just like the other locations I\u2019ve mentioned today, I highly recommend booking a reservation<\/a> so you know you\u2019ll get in.<\/p>\n Just inside Salt and Brick<\/a>, a Kelowna restaurant favourite that has recently made waves in Calgary, you will find Charlie\u2019s Watch Repair. I loved it here, and I think you will too! Keep an eye out for a freezer door, and you\u2019ll know you\u2019ve found the secret entrance. Find the password for this spot on their Instagram story<\/a> and you\u2019re all set – get ready to go back in time.<\/p>\nBetty Lou\u2019s Library<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
La Hacienda<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Business and Pleasure<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Prickett Richard<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
Charlie\u2019s Watch Repair<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n