Don’t have a room? Not a problem. You don’t need to stay at the hotel to visit these excellent in-house bars. So take a wander through the lobby and find your way to the bar for drinks or a bite to eat. These establishments range from friendly, no-frills sports pubs to elegant cocktail retreats.
Named for one of the city’s most decorated chefs, Raw Bar’s Viet-influenced menu by Duncan Ly is as big a draw as its Asian-inflected cocktail list by Christina Mah, one of the city’s top bartenders. The second of two restaurants in Hotel Arts, a guest could spend much of their stay here.
Hôtel Le Germain’s ground-floor lounge is located adjacent to the very busy Charcut Roast House, one of Calgary’s top restaurants. And though glass walls bracket the open-concept drink spot, it feels deliciously secluded. Definitely order Champagne and/or cocktails and a cheese plate.
This Stephen Avenue retreat is located next door to the rustically chic Thomsons Restaurant in the downtown Hyatt Regency. Sandstone Lounge features its own seafood-focused variation on Thomsons’ Alberta cuisine, plus a full drink menu. Try a selection from its excellent seasonal cocktails list.
A sunny watering hole in Hotel Blackfoot, this is a pleasant spot in which to relax with a beverage or a full meal. The lounge menu features an inventive selection of Canadian cuisine that includes snacks and charcuterie and a range of entrees.
It’s no exaggeration to say that the Fairmont Palliser Hotel has featured a cushy lounge since the city’s early Wild West days. And the Oak Room has been a Calgary beverage institution for decades. Try an update on a classic cocktail or invent a reason to celebrate with a glass of the best Champagne.