A Guide to Exploring 17th Ave SW

Spend a Day Exploring 17th Avenue
Spend a Day Exploring 17th Avenue
A Local’s Perspective

A Guide to Exploring 17th Ave SW

Spend a Day Exploring 17th Avenue SW Retail & Entertainment District
Calgary's RED Mile earned the moniker from the 2004 Stanley Cup Playoffs that saw thousands of fans in the streets to cheer on the Calgary Flames. Since then, the area has been branded the Retail & Entertainment District for good reason. This vibrant Avenue boasts restaurants, shops and services to meet the needs of all who come.

Here’s where I’d recommend you have to check out when exploring the area

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Analog Coffee Calgary

Caption: Analog Coffee.

Mornings on the Ave

If you find yourself wanting to keep up with your fitness routine, look no further than the Good Life Fitness gym to keep you on track. Offering a full gym or fitness classes, you will be sure to find the workout you need. Stay hydrated with a JUSU cold pressed juice located next door and feel good about your morning.
Caffeine more your thing? Start the day with Analog Coffee – home to locally owned Fratello Roaster. This liquid gold will have you feeling ready for the day when paired with a Corbeaux bakery treat. Take one to go for a morning stroll!
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Beauty on the Ave

Located in the lower level of Mount Royal Village, Oasis Spa has been steaming and massaging locals for a decade. The unique Egyptian theme is relaxed and enjoyable for a solo visit or as a group. Head to your appointment early to make use of the complimentary steam room available with any service.
Esmé Beauty Bar is the go-to nail salon on 17th Ave. With all beauty and aesthetic services available, a shellac mani-pedi should be on your list at this intimate space.
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MARKET Restaurant Calgary

Caption: MARKET Restaurant.

Lunch on the Ave

The Coup is arguably the best vegetarian food you will ever eat! With Gluten Free and Vegan options, this art deco style restaurant has everything for everyone. Come as you are to this yummy spot! Looking for a classic burger? Clive Burger is a classic American burger stand reinvented with made to order burgers just for you.
 
A three Course Lunch Menu changes daily at MARKET Restaurant with a prix-fixe of $25. This family-owned restaurant with a commitment to local food, has been widely recognized for its achievements. Meats cured in-house, herb garden on site, and bread baked fresh daily makes eating a big meal here hard to resist.
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gravitypope Calgary

Caption: gravitypope.

Shopping on the Ave

Full of independent shops, you may need more than an afternoon to explore all of the gems.

Here is the breakdown.

Kit & Ace is the creative vision of the J.J. Wilson (son of Lululemon founder, Chip Wilson) and his step-mother Shannon. Focusing on technical clothing for men and women, the Vancouver-based company offers a full selection at it's only Calgary location.

The newly relocated gravitypope will have you asking yourself where these shoes have been all your life? A stunning space that offers footwear and clothing for men, women, and kids, you will be sure to find unique brands to take home. The location offers
Blackbird Myoozik record store in case you needed another reason to put this one on your list.
 
Jewellery and more are the theme at Kate Hewko. Inspired by individualism, there is something for every age at this unique jewellery shop located inside the Devonish Building.
Locals love to vintage shop and Velour Clothing Exchange has what you need. Hand-selected vintage items are added weekly with an edited eye on modern trends. Located upstairs from Tubby Dog (did I mention this hot dog stand is great for a snack)?
Rubaiyat has been offering unique items for the home and fine jewelry for 2 generations. Visit this shop for exclusive Made in Canada gifts for loved ones at home.
If you’re looking for a spot to grab a gift from your travels that you can bring to your friends at home, check out Beyond Scarf for accessories for both women & men.
For teas and treats, head to Ollia Macarons & Teas for locally made goodies.
Plus, of course you have to visit LEO Boutique, and we can say hello in person.
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Calcutta Cricket Club Calgary

Caption: Calcutta Cricket Club.

Happy Hour on the Ave

Weekdays from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., many restaurants offer fantastic happy hour deals. Here are a few to grab a nibble midday.

Cibo’s happy hour features $5 pizza and $4 house wine. The 2-level brick building has plenty of seating and a fabulous patio in the summer.
Looking for a taco? Blanco Cantina's #halfyhour is ideal for a light snack. Half price tacos, nachos, and tequila will send you away for a siesta.
From 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Calcutta Cricket Club has a select happy hour menu available. This modern Indian restaurant is super delicious and super cool!
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Bread & Circus Calgary

Caption: Bread & Circus.

Dinner on the Ave

A pre-dinner stop is Frenchie Wine Bar located inside, at the very back of UNA Pizza Takeaway and Bread & Circus restaurant. 20 people max capacity with a unique wine list and delicious charcuterie. Start the night here.

The Chef Tasting menu is a must at the Living Room (add the wine pairing for the full experience). The outdoor patio space out front is the best seat if the weather is nice. Self-described as comfort food with a modern twist, this is an enjoyable place to dine.

For Dessert, the place to go is Made by Marcus. While the line starts mid-afternoon and never seems to be any shorter, the wait is part of the experience. A local hot spot and Instagram-worthy ice cream treats, every choice is a good choice.

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By
Cornelia Wiebe
December 19th, 2018

Cornelia is the small business owner of LEO Boutique. She lives, works, and plays on 17th Ave SW.

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