On the cursory look a "Tavern" outside of a hotel might make you think it's riding the wave of transient casual dining as it's primary source of clients. Once inside the whole concept of a cozy travelers tavern blurs lines between a modern business vibe (think Earls), a steampunk Gen Z hang out complete with crossey roads arcade game and a rowdy soccer hooligan sports pub. Entering through large darkened doors you're met with a towering display wall (happened to be a British football game) a large island style bar and seating around and both above and below the large open concept bar. The whole idea of a cozy place to cop a drink and a meal becomes a much broader experience and not at all what I expected from a place called tavern. Taking in the decor it's as if someone took a concept meeting on what this place wanted to be and landed somewhere between a sports bar and a steampunk theme arcade? Or maybe a animal themed tap house? I'm still confused... I digress sitting down I am met with several amazing service people who are all ready to get me a cold beverage and started me off with some warm olive bread (is this a family restaurant?); again... I'm still confused. The menu is brief but offering most of what you might find at a pub as well as some exotic affair like noodle bowls and curry. It's clear the real pride is in their square pizza but all I can tell you the burger was delicious, the salad was nothing to write home about and my friend said the chicken fingers were great. As I was leaving I slipped to the loo and found my taken back by a bowl of mints and a fancy restroom, I half expected a cosiearge to pop out not unlike that of a club... Still confused as most taverns I've been too are not at all like this. So despite the name, this place is interesting to say the least. I will come back to try some pizza but I'm still not sure what it is they were going for. A few arcade games do not make an arcade, in the same way a few TVs don't make a sports bar... They have seating for hundreds in here but only a sparse few were occupied mid day on a Saturday, most of the patrerons looked travel wery (again hotel is next door) Weird spot, weird name, and did I mention again weird theme?! I caught a glance at the teepee booth on the way out and thought where does that fit in?! I suggest you check it out for yourself It might be the right fit for your next social or a night out with the lads even if you all find yourself trying to pinpoint exactly what this place is going for. Food was good service was great and the place will have you guessing just how exactly they landed on...
Read moreI stopped in for a beer. To be quite honest, I didn’t even notice that the whole concept had changed. Formally the shark club I always used to come here to watch games. In fact, I was there when the Raptors won the NBA championship and the place was ram packed And it was always a great time having a variety of sports to watch. I had a lot of great memories there. As I Came in I was greeted. The staff was super friendly. I asked if they could throw on the Toronto Maple Leafs game and they said they don’t really play sports here anymore. I was like what are you talking about? Not knowing at the time that it wasn’t even the shark club. Lol. So an employee told me the whole change of concept and that they play music videos on that big ass screen. I’m not trying to bash the place, but whoever thought that was a good idea to Make this a place that doesn’t show sports with that humungous screen is almost unfathomable to me. Like whose idea was this? Lol. I can confidently say that I probably won’t be back unless I have some event where somebody is throwing a party or something. Just a note as well my beer glass had a chip in the bottom of it. I notified the bartender and I said I would drink it, but make sure to change it out when I’m done. I’m sure he did that, but I think what he should’ve done was taken the glass away from me and gave me a brand new one. Just a little bit of common sense they are from a customer service standpoint. I hope your idea works out, but I’m sure there is a long-standing crowd of people that identified with the shark club as a great place to get together And I don’t know if it’s gonna work out for you guys to be quite honest. Take care and...
Read moreThe Tavern: For the Adventurous and the Agile
Ah, The Tavern in Calgary—a place where every visit feels like an unexpected workout and an improv comedy show rolled into one!
Let’s talk about those seats. Imagine a chair that grips you tighter than your favorite jeans after the holidays. The backrests are more of a suggestion than a support, ensuring your chiropractor stays in business. And sliding off? Not a chance. You’re stuck like a cat in a bathtub.
The tables are strategically designed to double as abdominal toning devices, pressing into your stomach with every move. It's like dining with a built-in core workout. Who needs the gym when you've got The Tavern?
Now, the music is a unique blend that seems to be curated by someone with a fondness for offbeat karaoke. It’s the kind of soundtrack that makes you question your life choices while simultaneously trying to remember why you came in the first place.
Adding to the experience is the whimsical seating ritual. Every time you enter, you're guided to your seat with the solemnity usually reserved for royal banquets. And watching the staff dance around like pixie fairies is a performance worth the visit alone. It’s like they’re auditioning for a modern ballet, but with more tray balancing.
In conclusion, The Tavern offers an experience as unforgettable as it is uncomfortable. If you’re ready for an evening of awkward seating and whimsical staff choreography, this is your spot. Just don’t forget to...
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