Top Irish pubs in Calgary

Irish pubs in Calgary are numerous as shamrocks on St. Patrick’s Day. These particular pubs, however, distinguish themselves in this very green field.

Top Irish pubs in Calgary
Ian Doig By

The James Joyce Irish Pub & Restaurant

114 8 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1B3

Perhaps the most Irish of Calgary’s many Irish pubs, this Stephen Avenue Walk fixture features Irish beer, whiskey and pub grub. Its long and lovely central bar is surrounded by plenty of nooks and a variety of seating areas. The Saturday Irish music sessions are recommended.

This business is featured in the following Smart Lists:

Limericks Irish Pub

7304 MacLeod Trail SE, Calgary, AB T2H 0L9

This sprawling two-level venue features all the hallmarks of a great Irish pub including a seemingly endless array of beers on tap. Its stained glass windows and antique-chic interior give it a certain je ne sais shamrock, and the food menu leans lightly to pot pies and battered fish. Patio seating in summer.

Ceili's Modern Irish Pub

7155-8650 112 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T3R 0R5

A nominally Irish pub, Céili’s three Calgary locations are spirited social spots that get downright clubby come the evening. Its elevated pub grub menu features a civilized selection of flatbreads, burgers and sandwiches.

Jamesons Irish Pub

1230 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2T 0B8

A far-west club-hopper stop on the 17th Avenue Southwest nightlife strip, Jamesons’ other location is kitty corner to the University of Calgary at Brentwood Village Shopping Centre. Enjoy a pint, including a number of craft ales with a flatbread entree or Irish pub standard such as potato boxty, fish and chips or Irish stew.

This business is featured in the following Smart Lists:

Unicorn Pub

304 8 Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1C2

This is one of those magical places that’s a hit with everyone from alt-rockers to senior citizens. The Unicorn is a downtown fixture that features a cozy collection of corners perfect for small-group get-togethers. The noise level is typically conversation-friendly, though it does feature live rock music performances on Saturday nights. Try one of the beer mashups.

More from Ian Doig Ian Doig
Ian Doig’s week may include dim sum lunch with friends, rummaging through indie bookstore shelves as well as scribbling in his notepad at Calgary shops and farmers’ markets. It most often concludes with a relaxing Friday evening pint of locally brewed craft beer.
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