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CRAFT Beer Market, Restaurant & Bar
Categories: Restaurants Canadian (New) Food Beer, Wine & Spirits Restaurants Gluten-Free Canadian (New), Beer, Wine & Spirits, Gluten-Free [Edit]
345 10th Ave SWCalgary, AB T2R 0A5
(403) 514-2337
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 11 am - 1 am
Fri 11 am - 2 am
Sat 10 am - 2 am
Sun 10 am - 1 am
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Late Night
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Loud
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- Dogs Allowed:
- No
55 reviews for CRAFT Beer Market, Restaurant & Bar
Review Highlights
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"I can't wait to try more #gfree selections." In 4 reviews -
"The fish tacos are quite delicious; fresh and tasty with a..." In 5 reviews -
"The real draw is the great selection with 100+ beers on tap." In 13 reviews
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55 reviews in English
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Review from Trevor H.
Calgary, AB
4/1/2012
It's odd seeing so many beers on tap. There is a little flavour for everyone, and its obvious that whoever has decided on the selection knows what they are doing. Odd may not be the right word, but refreshing is dangerously close to pun territory. Let's stick with odd because the menu reflects this as well. Can you imagine what a '20 napkin burger' is garnished with? Another hamburger, albiet a very little hamburger.
I went there for a bite around noon today and was pleasantly surprised to see brunch was still being served. After slaving over the monstrous beer list I finally settled on Amber's Sap Vampire Maple Lager. It went well with my fried chicken and waffles, the hint of maple washed everything down nicely.
I like the irreverent. The interior resembles a barn, the menu contains items like hamburger sushi, wrapped hamburgers and fries that resembles sushi, and there is an air of friendliness inside. It's obvious management is willing to have some fun with this place.
Unfortunately, it was not all 'chicken and waffles', I found the fried chicken to be a bit bland and hard to eat because of the monstrous amounts of breading. It was served so hot that I couldn't touch it for a little while, and even then I found it uncomfortable to eat. These gripes only amount to one star, I can't claim to be put out in any way, the experience was delightful. I will definitely be returning, hopefully on a Thursday when the fish tacos are only $2.50. -
Review from Blake C.
4/14/2012
Some coworkers from New Orleans were working with us in Calgary for a week, so as a farewell before they left, my local coworker suggested we take them to Craft.
Now I had only heard of this place and had never strayed in so it was new for me as well. We stopped in on Good Friday around 7ish and the place was already packed with people. As one of our American guests commented as he looked around "There are more beautiful women in this bar than there are in all of Louisiana" Agreed.
We stood at the bar enjoying a pint when my stomach looked up and started screaming in its squeaky voice "Help meeeeee! Help meeeee!" Fine. Time for a bite. I decided to have something light and satisfying and picked the crab cake sliders. They were alright. Unfortunately, this was definitely not fresh crab and the cakes were a bit on the dry side. The saving grace was that it had a pretty good flavour beyond the crab itself. I'll give it another try some other time and update, hopefully reflecting the positive reviews made by other people.
As for the beer selection, it's very impressive and worth trying a few, and the service is good. -
Review from Diane F.
3/25/2012
I joined a couple girl friends here for a couple bevvies early on a Friday evening and I was surprisingly shocked by how great this venue was. It was huge and full of people having after work drinks. I liked the dark wood and the size of the place. It was great and full of people my age... not 18 to 20 year olds. That got a star!
When I arrived it was standing room only so we stood for a bit and had our drinks. When I went to the bar to get my drink I was served quickly despite how full the place was. No waiting in lines at the bar for a drink. Definitely worth one of the stars.
We went upstairs to see if we could find seating and we were to told that we had to put our names on a list and we'd be called, but the guy helping us(who appeared to be a manager) added us to the end of a big table with two other guys at it because we(nor did they) had any issues with sharing a table. I thought that was great... no waits for a table! Another star earned!
Our server was quick. I wasn't planning on eating, but made the mistake of checking out the menu and the poutine nabbed me. It was really good! My favorite kind of pub type poutine with real cheese curds and dark gravy. Really good and not an overwhelming size since I just wanted a snack before my later movie date. The food and service was another 2 stars!
I will definitely go back and take friends with me! Lots of friends! -
Review from Ashley B.
Calgary, AB
5/22/2012
I am always happy when I leave here. They have my favorite beers on tap and really good food. I like to go on Sundays where the apps are half off. I enjoy the atmosphere and think it is beautiful inside.
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Review from K M.
Calgary, AB
Updated - 5/13/2012
Well, I gave it another chance, and nope, the place is still hopeless. Still a giant wooden echoey cowshed, cheekily ambitious prices, and has that arrogant impersonal 'too big to not care' of a chain of businesses that get enough custom from the dumb herd that they feel they can do anything they please and charge what they want.
Alas, they get away with it, because enough people are stupid enough to tolerate it, or think this is 'normal'.
The owners also apparently run: 'Commonwealth Bar' a bar that's actually a club, that leaves its customers queing outside in -30c weather being half empty inside, and then has the nerve to charge you to get into a glorified IKEA room set sprinkled with odd props that look like rejects from a Ripley's 'Believe it or not!'.
HiFi Club, A hipster haven I hear. Never been.
Una, the only bright spot in this cluster of painfully trendy venues.
Oh well. Another pub bites the dust, lets see if that new Jameson's 'Irish' pub is any better on 17th ave. After all, you can't open up a pub in Calgary without having some 'theme' now can you?1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/13/2012
TLDR: Craft beer market and many bars use inefficient outdated serving methods that harm… Read more »
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Review from Sarah C.
2/19/2012
In theory, Craft should be amazing. I love the oodles of craft beer that are difficult to find elsewhere, let alone on TAP.
Unfortunately, they have NO identity and have decided to mix craft beer with the terrible typical Calgary club scene. Playing awful music, cramming too many people inside, and having downright atrocious service.
If they had stuck with just being an awesome joint for getting a new craft beer, and creating a laid-back atmosphere this wouldn't mix in with the other 50+ crappy line-up-outside-the-door-on-a-friday-night joints.
They've really blown their potential and its super disappointing. I actually avoid going there and would rather just get my craft beer from Co-Op Liquor stores. That way I can get SOME service. -
Review from Wendy P.
Last Sunday morning, I phoned craft hoping to make a reso for 30 people for that evening. There was a group of us finishing up a course and we wanted to head out for dinner to celebrate. We decided on Craft because we figured they'd have the easiest time accommodating us thanks to their already gigantic space.
I phoned as soon as they opened, and was promised a phone call back as soon as they had a chance to see what staff they had on that day and whether or not they'd be able to accommodate a group our size for a reservation, or whether we'd just have to take our chances and walk in. A couple of hours later, they phoned me back saying they had called in an extra server just for our party and that we could have their private room for 7pm.
From start to finish, Craft did what they could to accommodate us. There was the odd mix up (my best friend ordered a burger on a gluten-free bun and it came out on a regular pretzel bun... but was fixed quickly after that), and with a group our size, sometimes it took a few moments longer for drinks to make their way to their respective drinker, but hey, one server for a group of 30 made same day? I'm impressed Craft pulled it off as well as they did. Thanks for taking such great care of us Krystal! I was impressed that they'd gone to the trouble of bringing in another server just for our group instead of just telling us they didn't have enough staff scheduled.
Sundays remain my preferred day to hang out at Craft. It's not overly busy, so you can still hear everyone. Pints that are regularly $5.95 are still on for $4 (all-day happy hour). And the burger I had this time round was plenty filling. I haven't tried brunch yet, but I might do that next!Listed in: Places to go in the Beltline, Good for Groups, Yelp's 30 Day Challenge 2011, Calgary Craft Beers
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/22/2011
There aren't many spots in Calgary to go sample oodles of craft beer. But CRAFT is one of them with… Read more »
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Review from Stefan W.
Calgary, AB
2/22/2012
Craft Beer Market is an exercise in good marketing rather than a quality venue.
On the surface, Craft has all the makings of a truly epic brewpub/craft beer venue. As such, I have given this place three attempts. My experience each time was about the same. While they do extensively advertise their 100 beers on tap, many of the more obscure options that may lure a craft beer enthusiast to the venue are typically not in stock.
That's assuming you can make your way to the bar. Management of this venue has decided that hype and packing a place solid is more important than quality service, which to me doesn't make a ton of sense for a venue that should offer a tasting experience with food and beer pairings. On one occasion where I managed to get a table, I went 2 hours with only the table clearing staff asking if my server had come by yet. I'm a pretty patient guy and planned on ordering food but simply was not able to.
No problem I'll make my way to the bar.... not so fast. The place is usually packed with the bar staff completely swamped. Maybe it's growing pains, but they don't seem to know where their product is located on the large central bar and it greatly slows down the whole process.
A 50+ lineup outside a venue such as this doesn't make any sense. It's time to drop the charade and classify Craft for what it is; another generic Calgary bar with poor management and mediocre service.
This is one of the few places in the city that you can get some of the more rare Belgian beers on tap and in the proper glass (often a snifter). I recommend La Chouffe - if you can get one. -
Review from Tara M.
3/7/2012 3 Check-ins Here
In an effort to find a pub that does brunch, I ended up at Craft.
I like Craft. I like Craft because mostly my friend Parker works there (killer good bartender) so every time I'm there, I have a good time.
There are other reasons I like Craft besides the beer and Parker; the food is generally good and not too 'pubby', they have a vegetable plate on the menu which I really like and the stools are really wide and really soft.
These things considered, I headed to Craft for brunch.
The menu for brunch was more detailed than I expected and my breakfast mate - who normally will order two breakfasts - only needed to order one Trucker breakfast which was suitably giant.
The food was good, the bacon crispy without being too hard and the potatoes did not feel like an afterthought, which was a nice change of pace.
However, Craft did not do such a stellar job with the whole "getting our order right" thing.
My breakfast came out with sausages instead of bacon, sunnyside up eggs instead of poached; my friends' breakfast came without any meat at all and my toast was half sourdough (which I ordered) and half white (which I did not).
The manager did apologies for the screw-ups, got my breakfast fixed and brought out the meat that was missing from my friends' breakfast; but my toast was never fixed and we were never compensated for the mishap.
To be fair, I don't expect to be compensated for every little mistake and I can understand if sometimes wires simply get crossed and things go wrong; but I do expect a little perk for four screw-ups on the same order. (maybe 10% off? free coffee?)
Fortunately Craft has good food, good beer and is usually crowded which I like and I have yet to be there on any evening where the food came out that wrong or my beer wasn't full; so I will probably be back, but probably not for brunch.
T.Listed in: 3 stars means I go there
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Review from Wanda B.
Calgary, AB
3/2/2012
We really were not sure what to expect, but had heard positive feedback in the community about this place. We went around 6:30pm on a Saturday night, we're able to walk right in, grab a decent table on the pub side, albeit one of the few left, and get settled.
Immediately this place reminded me of the Yaletown Brewing Company in Vancouver. Love the warehousey type feel and the option to sit on the pub or restaurant side was a nice touch. Being more of a wine drinker than beer (well sometimes) I was pleased to see they had a small but decent wine offering on their menu. We were also enticed by the Beer Club (not that we get out much with small kids at home) and decided to join in the hopes we would get back there more often even for the occasional brew.
We grabbed some food...I had the appy size Baja Fish Tacos. Hubby had a Burger. Both were delicious. The selection of beers was extensive and we delighted in being able to try some new ones. Service was also great. In the end we can't wait to come back! -
Review from Tammy C.
Calgary, AB
4/22/2012
Been here many times since it opened. Usually impressed. I hate how busy it can get, but if you time it right, you can get a table.
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Review from Stacy A.
2/1/2012
Craft Beer Market is in a pretty large location where the old Mother Tuckers used to be on 10th ave. Their claim to fame is their large selection of draft beer (at any given time, there are over 100 on tap). They rotate in seasonal beers regularly, so their selection is always changing. I love me some good beer, so I'm working my way through their beer passport (goal: drink 100 different beers). I typically stick to dark lagers or hoppy IPA's, but I've been surprised to enjoy some of the sweeter beer selections such as the Vampire Maple and the Steigl Radler (Steigl mixed with grapefruit juice... who would have thought?! It's delicious!).
This place is almost always busy. They do take reservations for lunch, and on Sunday through Wednesday nights. If you don't have reso's, it is up to you to scout out a table... this usually requires some patience, but the place is huge, so something is bound to open up eventually. I can't comment on Friday / Saturday nights here (I'd rather come when it is slightly quieter and easier to find a table). Since opening, their serve staff has gotten a LOT better (both from a speed and a knowledge of the beer menu perspective). They still aren't perfect, but with all that beer, it can't be easy.
The food here is decent, and they always have something on special- whether it be their fish tacos, pastas or flatbreads. They recently also launched a weekend brunch menu with some classic items (3 different Egg Bennies), and a few unique ones (Chicken & Waffles anyone?!). I tend to come here more for the beer than for the food, but with over 100 beers to try, I will keep coming back. -
Review from Becky B.
Calgary, AB
4/1/2012
Went in this morning, about 11 AM, for the Sunday Brunch! It was terrific; the service was quick and friendly, no mistakes with our order, and the food was excellent. My favourite was the breakfast potatoes; crisp on the outside, tender inside. I would definitely revisit for supper as their menu is impressive and, really, with over 100 beers on tap, here is something for everyone, even someone allergic to hops!
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Review from Joel K.
11/11/2011
Why so many people seem to love this place, I'll never understand.
For starters, no matter what day you go you can expect to stand in a line and wait to get in. Okay, no big deal - except when you realize that there's absolutely no need for this line whatsoever other than the fact that craft's staff are less organized than a harem of apes in heat. (Don't ask me how I know those aren't organized).
Upon entering Craft, let me describe the experience for you.
The place, to its credit, looks slick and polished. Cool layout.
First, you're going to be "greeted" by the girls at the front who will promptly look at you like you have three heads if you ask them ANY questions. Oh yeah, reservations? They exist, but they don't. See, you can make one, but you still have to stand in line with everyone else.
I've never been treated with anything but disdain or confusion from the girls at the front of this place. The doorman, like most doormen, has the really important job of letting his friends inside before you. Unless you're an Asian woman. Then he'll let you in immediately.
It's like your very presence offends everybody who works here. I don't know what they think they got hired to do, but clearly it has nothing to do with service.
Anyways, you'll turn the corner left and suddenly realize you've landed in the middle of douche central. I don't know what it is about this place, but it attracts your standard crowd of:
1. Girls with fake boobs who are probably 25 but already pump botox, so they look 42.
2. Popped collar morons who will fist bump to anything. I've been present when one of these dorks paid off the DJ to play Mumford and Sons, then clapped and fist bumped and knocked the drinks on his table over, right on to the plastic chest of his "date". If only I could award 5 stars for unintentional humor and completely living up to stereotypes.
3. Disgruntled businessmen who think they're something special. I've never seen so many entitled middle aged men having pissing contests over who brought in more cash that year.
4. Cougars. Now, if you're a young man who likes older women, Craft is your mecca. I've been propositioned for drinks by many a saggy old hag here, propped up by the best in medical science. This place attracts desperate old women in droves.
Anyways, you'll also quickly realize that there's no way in hell you're going to get a table. Standing room only, sucker! Never mind that you put in a reservation, you're going to perch on the floor like a stooge.
Now, the beer selection is decent and the food is a strong point.
I enjoyed a Hefeweisen while I watched a guy trying to hit on a table of droopy gals accidentally headbutt one of them. That was a highlight.
I also nibbled on a burger - which was actually fantastic. So food wise, home run, Craft. You've done well there.
But let's be serious; almost everything you can get here can be found up the street at Bottle Screw Bill's without all the ego, posturing and cougar attacks. You won't have to fight for a tiny table and you won't need to hear cranky execs bragging about their most recent software project to a bunch of moms hocking drinks because they already spent their cash on a baby sitter.
It's noisy. It's busy. Most of the female staff look as though they've forgotten to do up a few buttons.
Some people WILL love this place, especially if you're the kind of person I described above. If you're not, steer clear and go somewhere with a little more personality and a whole lot more organization.Listed in: Places To Go For A Bad Time
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Review from Stephanie S.
Calgary, AB
4/30/2012
I've been to Craft a couple of times because my sister works there. I probably wouldn't have chosen it myself, but I'm so glad I gave it a chance! Minus my car being towed out front (CHECK the signage before you park!) it was a great experience. Even though I'm not a big beer drinker, I love how many different beers they offer and I've had the pleasure of trying a few of their "beer cocktails" as well. It was insanely busy (on a Friday at 2:30) so if you want a table you have to get here early. I went back this past weekend for brunch and it was wonderful! No problem getting a table, and the food was delicious as always. The portions are absolutely huge! YOU MUST TRY the Hawaiian Ahi Tuna Poke! It is to die for! I also had a wonderful chat with one of the managers, he was great and seemed to appreciate my opinion on the place (such as how crowded it gets). Although I have heard people complain about the service, I've always been well taken care of here. Everyone has a smile on their face and genuinely seems happy about what they do. Craft is a great place that does need to work out a few kinks, but I wouldn't hesitate to go back. In fact I am taking my Mom here for the Mother's Day brunch! Can't wait to try more of what Craft has to offer.
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Review from Erin S.
1/24/2012 1 Check-in Here
I love my beer! I love my food! Craft has plenty of both!
Sometimes I want my old standards when it comes to my brew, but now and then I want to try something different. Craft is great for that - I like to treat myself to their flights of beer if there are enough options on there that I haven't tried. It leads to me to discover new things that I like. Last time it was the Gouden Carolus Classic. So good!
Food has varied from good to fantastic! Might not always knock your socks off, but will still be a decent feed. Their nachos are pretty incredible and served in the bottom of a keg barrel. Definitely bring a few people to share!
It is very noisy and sometimes difficult to find a table. However the staff are friendly and helpful, even if they are slow sometimes due to the crowds.
Definitely worth giving a shot. -
Review from Adam G.
Calgary, AB
11/5/2011 ROTD 3/14/2012
I've been to CRAFT a bunch of times now and I personally love it.
It's got an upscale pub vibe with an amazing beer selection. Even when the place is packed, the extreme ceiling height doesn't make it feel like it's crowded.
I've only been there for lunch or drinks, so I haven't tried a ton of the food. Although I have tried the Baja fish tacos and they were amazing. I wish that I could buy the CRAFT signature hot sauce.
At some point I'm going to have to try the 20 napkin burger, which is actually four 4oz patties topped with bacon and beer infused cheese. It sounds epic (read: giant). It even has a mini burger as a garnish..
I'm also interested to try the Crave seasonal beer infused cupcake for dessert. I have no idea what this would taste like, but it sounds interesting.
Here's the full menu: http://www.craftbeerma...
They also have a beer club that I can't tell you about... It's the first rule of beer club.
http://www.craftbeerma...Listed in: Late Night Drinks
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Review from Tiffany N.
Calgary, AB
11/21/2011
20/30
Solid service, noise level was at a comfortable conversation level this Sunday evening and a decent veggie burger. Fries that accompanied the burger were tasty too. I also really appreciated that the waitress didn't pressure us in to getting up before we were ready, since we probably stayed another 45 mins. after the first bill was paid.
$4 beers and hi-balls on Sunday nights and some appetizers are half off. What kept this from being a five-star review was that the veggie burger was a little on the dry side, and I really wish there was a dairy-free dessert option! But I do appreciate that the veggie-friendly part of the menu contains more than just a veggie burger or a bland pasta concoction. Yay, progress :).Listed in: 30 Days Hath Movember
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Review from Merry K.
1/11/2012 1 Check-in Here
CRAFT has a great location and a great space. The night I went it was PACKED. Thankfully my friends had snagged a table. Our server was very attentive even though she was having to plow through the crowds to get to us.
I wasn't feeling deciding on a beer so I said "Surprise me". She brought me their grapefruit beer which was awesome. I would go back just for that beer! I hope to go back soon to try out the food. -
Review from Angelo T.
11/23/2011
Unfortunately despite all my years of drinking beer, taking beer tours, and even borrowing a 15 pound "world of beers" book from the library. Any knowledge I've gained about the universal brew is lost whenever I have that pint every night. You know, the one you promise would be your last but it isn't.
Craft...is a little expensive but on a Sunday they do have drink specials. However, I ignored all this and went hog-wild on their grapefruit ale, spaghetti meatballs, and beeramisu. The grapefruit ale was great but not very beer-ish (I still had my customary pint of Kieths aftewards). The spaghetti and meatballs were delicious- a great suggestion by our lovely waitress. And the beeramisu was interesting...I would honestly prefer a classic tiramisu.
Still I'd go back to check Craft out again. The service was great and I really like the space. CRAFT Beer is HUGE! I'd love to check this place out when it's brim full of people.
SOCIETY BECKONS!
22/30 -
Review from Reginald T.
Calgary, AB
11/23/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I remember when this location used to host Mother Tucker's, a mainstay in Calgary for many years.
It seems this location's kept the hardwood flooring, but the main area is much more open than before, which really highlights how large the area is. I never fully appreciated how much space was in the venue.
I'm not much of a beer drinker, but I have to admit that they had a lot of variety. No Sam Miguel's that I could see, but they had Sapporo, Fruli, a gluten-free option, and more.
The food menu looked interesting as well, although when I went, I didn't have much room in my stomach left to sample as I had eaten already prior.
I'm looking forward to going back though to try some more things in depth and to write a more detailed review.
22/30 -
Review from Dan D.
11/8/2011
Despite the fact I sometimes feel that Craft is a corporate experiment designed to "dupe" me into liking it,
Despite the fact it is OFTEN crowded, loud and hard to find a seat,
I have to say, I'm a fan!
The beer selection is pretty dang good, but with 100+ beers on tap, some are bound to run out from time to time. Like the Rolling Stones said, "You can't always get what you want."
The last time I visited, I was surprised that the food is actually pretty dang good as well! The fish tacos are quite delicious; fresh and tasty with a nice amount of spice. I also had some of the flatbread pizza which is also quite good.
My final insight of positivity, which tips the scale in the above-average realm of the spectrum, is in regard to the specials. Throughout the week, as well as various times during happy hour, you can get some great deals on food AND beer. They have a variety of "specials" on certain nights and occasional special events.
Overall, I would not wait in a huge line to get into Craft, but I am certain I will visit from time to time when craving some tasty bar bites and some highfalutin beer. -
Review from Nicole M.
Calgary, AB
Updated - 10/24/2011
I had a chance to visit again on Saturday after shopping downtown, and I thought, why not just give it another chance?
For a Saturday brunch, it was a little busy, but by no means crowded. Many of the patrons were in Flames jerseys, and I am assuming were wanting a beverage and bite to eat before the game. It is those people in a hurry whom I felt sorry for, as the service was exceptionally slow and possibly completely inexperienced, and the kitchen appeared to be nothing short of incompetent. It was rare to see a server with more than 4 beverages on a tray, or more than two plates of food, and they seemed to be a little lost within their own sections.
The selection of beers of course interested me - in fact they were the reason I gave Craft another chance.
And I did get a chance to try quite a few interesting beers because it took nearly one and a half hours to receive the avocado & white cheddar benedict, but more than once, we were left with empty glasses and no new beverages because our server blankly stared past the beers which had been poured for us, and another server had to bring our beers for us - perhaps because our own server did not recognize the glasses as being ours.
At least my eggs were still warm when I received them, as were the very greasy hashbrowns. Since the food was warm and eggs still properly runny and also because she did go back to the kitchen a few times, I genuinely think our server tried, but it seemed nearly every other table was experiencing the same extreme delays with food.
I would like to return to try more of the beer selections, but the service is just so abysmal that I am very wary.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/16/2011
It seemed my mom was under the impression until Saturday that she could have her 60th birthday party… Read more »
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Review from Hayley G.
Calgary, AB
9/24/2011
I had a business lunch at CRAFT a couple weeks ago, and I must say the overall experience was outstanding. Not to mention the place was packed...
The service definitely gets a 5 out of 5. From the hostess to our server to the manager, everyone was polite and friendly. Our server was extemely knowledgeable. She was able to make recommendations and answer questions about the beer, despite having over 100 different beers on tap. One of my associates was ceiliac, but fortunately CRAFT has several gluten free options and our server knew exactly what he could and could not order without having to ask the kitchen.
The food is pretty decent as well. Just the care they put into the side salads (there's even nuts and strawberries on them!) exceeded my expectations. Most restaurants don't even have fresh green lettuce or decent vinegrettes. I've only heard to stay away from the poutine here.
If you're looking for a sports pub, this is not the place, but if you're looking for a place to go downtown with friends or for a business meetup with good food, good service, good specials and an unheard of beer selection, CRAFT is your place. -
Review from David H.
Calgary, AB
2/12/2012
2.5 STARS. FOR SURE. This place looks uber warehouse brewery pleasant. That is the highlight. The rest is better found almost anywhere else. The beer I sampled was not impressive. The food was no knockout. Both beer and food were excessively overpriced. The equivalent could be found in upscale Vancouver for 1/2 price. I know, I was there recently at a 'real' Craft establishment that was unbelievable in quality service and price. As for service, the lady who served us called the Super Bowl, the Stanley Cup. True Story. I do not say this of many places - but I wished I had spent my hard earned after-tax dollars somewhere else. If you are looking for fun/friends/pick-ups/push-ups/hook-ups/silicone & botox then by all means enjoy. I would rather find life somewhere else. Once you get the bill and if one is not too drunk, you will know what I mean. You decide.
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Review from Cornelius V.
Calgary, AB
11/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
Whaaateveeeeeeerrrrrrrrrrrrrr.
We sit at the bar on a slow night and get helped about 10 minutes later. Some beers are on special, just local craft beers or something for $5. Not really special, but ok whatever. We get our drinks properly served. All appetizers are also $5. Woman makes the mistake of ordering poutine and expecting something delicious, I get some wings.
The poutine was served in a miniature iron pan which makes no sense as no part of poutine is prepared in an iron pan. But I guess they did it to be cute. It's portioned pretty small and it had a weird fish taste and smell to it. The woman has had enough and doesn't want it replaced. The barkeep seemed contrite and took it off our bill.
My wings were, wow. Also whatever. Kinda like the wings at the Al Cove. The hot wing sauce is either franks red hot or sysco. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
They had a good selection of beer, but, I mean, the USA has been doing the 100-taps-of-beer-with-no-bottles thing for around 20 years, as has a bunch of bars in Calgary as well. Just like Calgary itself, this place is remarkably ordinary but purports to be something else.
On the upside, I imagine this is a great place to hang out and mack on people on Friday and Saturday nights. That's about the only upside? -
Review from Peter A.
Ottawa, ON
8/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
Craft isn't great. I don't know. I don't think it's really fair to take every single domestic and "import" beer (you know, in the way that Keith's import) widely available in the city, add a fancy bar, barn-like ceilings, and call brag that you have 100 beers on tap.
Just a generally silly place, I think. I did have some sort of sampler deal with 5/10 of their ciders. That was good, and I think fairly cheap coming in at around $7. My friends ordered their Margherita flatbread which was honestly just terrible. Like a big cracker soaked in salt water, slathered with ketchup.
Service was pretty good, but there is literally nothing to draw me back to Craft. Someone might have been able to clean up the bathrooms though. Would've been nice to have some soap for washing my hands so I didn't have to walk out to the bar and ask for some.
The bar did have a decent after-work crowd, probably hailing from Banker's Hall. Who cares? Not me. This place can't be around for very long. -
Review from Sabahat N.
Calgary, AB
11/8/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I'm liking Craft! I don't know whether it is the total mixture of the types of clientele there, or the fact that the restaurant itself is kind of casual yet upscale, or the fact that its got tons of different kinds of beverages available for the variety-lovers like me... or a combination of all these, but it hits the spot.
The place is always crowded, and that's one of the best things about Craft. It creates a buzz. I like buzz. It makes you feel like you're part of the cool crowd. Yes, that might be total propaganda, but let me believe what I want to believe, okay? For real though, if I am going to go out and grab a drink with friends, I want to go to a place that's buzzing. True, I have not had to wait in line (sheer luck though)... If I had to wait in line, I would probably not been so happy about Craft.
Anyway, their wings are pretty decent, the staff is good and conversational, and their beer is damn good. If you're into sweet/fruity/girly beer like me, ask for the grapefruit beer. I did not want to remove the glass from my lips while I downed that thing, and then I wanted more. Its that good.
8/30 -
Review from Matt B.
12/2/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I've been to Craft twice for food and drink - once on opening night and another time.
Opening night was a bit of a gongshow which was the result of miscommunications - nothing overly surprising. Chaos is atypical of an opening night anywhere. I'd managed to get one of the few beers they still had left on tap, and got their fast food sushi. The food was great, and considering the insanity of opening night our server was quite polite, and we saw her somewhat regularly.
The next time we actually were able to get a seat and a table was a Sunday night. Our server was extremely attentive. I just wish I was more of a beer connoisseur, because looking at a menu of over 100 beers was quite daunting. In hindsight, I likely should have asked the server for her recommendations.
For food, I had ordered the Craft Macaroni and Cheese. It was ok, but it seemed to be lacking in flavor. For my tastes, it also could have used more bacon.
I suspect I'll be back here if I'm in the neighborhood, but it's not something I'd go out of my way to get to if I was hungry. -
Review from Callie T.
Calgary, AB
8/29/2011
Really torn on this place. Our server, Sheena was amazing! We had a big group and she took such good care of us. Beer was great, we had a fun time, but the food was just ok. Love the Gluten free choices, but the steaks most of our guys had were were either over cooked or way too rare. Lobster lasagna was mushy and the pulled chicken sandwich was ok, but when i think of pulled Chicken I think of slow-cooked and full of flavor, which this was not.
Like I said, torn. Could be such an amazing place to come for eats, but they need to pick up their food. -
Review from Kent V.
6/22/2011 1 photo
Too early to judge, so I'll give them 3 stars. Maybe they will get stuff sorted out in a few months.
Lets start with the cons:
- Only 46 of the 100 advertised beer on tap were available. If you are going to advertise 100 beer on tap, then have 100 beer on tap. Otherwise, just say Biggest Selection in Calgary, its safer.
- Extremely slow service.
- Expensive beer.
- Saw wait staff take 3 separate food orders back to the kitchen because they couldn't find the right table (if the order even existed).
Pros:
- It looks nice inside. -
Review from Farees K.
8/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
It's just not as good as it should be.
There seems to be a prevailing trend in restaurateurs to open funky beer establishments without the most important ingredient, GOOD BEER.
I went on a Tuesday, which is $2 off every beer and cask night. I went specifically for the cask that didn't exist. They have a beer club as well but it takes a well trained staff to push anything in a restaurant and she didn't.
Service was bad. I was there at 4pm, the place was empty except a dozen staff and it was still slow. They just know nothing about serving or beer.
The location and building are great, and for that alone I give it a few stars.
The food was OK, I had the steak sandwich and they gave me a steak sandwich. Nothing fancy very simple.
Value wise, go for the specials. Beer here is expensive. Almost prohibitively so, if I didn't go on a Tuesday I would have walked out. Beers start at 5.50 for domestics and not even for a pint and go up to 9.50 for the actual good ones.
I will not likely go back considering the other options in Calgary. -
Review from Miss J.
Calgary, AB
11/9/2011
I'm giving CRAFT a 3 star because I've only been once. I really enjoyed the atmosphere - but was very loud.
I'm not a beer drinker, tried a mojito and meh, wasn't the best. Too sweet for my liking.
The food, however, was VERY good. I was looking for a gluten-free meal, and perused their menu before my visit. I was a bit disappointed that their gluten-free wording was a bit misleading - you cannot order gluten-free wraps.
We ordered the ribs to start. Wow, those were really great! I was expecting typical small dry ribs like you'd get at Earls, but these were juicy and big (you only get about 5).
I ended up ordering the fish tacos with gluten-free shells after debating between that and a burger. (I really wanted the spicy tuna wrap, but couldn't get a g-free option). The meal was really tasty, even the garden greens were delish.
The waitress was very helpful, and I'd definitely return! -
Review from John S.
Calgary, AB
6/20/2011 1 photo
Oh, Alright.
Time to poke my nose in here and put in another swell, no, swollen two-bits worth.
CRAFT, aw.....CRAFT. I truly NEEDED to Love Yee!
I live a block and a half away.
When I first heard you were opening, this close to my little nest, I instantly thought of signing a FIFTEEN Year Lease, on an Apartment I've been trying to get out of for 12!
The value of the neighborhood just increased by 300%,*mind you, in the Beltline that ain't tough to do. Dandelions would improve it by at least 15.
So?
On to the Posies and the Punishment.
I went twice in two days.
Hey, Fish TACOS?
Yah, Baby Yah.
100+ Beer(s) on TAP?
An irresistible force.
OK, Here's the good news,
The place is young and fresh and vibrant and, and, and.....
What's fantastic is this.
I've never had a better tasting pint of Big Rock Traditional. EVER.
Bubbly, effervescent, just plain CLEAN.
Well, whaddid'ya expect?
New Kegs, New Lines, New Taps.
Ouchie Mama! Does it get much better than this?
OKee! Now lets dig in to those 100 Beers on Tap.
I'll have a.... a...wait,. let me take some time with the huge Beer menu.
OK I'll have a...Tapped OUT?
How about a....what? Tapped OUT?
Alright I'll try a.... Tapped OUT?
Day 1 I had an Okanagan Springs Pale Ale, I LOVE this stuff on Tap.
Day 2?
Tapped Out.
OK.
They're almost brand new.
But on Sunday, after the Buffet was over, I ordered a simple order of fries @ 1:15, after which I was told the Kitchen wasn't gonna open till 2.
At 2?
Mistake, The kitchen won't be open till 3.
They finally arrived, on the house, at 3:20
After that I ordered a Burger, which was quite different but certainly not worth whatever it was not worth.
The gravy tasted like Vinegar.
Service was very good on Day 1, and piss poor on day 2 when it was a LOT slower.
Logan, Michael? You two rocked.
Rob (Manager) was convivial.
Now.
Newborns don't pop out walking, unless they're future lawyers and then they pop out swimming.... so I don't expect CRAFT to run like a well oiled unit for a wee while to come.
But?
I've prognosticated this to some of the boys behind the 'Wood'.
If you're waving the flag of 100 Beer(s) on tap, you've gotta' fly it at half staff until you can deliver. We're really new is a reason, but it's no excuse.
Which means you'll be in a boat load of Owie, come Stampede week if you're poop ain't in a scoop by then.
Stampede will be bedlam in there and you probably won't get much slack.
Sat next to a guy named Justin, who really knew his stuff, and I asked him to 'recommend the next', he did, about 9 of 'em in a row.
Each of them 'Tapped Out'.
AGGGH!
OK, 'yer new, 'yer new.
I expect a 4* rating in the months to come, and, if you finally pour me anything I order? A solid 5.
Over All?
Great Potential.
Work it, guys, work it. -
Review from Robyn B.
Calgary, AB
6/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
Caveat: It's been open for less than one week as I write this, so it's early to judge this place.
I went to the Craft Beer Market for its Grand Opening on June 15. It's in the old Mother Tucker's space on 12 ave and it has been successfully converted into a vast draft house.
The real draw is the great selection with 100+ beers on tap. On opening night, most of the beers we requested weren't available yet which was pretty disappointing, but I'll give them the benefit of the doubt and time to work out the growing pains and see what's available next time. And yeah, it took a long time to get a drink but the place was packed (opening night + game 7 of the stanley cup will do that) and the staff were doing their best.
This place is the opposite of intimate. It's vast, open, and buzzing, but I would recommend it for groups or events. I'm going to try it again in a month or two to see what the food is like and if they can maintain the beer selection they advertise.
Definitely worth checking out for the beer aficinados out there. -
Review from Chris P.
6/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
Gave this place a shot last weekend on my latest trip to Calgary.
Seems like I have the same opinion as everyone else so far.
The place was packed, though they only had the main seating area open. The area on the west side was closed off. They had lots of staff working but they all seemed to be running around like crazy trying to keep up. They obviously have some kinks to work out to get a good system going between all of the staff.
Again, just like everyone else, not all of the beers were available. Because of the high ceilings I found the bar to be REALLY noisy. -
Review from chris b.
Calgary, AB
10/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
Sure beats Mother Tuckers. they did a great job converting this old space in the beltline. With over 100 beers on tap it's hard to go wrong.
They added some really cool foods to the menu as well. Fast-food sushi? Nice. You should give that a try if you're a fan of bacon...and who isn't. A couple of the bartenders are awesome, so I'd sit at the bar if you can...it's worth the experience and they really know their beer. Other servers are a bit hit or miss, but they are still pretty new. Overall it's a great experience. -
Review from Steven E.
Calgary, AB
8/13/2011
Came here on a Friday night with some people from out of town. I have to say, since this place opened up, it's service and quality has gotten much better.
I tried a couple beers, and ordered the Belgian six pack, 6 4oz sampler of Belgian beers. It was a nice variety of flavours, and a good deal.
Our waitress Brittany, was a doll. The place was packed, but she was always there when we needed her, and never took long with our drinks.
So, silence all you haters. This place rocks! -
Review from Arc P.
1/12/2012 1 Check-in Here
Craft is alright. The house beer selection is decent, though not great. The food is decent, though not great. What floors me about the place is that I can get rare beers that I really like. For example, Boddingtons, Kronenberg and Anchor Steam. An unexpected plus. I don't really like the environment though. It's too noisy and often times they pack people in. It's worse on nights where the upper level is reserved. Lots of TVs so you don't miss the game.
-
Review from Mike A.
Calgary, AB
9/1/2011
I enjoyed my night here and a part of me enjoyed having a large array of beers available in front of me, but I think some of the negative reviewers have a point (I enjoyed this: "Just a generally silly place, I think." - Peter A.)
It's a big place with a chain restaurant feel that has decided to go with 'more is better' yet market itself as something different. I'd prefer a small place with character that actually focuses on craft beer.
At least Craft actually does have some good beer on tap that you don't usually find elsewhere. Ignore half of their list and pull a lot of money out of your pocket and you'll enjoy some nice stuff.
