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Melrose Cafe & Bar
Categories: Restaurants Canadian (New) Restaurants Mediterranean Canadian (New), Mediterranean
17th Avenue SWUnit 730
Calgary, AB T2S 0B7
(403) 228-3566
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 11 am - 2 am
Sat-Sun 10 am - 2 am
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street, Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Late Night, Lunch, Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- Dogs Allowed:
- No
46 reviews for Melrose Cafe & Bar
Review Highlights
46 reviews in English
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Review from Crystal E.
Calgary, AB
What can I say about this place? It's been like a second home to me since I moved to Calgary 4.5 years ago. Discovered Melrose on my first walk down the Red Mile and it's been a staple in my life ever since.
Don't get me wrong, when I first moved here most people from Calgary did not understand why I liked Melrose so much. Most Calgarians did not want to go there with me, so I had to recruit out-of-towners like myself to go for drinks and grub. I'm not sure why they didn't like Melrose since I wasn't around before, but some of them are certainly starting to turn around now.
I've been to Melrose for supper, late night drinks, lunch, parties, charity events, brunch, and early morning World Cup matches (so fun!). I won't say that the service has always been consistent, but that's like any place with so many waiters & waitresses moving through all the time. I have noticed lately that the service has gotten better though, so they must be doing something right. The management staff are awesome. Just awesome. They are very helpful, friendly, and super accommodating when we are making a huge reservation. They make you feel right at home every time you are there.
Even though I've eaten at Melrose many, many times, I have not tried everything on the menu - shocking, right?! I have a few favourites that I have found to be tasty every time - the skillet for brunch, calamari for appetizer, and the taco salad for dinner. I've heard nothing but good things about the waffles as well, but I can't have gluten so no waffles for me *wah wah*. They also have a good selection of beers, awesome cocktails, and reasonably priced wines, so you can't go wrong there at all.
Another thing I love about Melrose is that they host charity events (YYC4SlaveLake, Holipalooza) and local groups (Social Media Breakfast, Third Tuesdays) quite often, which tells me they are interested in the community. Yes, it's a bar, but these types of events and offerings make them stand out from the rest in a positive manner. Plus, it's a great venue for these events - I can still sneak a peak at the sports on the TVs while I'm there!
Sometimes the late-night crowd can be a little iffy at Melrose, but if you're there with a good group you won't even notice. They used to have awesome DJs, which made for fun nights, but this has changed recently. It will be interesting to see what they do with the second location opening up soon.
Overall, a great place for drinks and grub or a night out and I know I will be back here many, many times after this post. Summer's coming and I can't wait to hit their patio, great place to people watch on 17th Ave! -
Review from Lauren H.
4/28/2012
I'm sad because I wanted to like Melrose more. They do such a great job of supporting many group events my friends and industry are involved in and I've always heard rave reviews.
Somehow in my almost 6 years of living here I have never been to Melrose. I've come close a few times but last minute issues have gotten in the way. Today though I headed there with a couple of friends for brunch (Saturday).
I do have to say the service was awesome. Our server was the perfect mix of attentive but laid back. We didn't feel rushed at any point and she was quick to offer refills on our drinks.
The food, while plentiful and plated in a fun way, was very "meh". I had the chicken flatbread club and it was a little too simple and there was far too much mayo on it...to the point I couldn't eat a lot of the sandwich and I'm not picky. Fries were okay but not overly hot -great presentation though.
I'm going to hope maybe it was just me and I made a bad menu choice. I'm totally willing to try them again because so many people I know love it there. But if that weren't the case, based on today's food alone, I'd be indifferent about going back. -
Review from Diane F.
3/20/2012 1 Check-in Here
Been to Melrose on several occasions for many reasons. I've celebrated many birthday parties there lately. I've had brunch there more than a handful of times. I've been to Holipalooza. I've even gone just to watch a hockey game or two and I spent part of my new years eve there this past year. I always get great service! Prices are good. Staff friendly and interactive thanks to twitter.
For birthdays they serve enough champagne for all the party goers on the house complete with sparklers! My favorite beverage there is the Field Of Dreams martini.
Their brunch is good... nothing fancy, but hits the spot! I hear the waffles are great, but I love the Nutella crepes with banana. I don't like hash browns so I opt for a side of fruit for a small fee. I also dig the eggs benny... so good! -
Review from Meghan H.
3/15/2012 1 Check-in Here
I had some friends come in from out of town and were EAGER to get to the hottest, most hip and HAP-A-NAN place! Given Melrose is always on wheels, I sure hoped we could get in.
And we did! The weather was beauty, so there were motorbikes lined up outside. As a Motorbike Meg myself, I was very pleased to see this, it just sets such a cool bad@ss tone, doesn't it?
We were seated right away in the restaurant by a lovely hostess. My friends had the mushroom and swiss burger and bacon and cheddar burger which said they were "the best burgers" they'd ever had. Maybe it's that Alberta beef :)
The service was great, prompt with some serious water refils , which I LURV! The only issue, the bathroom wasn't very maintained. A few clogged toilets (not awesome). This seems to be a theme, however, in Calgary restaurants. But why!
Otherwise, everytime I have gone to Melrose I have a pretty good meal and good service. It's a great location in its hot 17th avenue location across from the Starbucks. I recommend Melose Cafe and Bar. IF YOU CAN GET IN! -
Review from Reginald T.
Calgary, AB
An update to my experience at Melrose:
After a crummy night at the Libertine Public House (see my Yelp review here: http://www.yelp.ca/biz... ), I just wanted to mention a really cool thing that Melrose did for me.
Long story short, we had bad service at the Libertine, with our server being inattentive, and/or forgetful. I had arrived around 8 p.m. hungry, and had placed an order for a BBQ Chicken flatbread. An hour later, the food never came, so my friends and I decided to leave for Melrose instead. I had asked for the bill as at that point, I just wanted to leave, when I noticed that the flatbread wasn't even on it (good thing too since they never gave it to me in the first place, or they could have just plan forgot to run it through. I'm not sure which, but either way, I left the establishment hungry).
I had tweeted a little bit about my misadventure in trying to procure sustenance from the Libertine (I didn't name them directly, although those who were paying attention to my Twitter feed would have noticed that I checked in on Yelp there), and I guess the folks at Melrose were paying attention because when I arrived at Melrose, they had a BBQ Chicken pizza waiting for me, complements of them. Being after 10 p.m. at this point, I was very, very grateful as I was so hungry.
I've had nothing but pleasant experiences at Melrose, and the staff try their hardest to ensure that their patrons are well taken care of. If you ever have a bad experience at Melrose, don't complain, instead, just let them know (politely, of course). They'll do their best to make things right, even if it's trying to correct a mistake of one of their competitors.
So yes, Melrose gets an enthusiastic 5 star from me and have earned my loyalty for a while to come now, thanks to this simple gesture they did after a bad night elsewhere.
28/301 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/7/2011
"Making your way in the world today takes everything you've got.
Taking a break from all your… Read more »
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Review from Mitch P.
Calgary, AB
12/4/2011 10 Check-ins Here
Thanks to some new Twitter friends I have been spending some time at Melrose.
I'm there with our Sunday #breakfastclub and other socialable events like Third Tuesdays, Calgary Bloggers, and more.
The staff at Melrose are Terrific! Notice the capital T!
They take good care of all of there customers, new and old.
Friendliest bunch of people around.
Who would have thought of going to Melrose for brunch?
Well, now thanks to our #BreakfastClub, I'm there every sunday morning.
Some great options on the menu and if only once, you need to have the waffles!
Need to alter your breakfast choice a bit? No Problem! They accommodate everyone's needs!
Consistently great quality food by the Chef.
Often we end up staying after brunch to watch football on one of the dozens of TV's displaying every single game going on.
Like watching hockey games, then this is a nice place to do it.
A few beers and some good eats makes it a good time.
For our private functions, Tony and the staff take phenomenal care of us.
There are three levels to Melrose and they can set you up in the perfect space or corner for your event. They go the extra mile!
Check it out, you will be pleasantly surprised. I was! -
Review from Matt B.
12/1/2011 18 Check-ins Here
What's not to say about the Melrose? Between Breakfast Clubs, birthday parties, and just random meetups for a drink or two (or many, many more), this seems to be the place to be at.
For starters, they are one of the most social media interactive restaurants in town. Between wishing Twitter folk a "Happy Birthday" via Tout, responding to complaints (including from other restaurants - see Reginald T.'s review), and interacting with their followers, they have one of the best social media presences in town.
Honestly, I have yet to have had an experience at this bar that has had me say that I'd never return. When the staff do something in error, they are apologetic and do what they can to correct it.
So with all this high praise, why only 4 stars? Here's why:
I am someone who often doesn't carry cash around. That's how I've been since the invention of the debit card and it's mainstream acceptance. These folks don't have debit machines, instead they have you go to an in-house ATM that dings you $1.99 for the privilege to get cash to pay your bill. So, on top of applicable bank fees, $2 vanishes (which may not sound like a lot, but when you've been there as often as I have and forgotten to get cash...well, let's just say by now I could probably have paid for a main or two and a couple drinks).
Unless of course you pay with a credit card (which I don't often have with me).
That said, I really do enjoy this place, and will be back. -
Review from Win L.
2/17/2012
Great location! The atmosphere and ambiance is definitely dependent on day/time... Melrose is like a chameleon but it does it well. The brunch is excellent and worth the wait! The night life is laid back and not pretentious.
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Review from Merry K.
I seem to be at Melrose all the time. One of the reasons is because Melrose is a huge supporter of Calgary groups, including mine....Calgary Bloggers. Between the great space, attentive staff & wonderful management, I think I'll be there more in the future.
Oh...you want to know about the food? The Melrose Waffles available at brunch are DIVINE. Covered in bananas foster & whipped cream they are definitely a guilty pleasure. Bacon and "never ending" hashbrowns round out the meal. YUM! -
Review from Nyssa R.
10/3/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I think Melrose is a very reliable place to go for a night out. Rarely a line up, so you don't have to worry about those friends that *always* show up late not getting in. The patio is gorgeous and relaxing, and the bar is spacious and well organized. Not a big fan of the balcony on the bar side because it's basically just a place for guys to sit and look down the shirts of passing females. But I get the attraction of that.
The servers here are hit and miss. There's one or two who are amazing and always working, and there are those that you see once or twice and then never again who are pretty useless.
I find the managers, bouncers, and hostesses here are actually really awesome at their jobs... bouncers aren't too full of themselves and hot headed, managers are present and visible most of the time, and hostesses are helpful and attentive.
Wish there were a dance floor and better Saturday night drink specials... but you can't really go wrong if you just want to get out and not deal with big crowds of people!Listed in: Western Food
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Review from Cassie N.
Calgary, AB
11/17/2011
Melrose for me has become a regular hot spot. I love the atmosphere, the crowd is decent and the staff care about their customers. The food is typical bar food, consisting of dry ribs to flat bread pizza's to steak sandwiches, nothing to rave about to be perfectly honest, but it fills the spot on nights where the drinks are plentiful.
The staff are awesome, catering to every need or want in various sizes from a table of two, to a table of 15 +. If, for whatever reason there's a problem or complaint they also have a great team of managers who professionally address and handle the situation, both in person, or online.
Thats right, I said online. Many of us have taken to the internet to bitch about our experiences after we've left the establishment, for fear of ruffling any feathers or "causing a scene" that might make ourselves or our company uncomfortable if dealt with right then and there. Thanks to Tony at Melrose, they've got their eyes and ears online
On one side they have a nice open space bright and welcoming restaurant that walks through to a quaint, heated patio for families or for people who enjoy a sit down beverage and (in the summer) catch a few rays. The other side, the bar, (believe it or not) 3 Levels. It much darker than the restaurant, giving it a nightclub-ish feel with a DJ spinning top 40 on weekends.
I'm slightly confused with the decor, simply because there are giant Chinese? symbols on the wall with various red lighting throughout the three levels, yet, there is nothing asian on the menu (that I've seen). Regardless its still a nice atmosphere and a great place to go on game days, as their walls are also filled with Giant flat screen TV's.
I must heed warning though, the bar seems to attract a lot (but not all) 25-40 year old UFC fan - type men on a regular basis and various age groups for women. So if "juiced up" Jersey shore mixed with Tapout and UFC people are your 'thing' then you'll be fine.
If you're looking for a great place to go to have drinks with friends, catch the game, or even tear up their dance floor, I strongly suggest hitting up Melrose for a great night out. Oh, and to fix your hangover the next day, hit up their Sunday Brunch, that hosts a great variety of breakfast goodies. Check out Jenn D's Review on Sunday Brunch :) -
Review from Joel D.
Calgary, AB
3/2/2012
Had dinner tonight at Melrose and it was excellent! I had the fajitas and by friend had the pasta, it was great and the staff was awesome! The manager PJ came over and made us feel very welcome. We will definitely back, now I know what the hype is all about.
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Review from Angelo T.
Updated - 2/10/2012
The nightlife @ Melrose has a more laid back vibe compared to the more vibrant and livelier venues in calgary like the Roadhouse. Its a more older but sociable crowd that gathers here to either enjoy the Flames games, jam out to great DJ's, or to engage in the usual conversation with other people. Speaking off, theres a stigma that this place is a "meet market" which unfortunately misrepresents Melrose. The open space, friendly staff, and hassle-less entrance w/ no cover makes this a great place to hold events.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/6/2011
I find it odd that for every time I've been to Melrose, it's always been for some event. I never get… Read more »
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Review from Jenn D.
Updated - 11/9/2011 20 Check-ins Here
I have nothing but great things to say about Melrose.
This time around I was there for brunch with a several friends from Twitter. It's quite possible this is making Sunday's my favorite day of the week.
There was 10 of us seated in the restaurant side, ordering off the Breakfast menu at 11am. There was waffles, eggs benny, omelettes, skillets, breaky specials, etc etc! You name it, their breakfast menu has it. And what is brunch without Coffee & Baileys! It was a great meal. The food was delicious, the service was friendly and fast, all around great morning.
One thing lead to another, and 6 of us ended up going over to the other side of the building to watch football in the pub. Who doesn't love a place that you can move 20 feet one way and be having a totally different experience! Again, the service in the pub was great. If you watch football, melrose is where you need to be on Sundays. The pub was packed! They had games, prizes, drink/food special, and of course TV's with sound. it's really an NFL-fans dream!
I'd highly recommend Melrose for every kind of night/day out!Listed in: My Favorite Places in YYC, Nothing Beats A Great…
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/16/2011
This is my favorite place to be in Calgary.
Great Food
Great Staff
Great Ambiance
Great Location
All… Read more »
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Review from Wendy P.
Melrose, oh Melrose. You've been around Calgary for so long. I'm not sure what exactly it is about you that attracts a certain crowd on the weekends, that crowd that seems to go with a sleazy sports bar where 40 year old business men can't decide whether to watch the TVs or the young bar stars who've shown up to see who they can make eyes at or give a little pinch to on their way by. What is it about your bar-side patio that encourages young men to sit there and cat-call to every girl that walks by? If it weren't for this crowd, weekend evenings might actually find me here a bit more frequently. Unfortunately, it's your busiest time and what you're most known for.
BUT, looking past this crowd, and into your establishment any other day of the week, into your brunches, your lunches and your incredibly gigantic and impressive multi-level patio (which looked gorgeous with those ice scupltures on it last winter by the way), there's a Melrose I wish I would've gotten to know sooner. A Melrose with some delightful food (I must have more of the mushroom sauce I tried at the YYC Steakoff and that bocconcini salad I had awhile back... OMG). Friendly staff, great service, and such a commitment to the community, this is the Melrose I hope other Calgarians will connect with.
Not to mention you're well equipped to host a variety of events... plenty of room and audio/visual capabilities, it works well from parties to presentations. I'm looking forward to seeing what other creative ways you come up with to use your space!Listed in: Good for Groups
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/16/2010
If you've ever been on 17th Ave on a hot summer day, you've undoubtedly seen the crowd that is the… Read more »
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Review from Vishal M.
Calgary, AB
2/12/2012 1 Check-in Here
This is my new favorite place for breakfast/brunch. Good quality food and not expensive. Check it out.
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Review from Angela M.
Calgary, AB
I have a new favourite breakfast/brunch place in Calgary.
To hell with standing in line at Red's or Diner Deluxe or Dairy Lane. Once you get past the stench of stale beer in the foyer of Melrose, this is where brunch is at.
I've been a longtime Melrose fan, loving the spinach and artichoke dip for many many years. And the Field of Dreams martini. I even had my birthday dinner there last August.
I've stumbled out at 2 a.m., I've watched hockey games and I've Super Bowled there.
But breakfast? You're kidding me, right?
No.
The service I receive at Melrose is incomparable. We Tweet/Foursquare that we're there and they Tweet back 'Hello! Where are you so we can come say hi?' And they do.
Kelsey, our server yesterday, is unfortunately bound for greater things. She leaves Friday for a broadcasting gig in Saskabush. But she can always fall back on a career in the service industry. She's personable, unobtrusive and quick to handle our special requests.
My friend and I each ordered the build-your-own omelette. It's made with three eggs and the stuffings of your choice. It comes with a heaping mound of home fries and two slices of big, fluffy Texas-style toast.
I. Love. Toast.
Oh and the little bowl of fresh berries and pineapple was the perfect touch.
It was delicious but I'm afraid I couldn't finish the whole meal.
But seriously, best breakfast ever.
And most important note of all? Melrose is finally saying 'adios' to Frank's Red Hot in their Caesars and going with the more traditional and delicious Tabasco.
Hallelujah!
(Even so, they still had our special bottle of Tabasco behind the bar, ensured by Sully for Cam.)
Thank you, Melrose.Listed in: Best Breakfasts
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Review from s c.
Calgary, AB
2/11/2012
Although the typical calgarian will probably disagree with me, i think melrose is an unpleasant place to be and tend to avoid it. recently i joined a girlfriend for an event here and was appalled, nay scandalized. upon ordering her second glass of wine, the waitress brought my friend her order in a mini caraffe, then proceeded to take my friend's dirty napkin out of her used wine glass and poured her drink right back in. but, the waitress looked cute in her blonde ponytail and jersey, so i guess that's what really qualifies her to serve drinks and food at melrose.
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Review from David O.
Calgary, AB
12/19/2011
One of my favorite places to watch the UFC. Just be sure to come an hour early to get a great seat. DJ Markoshi who usually DJ's on Fight nights is one of Calgary's best for Oldschool Hip Hop, Funk, Electro. My only knock against Melrose I find the Wings a little too salty and according to the Server the wings are pre-seasoned so they can't do much about it.
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Review from Kaeleigh E.
Calgary, AB
Updated - 12/28/2010 ROTD 9/24/2011
I have to say I eat my words on Melrose.
I went back. And had my mind changed.
The food was REALLY good. I was informed of an updated menu by a marketing manager and boy they have improved the food. I am still thinking about how I'd rather be eating Cajun Fries than sitting at my desk eating a mushy banana. Pizzas were gourmet, thin crust style pizzas with really quality toppings.
The service was exceptional. I was very VERY impressed.
Sometimes you gotta give a place more than 1 chance, folks. Glad I did.
Still don't know if I would pick this as a Saturday night hangout spot, but I'd definitely be back for lunch or dinner on that wonderful patio.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/26/2010
I had a thai chicken salad here, and it was OK
The service was pretty slow even though the restaurant… Read more »
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Review from Crystal W.
Calgary, AB
7/19/2011
I was at Melrose in the atrium area for a Stampede event on the weekend and I have to say, we had the most sweet, friendly waitress and she was on the ball with beverage service. I haven't been here in years, but was reminded that the atmosphere has a good vibe and they have good food. I particularly enjoyed the spring rolls and chicken kabobs.
I was excited to try their new Belgium beer on tap (apparently as of two weeks ago), called Liefmans Fruitesse (aka cherry lager), which was delis! It was the perfect replacement for my craving of raspberry ale, as recommended by our lovely waitress.
I also noted the cool cell phone booth in the corner. I don't know how long it's been there or if it's a permanent fixture, but what a brilliant idea. All busy bars should have several of these. -
Review from Nicole S.
Calgary, AB
4/13/2011
I am very surprised to see any negative reviews about Melrose.
The bar, right in the heart of the "Red Mile" has to be one of my favorite places to go for an after work drink, dinner or lunch with the family, watch the Flames game with friend or a even a date. In general, I really love the place.
I have never had bad service and all of the servers and managers are very pleasant.
The food is great and well priced. I highly recommend the quesadilla, the cheddar bacon burger or the taco salad.
If you have never been to a party or event at Melrose, you are missing out. I try to go to them all because I always know that they are going to be a blast. A DJ, packed crowd, drink specials and even prizes! (C'mon, who doesn't love PRIZES?)
I've never been for brunch, but I have heard great things. They make nutella crepes! I am not really sure what is better than butter, batter and nutella so I must try this delicacy soon. ;-)
In general, Melrose is a fantastic place and in my experience, never disappoints. If you are undecided about going here, I would try it. I don't think you will regret your decision. -
Review from Donna M.
Calgary, AB
12/7/2010 40 Check-ins Here
Tonite was my first visit to Melrose. Belong to a Meetup group called "Third Tuesday", and our meeting this month was held in the lower level room.
Regular Monday food special was the Steak Sandwhich. I ordered a "pink, not bloody" steak & crispy fries - and that's exactly what I got. For $7, the steak tasted great and I couldn't finish the healthy portion of fries.
Great for groups looking for a room to host a presentation. The room on the lower level holds 90 people comfortably. The panel of 4 speakers were broadcast of television screens throughout the room, and using a mic it seemed like the whole room could hear the conversation. For the lower level of a bar/restaurant this is awesome & ratther difficult to find.
*Note - the room holds more than 90 people, but there are pillars in the room which do block views for larger groups.
The staff was incredible. There were 90 people, and no one waited for food or drinks, and a server was always nearby to take orders. There was also a staff member dealing with sound and video, and again needs were always addressed immediately. Really impressed with the service.
Our next "Third Tuesday" meeting will be on Jan.19th and we will be returning to this space - I look forward to it. -
Review from George D.
Calgary, AB
11/22/2011
I've been here a number of times recently and I'm impressed with this place because their people treat you so well. They smile and greet you and, once you're seated, their waitresses, all of them as far as I can see, act as though they really care if you're looked after. What a treat! I realize they don't need my endorsement to survive but I sure do want to acknowledge their friendly and caring attitude. I'd have no trouble recommending Melrose to anyone who needs a restaurant, pub or special function suggestion. Thank you people of Melrose.
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Review from Daryl D.
Calgary, AB
10/16/2011
I know mine is just one of many "yelps" on Melrose Cafe & Bar, and I have read both good and bad reviews on it...but I will just give my own opinion. I have only been once so far, for a networking event just recently. Let me start by saying that it is fairly easy to find along 17th Ave SW and I understand it's the "heart of the Red Mile". I can sure see why, because when you walk in, it's obvious how busy it would be during Flames nights, right down to the red lighting effects.
It is a very spacious restaurant/lounge in the front, with an intimate bar downstairs. My only complaint about the downstairs, is how steep those stairs are as I nearly took a tumble (glad I don't work there!). I didn't bother ordering food, but I did get a smooth-tasting Bud Light (only available by the bottle). The waitress was really nice & on-the-ball. However, I will admit they don't take debit, only credit cards and I would assume cash. Thankfully, I had my VISA on me when I went to pay. I think I would go there again, knowing what I know, but as for you: be careful on the stairs, and bring your credit card!
Cheers :)Listed in: Drinkin'!!
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Review from Matt T.
Calgary, AB
7/16/2011
I've been to Melrose many many times and had very different experiences. So far I haven't had good food but I know some friends who've enjoyed eating parts of their meals here. All in all I wouldn't recommend going here to eat. For some reason they push the pizzas everytime and they're awful.
The service is also very different. I know some of the waitresses and with them we always get awesome service. During events though it can get really really bad. The bouncers are usually friendly but can get a bit political too. I saw one guy get taken outside in a headlock after pulling another guys hand off his girlfriends ass. Our whole group was watching and explained what happened and they allowed the grabby guy to stay so we told the manager to bring our tab because we were leaving if thats how customers were treated. I was also told to leave this weekend after an old guy kept creeping out and touching the girls in our party so I asked the bouncer standing by us to say something. He was standing by the guy to say something when the old guys mother maybe (she looked in her 90's) walked away. Well the cavalry came back with her and informed us that she was friends with the owner. Lucky guy! So our party of 20 was escorted out rudely. A few tables sitting by us also left because the creepy guy wasn't leaving and we were. So I won't be going back again and I doubt anyone from our party will but I wouldn't judge the whole place on that. Just make sure you don't ask any creepy, staring from 6 inches away, people who keep "casually" putting their arm around the girls in your party, to stop...and I'm sure you'll have at least a decent time. And if you know the owner apparently you can do whatever the hell you want so live it up! -
Review from Corey G.
10/8/2009
Ooooo....what to give 3 or 4 stars....I'd give 3.5, but will leave room for improvement upon another visit when on the famed "Red Mile".
I'd driven by the this bar (with the flames) several times before while cruisin' The Mile, and finally made it here with a friend. He was famished, and I was just along for the ride (and perhaps a Canadian brew).
I've seen this place super-packed, but we lucked out and managed to find a high table near the bar. There are definitely some beautiful people and eye candy here....ummm, trying to place the crowd. It looked sort of yuppie, but isn't that a term from the 80s? What are the yuppies of the new millennium called?
So, I already ate, but I had to get some "gravy & fries" (You Canadians do have some delicacies this displaced Cannuck craves!). Had this and a couple of Big Rock brews.
Nice place to chill out, watch a game (can't imagine the craziness of a Flames game night), people watch, and get a true Calgarian experience. -
Review from Jag S.
Calgary, AB
11/22/2009
Went here for a dinner party on Saturday...
Wow I'm stunned... remember the days when this place use to be packed?? I was soo disappointed that there were so many empty tables.. pfft.. it didn't take long to figure out why...
1. horrible service.. I can honestly say this was one of the worst service experiences I have ever had! The waitress couldn't keep everything in order, half of our table was served then everyone else.. no refills..she wouldn't even look our way!
2. the food.. o come on.. i had such higher expectations of their menu.. their food is barely on par with your local pub food. O and for the pizzas.. smh.. disgusting.. 2/6 options were so gross.. they try to be innovative but the tastes don't fuse well!
I wouldn't go back here for dining.. during the summer I enjoy it a lot.. just drinkin and ppl watchin. -
Review from Emma G.
8/27/2010 1 Check-in Here
The biggest draw of Melrose is definitely it's patio, because of the prime people watching on 17th Ave! The patio is cute, although it can get a bit crowded.
My friend and I went here on Sunday afternoon for lunch. We were seated on the patio, which was kind of slippery from some of our lovely summer rain, but overall the table was nice.
Our server was fabulous! She was very friendly, attentive, and patient with us when it took ages to decide what we wanted to eat. Our drinks were never empty and she made a point to engage everyone at all of her tables.
I ordered a chicken club flatbread wrap, which was fine. It tasted a bit like something you'd throw together at home. It wasn't bad by any means but it wasn't anything special.
I'd definitely go back to enjoy the patio or to watch a hockey game! -
Review from Chad T.
10/7/2009
My first night ever in Calgary and my plane gets in late. No problem, it's a major city and I'm staying downtown... should be plenty of places to eat. Right?
No. Apparently this is the best of what Calgary has to offer after 10pm. You know its bad when you wish you had access to a Denny's, because at least there you could get some good hashbrowns.
This place is like some sort of bizarro upscale high school cafeteria. Because it's the main late-night eatery, everybody comes here. You have the stoners in one corner with their flannel shirts, the preppies in suits and ties having a drink after working late, and the jocks in the bar area wearing their Flames jerseys and screaming at the game on TV. Which you can't hear, because they're on mute so that the other TVs blasting music videos so loud I feel like I'm in a night club.
The only reason this place isn't 1 star is because it's actually open after 10pm and serving (barely) edible bar food.
I'm hoping some compassionate yelper will correct me and point out some decent late night (weeknight) spots in downtown Calgary. -
Review from Lindsay K.
Halifax, NS
10/7/2009
I've never really been a fan of Melrose. It seems like a place for yuppie, uptight individuals to congregate and talk about all the other yuppie's in the bar.
I've never felt comfortable having drinks or dinner in this place because I really don't feel like I belong. It seems like everyone in the bar, including the staff, is judging me and thinking the same thing I am: you don't belong here. It's just not a very welcoming environment for me.
I'll admit, however, that they really do have a nice patio during the summer. It fills all the requirements of a good patio; some shade, pretty decorations, and heaters when it gets a little colder at night. It's a nice way to spend an afternoon for anyone who likes this place... which means it's not a nice place for me.
I find that everything is over-priced in Melrose, even including the water. Unless someone is treating me a fancy, edgy meal or drinks, I won't be choosing Melrose as a first choice for bars. It's just not my scene... heck, it doesn't seem like it could be most people's scene. -
Review from Janelle B.
Calgary, AB
5/17/2009
This is far from "upscale".We had reservations for over 20 people for downstairs lounge, and because I person forgot their ID we had to be redirected to the resturant part. With such a large table and only ONE sever it was really choatic.
Several of us oreder soem food. Not imprssed at all. Way over priced. the drinks were "meh" . I kept getting the wrong drink.
At the end of the night, the sever was a complete mess, couldnt figure out the bill and brought us the " correct" one 3 seperate times.
Still i find it funny that other's have dubbed this place" upscale". NO WAY! -
Review from Christopher W.
Calgary, AB
10/30/2008 1 photo
This place definitely has the most tvs per square inch in the entire city. They dubbed themselves "the heart of the red mile" a few years ago and have been holding on to it ever since. There's usually a long line-up to get in on weekends, but every time I've been to Melrose I've been satisfied. The food is great and the service has always been attentive, despite the rush.
The tvs are excellent for hockey fans, with just about every game in the league on at the same time. But if the Flames are playing, just about all of them switch to that game. If they score, somebody in the bar flicks a red siren and then people caught up in conversation realize the Flames have scored and it's time to cheer.
I like Melrose and their patio is terrific in the summer. -
Review from Gimlet B.
Calgary, AB
1/30/2010
Went a while ago and the staff was cool, but management was a dick.
Nobody cares about the bikes.
Just because it's St. Patrick's Day doesn't mean everyone's a drunk jackass. -
Review from Adrianna R.
Calgary, AB
3/22/2011
Melrose and I have a "love and hate" relationship, truly sometimes I think I should just stay away, but on those random nights, when no one has decided on a place to go, and we all go "I dunno, what's there to do? where should we grab a drink?" I tend to just blab it out and convince everyone to go to Melrose. Maybe because it so central, it's located right on 17th ave( The red mile). And for those who can remember the crazy, awesome time of 'The Red Mile" Melrose is such a reminder of those great Flames days! So that's why I come back, I love it when it's packed, when the game is on, people are rowdy and beer keeps coming!
But every now and again, the good turns to bad, can't get it, the line is too big, they refuse to let me in- I have to sneak in through the back, the food isn't so great, there's nowhere to sit, and I say to myself "why the hell did we pick here!?" Right, my choice- again.
So Merlose and I will go back and forth, until someone opens up another sports lounge the size of Melrose right on 17th.
I'm a dreamer, I know.
ps. I've been to the restaurant/patio twice ever- atmoshpere is great, the food...well let's just say I'm picky ;) -
Review from Rebecca S.
Calgary, AB
2/13/2011 1 photo
We were a table of about 10. Waitress nor manager was able to handle it, or rather us. We waited about half hour to get water. 40 minutes to take drink orders... Over 1 hour to take food order. Everything was cold when we got it. The sauces for the steak orders were like a "blub" of gel that did not pour out of gravy boat. Everyone got upset. Service was one of the worst ever. Food, nothing to rave about. Would never ever go back there. Over $200.00 for this massive cold confusion? Won't happen twice!!
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Review from Devon B.
1/24/2010 1 Check-in Here
This was the first bar I went to when I moved to Calgary and it remains my favourite.
It' simply a good bar- not too high end but not trashy either. It' big and has a food amount of seating on the bar side, dining side and on the massive patio
They have a good bar with a decent beer selection, the food is respectable and the service has always been good.
I have always had a food time at Melrose, and I've been there at many different levels of drunkeness.Listed in: Best Happy Hour
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Review from Chad W.
Calgary, AB
10/2/2008
The Melrose Café is a thriving upscale haunt extremely popular with golden business boys and soft-skinned female executives. They have a restaurant to one side featuring a beautiful Buddha statue centerpiece, soft-lighting and upscale seating. There is a connected bar with private rooms upstairs and down which can be reserved for functions and conferences. The bar is red-lit and has motorcycles suspended over either pool table toward to back of the bar. Water pours down the wall behind the cheerful bartenders and equally cheerful, well-dressed patrons usually line the entire bar. They have three storeys with 60 televisions in total so sports fans don't miss a beat. Their multi-level patio is also a very popular destination illuminated at night by standing torches that burn majestically out front. Occasionally, on busier evenings, DJs spin at Melrose to set the night alight.
The food here is impeccable. However, drinks are pricey and if you're not dressed really well, you might elicit some dirty looks from the prepped-out patrons inside. -
Review from Sapna G.
Calgary, AB
9/16/2009 7 photos
Nothing pleases my heart like a sunny, flowery patio, full of beautiful, friendly people.
Enter Melrose.
To date, Melrose has one of my all-time favourite summer patios. I love the heaters for the 'slightly breezier evenings'; I love the fact that the patio overlooks 17th Ave and you can people-watch for hours on end; And I love that everyone on the patio has perma-grins on their faces...okay, this MAY have to do with their choice of bevvies, but regardless, I LOVE LOVE LOVE this patio.
And if you're an early bird who just can't seem to keep them eye lids open past dark, then check out their weekend brunch. 4 words for y'all: Bernard Callebaut Chocolate Fountain. 'Nuff said.
See you there. -
Review from Patrick C.
Calgary, AB
6/29/2010
First time down to Melrose and I have to say I was extremely impressed. Me and the boys mad our way down to 17 to watch the world cup action today and the atmosphere in Melrose was wonderful, service was good and the food( with the limited amount we ordered) was excellent.
I shall be heading back down to Melrose sometime very very Soon... It was that good.
