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Ship & Anchor Pub
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 11 am - 2 am
Sat-Sun 10 am - 2 am
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Music:
- DJ, Live
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Loud
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Trendy, Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
44 reviews for Ship & Anchor Pub
Review Highlights
"The patio is large and always full, too."
(in 21 reviews)
"I drank the Big Rock Traditional Ale for most of the trip..."
(in 2 reviews)
"...great service, great crowd, great live music, great patio."
(in 5 reviews)
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44 reviews in English
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Review from Cassandra D.
Calgary, AB
1/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
Alrighty - Cannot believe I hadn't reviewed my fave pub in the entire city yet. So, been going to the Ship(that's what regular attendees call it) for literally 21 years now. The kewlest was when I lived one block away ;0).
It has hands down the "Best" pub food in the city. You get heaping portions & the menu has a diverse variety. Anything from nacho's, calamari to classics like tuna sandwich or the Ship burger. Heck they even have lamb shank! And also serve breakfast(the white egg omlette was amazing!).
The staff is always prompt & informative. They truly deserve hats off, because manage to take care of room after room of jam packed to the rafters patrons. I'd never say this anywhere else(because I myself am on a supremely limited income) but, if you do go, please tip them generously. They really do a great job!
If all that wasn't enough, they have live music! I've seen some of the best shows/ local bands there since the tender age of 18. I highly recommend catching Eve Hell & the Razors, Bigfoot Rocketship, The Bownesians or Smokin 45's. And every single Saturday(check their website for events) they have an open music jam from 2 - 6 pm, with headliners & then open it up for open mic sign up(meaning any musician can come down & put their name on it).
I could probably write paragraphs about the ambience/atmosphere. This is a place that despite always feeling like a misfit my entire life(proud to say I was goth before people that say they are goth now were) I go there & feel accepted. All types are here, every age range imaginable. I will quote from their website though, as they describe it perfectly, "The Ship attracts a diverse crowd, where students and professionals rub shoulders regularly with the tattooed set and indie rockers alike. The eclectic mix of clientele has always been the heart of the pub."
One final tip...make sure to go early for the Sat afternoon jams or if on a Friday or Saturday night...as they get totally packed!
I love you soooo much Ship & Anchor....too bad you weren't a guy, cuz we're the perfect match! XO -
Review from Cory R.
Calgary, AB
11/24/2011
"The Ship" was "OK" about 8 - 10 years ago. Now it's a trendoid destination, and a victim of its own success in a lot of ways.
There is a 15 - 30 person lineup just to get in on a weekend. I cant imagine why, the beer is not cheap and the food is not spectacular. Mainly "yuppie" and college / university types frequent The Ship.
There is certainly no theme with regard to the music or general atmosphere. Lots of soccer memorabilia, but this isn't a British pub in any way.
I was told there's an ATM when I went to pay with interac, even though they totally take interac (???). There were a few (but not lots) of reasonably attractive college type girls here, but they all looked unapproachable -- involved in conversations with their friends about politics or their midterm next week.
I'm not sure who they are trying to appeal to here. Generally this place is unfortunately a "fail" which is a shame because it used to be an allright, if only predictable, place to go. -
Review from Alex L.
Calgary, AB
11/17/2011
Oh the wonders of Stampede patio. Ship & Anchor is definitely a great place to be for the festivities. The people are friendly, the drinks are plentiful and the food gets the job done. Even in the off-season, the patio is a great place to relax with a brew and a few friends.
Ship & Anchor definitely has a split personality. The patio is warm, relaxed and fun. The bar area is dark, a little dank and seems to be inhabited by yuppie types.
I guess there is something to be said for variety even if it does make it feel like you are entering a different world when you go inside.
Either way give Ship & Anchor a shot, you might meet some new friends and even if you dont, the sunshine and drinks cant hurt.
8/30 -
Review from Heather I.
Calgary, AB
11/4/2011
The Ship and I have been through a lot together. We have so many memories, many of which I don't recall due to the fact that it's just so damn easy to drink there. Despite my somewhat hazy memories, the Ship is like an old friend that's always glad to see you no matter what happened the last time you hung out.
Even if the last time you hung out you made a bad decision and decided to do shots before making out with some hottie you met playing darts, the Ship does not judge. Let's face it, everyone there has done the exact same thing before.
If you decide that a balanced and nutritious dinner consists of an order of deep friend pickles and a half order of nachos (Total - $15), the Ship does not judge. (Helloooo, pickles are healthy and the nachos come with...wait for it...salsa.)
When you need a place to go for breakfast at 3pm because you were out at the Ship til 2 o'clock on a weeknight and now you're too hungover to go into work, the Ship has your back. (Breakfast served til 5pm, brunch on the weekends.) It's also possible you got drunk with your boss or even his boss...the Ship is loved by old and young alike.
When it seems as though every other Calgary establishment has turned into a gastro/craft/resto/lounge/brewpub with a high douchebag quotient, the Ship remains true to it's non-pretentious roots and eclectic mix of cool people. Though you may start a visit to the Ship sitting next to strangers at picnic tables on the patio, by the end of your visit you'll inevitably have a bunch of new friends, and also some hazy memories.
4/30 -
Review from Genre S.
Calgary, AB
11/26/2011
When in Calgary you must spend time at the Ship. Trust me. The people you meet is a cross-section of socially constructed reality. The food is well done yet simple, and the tap selection is all you really want. English style place. Have fun!
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Review from Nicole M.
Calgary, AB
8/30/2011
The Ship and Anchor is a Calgary institution, a great pub, and a wonderful place to waste an afternoon any time of the year, it has great music (live music too), an interesting and eclectic group of regulars, and a wonderful patio, but I seriously have to wonder about the taste buds of those who think the food is good.
Don't get me wrong, I love the Ship, but hate the food.
Just about everything from the kitchen is greasy, overcooked, bland or just plain awful. Nearly every time I've needed to have a bite to eat while hanging out, I've gotten something just over the edge of edible. The burgers are dry and sometimes actually charred and hard on the outside. The fries usually have the look of fries cooked in oil that should have been changed ages ago. The hashbrowns at breakfast are cold and under seasoned. The wrap is only saved by a side of salsa and sour cream. With all this in mind, I can only say that those who think the Ship Burger is edible obviously were either drunk or lack knowledge of what a good burger is.
Honestly though, nobody goes to the Ship for food. The Ship is about the atmosphere which the Ship has in spades. The Ship is the place to be for a pint, but grab a donair or a slice of pizza on the way home if you want to eat. -
Review from Dan D.
4/15/2011
So many great things about the Ship and Anchor!
Great food, excellent beer selection, and often really good bands for no cover.
I have seen Fishbone, You Say Party! and the Sharp Ends all for free on different occasions at the Ship. I think those opportunities alone make me feel it necessary to give the place a 5.
For a pub, the food is creative and well-prepared, and if you order fries for your side, you are going to get a mountain of well-seasoned, fresh-cut deliciousness. Highly recommended. -
Review from Yannis K.
Banff, AB
9/4/2011
Spent a solid four years of my life going to the Ship back when I was in University. Used to love the atmosphere, staff and general vibe. I went back there the other day to try to go for lunch and received some of the worst service I have ever experienced, anywhere.
Surly waitress walks over and literally drops the menus on the table and walks away.
5 minutes pass and she barks "what do you want"...OK let me think, how about someone who isn't a complete drip serving my table to start?
Order some beers. 5 minutes pass and they're sitting on the bar while she talks to another table...all good.
Another 5 minutes pass and she's chatting at the bar with a friend while our drinks just sit there...interesting.
She then goes to another table chats with them while our drinks continue to sit there, come on lady we're only 10 feet away from you.
Another 5 minutes pass and we're out of there. Will never go back. -
Review from Sarah Louise F.
Calgary, AB
8/18/2011
It was a gloomy Monday afternoon. The Hop in Brew was not set to open up for another couple hours, and I was to meet with a British couchsurfer for an afternoon pint. Charmed already, aren't you?
I arrived at the Ship and Anchor just about on time, clutching onto my Umbrella outside as I waited for my British friend. As it turns out, he had tried to walk from another end of town, not perceiving how far it really was, and he turned up about half an hour late. This half hour allowed me really to take in the sight of the pub, and the rainy atmosphere. When he eventually showed up, we entered the pub, and it provided us with immediate warmth and rustic comfort. As it was still relatively dark inside, it fit in perfectly with the dreary grey sky and the rain (which if you haven't guessed by now, I love).
As I sat across from this Londoner in a Clockwork Orange tshirt, with his hair dripping wet, slurping up a hearty bowl of beef barley soup, constantly offering me some of his "chips," in the corner of this dimly lit pub on a rainy afternoon, I felt as though I was in London itself. Or a movie. One of the two. And this is why I am now able to review the Ship. Because it charmed me a few afternoons ago, and you should be charmed too.
While I enjoy the Ship best while seeking a nook to cozy up on a rainy day (I would have felt comfortable even bringing in some Hemingway and flying solo), if you catch them on a day where you can sip some ales on the patio, even better. Their food is pretty decent for pub fare, and they serve up a good mix of imports and local brews. The staff I've had the pleasure of knowing are great as well. I prefer it here on weekdays/weekday evenings, but if you're one for crowds, definitely head over on a Friday or Saturday night.
I like you pretty okay, Ship and Anchor Pub. -
Review from Erin D.
9/18/2011
The Grand Dame of Calgary's punk/rock/rockabilly/alt-country scene. Ages range from 18 - 80. Gay friendly. There is nothing like it in Calgary and if you don't like it there it's probably because you don't belong there.
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Review from Philippe G.
Calgary, AB
1/21/2011 11 Check-ins Here
Oh the ship!
A great staple to us all.
You don't go to the ship for great food but you get it.
The TV's suck, and that is great, The darts are incredible and that is better.
This is a true snapshot of a PUB, the way I like them, a little dark, great characters everywhere, laughs and conversation happening, a place that many call home.
I take a layer off and relax with a pint and friends often at the ship, and recommend that you do to:)Listed in: Calgary's Best Pubs.
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Review from Reginald T.
Calgary, AB
11/30/2010 10 Check-ins Here
This is a great place for college/university students to congregate in. The place is really popular in Calgary; the patio is packed during warm, sunny days, and it's difficult to get a table in the late evenings.
Ironically, I didn't visit here much in my undergraduate days; I only really discovered it once I joined the working world when a friend took me to lunch and made me try the veggie burger (best in the city, he called it; he was right).
Many come for the live music or entertainment that happens often. For me, I usually use it to hold meetings with groups or colleagues, often getting a booth or staking out the tables in the back by the kitchen and dart board. The staff are very respectful of allowing patrons to take as much time as they need; it's a very casual atmosphere.
The food menu is very reasonable in terms of price. Many dishes are $10 or less, and the portion sizes are filling. My favourite item on the menu is the Ship Burger; made in-house and only $8 with fries.
If you're looking for some reasonably priced food options on 17th Ave, The Ship & Anchor is a great place to be. -
Review from Wendy P.
11/5/2010 6 Check-ins Here
Deep fried what now? Pickle. Yep, the Ship's got deep fried pickles on their menu. When I saw that, somehow I wasn't surprised. When I tasted it though, I most certainly was. Who knew I'd like deep fried pickles?
A spot known for it's variety in clientele, the Ship & Anchor is always packed. Seriously, if I don't go early, I'm hunting for a table by like 8 pm. Summer, it's even worse when their patio's open. Everyone and their dog from the neighborhood is at the ship. Literally, the dogs are tied to the fence outside the patio.
It's everybody's recommended spot to go, and with good reason. It's one of those spots that everybody fits in. The Ship's got a solid reputation and lives up to it each and every time. -
Review from gilles P.
Calgary, AB
1/27/2011 6 Check-ins Here
I went there for brunch and catch the Saturday morning soccer game. I ddi not expect anything from the food. But the eggs benedict were a great surprise with some nice saute potatoes. Our waitress was really nice at 9 am. great service..
I will go back to catch some English premiere games and tale a brunch...
You can also grab a beer instead of your coffee.. that is up to you?
G -
Review from D K.
Calgary, AB
10/12/2010
You will either love it or hate it. Extremely dedicated regulars.
Tends to be very busy and can be difficult to get in, but if your in it is a great bar. -
Review from Meghan M.
Cold Lake, AB
12/15/2010
It's like Cheers, except nobody knows your name.
What can I say about the Ship that hasn't already been said? All the cool kids hang out there. Everyone and their dog (and probably their grandma) likes it.
Pros: Nice variety of patrons, good pub grub, nice patio, guaranteed fun weekend night.
Cons: Sometimes it can feel like a Calgary hipster contest: "I've been coming to the Ship since before it got popular", "I get invited to the regulars party", etc. Also, when it gets packed, the layout is pretty awkward and you're often left randomly standing.
Don't expect your Norm stool and do expect a line-up on weekends! As for fun? I suspect you will most likely have a good time ;) -
Review from Mia T.
6/23/2011
Ive had many a birthday at the Ship. I love, obviously, its prime location, and the casual, relaxed vibe. The best part is all the different types of people, who come to have a drink or food. The Ship has to be the best pub food Ive eaten. They have th standard fare, but also healthy options, and tend to change it up from time to time so its never boring. I love ALL the vegetarian sandwiches, and they even do breakfast!!
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Review from Shelli S.
2/8/2009
This is a favorite of mine, they always play the deeper cuts from an album, not the crappy pop stuff on the radio. But it's not just what is out now, sometimes they throw down some Ted Nugent just to see if you're paying attention, it's a hilarious place to hang out and get some fish and chips with friends and talk. It's never too loud to talk to your friends.
For you youngens who think that I just said album and that it means record you is wrong, record is plastic circular thing, album is a collection of anything (every heard of a photo album?)
They always carry good local brew like Big Rock, which is the original gangstah when it comes to Calgary home brews. Dude I was tasting beers at Big Rock when they were just wittow, I was 18, they still used pony kegs!
Also I like my bar "just right" which means it's not pretentious, and people dress like normal people (not trying to out-do each other).
It's also stumbling distance to wicked wedge, which I highly recommend heading to if the kitchen is way closed and it's 1:30am.
All places in Calgary are full bar, (this is a shocking concept to a Canadian to only offer beer and wine, are you crazy?"Listed in: Dive Bars
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Review from Jollean C.
Vancouver, BC
9/18/2009
*********************A Love Poem for The Ship*******************
Sometimes I call you The Whip 'n' Spanker.
I *heart* you.
You always bring me smiles, since I found you in '95.
Your music entertains & brings the mood alive.
If I drank beer, you'd let me choose from infinite possibilities.
Instead, you prepare my pint 'o' Caesar oh so tenderly.
Your patio is the hub that you let me watch others curiously.
You let me prefer 'The Channel' across from the bar where your patrons come to flirt & chat in the evening's ebb and flow.
You are home to me when I'm not at home, where everyone is friendly, where the love is what we know.
The Ship. I *heart* you. -
Review from Christopher W.
Calgary, AB
10/17/2008
One of the best pubs on 17th. I took a friend from Halifax there one night and he grew confused, suggesting that while he knew Calgary was the nautical capital of the Prairies, he could go to a pub like this in Halifax. Which is true, but that's why it works here.
It's always packed and on weekend afternoons, they usually have an acoustic open mic/jam thing happening. Not all of them are real musicians, but it gives the pub a nice feel on a Saturday afternoon. The patio is large and always full, too. Great selection of beer and it does remind me of a Maritime pub -- in the best way possible. -
Review from Christi M.
Calgary, AB
4/7/2011
Great gluten free beer option with Mongoza (a Pilsener) but sad that they've taken curry fries off the menu. That used to be one of my faves on the menu!
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Review from Sapna G.
Calgary, AB
10/21/2009
3 words: OH. MY. GOD.
The Ship & Anchor is notorious around Calgary. No matter who you run into, no matter how long they've lived in calgary, and no matter which area they live in; Everyone has heard of The Ship.
How do I describe The Ship & Anchor to you? Let's see. Picture what you would expect if you went to Nova Scotia or Newfoundland. Picture a bunch of drunken sailors, all at the same place, at the same time. Now picture The Ship & Anchor.
When I go to The Ship, I feel like I've left Calgary. I feel like I'm aboard some tiny vessel (tiny because it is always packed to the point where you can barely move) filled with friendly pirates and sailors, who are all half-drunk, overly friendly, and wanting to get to know everyone on the boat.
It's a complete shit show. It feels a lot like frosh week or like a frat party. But if you go in expecting it, then you're bound to have a good time.
In the summers, the patio is PACKED. Like you *think* you've seen a packed patio, and then you walk by The Ship and you realize that you had NO idea so many people could happily fit in one place at one time.
The Ship is definitely not my scene, but I can appreciate it. I don't necessarily like people so close to me that they don't require an excuse to touch my bum. I don't necessarily like drunken people in my space, being overly friendly and wanting to be my best pal. And I sure as heck don't like overcrowded patios that smell like beer and sweat. BUT there is something about The Ship that is quite charming. Everyone checks their egos at the door and it's the type of place you kick back, have some brew, and get to know everyone around you. -
Review from Devon B.
Calgary, AB
1/24/2010 1 Check-in Here
It' not fancy, it's not trashy, it's just the Ship & Anchor. With a great mix of pub, music and sports as the mixed atmosphere, it's a great place to go at any time of the day or night. Have lunch and a pint, enjoy the patio, or get demolished, The Ship is always a comfortable place to be.
They serve serve almost solely beers from independent companies, which I appreciate, and the bar staff know what they're doing. The food is pretty good for pub grub.
During the summer I highly suggest having a drink and taking in open mic Saturday afternoon.Listed in: Best Happy Hour
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Review from Arc P.
1/23/2011
Never really been to the ship in the afternoon, but I am a fan of the place. Yes it can be overcrowded, yes it can be hard to find a table here, and yes uni/college people can dominate the crowd, but the place has character. From the scarfs of Premiership teams hung on the walls to the fact they stock one of my favourite beers (Boddington's) to a crowd that can be just as diverse than it was homogeneous the night before, this place is simply my first answer to anybody seeking a pub in Calgary. The beer selection is great covering cheap and quality domestics as well as tasty imports. The atmosphere mixes a youthful vibe with that traditional, slightly woodsy, and run-down feel of a pub. The crowd consists of the posh and down to earth, rich and poor and the bold and beautiful. In my opinion it's what a pub should be, a reflection of the community.
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Review from Jenn M.
2/14/2010
Another $0.02 from a Californian... I had no idea what to expect when a local friend suggested we meet at the Ship & Anchor for brunch on a weekend. The CA crew got there first, and I have to say I wasn't sure what the joke was. We were chatting outside under the awning waiting for her, and I'm thinking "We're going to eat brunch at a BAR?" It just didn't seem right.
But I was pleasantly surprised at the menu selection and the quality of the food. It's not Michelin star material or whatever, but French toast made with brioche? YES please. And an omelette that's already set to be made with egg whites only so I don't have to specify and explain and hope for the best? Thanks for the like, totally real food.
It was far too early for serious drinking, obviously. At least it was for me. So I can't really comment on much else besides the food and I think we were pretty much the first customers of the day, but it seemed like a good representation of what a pub should be and from the other reviews here, it sounds like it lives up. I dig it. -
Review from Greg G.
10/29/2009
Ok, here's a review from a Californian.
I'm trying to talk more about the pub than I am about the beer.
First off, we stayed in Calgary befoire we headed off for Banff and Lake Louise. As Sharks fans, we were obliged to visit 17th ave (Red Mile!!!) and roust it with teal jerseys and shenanigans.
Here's how I found the bar, and the problem with the beer. I kept asking around for Craft Beer. Yes, I know, I was drinking at hotel bars... but after failing miserably trying to find a good, strong, hoppy beer, it was recommended that I go to the Ship and Anchor. After trying a Keith's India Pale Ale at another bar, and finding it to have a taste similar to Budweiser, I realized that instead of asking for "craft" beer, I should ask for a "Microbrewery" beer.
Big Rock and Wild Rose are what I found. I drank the Big Rock Traditional Ale for most of the trip FYI. Still not impressed.
That being said, I LOVED the pub. People were friendly, they didn't drop the f-bomb every other word, and people were all awesome and accommodating. Unlike California. I would change my citizenship in a SECOND.
Ordered the burger, poutine, and tried my folks' food, all of which was really good.
I read a few grumbling reviews about this bar, and I implore you haters to never take for granted friendly people. Try visiting some Cali pubs, and after all the crude, moronic, drunk 25-going-on-12 year olds you find, you'll wish you had it as good as you did at the Ship and Anchor.
Oh, I did find good beer a Grizzly Paw brewery on the way home. Here's the beer that I love...
http://www.stonebrew.com/
If anyone has recommendations on where to find great, hoppy IPA's in Canada, let me know. -
Review from David M.
Calgary, AB
4/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
O Ship! Best patio on 17 Ave., by a long shot. I can't remember [literally] how many times I've arrived before noon and left after midnight. Everyone from suits to punks to queens to jocks to hooligans to hipsters can call this place home. It's a true public house. Huge draft selection, decent food. What keeps me coming back? Memories, atmosphere, music, shouting, x-mas eve, Shipwrecks, Hank and Patsy's, great staff and more...
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Review from Scott J.
Calgary, AB
9/13/2009
A classic English looking Pub or as close to one I have seen up to now in Calgary, it has sports on various t.v.'s throughout the pub but there not everywhere.
The food is good and very cheap I think especially for the area, the Yellowfin Tuna is excellent.
It has a great atmosphere although you are hard pushed to find a seat outside on the weekend as it gets packed quick, but inside is good enough. I could quite happily stay all night in this place its a sound pub, not quite 5 stars but close. -
Review from Jordan D.
Calgary, AB
3/20/2011
This place has lots of different beers, including some imports that you don't see too often on tap; like Carlsburg and Kronenburg. They have daily food specials as well. Unfortunately it seems that their chef quit, because the menu has really been slipping from where it was last summer.
This place is really busy on the weekends. It's got one of the best patio's on 17th, so it's pretty popular when the weather is nice. -
Review from Chad W.
Calgary, AB
9/23/2008
The Ship and Anchor pub and eatery on 17th Avenue is anything but an attractive bar. Its patio is crowded with old beat-up furniture and picnic tables etched with all sorts of graffiti, but ironically, it is one of Calgary's most popular outdoor patios. The Ship and Anchor hosts live music, provides cheap pub food and has 30 different beers on tap. The food is standard: not too great, not rotten. At least the price is appropriate.
The Ship's Sunday Brunch is popular for youthful neighbourhood residents looking to beat their hang-overs. Despite its trendiness, though, the main attraction is the anything-goes atmosphere, especially on weekends. They even unleash live local underground and indie bands during special events, and live jams are hosted on Saturdays from 2 to 6pm.
Live music acts to grace the Ship are usually local metal groups or indie ensembles of a more aggressive nature. DJs spinning varieties of drum and bass, dub, reggae, hip-hop, and house also amp up the Ship's atmosphere if there isn't a rock band charging the treble on the weekends.
Overall, the Ship isn't all bad; it's a pretty trendy place to chill. It usually fills up quick, so don't go late or you might be waiting in line. Also, if you're not into the whole hipster-scenester thing, stay away -- the place is crawling with them. -
Review from Lindsay K.
Halifax, NS
10/1/2009 1 photo
I can't say I'm the biggest fan of the Ship & Anchor pub. I'll be the first to admit that I probably fit in quite well with the unusual indie crowd that frequents the place, but it's just not my favourite hangout.
Okay, I do love going there in the middle of the afternoon and sitting on the patio for some lunch. They make a wicked mushroom cap burger... and anyone who knows me knows how much I love my mushrooms! This burger is so juicy and delicious that it makes Ship & Anchor my favourite lunchtime pub. Mmm, mushrooms!
As for the evenings, though, I try to stay away from the Ship for the single reason that it gets waaay too busy. Once the night picks up the place is full to max capacity and a line begins to form outside. Why anyone would wait in line to get into a pub is beyond me. I can understand if there's a live band or some form of entertainment, but waiting for the sole purpose of sitting and having drinks is just ludicrous! People really do love this place!
And I suppose I can see why. It isn't your typical sports bar or Irish pub. I mean, sure, they have a bunch of sports paraphernalia peppering the walls and ceiling, and they offer some of the regular pub food, but there's something about the Ship that makes it unique. It could be the three dart boards they have at the back, which act as the only form of sports played in the pub. Or it could be because a lot of the patrons are of the alternative genre.
The Ship & Anchor is actually a great place to hang out. It's huge, has a lovely patio, employs pleasant staff, has mostly nice people visit and isn't all that expensive. If the Ship weren't always so damn busy I would probably go more. As it is, I do like to be able to move when I'm in a pub, and go to the bathroom without having a drink spilled down my back because it's so packed. People just really, really like the place and that's why it's always so full. It makes sense, I guess! -
Review from Gimlet B.
Calgary, AB
1/31/2010
Love it. They make a great eggnog before christmas.
Go early if you want a seat.
The music mix is really good. It's all over the map. Where else would you follow up Notorious BIG with Willie Nelson and have it work? -
Review from arinn w.
9/21/2010
I love the ship! It is the best alternative pub in town. My only gripe is that every time I've tried to eat there in the past few months, it's been too busy to get a table! The menu is killer, a great selection of beers on tap & sometimes you get surprised by some rad local music or djs spinning. This place is awesome, but clearly a victim of its own success: I hope the next time I go to eat there I'm not let down by the crowd.
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Review from Jon K.
9/9/2010
My favourite pub of all time. Go here often. Do it.
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Review from Will v.
Calgary, AB
1/25/2011
It's the Ship. Do I really need to review it? Great beer selection, great food, great service, great crowd, great live music, great patio. Hands down my favorite pub/bar in town.
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Review from Danny F.
Calgary, AB
10/16/2008
One of my favorite pubs. They have a really decent veggie burger and enough beers on tap to keep even me topped up. The clientele is a mixed bag age wise usually between 18 and 35 but they all generally fit into some kind of alternative crowd, be it punk, indie or whatever. The service is generally super attentive and the patio is one of the best in the city. While the place seems full almost all the time rarely is it impossible to find a seat unless you are showing up pretty late another reason to show up a early is to avoid the inevitable line up that starts around 10.
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Review from Adam G.
Calgary, AB
3/7/2009
Perfect indie pub. Great patio and beer selection. The ship burger will blow your burger mind.
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Review from Chris P.
8/11/2009 1 Check-in Here
A red mile favorite for many. They boast a huge twin patio in the summer and a large dim pub year round. This place is always packed in the summer from happy hour through to the early hours of the morning. On the weekend you can enjoy live music from real bands or the open mic. The food is really good also, for a pub. I've had their fish & chips and the nachos on occasion and have not been dissappointed.
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Review from laura s.
12/1/2009
Surprisingly good food for a bar, er, pub. I've been to Calgary twice and to the Ship as many times. I have no complaints about this place, only warm, fuzzy memories of good food and Crown floats (that's Guinness and hard cider - name starts with an S and escape me now).
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Review from Katie C.
Calgary, AB
9/29/2009 1 photo
Everyone in Calgary goes to the Ship. Everyone. Every night I've spent there has involved running into friendly faces from high school, from my classes, from work - even from other cities! I even ran into my teacher from High School there once. Haha, talk about traumatic. The reason it's such a favourite? It boasts one of the best locations in Calgary. The patio is ideal for people-watching, and inside the rather dingy interior they have a little something for everyone. The Ship features some basic pub booths, a wonderful selection of beers, and a full menu of shots and pub grub if you feel like something a little different. I tried my first Krispy Kreme (shot) at that bar. The service is so-so, but that is because the ship is often packed full! Passing by on a Friday or Saturday it is not unusual to see a long lineup. The music is usually pretty interesting, and loud enough to hear but not to drown out your conversation. The biggest issue is usually finding enough space to seat your group. The door guys are usually pretty sweet and try to keep the line moving, but don't climb on the tree in front or they get a little nasty!
Saturday mornings often boast early early morning soccer games, and little british-isms invade the bar. If you have lived in Calgary for more than six months and haven't been to the Ship yet, shame!
