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Wild Rose Brewery
Categories: Restaurants Gastropubs Food Breweries Gastropubs, Breweries [Edit]
4580 Quesnay Wood Dr SWBldg AF23
Calgary, AB T3E 7J3
(403) 720-2733
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 11 am - 11 pm
Sun 11 am - 9 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- 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:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
51 reviews for Wild Rose Brewery
Review Highlights
"Velvet fog is truly one of my all time favs."
(in 13 reviews)
"We still have our party pig and its been almost a year."
(in 4 reviews)
"...beer---with names like "Alberta Crude Oatmeal Stout", "S."
(in 3 reviews)
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51 reviews in English
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Review from Stefan W.
Calgary, AB
1/30/2012
We've been going here for years now and don't intend on stopping. This place is an excellent representation of what craft beer in Calgary SHOULD be like. Read: it shouldn't be stuffy/upscale/overly trendy. Wild Rose's brewpub is casual, intimate, fun.
The beer has only become better over the years with more and more exciting and innovative seasonal brews. The food is incredible, perfectly complementing the beer. There is no deep fryer, nor should there be one! They make a mean blue cheese salad dressing, and the beer cured salmon gravlax is delicious. Haven't had issues with anything on their menu.
Service is always extremely prompt and friendly. No snooty beer enthusiast attitude here. Recommend taking the $14 tour on Saturdays at 1pm which gets you a beer, a mug, and a very educational and fun tour of the brewery along with some beer history. And no, there's no TV here. The focus is on good beer and good conversation and it really works. Did I mention this place is built into an aircraft hangar?
If you're planning a weekend, grab a party pig. These innovative little guys keep beer fresh for months. -
Review from Marc K.
Cochrane, AB
1/24/2012 1 Check-in Here
This is the place to go to get a real 'Brauhaus' feeling.
The food is good and the atmosphere casual. We have been here and listened to classical music as well as on 'normal' days to have one of their own beers.
Personal favourite beer: Alberta Crude
Beer to go: Try one of their Party Pigs. It is a 8.5 litre keg of beer which looks like a pig. -
Review from Mary D.
Calgary, AB
1/20/2012
Great beer decent service and the food, meh.
I've loved Wild Rose beer for many years, and had a fun time visiting their brewery before it moved to the Curry Barracks location. I have yet to experience a tour in the new location, I'm sure it's great!
I've gone during the day and evening and find that at times, even when it's not busy, that it can take awhile to get served. The servers are friendly when they come around, but I do have a problem with having to wait more than 10 minutes with a table full of friends with empty glasses.
I do appreciate that you can get a tasting of beer to decide on what you want to get a full pint of, and that they have different pour sizes. The quality of the product is outstanding and the seasonal brews are always something to look forward to.
Now, the food. There are some yummy appetizers but the fact that you can't get things on the menu changed at all because they are already made is frustrating, and I personally don't like to think of my food as being "pre-made". The salads could use something more for the dressings, they have always been too bland. The toppings are great, but if you don't top it off with a great vinaigrette then I might as well be eating plain lettuce at home.
Overall a great place for a pint and if you like appetizers you'll be a happy customer, maybe even more if you head home with one of their "pigs". -
Review from Josh M.
Calgary, AB
2/13/2012
Great place to eat, great place to drink, great place to work. Used to just drink and hang out at the Wild Rose but i figured why not work there too. Great place to be in every way!
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Review from S J.
Calgary, AB
2/10/2012
Love the food and the beer is fantastic. If you are planning a camping trip try the "pig kegs"... they are great, come in all the delicious flavours of beer. Pig kegs are pre-tapped and are (i can't remember exactly) but I think around 30-40 beer so not too much for a weekend trip with friends!
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Review from Angelo T.
I came back to Wild Rose again for a Yelp Wrap up party which really, was just a reason for all of us to get drunk and stuff our faces with jummy food once again.
I've had Wild Roses' popular beers like the Raspberry and the India Pale so this time around I settled for their seasonal Cherry Porter which was soo good I had it thrice. Great, Wildrose brewery you made me say "thrice" and I abhor saying that word.
We all shared Wild Rose's appetizers. I like their nacho platter which had beans, salsa and cheesy dip neatly placed in a bowl which was a nice alternative to the usual "dump everything on the nacho" goodness other pubs strive for. We also shared several of their fresh pretzels which, when I made a blasphemous joke about "breaking bread" was divinely punished when I underestimated the hot mustard and it crawled up my sinuses. Finally, I had their "craft" mac and cheese. It was delicious. I'll leave at that and leave out the part that it was cheesy goodness finished off with an amazing baked crust permeating a tasty smell that interrupted Carol K mid-speech several times.
Lately, I've been closely observing the service in these places I've been going past the surface level of their pleasantness, but in how they seem to enjoy their job. Everyone at Wild Rose seemed to love what they were doing and wouldn't shut up about the food and beer. Our waitresses were lovely and witty, and Andrew was cool enough to ring the massive bell and buy the house a round of drinks.
Also a side note: I ran into a co-worker of mine whose family was allowed to celebrate at the Wild Rose, who appears to allow minors only before 7pm :)Listed in: BECAUSE I SAID SO!!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/19/2011
I've visited the Wild Rose Brewery several times. I agree with the consensus here, "the beer is so… Read more »
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Review from Glenn M.
Calgary, AB
1/27/2012
Finally tried this place and decided quickly that I will return. I already know their brew is good and now I know the food is good too. I love the unique location of the place (in the Currie Barracks) and the atmosphere inside. It is unpretentious and simply a delicious alternative to standard fare.
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Review from Kenny M.
11/9/2011 3 Check-ins Here
The beer it's all about the beer! Wild rose is truly a business that has risen from the ground up.It's a beer fairy tale, a living breathing fairy tale that not only inspires me with their unique business model but puts real pride and love into their products. It taste amazing!
I have been a fan of wild rose since I first tried their beer. Velvet fog is truly one of my all time favs! But pretty much all across the product line each beer that they brew will certainly satisfy beer lovers anywhere! From the Alberta crude to their very popular Wraspberry they keep it pretty tight and don't get carried away with to many flavours. The tight product line is one of the more solid on the craft beer market. They don't make no junk at wild rose!
In the summer I had the pleasure of taking the brewery tour and enjoyed a very nice dinner after! The food overall was quite tasty and fairly priced, but let's be honest as nice as it is to have a decent restaurant inside the brewery I don't come here for the food, I come for the ultra fresh brew!
If you love beer or even just learning about new things I highly reccomend coming for the tour. It's a quite homey operation that takes its self seriously where it counts ( the beer) but is otherwise extremly relaxed and laid back which I personally love!
One final thing to say about wild rose, the beer is potent it will go to your head a little faster than most! And according to the guy who gave the tour it's not a higher alcohol content than average it's because they don't use preservatives so it actually absorbs much faster. Just so you know 2 pints of wild rose is like 3 pints of standard swill ( aka Molson or bud) really good bang for your buck! Come and enjoy!
9/30Listed in: Kenny's 30 day challenge!!!, The best local watering…
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Review from Starsia E.
Calgary, AB
12/4/2011
We order party pigs from them every year at least at Christmas. The deposit is expensive but it makes sense. We still have our party pig and its been almost a year. As long as you bring it back in good shape you can either get your deposit back or trade for a new party pig and just pay for the beer.
When picking a beer for your get together the staff are knowledgeable and will let you try them first. The velvet fog is a popular pick and seems to please the masses. You don't get much better than fresh brewed beer in your own mini kegs.
The pub also has some not bad food. The last five years that we have ordered beer from them I have picked up a meal to go or we ate in. The food was pretty good for pub food and the staff was always very friendly.
I look forward to picking up our beer this year. If you are having a new years eve party or a holiday get together or even just a party with friends than pick up a part pig. Your friends will thank you. -
Review from Crystal W.
Calgary, AB
12/4/2011
Considering how many reviews there are for this place, I feel like a big loser for not having been here prior to this afternoon to enjoy food and beverages. There were only two empty tables when I walked in, so clearly a Sunday afternoon doesn't slow them down.
I had my favorite, the WRaspberry Ale, which was brought out in an unexpectedly gigantic glass. Wow, they don't mess around here. I sampled a few starters, being the chips and three dips (I couldn't get enough of the chilled jalapeno cheddar dip or the brown beans), hummus & naan and the pretzel with slap you in the face dijon mustard. Also, something happy occurred while I was there as well because someone rang a big bell behind the bar and then before I knew it, the house was buying a round for everyone. Woo hoo! I then tried the Cherry Porter, which was quite delicious and thankfully in a much smaller glass because I thought I was going to explode. I had a very full belly at this point.
The servers were casual and friendly and it was a very comfortable atmosphere. It might be out of the way, but Wild Rose is worth the drive. -
Review from corey G.
10/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
"OK MAGGOTS!! I ORDER YOU TO DROP INTO THAT SEAT AND DRINK A BEER!!" screams Drill Seargent Beer-y McBeer-a-lot.
.... "ummm....ok," i reply.
"UMMM....OK, WHAT?!?"
.... "ok, sir?" i'm scared at this point.
I then drink my beers with a straight back, fresh crew cut, and military precision.
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Ok, it wasn't like that at all, but when I went to Wild Rose Brewery with my sister, Ari G., we were surprised to find this cool brewery in a military Quonset hut. I was prepared to drop and give the beer maiden 20 push-ups if I was so commanded....as long as a Wild Rose Sampler soon followed! The location definitely makes this brewery/pub unique!
It was a nice summer day. The roll-up door was rolled up, and we grabbed a table inside---although the patio seating outside beckoned. We liked it in here. The joint was busy, but chill. Loved the old B&W military photos. Also liked looking at all the foreign beer bottles displayed around the dining area (we liked looking for breweries we'd been to).
On to the beer---with names like "Alberta Crude Oatmeal Stout", "S.O.B.", & Wrasberry Ale, I knew I was in for a creative treat. I, of course, went with a sampler. My sister maid me look like a pansy and went with a tall cold 20 oz. pint. The beers were oh so tasty, and helped throw us into the festive spirit of our fellow Albertans. We were also lucky to meet Calgary Yelp Ambassador Wendy P here. I wish I tried her beer concoction: 1/2 Wrasberry Ale & 1/2 Velvet Fog (sounds scrumptious!).
For a beer sponge, I had a plate of pulled pork sliders. They were ok, nothing to Yelp about. They served their purpose and helped soak up the alcohols.
It was cool to find a cool brewery like this in Calgary. I'm a fan! -
Review from Wendy P.
Wild Rose Brewery, how do I love thee? I'd try to the count the ways, but I'm afraid I won't ever be able to stop. From your tap room to your tours to your staff who are so obviously passionate about your product, if I'm not heading out there for a pint, you can rest assured that there's some Wraspberry, Velvet Fog or Alberta Crude in my fridge to tide me over until my next visit.
Faves in your tap room:
Pink Velvet - it's half Wraspberry and half Velvet Fog.
The Best Wurst - how can you go wrong with a plate full of sausage, beans, sauerkraut and cabbage? I have a hard time finishing this one.
Meaty chili - wow! The first time I tried this I couldn't quite understand why there was a chili pepper on top... until I took my first bite. It's got some kick, and it's one of my faves.
What is the best occasion for Calgarians to visit your tap room? Why, every occasion! I've been here for birthday parties, group dinners, lunch with friends, meetups with yelpers, post frisbee drinks, brewery tours etc. It's amazing food, drink and atmosphere with better-than-reasonable pricing.
Heck, I've even taken a couple of your party pigs houseboating. They're fit just perfectly into those little fridges :). Whatever your magic sauce is, keep doing it! Cuz it's got me coming back for more.Listed in: Five Star Calgary Reviews, Good for Groups, Great date spots, A more intimate setting, Just a brew
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/30/2010
Bet you didn't know they do tours. Yep, that's right. Last Saturday, some friends and I gathered… Read more »
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Review from Lisa P.
11/6/2011
I've read such good things about this place so I was pretty excited to check it out last week. Unfortunately, I was a bit disappointed.
The place is tucked away on the old Curry Barricks. It's a bit of secret location. I thought I might need a secret password or knock to get in the door but nope, just pull the handle and you're in.
This place doesn't have much for ambiance. So if you're looking for something special, this isn't it. To be honest, it reminded me of the caberets we had back in the day in Saskatchewan. They were usually held in some boring community hall and had nothing but long tables and some uncomfortable wooden chairs. Wild Rose was pretty much the same thing. Not much here for interesting decor other than the big brewery thing behind the wall of glass.
The food was ok but nothing to write home about. The macaroni and cheese was ok but I have had better. The baked brie cheese in phyllo pastry was good. I had the Wraspberry beer and it was very tasty and that's about the only reason I would go back. I would certainly have this beer again and would also consider buying it in the store. Everyone at our table enjoyed their beer as well. I'm giving Wild Rose 3 stars because it's about the beer here. -
Review from Bryce A.
Calgary, AB
9/10/2011
I've introduced a number of friends - native Calgarians, recent imports AND out-of-towner's - who all agree that Wild Rose is an especially unique brew-pub and a "MUST-return" destination.
I call it a destination because... it's beyond out-of-the-way; it's practically deliberately hard-to-find. With the south entrance to Currie Barracks closed last night (the one on Richardson Way SW by Mount Royal University) we had to enter from the East/Crowchild side and tell the security guard at the gate we were going to Wild Rose for "just one pint". You see... unique! (Who else has tax-payer funded bouncers?)
Co-piloting my friend down poorly lit roads past military vehicles we squeezed into a jam-packed dirt parking-lot. A full & lively scene welcomed us on a Wednesday night! It spilled out through the open overhead door onto the large concrete patio which was also brim-full thanks to a rare & treasured warm September evening.
Fellow Yelper's - Point of Information here: the building is called "Quonset" (not a barn, hanger, or shed). Wiki-link: http://en.wikipedia.or...
The ex-Canadian-Air-Force Quonset gives Wild Rose a 1-of-a-kind atmosphere (look for the trouble-light chandelier) which keenly matches the sites, sounds & smells of the machinery of brewing. This somehow lulls your expectations in such a way that beer, food, and even the service have you saying, "Well, I didn't see that coming." It's the magic of Under-Promise; Over-Deliver that has me coming back again and again and taking the time to share the love.
In a city of a million people, many of which suffer from "Quadrant-itis", it is worth the drive to this SW brew-pub from any direction. And for those who are GPS-less or directionally impaired, the cab-drivers know the trail to Wild Rose well enough. Besides - your car couldn't be safer overnight than being parked in the middle of a dim but still-functioning military base swallowed whole and now slowly being assimilated into one of the oldest 'burbs in Calgary. -
Review from Sarah M.
Calgary, AB
10/20/2011
Ok, so I finally made it to Wild Rose for dinner. I've been meaning to go for some time based on the reviews. Maybe it was the food that I chose to order, but WRB was very good, but not great. The experience is different here, the space is wide open, and the crowd seemed to be an older bunch that most likely live in Garrison Woods. The staff was friendly enough, and service was pretty good, as was the food.
We ordered the pistachio crusted goat cheese, which is served with crostinis I thought were too crisp. My friend had the veggie chili for dinner, I had a bite and it was just ok, but I'm not a huge chili - especially veggie chili - person. I had the crab cakes and they were huge, but seemed rather heavy and I would have preferred it if they were crispier. Both the appetizer and the cakes were served on greens but they lacked any dressing/flavor, otherwise I would have eaten them. Of course, the beer was great.
I'm glad I tried this unique place out, but living downtown I would probably save the trip and go some place closer to home next time. When my beer enthusiast step-father comes to town again, I will definitely bring him here. -
Review from Danelle W.
Calgary, AB
10/1/2011 5 Check-ins Here
Wild Rose is one of those restaurants where I can keep coming back, time after time.
I'm not a big beer fan, but I do like Wild Rose's selections. The Wraspberry is my favourite but they're pretty good at recommending "mixes" that I might like as well.
The food is always excellent - I have yet to order a meal that I'm disappointed with. And, even not being a red meat eater, there's tons on the menu that I can eat, including a vegetarian chili (not many places offer that!)
The patio is awesome in the summer, although the restaurant can get pretty packed and it can be difficult to find space to sit.
Definitely a must try if you haven't been. I need to try a tour next! -
Review from Adrian B.
Calgary, AB
9/9/2011
While beer is not my adult beverage of choice, the quality and the taste of the beers from the Wild Rose is undeniable. Yesterday, I had an opportunity to visit the taproom for a farewell lunch for a colleague and got a chance to sample their food offerings. One thing you have to know is that their kitchen has no deep fryer so although the team aspires to do "pub food", they have done an effective job at replacing those fried stables like ribs and french fries with options like coleslaw, baked beans and salads. The prices for their appetizers and entres are very reasonable, considering the amount of food received. I ordered the pulled pork sliders with a side of curried coleslaw. The food was fresh, quickly prepared and most importantly delicious. I washed down those tasty sliders and slaw with a glass of their SOB (Special Old Bitters). Be warned, you will not leave hungry.
It would be really easy for the group at Wild Rose to not give two cents about their food offerings as their real competitive advantage is their beer but fortunately for consumers, that isn't the case. These guys care and it shows.
Highly recommended for beer sampling and tasty food while doing it.Listed in: The Best of Calgary IMHO
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Review from Twyla Y.
Calgary, AB
9/18/2011
How is it possible that it took me so long to finally go here?
BEER SAMPLERS - 8 little beers, all different brews! My favourite thing! BREWERS PLATTER - plate full of meat and cheese and pickles and bread and potato salad and roasted garlic! Also my favourite thing!
I love this place!
Super well priced, cozy, good service, and you can take a tour of the brewery, which we didn't do, but next time for sure! -
Review from Jeff O.
Calgary, AB
1/11/2012
Not only is the beer amazing, but the vibe here, and the staff are the most welcoming I have come across in this city. A true come as you are venue.
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Review from Tiffany N.
Calgary, AB
4/28/2011
I once stumbled in to this place on a frigid winter evening in Aught Seven, looking for directions to a Roller Derby tournament that was taking place nearby. They gave me the wrong directions, but I made a mental note to come back and try their brew (if I survived the swirling blizzard!).
Fast forward to 2011 and not only do I get to try their potions, I also get to see how they craft them! The environment is friendly and unassuming. Our tour host was awesome, really knew what he was taking about and didn't hesitate to say that on a night out with his wife he'd still order Wild Rose beer. I've been a longtime fan of their Wraspberry Ale, but drinking it straight from the source has now spoiled me for buying it anywhere else. You have to try it from WRB. Or plunk down 90 bones and fill up a Party Pig so you can pull yourself a pint straight from your own fridge. Is having your own keg excessive? Maybe. Am I filled to the brim with Wild Rose Propaganda? Definitely :D. *waves hands* You will not buy cheap beer anymore. Ooooooo.
Oh, and the food here is good too! Must come back another time to try out their veggie chili. This time I won't wait another 4+ years.Listed in: F, F, D, HK, Calgary 1Ups, Yelp Events
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Review from Arc P.
4/28/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Having called Calgary home for 4 years now, I've never been to the Wild Rose Brewery. Though I've always been a fan of their beer, WRB is one of those establishments I was secretly avoiding. The reason being everyone I know has had a great experience here and I was concerned that it wouldn't live up to the hype. I'm happy to report, its reputation is warranted.
We did take the tour and it was very educational. The host certainly seemed to know his stuff and indeed one does get a better appreciation and understanding of the process behind Wild Rose products. It also came with a half pint of beer and WR glass which was a nice keepsake. The tour cost $12 + tax and I think it was well worth it. If anything it was a neat way to kill 45 minutes.
I really enjoy the atmosphere. Though it's novel to see worldly beer bottles lining the tops of the walls acting almost as badges of brewing conquest and fun to watch the darts battles in the corner, I just feel at peace here especially after a long day. Friends getting together in a pub where one can actually have a conversation in a sunlit atmosphere, delicious yet reasonably priced food and challenging your taste buds to try a WR beer you've never tried before. What more could one ask for?Listed in: Value
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Review from Justin B.
11/12/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Food is excellent, but has nothing on the Alberta Crude - Oatmeal Stout, it's like heaven that comes by the pig!
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Review from Zain K.
4/28/2011
I've not been a fan of the typical microbrewery gastropub experience, wherein food quality and value often take a back seat to the beer and to the maintenance of a faux-casual urban chic vibe (a vibe generally reflected in menu pricing). WRB, however, is an exception to this in many ways.
First, the ambiance is fully unpretentious, This converted army barrack is about two-thirds brew plant and one-third taproom, and the latter is unassumingly adorned with beer bottles and related paraphernalia (the way a dorm room might be decorated, I suppose, though that comparison really doesn't do this place justice...).
I won't pretend to be a beer aficionado, but I've had four of the WRB brews (Wraspberry, Wred Wheat, Brown Ale, and Velvet Fog), and have enjoyed them all enough to appreciate the hype about this local brewery. That's pretty much all I can say about the beer itself, and I likewise can't say too much about the food (since I haven't had a full meal here yet), other than that the three appetizers we shared were far better than I'd expected them to be, that the menu appeared extensive and well thought out, and that this appears to be a popular place to dine.
For me, the kicker at WRB is the tour of the brew plant. I had done a few such tours prior to the one here, but I can say that, for whatever reason, this was the first time I fully grasped the brewing process in a way that left me with a greatly enhanced appreciation for what beer is and how it should be experienced.
(One interesting aspect about the tour - about which I feel ambivalent - was the way that our guide, though a series of rants, played out a battle between the humble, well-meaning typical microbrewery and the malevolent large-scale industrial beer manufacturing powers, accusing the latter of various forms of unsavory and deceptive manufacturing and marketing practices. While this was entertaining, and perhaps educational to a point, it left me curious to learn more and hear the other side of the story...) -
Review from Chris N.
12/21/2011
I enjoyed our visit to Wild Rose. The location is fun, beer is interesting and worth trying different kinds, and the food is a great fit for the types of beer that they brew. My favorites were the brown and IPA, but the porters are a nice change as well.
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Review from Sean C.
9/29/2011
The must-do stop in Calgary, Alberta. Draft beers brewed on the spot, lots of bbq lunch choices. The ribs are top-notch, but you really must go for the Brown Ale Meat Pies with beef, gravy, veggies. I haven't had meat pies in years because I was never a fan, but I am now because of "Wild Rose." I enjoyed the Wred Wheat Beer with a shade of burgundy tint, but I loved my second beer even more, the Velvet Fog -- I don't know how, but that's the perfect name for it. Smooth like velvet, has some kind of foggy, misty and sudsy finish that is just an incredible original. Last, I love the wide open factory feel that lets a lot of cool breeze in. Outdoor seating, too.
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Review from Sarah Louise F.
Calgary, AB
Updated - 9/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
I finally got around to actually staying in at Wild Rose, as opposed to popping by for a six pack when in the area.
Last night I ended up at Wild Rose for dinner with a pal around 7. It was bustling and friendly and warm, but not so busy that we couldn't find a table to sit, glad we went earlier on a Saturday night. Upon sitting down, I asked our server about the seasonal ale for the autumn, and she brought me over a taster of the Marzen. I ordered said brew immediately, and it came in a 20 oz mug with a handle. It felt majestic or medieval or something. But mostly just cozy. This Marzen was a delightful little lager. Copper in colour, crisp and clean, but at the same time warming and somehow toasty.
Additionally, I ordered the veggie chili, and subbed out the jalapeno cheddar corn bread (I've heard it's amazing, but alas, I don't want the vegan police up in my grill). Instead, our server brought me two nice slices of foccacia bread with the chili, which was wonderful. The chili was tasty, alllll kinds of beans, including green beens, which I liked because I am not a fan of just kidney beans. I would definitely order it again, but I noticed there are also other veggie friendly things on the menu which makes me happy, that it is not the only option. The menu prices were very reasonable, a pint of beer and my order of chili rang me in to about $15. My pal had some greens (as a general rule I don't eat most salads in restaurants because I make them better at home. Plus I hate how everyone thinks that is the only option for vegans), and the Potato, Cheddar, IPA soup which she claimed was delicious, and this is a picky eater/drinker who haaaates IPA, and comes to Wild Rose only for "the raspberry one."
Angelo already brought this up, but I adore how Wild Rose does not have deep dryers in house. I feel like this challenges the conception a lot of people may have about "pub food." I can tell their menu is very intentional, and pairs well with all of their microbrew offerings.
I will be back!Listed in: vegan friendly in calgary
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/29/2011
Oh, Wild Rose, my favourite local brewery. My friend and I stopped in last night intending to grab… Read more »
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Review from Dan D.
3/9/2011
It is impossible not to give Wild Rose Taproom 5 stars because their beer is so darn good.
... the fact that they serve food as well is just a bonus on top of those 5 stars.
I don't want to compare, but when I first tried a Wild Rose beer, I could not believe the flavour I had been missing out on (unlike some other Calgary breweries, which shall not be named).
But making a visit to the Brewery/Taproom is an experience in itself.
Set in (what seems to be) an airplane hanger, the bar of the taproom looks RIGHT into where the magic happens, so you can watch a Master Brewer hard at work while you sit and enjoy the delicious labour of his hands.
I have had the pulled pork sliders, the jalapeño Mac & Cheese, the curried coleslaw and the Oatmeal Stout brownie. All very good! Like I said, it is all just a "bonus" to go with your beer.
On our visit, Jessica and I had the pleasure of seeing them boiling (is this the right word for this?) the hops while we enjoyed our meal.
Aromas of what smelled like cut grass or green tea filled the space with it's rich "farmy" deliciousness.
I had seen breweries before, but this was the first time I had seen the brewing in full action. Quite exciting.
It is nice to be able to see first-hand how one of my favourite breweries (ever!) produces it's fine product. The fact that I can go any time, watch it happen and enjoy a tasty meal is priceless. -
Review from Peter A.
Ottawa, ON
12/20/2010
I wish this place was in range for a "quittin' time" beer. Seriously, the only complaint I have is that this place is tucked deeply into the former Currie Barracks. So no 1 am staggering home for me. Which is too bad, because the beer is amazing, like mind-blowing great, the staff is friendly, and the menu has the best pub food in Calgary. The best summer hang-out and an excellent place to take people from out of town.
Also, they could clean the patio a bit, but I say NO. This is Wild Rose country, we don't need no fancy wanna-be Irish pub patio. The concrete tables and mis-matched chairs suit me just fine, thanks. -
Review from Carrie P.
4/27/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I had the pleasure today of taking part in a brewery tour, and I must say I was extremely impressed! VERY impressed!
In November, I had a tour of another brewery outside of Calgary. and I will say that it did not have the same "heart" and "passion" about its product that I saw at the Wild Rose Brewery. Forgive me of not mentioning the name of the competitor tour. I'm not looking to bash the competition on the competitor's yelp page. :)
What is clear to me is that Wild Rose Brewery has a great product with a lot of heart. Many of the technical details were lost on me, but some of the details that did stand out are as follows:
1. They are socially responsible. Our tour guide explained how they have a relationship with a local farmer and they give their grain bi-products, still full of nutrients, to the farmers as feed, at no charge. Its a win- win. The product is still full of nutrients, so it is still useable and the responsible thing to do. The animals eat it and the farmers benefit from the donation. Also, it saves wild rose the cost and the additional process of disposing of this grain. Those types of win-wins make my heart sing.
2. Again, technical details are lost on me, but our tour guide was explaining the process of moving the beer from one big copper vat to another at different stages of brewing. What stood out for me, was that he explained that the hot water that is used to heat the beer in one vat, is transferred to the the other vat when completed to use again, because it takes less energy to keep hot water hot, than to heat cold water in the second process. One of our tour members asked if they did it to save money. The answer was no, because they pay a flat rate regardless, so the cost to Wild Rose Brewery is the same. In other words... they do it, because its the RIGHT thing to do. Again... tingles of happiness.
Due to time constraints this evening, I did not have a chance to sample the menu, but I certainly will be back, with friends to do so. Wendy P., fellow yelper, and our Community Manager for Yelp made a number of recommendations that I am looking forward to going back to try another time.
I`m a huge fan of lining up to support a company with so much heart. I look forward to going back. -
Review from Sarah C.
Calgary, AB
1/5/2011
My friends and I adore Wild Rose Brewery. We go to the brewery once a week to chat over great beer and great food. My favourite beers there are the WRaspberry and whatever their seasonal beer is - especially the cherry porter.
We've taken a brewery tour of the place and really enjoyed the experience. Their beer is so fresh and not made with hop extract but with real hops. Their WRaspberry beer is made with real raspberries as well which is why the flavour is so subtle.
The food there is also fresh, and delicious - the kind of food you want on a cold day. They offer beer pairings for the food as well which makes the dining experience even better.
We frequently fill up our keg pig as well for large or small social gatherings - they are a great size and keep the beer carbonated and tasty right until the keg pig is finished. -
Review from Erin S.
Calgary, AB
2/17/2011
Love me some Wild Rose Brewery! Local? Check! Good food? Check! Kick ass beer? Double Check!
I have been drinking Wild Rose brews for a long while now. I couldn't even tell you when I first discovered them, but I have been loving them for years. Special fondness for the Wraspberry, Velvet Fog & recently the Cherry Porter (& am sad that I had missed it all these years.)
Their brewery location serves some fantastic food. The chips & three dips is a steal of a deal. Also rather impressed with their chili. Throw in a few pints of beer and you have a pleasant afternoon on your hands. Especially if you manage to score a patio spot on a hot day.
If it weren't for the fact that it is so difficult to get a spot when it's busy & that I have found service to be hit or miss, this would be a solid 5 stars. -
Review from Philippe G.
Calgary, AB
Truly my local pub and brewery.
I was surprised by the line and capacity issues at happy hour Friday, but aside from this, I have had nothing but great beer and fantastic service at the WR. -
Review from Devon B.
Calgary, AB
The only aspect of that Wildrose Brewery that is less than stellar is the location. It isn't exaclty easy to get to if you don't want to drive, and when i go to a brewery/restaurant I like to have a few pops. So there is the negative.
The positive is pretty much everything else. Located in a building that looks like it was once a hangar or something similar, it is pretty spacious inside with a lot of stainless steel and a clear view of the brewing area.
With seasonal beer along with their classic line-up, you're likely to find a beer you will enjoy, but keep in mind Wildrose tends not to brew too many lagers and light beers.
The food....to be honest I can't remember, but I've been told I liked it and I hear rave reviews from many friends about the chili.
If you ever need a drinking buddy to accompany you to Wildrose, let me know, I will bend my schedule.Listed in: Best Happy Hour
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Review from Chelsea K.
Calgary, AB
8/12/2010 1 Check-in Here
The Wild Rose Brewery is true hidden treasure of Calgary (although, maybe not so hidden, since it's usually pretty packed). There is a selection of beer for everyone, and the staff are very knowledgeable about the product.
I wouldn't typically expect great food from a brewery, so this place is a wonderful surprise. I was here last night and ordered a salad with the Salmon Gravlax as an add-on. The salad was huge, and very fresh (not your typical pathetic limp iceberg thing), and the portion of salmon added on was HUGE. I am on day two of eating leftover gravlax from that meal, and, as delicious as it is, eating salmon gravlax for dinner, breakfast lunch is actually not a good idea. Thank god for breathmints.
Typically I am cynical about places that receive 5-star reviews across the board from other yelpers, but this place deserves it. All in all, the Wild Rose Brewery is great, and worth the trip even if you aren't going to the Farmer's Market. -
Review from Danger D.
Calgary, AB
11/2/2010
From the other reviews I've seen it looks like I'm preaching to the choir but Wild Rose really is something special. The product (that is, Wild Rose beer) is easily a favourite pour and stacks up well against the best beers I've ever drunk (and, for what it's worth, that's saying something). Try: the 'Velvet Fog' - a cloudy wheat ale that is sure to be a top seller; 'Brown' - my own personal 'go to' pint, dark brown ale with lots of everything you expect in a brown ale... if you drink Big Rock Traditional (another Calgary iconic best brew), something like Sam Adams Dark or Newcastle, you'll appreciate WR Brown; or 'IPA' - a very fine version of the classic Indian Pale Ale that just ooozes with hoppy goodness. Those lucky enough to get to Wild Rose can also sample from their seasonal tap of specialty seasonal pints that aren't widely circulated.
The tap room itself is a great pub room with a small outside patio that's well used in the Summer. Food is well above average and is sans deep fryer... lots of fresh... lots of sandwiches, soups and salads... Meat Pies from the next door Farmer's Market; all are fine choices and well above the pale. The room itself is on the smallish side (even with a recent reno to expand floor/bar space there's maybe only room for 50) and would be an EXCELLENT choice for something like an office party or birthday.
All together it's really hard to find a negative other than that it's not downtown... maybe that's a good thing though. -
Review from Spencer B.
Calgary, AB
7/14/2010
The best microbrewery in Calgary and for sure one of the tops in Canada (yes, even better than that *other* Calgary brewery).
It's great to see Wild Rose embracing their air force hangar location (down to their newest ale AF23 named after you guessed it) as well as all their beers.
WR specializes in ales, do not go here expecting anything approaching Canadian (but really, you wouldn't be here if that was the case). My personal favs are the Alberta Crude Oatmeal Stout (think Guinness) and Wild Rose Brown (think Newcastle). However, there are beers for every palette.
In addition to the beers, there's the food which is more often than not, made with the beer. Plenty of meaty and vegetarian selections for all diets.
Last, there's the swag, party pigs (a great idea for a BBQ or house party) or even a keg to take home.
We're lucky to have such a great brewery that has such helpful, knowledgeable staff. For example, the last time I was here the server helped a grouchy old couple who didn't read the menu and only wanted a "light beer" to share make their decision and they (and all of us sitting by them) were happier for it. -
Review from Sergey S.
1/9/2011
This place is fun!
It looks like a barn and almost feels as one, but service is very friendly and useful, portions are huge, menu is interesting (I mean - not common), and obviously there was plenty of beer to taste.
I was brought there by some local friends and totally enjoyed the experience. Nice place, worth returning, just don't expect it to be some sort of "restaurant" or such - it is a brewery, and a darned good one! :-) -
Review from lizette r.
6/20/2011
i LOVED the wild rose brewery! i loved that it was in the middle of nowhere in a building that looks like an old garage. i loved their stout and i thought their meaty chili was kick ass.
the wild rose was just what we were looking for when we got into town. highly recommended! -
Review from Damian P.
Calgary, AB
9/9/2010
Love love love this place!!
Not only is the beer fantastic the food is too! There is a beer for everyone, I especially love tasting the feature brews and seasonal brews. Super friendly staff, fun environment, a very cool place to chill. I have yet to be on a tour but I LOVE that you can see the beer masters at work well you enjoy their labor. Just fantastic!!
Cheers!
http://www.bristolclea... -
Review from Katie C.
Calgary, AB
1/10/2010
My absolute, 100% favourite thing to do within city limits in the summer is to take a spin around the farmer's market and then settle down in front of the Wild Rose Brewery for the afternoon. Great beer, warm sun, and lovely location in Currie Barracks... Yeah, I'm pretty sure there is nothing better. Any food can be gotten in the market, and there is a good crowd that likes to hang out in front.
Of course, the sheer quality of the beer helps. The seasonal brews tend to be interesting and nuanced, but their normal brews: Wraspberry, Velvet Fog, and Wred Wheat Ale are probably the most prolific (and all of them delicious). Wild Rose reflects so, so well on Canadian beer making techniques, proving once and for all that we are one of the best beer countries in the world.
I think it should be a requirement for all Calgarians to at least visit the brewery, but there is nothing like a cold, expertly crafted microbrew to throw a summer day to the next level. Go Calgary for sweet, sweet microbreweries.
