Who doesn’t love local breweries, here are my top picks, in no particular order. Get to these before they become too popular, deservedly so!
- “Annex Ale Project – The Hipster Haven”
Annex Ale Project is still under the radar, but for how long? Their small-batch brews, like their Milkshake IPA, are a hidden gem among beer nerds. Plus, their cozy space is perfect for when you don’t want to deal with crowds. Get there before it’s everyone’s go-to hangout. - “Cabin Brewing – The Instagram Darling in Waiting”
It won’t be long before the stylish interiors and crafty beer lineup at Cabin Brewing are flooded with influencers snapping pics of their hazy IPAs (probably too late!). Head over now while you can still grab a seat without a selfie stick getting in the way. - “Dandy Brewing – The ‘Too Cool for School’ Choice”
Dandy Brewing is the OG of cool Calgary breweries, known for its offbeat, experimental beers (their oyster stout is legendary). It still flies under the radar for some, but the clock is ticking before every beer snob in town starts claiming it as their favorite. - “Zero Issue – The Nerdy Secret”
For comic book and sci-fi fans, Zero Issue is a dream come true, with brews like ‘Cryostasis’ and ‘Innsmouth’ tapping into the geek culture. But when word gets out, don’t be surprised if it’s taken over by the mainstream. Visit now and nerd out while it’s still a bit niche. - “88 Brewing – The Retro Throwback”
88 Brewing, with its vibrant 80s nostalgia vibe and beers like ‘Duotang,’ is still just cool enough to be unknown by most. But you know the second their throwback branding blows up, it’ll be full of people pretending they’ve always loved neon pink. Make sure you wear your 80’s gear! - “Wild Rose Brewery – The Classic that Still Feels Like a Secret”
Wild Rose has been around for a while, but somehow it hasn’t hit that over-saturation point. Maybe it’s because Calgarians still think of it as their brewery. Hit up the Taproom before the tourist buses start showing up. I’m here probably every week, it’s my “local” brewery! Ask me what my favourites are! - “Tool Shed Brewing – The Fun Choice That’s Flying Under the Radar”
Tool Shed’s fun branding and quirky brews, like ‘People Skills,’ have been gaining fans, but there’s still time to enjoy the space while it’s mostly locals. Once the word spreads, Tool Shed could become as packed as their cleverly named cans. Plus the owners aer frikken awesome people!! - “Banded Peak – The Adventurer’s Brewery”
It’s known for its mountain-themed brews and being a favorite of hikers and outdoorsy types. Once every Calgarian with an Instagram discovers it, Banded Peak will likely be overrun by wannabe adventurers. Pro Tip: Their pilsner makes an excellent hiking companion! - “Last Best Brewing – The One That’s Right on the Edge of Blowing Up”
Last Best Brewing sits on the cusp of mainstream fame. Their patio is still a mostly well-kept secret, and the beer selection has yet to be ruined by the masses. But don’t wait too long, the crowd is coming. The location is also perfect for making it your stop over before, or after dinner in the Beltline! - “Ol’ Beautiful Brewing – The Hidden Gem of Inglewood”
Before a tragic fire, it was tucked away in Inglewood, I’m sure they’ll be back before we know it. It’s got everything going for it—the vibe, the beer, the branding. It’s just a matter of time before it’s back up and running, and all of their beers are available at local liquor stores, so stock up with cans, and get ready to check them out when they open up a new tap room soon!