Restaurant Review – The Belfry Gastro House
A New Pub in Downtown Calgary Offering Delectable Dishes and Drinks
Sep 9, 2009
In downtown Calgary a large section of 8th Avenue has been deemed ‘Stephen Avenue’ and has become a walking destination for the central crowds. The lively neighbourhood is packed with eateries, bars and towering skyscrapers. This is where foodies will find The Belfry Gastro House, a short distance beyond Stephen Ave at #102 630 8th Ave SW.
A Gastronomic Adventure in Calgary
The food selection at The Belfry is a contemporary take on classic pub foods like the steak sandwich and personal size pizzas. The chefs manage to take the fare up a notch from what a hungry guest would expect from a pub where the menu is more booze than food to dishes that a foodie would be satisfied to find at a restaurant.
The well-priced menu includes choices such as: a bison or lamb burger, pulled pork sandwich and a Gruyere smothered cheese steak served with a side for around $15. In fact much of the menu falls between 12 and 15 dollars. The dessert selections are by far the most creative items on the menu including a trio of smores. A full dinner for 4 including drinks, appetizer, entrees and desserts can be had for about $130.
A pub wouldn’t be a pub without a varied selection of alcoholic beverages and The Belfry has quite a list. With 15 or more beers (depending on the seasonal specialties available), even more scotch, a vast variety of wines including port and champagne and a list of blended drinks and martinis the thirsty population will be sated.
The Belfry Offers a Traditional Atmosphere
The Belfry’s interior feels old and established with modern touches in the furniture and accessories. Dark woods and low lighting make the atmosphere comfortable and relaxed. Stained glass accents and a heavy bar are reminiscent of an old English pub. With a portion of the front wall open to the street the sounds of vehicle and pedestrian traffic are a reminder that The Belfry is located in the center the bustling city of Calgary while still managing to seem like a European escape.
Live music entertains a relaxed crowd near the front of the space while quiet tables and a fireplace provide a more intimate setting towards the back of the establishment. For those willing to try their luck there are even VLTs tucked against the rear wall.
The wait staff at The Belfry are warm and attentive and service is accommodating. The overall experience of an evening at the pub is an easy-going, good time.
The Belfry Gastro House is open to catch the downtown lunch rush starting at 11am and stays open for late night guests until 1am (2am on Friday and Saturday). For more information phone (403) 457-2700.
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