Calgary's Hidden Gems, Discovering Kensington's Best-Kept Secrets

Calgary, often recognized for its dynamic communities, has a charming neighbourhood that's been admired for decades. Kensington, situated in the heart of the city, is a haven for those in search of an urban lifestyle infused with a strong local, community vibe. With over 240 shops, services, and restaurants, Kensington is The Village in the heart of Calgary.

The Kenten, a stunning new condo complex on the waterfront at 10^th and Memorial, encapsulates this spirit, offering an exceptional living experience in Kensington and access all it has to offer.

Nightlife in Kensington

After dinner, why not take a short stroll to one of Kensington’s thriving bars? Check out Winebar Kensington, perfect for an intimate evening with wine, craft beer, and charcuterie options. If you're a cocktail enthusiast, Top Notch is a must-visit, and the Kensington Pub maintains the charming appeal of a traditional English tavern.

If you’re looking for something a little different, Container Bar is Calgary's only alleyway patio. It offers an eclectic drink menu in an exciting outdoor atmosphere where dogs are welcome and summer never seems to end.

The Shops in Kensington

Shopping in Kensington is well known to be some of the best in Calgary. The neighbourhood offers a unique blend of trendy and artisan stores, as well as robust essentials. Brooklyn Clothing Company, Kismet Clothing, and Manana Imports provide fashionable options and unique gifts for the avid shopper.

Hot Wax Records caters to retro music enthusiasts and for those interested in natural wellness, Pranic Forest Artisan Apothecary is a treasure trove of locally made bath bombs, skincare, and more. And don't forget to visit Pages, the long-time haven for bookworms with its diverse range of titles, outdoor browsing, and relaxing atmosphere. This list is just a small taste of what’s available to explore in Kensington when it comes to boutique shopping.

Enrich Your Life with Kensington's Art and Entertainment

Beyond food and retail, The Kenten offers residents a vibrant artistic and entertainment scene. You can almost always find live music hosted throughout neighbourhood venues, from lively jazz to local singer-songwriters to enthusiastic world music.

You can also take a self-led stroll of community art with the Kensington Art Walk Map, a public showcase of local and international artwork. The Plaza Theatre, a staple in the community, offers a range of films from the latest releases to revered classics. If board games are more your speed, Hexagon Board Game Cafe provides a cozy venue for friendly competition or date nights.

Culinary Delights Around the Corner

The Kenten boasts proximity to some of Kensington’s finest eateries. Just steps away, Freehouse Local Beer & Food Hall offers an impressive selection of local brews paired with foodie-esque dishes. Savour the melt-in-your-mouth Tonkatsu at Kim's Katsu or hit up The Mash for deliciously modern, upcycled pizza in a fun environment.

For those with a sweet tooth or caffeine craving, The Kenten is conveniently nestled amongst some of Kensington's most popular cafés and bakeries. If you know someone with a sweet tooth, you definitely need to grab them a cupcake from Crave. Aggüdo Coffee offers a cozy spot for a morning brew and Oolong Tea House, with its vast selection of specialty teas, adds to the truly remarkable café scene in Kensington.