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| - I'm not entirely sure I've come to terms with a multi-level brew pub existing in Calgary yet. I've been, I've enjoyed food and I've enjoyed beers - many, many beers. What a grand eve it was. Thinking back to the Melrose days, my oh my, Calgary, how far we've come.
I'm calling it now - I think Trolley 5 has what it takes to become THE spot in Calgary. With two levels of south facing patios and walls that open the full distance, Trolley 5 will mix up a group beer hall hangout session with some sunshine and 17th Ave people watching on the nice days, and in winter will be a warm and cozy brew pub the will still let in the sunshine from the few hours of daylight we'll have.
If you feel like getting your beer nerd on, downstairs is where you need to be. It's quieter so pull of a seat at the bar - their basement bartenders (maybe all the bartenders, can't confirm) really know their stuff!
Being the hot day that it was, I fell in love with their First Crush White IPA which they say "like your first crush, this beer is unforgettable." Pretty true, I'd say - but what they forget to mention is that enough of these will definitely aid in you forgetting everything else. I mean, I know I ate here twice throughout the evening. Pretty sure I went with the Cobb Salad for lunch and stayed through until a Kentucky burger (buttermilk fried chicken, back bacon, pepper jack, avocado) for dinner. I liked them both. I wish I could give you a more detailed review on this portion of the evening, but First Crush says otherwise.
I went on opening day and managed to snag a free tour. They're typically $15, but come with a flight and a pint... so basically if you're committed to drinking $15 worth of beer you get a free tour. It's definitely worth it to get to know the brewery and hear their stories on the beer. Craft beer is exactly that - a craft, and they're happy to share it with you. Their craft and their beer.
The Growler train is a tonne of fun to watch going around. Plus, growler fills are only $12. I'll be making a bicycle trip for some takeaway soon!
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