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| - In the world of cooking, eating and all that envelopes the appreciation of good food, there are those buzz words and terms that I can't stand. "Foodie" is one of those words. Another one is "gastro-pub", and though there are a lot of these so called establishments popping up recently, I really don't see why a pub that makes solid food should be given any special classification. Let's go to Libertine!
As a beer drinker, I was impressed by the craft beer menu. With all the great local choices from Calgary and beyond, it was hard to make a choice. This is where the beer paddle comes in - a handy 4 beer sampler, 24oz in total, to satisfy my curiosity. Problem solved.
The food selections are some of the standard fare you would find at a pub, like burgers and sandwiches, with a little bit of original items that add interest and variety to the whole menu. Take, for instance, the fish fries. Whole smelts battered and deep fried, served with housemade potato chips. The smelts are tasty, and are a nice mix of male and female - if you're familiar with smelts, the females are a special treat because they are chock full of tasty roe. Delicious.
The pretzels are soft and beautifully cooked. They glisten with that wonderful sheen and go well with the tasty beer mustard dip. We did see the charcuterie board pass by a couple times as we were dining, and it was very full and hearty, with generous selections of meats and cheese with fresh bread.
Service is good and attentive. I found the staff to be very knowledgable in the food and drink selections and quick to offer honest suggestions when there were questions to be asked about the menu. Call Libertine a gastro-pub if you want to. I enjoyed the food and beer, and I will definitely return.
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