Certain things doesn't change, unfortunately - one of them is Barley Mill.
Five years ago it was a rather worn-out, uninspiring pub only good for a corporate drinking event - and recently I had a chance to take a second look, finding the place exactly the same.
Certain traditions, though, are worth breaking. How about replacing these floors, looking like they physically couldn't be cleaned anymore. Or at least these eternally rustic pieces of furniture?
I mean, it's obvious that Barley Mill enjoys a prime location in one of the main downtown pedestrian areas. It almost feels like it's abusing it, though - knowing all too well that there will always be clients.
Food, drinks and service... well... ordinary Canadian pub stuff. Once again - good enough to fill bowls of tacos for a corporate party, but that's it.
I won't recommend visiting Barley Mill from tourist perspective for a romantic brunch or dinner... oh wait, no! In fact, this is an exact model of how Calgary's downtown "cultural district" and its "attractions" look like. Which is, unfortunately, nothing to be proud of.