YYC District Guide: Everything to check out in Kensington Village
Kensington is a cosily quaint, ultra-hip neighbourhood located right off of the Sunnyside LRT station on the northern outskirts of YYC’s downtown core.
It combines the sophisticated allure of local boutiques and trendsetting culinary mainstays with the simple pleasure of people-watching from sidewalk patios and casual hangout spots to gather at with family and friends.
It’s no wonder why artists and creatives from around the city congregate here. The Village is bursting with energy and filled with loads of unmistakable character and inspiration, and is home to some of the landmarks rooted in the beginnings of our city.
See also
- Calgary Cheap Eats: Where to eat in Kensington
- Best patios in Kensington
- 30 purr-fect photos from Calgary's Regal Cat Café
Saturated with trendy cafes, European inspired winebars, and vintage icons, Kensington Village is a must-see for those looking for a staycation in the city or simply an afternoon of exploring in your own city. It’s composed of two main bustling roadways connected in a loop, making it accessible either on foot or by bike.
We have rounded up a guide of the very best of what Kensington has to offer to get you started on your journey through one of Calgary’s most vibrant and iconic neighbourhoods.
To Dine
View this post on Instagram
From a bustling Texas-inspired BBQ joint to cozy bowls of perfectly proportioned ramen to all-day breakfast; Kensington certainly knows what’s up when it comes to Canadian comfort food. Whether you’re in search for a healthy, locally sourced smoothie bowl, a slice of authentic Neapolitan za, or an exquisite fine dining experience, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the array of culinary delights that you can find around almost any corner.
Don’t forget! On your way in or out of the neighbourhood check out Chicken on the Way, an iconic mainstay that has been satisfying Calgarians fried chicken cravings since the early ’60s.
Hayden Block Smoke & Whisky
Reds Diner
Midtown Kitchen
Raw Eatery + Market
Pulcinella
Ikemen Ramen Bar
Oxbow
Chicken on The Way
To Drink
View this post on Instagram
Whether you’re in the market for a craft beer or a stiff cocktail, you’ve come to the right spot. A cautionary tip, once you’ve had your obligatory pre-drink bulldog from Julio’s it’s an “anything goes kind of night.” Perhaps a bold glass of wine in a romantically lit basement or a pint of beer served on the side of old-English delicacy is more your style? Paired with some foot-tapping live music, Kensington has no shortage of late-night hotspots that reflect the tight-knit community atmosphere that pulses throughout the neighbourhood and into the city.
Kensington Wine Bar
Oak Tree Tavern
Kensington Pub
Julios Barrio
Brasserie Kensington
Prohibition Freehouse
To Indulge
View this post on Instagram
Calgarians love Kensington for many reasons, but if you’re a coffee fiend with a sweet tooth you’ll likely have an even greater appreciation for this area of the city. Known for its European-inspired cafes that serve flaky pastries, rich cupcakes, and warm pies, there is a sugar rush available on almost every corner of this neighbourhood. You can also find some of the best artisan bread in the city, baked fresh daily of course – just follow the mouth-watering aroma.
Vendome Café
Higher Ground
Crave Cupcakes
Sidewalk Citizen
Pie Junkie
The Roasterie
Oolong Tea House
To Play
View this post on Instagram
One main thing is certain: There is a mandate of fun that makes this neighbourhood one of the least pretentious spots to hang out in the city. On a Friday night, grab some your family for a games night or enjoy a Sunday afternoon escape room challenge with a group of friends. There is nowhere else that you can sip on espresso as you cuddle with a rescue kittens and then head across the street to catch a flick at one of Calgary’s oldest theatres.
Hexagon Café
The Plaza Theatre
Trapped Escape Room
Regal Cat Café
To Shop
View this post on Instagram
The premium shopping available in Kensington makes it simple to treat yourself from head to toe. Renowned for it’s effortless, trend-setting ambience, you’ll find many boutiques lining 10thAvenue that feature YYC designers, hip styles, and fashion-forward trends. You’ll also find many shops that offer locally made artisan products, all-natural skincare solutions, and new + used books for those who are looking to dive into a thrilling novel. The real question is “What can’t you find here in the village?”
Meraki Supply Co.
Purr Clothing
Pranic Forest
Skoah Skin Care
Pages Books
See also
Follow Channels and Categories