We’ve longed for the idea of a local pub, but somewhere that actually served quality drinks and food, and at last it happened! I couldn’t have been more excited when last summer a new brewery popped up in our neighbourhood: Elite Brewing and Cidery.
Elite has a well established theme that permeates through all that they do. Based around the military, the decor is in that classy style, boards giving facts and historical events, and the drinks named accordingly. The thing though that I love most about their theme is that they regularly give back to the local Veteran community. They continuously donate portions of their revenues to Veterans Affairs, as well as organizing food drives and cash donations to the Veterans Food Bank of Calgary. What an amazing way to give back and support others!
I have frequented here numerous times and really do enjoy this place for a number of reasons. Their food is fantastic! Everyday of the week they have specials, ranging from a Sunday dinner feature to wing and taco nights. But my ultimate favourite that they serve is their grilled cheese. It’s next level and better than any homemade version! They also have numerous drink options, serving of course their many types of ciders and beers. There’s something for everyone. The employees who work there are friendly and are great at recognizing familiar faces. They always make you feel welcome. Alongside the bar, there are stacks of games like Jenga and trivia which can add to the experience or entertain your kids. Finally, they have a great patio that is dog friendly so you can even bring your pups along with you.
Visiting the taproom recently, we were lucky enough to be given a tour by an employee. I was provided with much more information about this place that made me appreciate them and their business even more. In the back, they house one large tank for cider and four smaller tanks for beer. From there, they add or modify ingredients as they see fit for flavour and consistency. They have their system set up to rotate about every month so you can try a new cider, IPA, etc… They don’t have a standard “four beers on tap” plan, but instead constantly have something new coming up. The taps themselves are filled with only their brews, unless of course they run out, which is fairly typical, and then they’re filled with guest taps. Due to the small micro-brewery nature, Elite does not can or provide kegs to other brew houses, but instead you can only try their ciders or beers there.
When Elite first opened, I visited them primarily for convenience and proximity. As the past year has gone by, although I still do enjoy them for their location, going there has become more of a choice. I love their dedication to providing quality food, drinks, and service, and appreciate the community support they always provide.
Photos by Valerie Lopez
Be sure to check out Elite’s social media page for their current events!
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