ormerly just a short form for that arterial road in urban city centres, BLVD now takes on a greater meaning among the context of clubbers that frequent Calgary’s after-dark party scene. This supper club is the latest entry into the game of the eating/drinking/dancing trifecta, and locals are welcoming the addition.

Entering BLVD transports you to a time when supper clubs were pure glam and dining with real-life Tony Montana-types was a regular occurrence (sans the white stuff). Back in the day, the upper crust of the club culture exuded a notion of privilege and self-importance by just walking through the doors. Aptly, this new venue captures that same presence by delivering a venue that’s sleek and sexy with the right amount of class. Kudos to the designers on that one.

BLVD’s intimate setting makes a great spot for any occasion (well, maybe not baby showers). Whether it’s an intimate table for two nestled into a micro suede booth, a chance to explore some outrageous tapas on the sizable patio or a Friday night celebration behind the red velvet wall in the VIP room, BLVD is equipped to cater to Calgary’s dining needs.

Arriving slightly famished, it was natural to want to try everything on the menu. Fortunately my party posse was equally starving, which made it an easy decision to order an array of tapas for all to share. On the table first was a creamy Hummus served with ground lamb and toasted foccacio bread for dipping ($12.00). Large mouthwatering Caramel Prawns arrived next dressed in a beautiful sticky caramel sauce and gone in the blink of an eye ($20.00). The Tenderloin Medallions quickly became the table favorite; melt in your mouth tenderloin served atop a perfectly toasted crustini (20.00) is a great way to start any meal off right. A close second was the Golden Beet, Fennel and Pistachio salad tossed in a divine mint vinegar dressing ($12.00). After a quick perusal of the wine and cocktail menu, we decided there was nothing better than a bottle of Lusco Albarino ($59.00) straight from their well-stocked wine cellar to wash everything down.

The tapas portion sizes were perfect and left everyone well fed and thoroughly impressed by the quality of food produced by the kitchen. Although we took the less expensive route by playing sharesies, those that want to celebrate a long week at work with a killer entrée can indulge in a variety of mains starting at $20.00, and work their way up the ladder from there.