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Velvet at The Grand, Calgary |
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Ellen Jakobsmeier
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Velvet is a sumptuous, rich fabric that automatically signals imagery of the velvet-upholstered seats at the theatre. Coincidentally, this resto is located in the lobby of the Grand Theatre, serving both lunch and dinner to the arty attendees for a classy meal before the matinée or evening’s entertainment commences. The multi-level lounge atmosphere has plenty of tiny tables for two with comfy velvet chairs (surprise!) and mini candle lit tables.
Lighting is generally low but the bar contrasts the rest of the environment with one massive strip of white light, guiding patrons like a beacon towards the booze. The historical architecture of the space mixed with modern furnishings – black leather stools at the bar and suede upholstered booths meets exposed brick and open concept dining. This is a snazzy place for not only the cultured Calgarian, but also any city dweller looking for a hot spot to grab a delicious dinner and a drink.
-E.J.
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AT A GLANCE
Velvet at The Grand
608 - 1st Street South West, Calgary, AB
403-244-8400
Contemporary
Scarboro
Venue:
Restaurant, Fine Dining
Hours:
Mon. to Fri.: 11:00am - 2:00pm Tue. to Sat.: 5:00pm - 11:00pm
Price Range:
$$$ (Within Reach)
Payment:
Master Card, Visa, American Express
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THE BUZZ
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IN THE AREA
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5 Reader Reviews | Great little restaurant. After eating there perhaps a dozen times, I can say that the food is consistently good, prices are average, and portions are perfect (this is not bucket of chicken and basket of fries type dining). Menu selection is good, but not extensive. I've tried most of it, so I hope they shake up the menu soon.
The tables are probably not ammenable to groups much over 6 people, maybe 8. It's true that it's better to be there on a busier, theatre night.
1. Bruce's Review :: September 24, 2008 Bruce's Rating: 4 Stars |
The food was really delicious but very expensive. Portions were small and my other half was left feeling still hungry after spending over $35 on his entrée. But the taste was superb and the crème brulees for dessert were heaven. The space does not feel like your usual Calgary restaurant, it feels more like New York or even Berlin – very cosmopolitan. I’ve been to Velvet a couple of times, and it’s much better when it is busy. It can feel a little cold when there aren’t enough people there to warm it up. It’s the most fun on nights when Theatre Junction has one of their (always weird and wonderful) productions running. It fills up with characters of all kinds! It’s an excellent new addition to downtown Calgary!
And the bathrooms...you just have to see for yourself.
2. Anonymous's Review :: October 06, 2007 |
The food was really delicious but very expensive. Portions were small and my other half was left feeling still hungry after spending over $35 on his entrée. But the taste was superb and the crème brulees for dessert were heaven. The space does not feel like your usual Calgary restaurant, it feels more like New York or even Berlin – very cosmopolitan. I’ve been to Velvet a couple of times, and it’s much better when it is busy. It can feel a little cold when there aren’t enough people there to warm it up. It’s the most fun on nights when Theatre Junction has one of their (always weird and wonderful) productions running. It fills up with characters of all kinds! It’s an excellent new addition to downtown Calgary!
And the bathrooms...you just have to see for yourself.
3. Jen's Review :: October 05, 2007 Jen's Rating: 4 Stars |
Cool Room, Great Food, Good All Around
4. Anonymous's Review :: March 28, 2007 |
Cool Room, Great Food, Good All Around
5. Lynn's Review :: March 28, 2007 Lynn's Rating: 4 Stars |
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608 - 1st Street South West, Calgary, AB
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