We had the opportunity to meet some of the team behind the scenes at Borough Bar + Grill for a sneak peek ahead of their opening. The team gave us some early details ranging from what to expect on their menu, to their inspiration for opening this unique experience in the heart of U/D.
Rohit Sharma – GM, Daniel Pizarro – Corporate Chef, Kayla Carlson – Restaurant Manager, Levi Sarkozi – Head Bartender.
What will make Borough stand out in Calgary’s busy restaurant scene?
“Location was key for us, and University District offers such variety as a destination for Calgarians. A couple can come and go to a movie, grab dinner with us and then take an evening stroll along the pathways. A family can come in for dinner, then pick up their groceries for the rest of the week from Save-On-Foods down the street. Our patio is a huge draw, and with the owner’s vision of wanting to open up a gathering space after a couple of challenging years, you’ll find the design inspiration behind Borough is based on gathering together and family style seating. We want our guests to feel the comfort of being around friends and family again. The patio overlooking Central Commons Park will be open nine months of the year, which provides a destination for patio goers, a summer staple for Calgarians. “ – Brittany, Murrieta’s Marketing Manager
Chef Daniel Pizarro, what’s your story and what brought you here?
“I started in Oil & Gas right after high school, and quickly became accustomed to that lifestyle. It took what you would call a ‘cliche tragedy’ in my family to make me realize that I needed to make a career change and move closer to home. I spent a few years in an office job setting, but learned very early on that it didn’t bring any joy or fulfillment. A few friends in my office loved to cook and itsparked the idea of starting the hobby of cooking myself. Most of my family are from Chile, and the love of food and dining is what brought everyone together. After leaving my corporate career, I enrolled at SAIT, and completed my Red Seal certification. I worked in the fine dining industry in Calgary for a few years, and then decided to move to France, where I attended culinary school to learn French traditions. I worked with Chef Daniel Rose, who now owns a Michelin star restaurant in New York called Le Coucou.
I have a passion for produce-based fine dining, bringing the flavours of vegetables and fruit, so you’ll see that come through on the menu at Borough. I have worked in the industry for the past few years in our city, experiencing different restaurant cultures and learning from some of the best chefs. I am a family man now, with young kids and I am looking forward to being a part of a new restaurant that will provide the opportunity to be creative, and offer a work-life balance. “ – Daniel, Head Chef
What can we expect from the menu? What kind of unique items will be available?
“Our whole concept is bringing back family style dining. We want our guests to feel the excitement of sharing food with the people we love again. You’ll see a variety of shared plates on the menu (serves four to six people) as well as main course options highlighting different cultures and ethnicities. We want the whole community and surrounding area to feel like there is something for anyone when they come in. We have a vertical rotisserie in our kitchen, which allows us to enhance items such as our chicken, pork rack, porter house lambs and bone-in rib. This unique way of cooking our meat will bring out the flavours you can only get by the slow cooking technique of a rotisserie.” – Daniel, Head Chef
Can you tell us about the Patisserie that will be open?
“We are excited to be opening a Patisserie within our restaurant, where you can grab and go lunch items, a wide range of pastries and coffee. A take out menu will be available, and everything we are serving is freshly baked in-house. “ – Brittany Edge, Murrieta’s Marketing Manager
Any details on the cocktail menu you can share with us?
“I will be creating Instagram-worthy drinks, with a passion for going back to the roots of mixology. You’ll see methods that have been lost come back to life, while using ingredients and flavours you aren’t used to seeing in Calgary. We will have a comprehensive wine list with options from all over the world and a variety of price ranges.” – Levi Smith, Head Bartender
What else can you share with us?
“We are thrilled to be a part of this community: University District is such an out of the ordinary hub of the city. We also want to share that we are raising money for the Alberta Children’s Hospital next door, by donating all net proceeds for every bottle of sparkling water sold in-house. We will start with a soft launch of the restaurant in July, followed by a grand opening where we’ll celebrate with the local community.” – Kayla Carlson, Restaurant Manager
Borough will be open Monday-Wednesday, 11:00 am – 11:00 pm, Thursday & Friday, 11:00 am – 1:00 am, Saturday 10:00 am – 1:00 am and Sunday, 10:00 am to 11:00 pm. They also will be offering a brunch menu to enjoy on Saturday and Sunday each week.
As an upcoming retailer joining the U/D Retail Main Street, we sat down with Hannah, the Clinical Director at the Hearing Loss Clinic, which offers award-winning hearing health care. She gave us the 101 on hearing loss, and preventative measures that clients of all ages can implement on a daily basis. Their doors are anticipated to open in June with a wide range of services available including Comprehensive Hearing Tests. Hearing Aid Fittings, Maintenance and Repair, and Custom Hearing Protection.
As a new patient, what should they expect when they have their first appointment?
“New patients can expect to have an informative and positive experience when they walk through our doors. Our goal is to educate our clients about their hearing and have them take a proactive approach to their hearing health. We begin each appointment with an intake questionnaire to get to know our clients and their concerns, and then proceed with a comprehensive hearing assessment. The assessment is followed up with counseling regarding the results, preventative measures they should be taking, and any appropriate referrals or treatment plans that may be necessary.”
Why is it important to start doing regular hearing check-ups at a young age? What age do you suggest to start?
“Definitely. All babies are screened for hearing loss at birth, but ideally, kids will have another hearing test when entering kindergarten to catch any potential progressive hearing losses or hearing issues related to chronic ear infections. This sets them up well for school knowing that they’re not missing out on speech at school or straining to hear, both of which can lead to behavioural concerns. If results are normal, we suggest retesting every two to three years as a preventative measure.”
What services do you provide, and are any services covered by insurance?
“At The Hearing Loss Clinic, we strive to be hearing experts and, as such, have expanded our services to offer a wider scope than most clinics. We perform comprehensive hearing evaluations (including pediatric and industrial testing), wax removal, concussion testing, ototoxic monitoring, and middle ear monitoring. We also provide ENT referrals, vestibular assessment referrals, hearing aid fittings and maintenance, custom hearing protection (including in-ear monitors for musicians), home visits, and educational sessions. We deal with many third-party insurance companies to provide funding for hearing aids, including AADL, WCB, DVA, NIHB, and private insurance companies. We want to make hearing health accessible to everyone!”
What are your top 3 tips for preventative care for your hearing?
What are your top 3 tips for hearing health?
The Hearing Loss Clinic has one simple mission: make a positive difference in the lives of our clients. They currently have eight locations and are incredibly proud of their team, the work they’re doing in the community and most importantly, how they help empower people to hear and live better every day.
University District is gearing up for a summer of outdoor events and fun for all ages! Check out our summer schedule for the latest to learn more about what is happening in our NW community.
Farm stand with YYC Growers + Distributors
Visitors are invited to stop by the U/D Discovery Centre for a weekly pop-up farm stand offering fresh local produce and more! YYCGrowers + Distributors works with farmers to provide delicious, nutrient-rich, chemical-free food. Mark your calendars!
Back by popular demand and joining the farm stand in June and July is our Village Ice Cream pop-up. Stop by for a complimentary Little Villager single serving of Village Ice Cream while supplies last. Donations are welcomed and will support local charity I Can for Kids that helps feed children and youth impacted by hunger all year long.
The pop-up farm stand is free to attend and takes place every Friday from May 6 to October 7 from 3 – 6 PM at 4410 University Ave NW, Calgary, AB T2L 2K7.
U/D Night Market
U/D is partnering with Marketspot to bring Calgarians night markets all summer long from May to September. Stop by University District’s Central Plaza (located beside Village Ice Cream) to enjoy a variety of local vendors, live music, and entertainment .
Vendors will include local artisans that specialize in clothing, preserves, and household products, jewelry and more. Check the website to see who is going to be at each market!
The U/D Night Market takes place on the last Wednesday of the month from May to September from 5 – 9 PM in the University District Central Plaza beside Village Ice Cream and Cineplex VIP Cinemas.
Tails & Treasures
Grab your furry friend and stop by the annual Tails and Treasures on June 19. We are excited for the return of the event this year. Completely dog-friendly, this free outdoor event will include entertainment, music, activities, and more. An afternoon of fun in the park for the whole family! An added bonus, the event is on Father’s Day so what better way to spend some quality time with Dad!
This year, Tails & Treasures will feature the SuperDogs. Not only can visitors watch the pros in action, but you will also have the chance to show off your dogs best trick or costume.
Tails and Treasures will take place on June 19, 2022 from 1 -5 PM at the North Pond and Northwest Commons Park.
Spring and summer is the perfect time to explore our city’s park spaces and gather with friends and family for some fun activities and games. Whether you’re hoping to explore a new pastime, or discovera new park space to get competitive with your friends, taking the time to press “play” has never been easier.
There are three things to think about before heading to a park for some fun in the sun: The activity you’d like to play, what the park space can accommodate, and what kind of equipment is available or if you may need to bring it along. We’ll share some of the best park spaces in NW Calgary for games, sports and activities to help you make the most of summer.
Activity Type
If you are anything like us, you know just how hard it is to pick an activity. Thankfully, Northwest Calgary is home to dozens of spaces that accommodate everything from basketball (St. Andrew’s Outdoor Courts) to horseshoes (Edworthy Park).
If you are feeling overwhelmed with choices, consider who you are playing with and what you want to accomplish. Some of our favourite outdoor park activities include:
Are you more of a solo sport, team sport or exercise person? Consider disc golf, biking, or roller skating at some of the N.W corner of the city’s most desirable parks below.
Where to Go
Choosing your activity type will help narrow down the best park to accommodate your plans.
Baker Park Disc Golf Course, Located in Baker Park at 9333 Scenic Bow Road NW
This 18-hole course is considered one of the best in the city – attracting afficienatos from across Calgary. The stone tee pads and variety of short and long style holes makes the Baker Park disc golf course the busiest in Canada and the 9th busiest course in the world!
Perfect for: Those with a competitive side looking for a group activity!
Northwest Commons Park, Located in University District at Thirsk St NW, Calgary, AB T3B 6A8
Built in 2018, Northwest Commons Park is a Playcore National Demonstration site for inclusive play. The park was built with Playcore’s 7 Principles for inclusive design and includes accessible flooring, a ramp system, an accessible double swing and spinner, tactile and musical features, a saucer swing, a sway fun rocker and a roller slide that everyone can enjoy. The playground also received the 2018 City of Calgary Advisory Award for Universal Design. The park includes a ping pong table, oversized chess board and green space so you can make it an afternoon of outdoor fun!
Perfect for: Those looking for a variety of activities in one location. From the playground, oversized chess, ping pong with space for spike ball, soccer and tossing a football around with friends and family.
Riley Park, Located at 800 12 St. N.W.
Home to one of Calgary’s only cricket pitches and a summer splash pad and wading pool, Riley Park is a must-see park during the summer months. A perfect place to cool off on warmer days. Complete with wide open green spaces, a playground, concession and public restrooms, it would be easy to lose track of time. Riley Park is also home to the Senator Patrick Burns Memorial Rock Garden.
Perfect for: Families and groups looking to fill a full day. With everything from cricket, soccer, swimming, playing catch and taking in the rays in the rock garden.
University District Walking Paths, Located in University District at 4410 University Ave NW, Calgary, AB T2L 2K7
If you are looking for an area with great paths for biking, longboarding and rollerskating, the paths of University District are your ultimate destination. U/D was designed as a cycling and walking community. With more than 12 km of interconnected pathways, you will be able to keep yourself busy for hours. The walkway will take you through the North and South Pond Parks, giving you plenty of opportunities to take a break and enjoy the elevated and variety of green spaces.
Perfect for: Individuals who want to get their heart pumping. Walking, running, longboarding, skateboarding, biking and rollerskating. The options abound.
Pro tip: Stop by Village Ice Cream or Monogram Coffee for a midday pick-me-up to keep your energy up during your day!
West Confederation Park, Located at 2020 Chicoutimi Dr. N.W.
Also known as North Capitol Hill Park, West Confederation Park is famous for its massive collection of sports fields. Whether you are a varsity pro or it’s your first time trying your hand at a new game, West Confederation Park is where you will want to spend your summer months. It is also home to a splash pad in the summer.
Perfect for: Team sports. Space for everything from tennis, baseball, softball, dodgeball, flag football, field hockey and soccer. Bring out your competitive side!
Urban Dog Park, Located in University District at the corner of Shaganappi Trail and 32 Ave NW.
If you are someone that likes to include your fur baby on your park days, you will want to check off the Urban Dog Park on your summer to-do list. Located in the heart of U/D, the Urban Dog Park is completely contained and will give you peace of mind while your dog plays in the off-leash area with separate spaces for large and small dogs.
Perfect for: Low key outdoor time. From playing catch with your dog to relaxing by the pond.
What to bring
Did you know that the University of Calgary has a complete outdoor sports equipment rental program? They have everything from hiking and biking gear to river, lake, and ocean accessories.
You also don’t want to forget about the essentials! Be sure to stock up on sunscreen, water, sunglasses and snacks to make your park day in N.W. Calgary is one to remember.
While Calgarians find many ways to exercise, the most common movement is walking. We walk to commute, for exercise and for mental health. While we might not give it much thought, walking can provide a wide range of physical and mental benefits.
Walking is a great way to improve or maintain your overall health. Just 30 minutes every day can increase cardiovascular fitness, reduce excess body fat, strengthen bones and boost muscle power and endurance. It can result in better cognition and sleep and reduce your risk of developing certain health conditions such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Unlike some other forms of exercise, walking is free, low-impact and can be performed at your own pace. It also doesn’t require any special equipment.
According to a study by the British Journal of Sports Medicine, people who do just 10 to 59 minutes of moderate exercise (like brisk walking) per week have proven to live longer and healthier lives compared to those who are more inactive. Another study done in 2015 by the American Journal of Preventive Medicine shows that walking frequently can significantly decrease symptoms of stress, such as anxiety, fatigue, and lack of motivation.
With three types of walking, leisure, intermediate and advanced, there are options for all fitness levels. Leisure walking involves a speed of about 5km/hour, which is the average speed that a person walks in the absence of significant external factors. Intermediate-level walkers can take on anything from 6 to 6.5 km/hour, and advanced-level walking is done at a speed of 7km/hour or more.
The speed and distance in which you choose to walk is based on your ability, comfort and fitness level, but Gardner recommends that once you get into the habit of walking you should aim to alter your pace, which can lead to more health benefits. For example, walking at a faster pace for 30-second intervals then slowing down for another 30 seconds can increase your heart rate, which can help burn more calories and boost cardiovascular health.
In University District, a good route to take for leisure walking is around the north pond, which is just under one acre of open green space and paths that connect to the community. A neighbourhood favourite, this popular route also features an urban dog park, amphitheatre and fountain, making it a great spot for a casual walking retreat and time with four-legged friends.
For those looking for more of a challenge, an advanced walker can get their laps in on the green spine pathway, a linear pathway that connects University District from North to South and includes paths around the south pond. The Bow River pathway that links to Edworthy Park is a longer walk nearby, with beautiful scenery if you want to continue the adventure.
No matter what your walking style is, you can get your steps in on a variety of pathways and parks in University District and experience the many benefits that walking can bring. With 12km of interconnected pathways and 40 acres of greenspaces in U/D you might just find a new favourite walking spot!
It’s that bittersweet time of year when Calgarians can start looking forward to warmer weather. At U/D we know we can’t wait to get outside and take advantage of spring. After a dry and cold winter, our homes will need a little bit of TLC to run efficiently in the spring and summer.
Brendan Graham at Rümi, knows that Alberta winters can be hard on our homes due to fluctuating temperatures which cause periods of freeze and thaw, damaging winds, precipitation and more. Further, since we spend more time indoors in the winter, we might miss some wear and tear that occurs on the exterior from winter weather. In the spring, it’s time to take a fresh look and get your home in tip-top shape. Brendan shares some things to start looking at now.
Check your plumbing
Brendan recommends opening the cabinets under kitchen and bathroom sinks while running the tap. You should never see any signs of water under your sink. Catching water damage early can save homeowners from having to do serious repairs in the future for themselves or their neighbours.
Inspect the outside of your apartment/townhome
Whether you live on the ground floor or the third story – step outside and look at the exterior of your unit or home. You want to ensure there’s no missing siding, signs of animals nesting, eaves can be a favourite spot, or water damage.
Maintain any mechanical equipment
Brendan says, “If located in your unit this transitional season is a perfect time to tune up your furnace and check that your AC is ready for the season. It’s also a great time to vacuum the coils in your refrigerator. By doing this once or twice a year, your fridge will continue to run efficiently, and you’ll save on your energy bills, too.”
Clean your dryer vent
Did you know that dryer vents are the leading cause of house fires in North America? Brendan urges all homeowners and apartment dwellers to clean their dryer vents regularly. Once a month, take out your lint trap and vacuum out in and around the slot, this is the best way to get all that extra lint that has fallen behind. Not only does it help your appliance run more efficiently, but it also makes your home safer for everyone.
Get a clear view by cleaning your windows
Cleaning your windows will enhance your home happiness by being able to see outside and enjoy the trees coming back to life! If you’re in an apartment check in with your condo board to see when exteriors might be done.
TIP: For a cost efficient window cleaner you’ll need 2 cups of water, ½ teaspoon of dawn dish detergent, ¼ cup of distilled Vinegar and a spray bottle. Mix all together in the bottle and you’ll have clean & streak free windows in no time.
Not quite sure where to start? Rumi’s Ask a Home Inspector service is currently free for all Albertans. Take a home inspector on a virtual tour of your home and get answers on everything from plumbing to cleaning.
Meet the neighbours! Spring is in full bloom at University District and exciting new retailers have Calgarians enjoying the many benefits of northwest Calgary’s burgeoning community.
University District has welcomed four new retailers to University Avenue in the last few months. With more openings on the horizon, it has never been a better time to wander the streets and check out who is new in our community!
Now Open
Village Ice Cream – This Calgary favourite fits right at home in U/D. Now that spring has sprung, it is the perfect time to grab a cone, or a pint, and check-out the changes in the neighbourhood. With a seasonal rotation of flavours each month, there is always something new to try. Our favourite? How about ‘Everything Mark Loves’ a seasonal favourite and tribute to a dear friend and one of the very first Villagers. This flavour includes crunchy pecan pralines in a caramel base with chunks of decadent Nutella ganache running through it. Back by popular demand, it will soon be everything you love in your ice cream craving! Watch for their patio opening soon!
Canadian Brewhouse – Between their legendary beer and cocktail menu and their laid back atmosphere, Canadian Brewhouse is a welcome addition to U/D. We are already dreaming about the patio drinks, on two impressive patios, that will be enjoyed at U/D’s neighbourhood pub. Among their most popular cocktails are their Same Team Soda and Full Send Cider, which are two unique and original cocktails that are a crowd pleaser for a lunch or dinner out with friends.
Cobs Bread – There is nothing quite like a fresh loaf of bread just steps away from your home. Be sure to check out Cobs’ Easter treats such as their classic and chocolate hot cross buns and follow them on social media to see the latest creations coming out of their ovens. Mmmmm….you can just smell the goodness walking down University Avenue.
Plantlife Cannabis – The long-awaited dispensary can be found next to Cobs bread. Calgary has a lot of Cannabis stores to choose from, but Plantlife is unique for customers who are new to the Cannabis world. They offer free consultations and information sessions so you can learn what is best for you and your needs. You can also receive 15% off when you become part of the Plantlife family, to learn more stop in for a visit.
Coming Soon
The new changes in U/D do not stop there! This spring and summer will be busy with brand new openings almost every month and more new announcements on the horizon.
The Banquet Dive Bar – A first in Calgary and opening in April, the Banquet Dive Bar will be home to a bowling alley, pool hall, patio and so much more. They have over 30 beers on tap, but it’s the games that make this space unique & fun for the whole family. Kids are welcome until 8:00 pm daily, and their wide variety of food options make it a great way to spend a family afternoon or evening.
The Alley – It is time for tea this April in U/D. The Alley is Calgary’s newest tea spot sure to satisfy all of your sweet cravings this spring. They believe quality is what sets them apart.
From choosing the type of tea leaves, the hand-picking process and roasting with other ingredients, each cup of tea has its own determined aroma and taste. They have a variety of milk choices & can customise any drink for you. To keep up to date on their newest menu items & specials, be sure to follow them on Instagram.
The Hearing Loss Clinic – Conveniently located near both the Foothills Medical Centre and Alberta Children’s Hospital, The Hearing Loss Clinic is expected to make their mark in U/D starting in June. A great addition to our community, they are committed to your ear health. They offer a variety of services, including comprehensive hearing tests, custom hearing protection, and special assessments for kids and adults. Not only do they offer award winning hearing health care, they are compassionate and believe in forward-thinking through their whole practice. You can book your appointment online here.
Borough Bar + Grill – The Boroughs of New York are calling and you must come! This highly-anticipated addition to the Murrieta’s Hospitality family will call U/D home this summer. The unique design of their space includes a stunning patio on central commons park,a large main dining room, a lounge, and a chef’s table for larger parties. The space will also include a walk-in patisserie specialising in sandwiches and coffee. When you walk in, you’ll feel the New York experience through their distinctive menu & design elements. For more information and opening date, be sure to check back to the University District website.
Staples – Opening this June, you’ll discover the latest products to inspire how you work and learn. Their newest location just east of Cineplex VIP Cinemas includes a public co-working space. Great if you need a seperate space or don’t have one in your home. For the latest updates & grand opening date be sure to check out our Facebook page!
The Alt Hotel – Calgary’s second Alt Hotel has resumed construction. We are thrilled to welcome this exciting addition from the Le Germain team to our retail main street. They take pride in their inspiring designs, unique to each room and their little extras make for a refined stay each time. They have flexible check-out times, nespresso coffee machines, free wi-fi & they are pet friendly. The Alt Hotel is expected to open in summer 2023. Be sure to follow them on Instagram for their latest news!
We are also gearing up for a busy summer of activities and events. Some new additions are the U/D Night Markets and YYC Growers + Distributors Community Farm Stand both starting in May. Our annual Trails and Treasures event returns and kicks off a summer of outdoor fun on June 19. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to get the latest information on market pop-ups, farm stands and other events happening in U/D.
Who said Easter egg hunts are only for the kids? Make it an Easter to remember by crafting with your kids, using our Easter egg hunt ideas and sprucing up your space with the latest in spring home decor.
Our favourite Kids Crafts
Some of the best time spent with kids is bringing out their creative side through crafts. It not only develops fine motor skills, but also encourages critical thinking for all ages. Our favourite place to stock up on the ‘Pinterest Worthy’ craft is your local Dollarama or Michaels! Right now, easter stock is available and includes colouring books, DIY egg decorating & sticker sheets to create their own piece of art. We found these Easter themed ceramic figurines, and used our own bright colour paints to design them!
Parent tip: Make sure to lay out your painting craft on a scrap piece of paper to avoid paint on your table!
Unique Easter Egg Hunt Ideas
The Easter Egg Hunt is a timeless tradition. Change up your routine with these unique & fresh ideas:
Think outside the shell – While traditionally Easter eggs are filled with chocolate goodies, you can surprise your loved one with $5 gift cards to their favourite retailers such as Monogram Coffee, Village Ice Cream or Five Guys.
Turn your easter egg hunt into a clue-driven scavenger hunt in your neighbourhood. Family members young and old will appreciate this DIY twist for eggs hidden in those hard to reach areas! Make the riddles as complex as you like depending on the ages of your crew. It’s a great way to get out and connect with neighbours!
Fun for the grownups
Make it a hoppy Easter – Are your kids all grown up or do you want to do something fun for your partner? Swap out chocolate eggs for craft beers from Market Wines.
The latest in Spring Decor
The longer days, warmer temperatures and sunshine of spring can help motivate you to re-evaluate your home spaces and freshen things up as we wake up from winter slumbers.
Bright pops of colour like these glassware options are a great way to say hello to spring. Mixing and matching colours and styles creates an eye-catching table display, so consider shopping at local thrift stores such as WINS for sets or one-of-a-kind finds.
(Photo source: Good Housekeeping)
Patterns are making a comeback!
A resurgence of patterns in interior decorating will be strong in 2022, such as in accent pieces like pillows, cushions and linens, as well as upholstery and wallpaper. Patterns are a simple way to add a pop to any room, whether it be a new lamp shade, an accent chair or a new piece of art. A great place to browse and shop for unique pieces is Home Sense at Market Mall.
To put some hop into your step this spring, consider a change in tradition, take time to freshen up your space and add a splash of pattern and colour to your home.
Looking to get out of the house this Easter? Reserve a table at OEB Breakfast Co., a recent addition to our Retail Main Street and a perfect place for an Easter brunch!