Must-Try Happy Hours and Specials in University District

Looking to make the most of your summer without breaking the bank? We’ve got you covered as we dive into the best happy hours and must-try specials in U/D.

Borough Bar + Grill

Borough Bar + Grill brings a refined yet welcoming atmosphere to U/D, offering a menu focused on contemporary comfort food with a slightly elevated twist. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing cocktail or a satisfying small plate, Borough Bar + Grill delivers both flavour and value during happy hour. Their stylish patio is a top pick for outdoor dining and after-work drinks. 

Happy Hour: Monday to Friday, 2 to 5 pm and 9 pm-close

Specials include: Food and drink deals starting at $6 

Be on the lookout for their daily specials, including Margarita Mondays and Wine Wednesdays.

With its combination of elevated dishes and a relaxed patio experience, Borough Bar + Grill is one of the best places in U/D to enjoy the summer season. 

The Canadian Brewhouse

Known for its lively energy, sports-friendly atmosphere and pub-inspired menu, The Canadian Brewhouse is a go-to destination for casual fun. The U/D location features a spacious patio overlooking Central Commons Park, a great place to soak up the summer sun with a cold beer or cocktail in hand. It’s a great place to meet up with friends, catch a game, or enjoy an easy-going evening in the neighbourhood.

Daily Specials: Every day from 4 pm – Close
Specials include: Each day features different specials! Some of our favourites include Wing-Tastic Wednesdays, Pasta & Uncorked Thursdays, and Steak & Sangria Saturdays but there’s so much more. Check them out here.

From pub classics and daily drink deals to ‘Wing Wednesdays’ and a relaxed patio atmosphere, The Canadian Brewhouse has all the ingredients for a terrific happy hour hangout.

CHARCUT

A celebrated name in Calgary’s dining scene, CHARCUT  is all about bold flavours, locally sourced ingredients and rustic, urban cuisine. Their U/D location brings the same attention to detail and quality, featuring a selection of charcuterie, house-made pasta, and some of the finest cuts of meat in the city. While CHARCUT is a great pick for a special dinner, its happy hour is an underrated gem.

Happy Hour: Tuesday – Friday  |  2 pm – 5 pm
Specials include: 50% off wine, beer, cocktails, zero-proof and Salumeria menus

Stop by during happy hour for a relaxed and budget-friendly introduction to one of U/D’s most acclaimed restaurants.

The Banquet

The Banquet brings a fresh take on premium dive bar energy to Retail Main Street, offering a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of personality. Featuring duckpin bowling lanes, arcade games and a spacious patio, it’s more than just a place to eat. With daily specials on both food and drinks, The Banquet is the ideal summer escape for casual fun, good company, and great vibes.

Happy Hour: 4 pm to close
Specials include: Explore daily specials here. 

From 69¢ wings and Smash Tacos to Trash Can Nachos and Caesar Saturdays, there’s no shortage of great deals.

Enjoy fun and games like mini putt, cornhole, Jenga, ping pong and more, along with daily food and drink specials all summer long at The Banquet.

Native Tongues Taqueria

If you’re craving bold Mexican flavours and a dynamic dining experience, Native Tongues Taqueria delivers on both fronts. Known for its Tacos al Carbon, mezcal-forward cocktails and authentic atmosphere, this spot is ideal for everything from casual lunches to late-night bites. Their happy hour offers a great opportunity to try different items while staying on budget.

Happy Hour: Monday – Friday 2 pm – 4 pm | Sunday – Thursday 9 pm – close
Specials include: 50% off classic margaritas & draft beer | 25% off all Tacos de Guisado 

Whether you’re sipping a signature margarita or enjoying an order of tacos with friends, Native Tongues Taqueria is a must-visit this summer! Guests can also order takeout directly from the street side window on 39th Avenue and enjoy their food at the small tables set up nearby.

UNA pizza + wine is a place where you can linger with a glass of wine, share a few dishes and enjoy a low-key night out in the heart of the community.

UNA pizza + wine

UNA pizza + wine is a Calgary staple that has brought its cozy charm and consistently excellent food to University District. This popular spot features California-style pizzas, an impressive wine list, and pastas in a relaxed and stylish environment. Their happy hour provides great value and is a fantastic way to sample some of their most popular menu items.

Happy Hour: Daily from 2 – 5 pm | 9 pm – close
Specials include: 

• Select bottles of wine 50% off

• Select cocktails 50% off

• 5oz glasses of UNA house wine $6

• Glasses of sangria $6

• UNA house lager cans $4.25

• Select non-alcoholic beverages 50% off

• Half-price food deals

Student Discounts

Just because school is out doesn’t mean the deals are! Students can still take advantage of exclusive offers from participating retailers and restaurants throughout University District. Whether it’s a quick coffee, a discounted meal or savings on everyday essentials, being a student in U/D comes with plenty of perks.

These discounts are ideal for students looking to stretch their budget while still enjoying everything U/D has to offer.

Simply show a valid student ID to enjoy discounts at select locations. Keep an eye out for the U/D Student Discount branding on storefront windows and at checkout counters for participating retailers. Explore the full list of student deals here.

From inviting patios and creative happy hour menus to exclusive student deals and summer specials, University District is the perfect place to enjoy great food and drinks without stretching your budget. Ready to discover your new favourite spot? Explore all of U/D’s dining options here.