Before the end of July, another popular restaurant in Calgary’s beltline will be closing its doors. This time, however, the closure is only temporary.
Craft Beer Market launched its flagship Calgary location in 2011 and has been spreading its love for local food and craft beer throughout Canada ever since. While it would likely be easy for Craft to simply move on from Calgary and continue its successful Canadian sprawl, the city has a special significance to Craft and as such they remain optimistic about its future.
“From day one, Craft has been a Calgary-based concept. We wholeheartedly believe in this city and want to be part of energizing its future,” says Craft founder PJ L’Heureux. “As Calgarians, now is not the time to sit and wait. We can talk about making changes, or we can be entrepreneurial and go out and do them. As a city, we have a long road ahead, but we are passionate about this city and making a difference.”
The first step Craft is taking toward that change is a two-month renovation focused on enhancing the social and experiential aspect of Craft. In addition to some unnamed elements that Craft say are completely new to Calgary, the restaurant will be adding a 300-person rooftop patio featuring Craft’s full draft beer selection of more than 100 taps.
Craft’s commitment to its community has been evident since its inception. The Craft team has volunteered more than 3,000 hours and have donated more than $100,000 to support local initiatives. Additionally, the upcoming renovations are expected to create over 100 jobs within the restaurant, with more than 30 per cent being full-time positions.
“We have a dedicated customer base that love our offering, and we don’t plan on changing that, but we are adding a number of unique features and experiences that will make Craft not only a great spot for brunch, lunch and dinner, but also a great nightlife and social destination,” adds L’Heureux. “We’re keeping several of the elements a surprise for the re-opening, but I can say that we’re really excited to give Calgarians a new atmosphere paired with the Craft elements our guests have supported and loved for years.”
Craft Beer Market plans to reopen its doors at the end of September and expects to unveil its rooftop patio in the spring of 2020.
