Kensington is by far my favourite place to hang out in Calgary. With stores like Hot Wax and Mañana, I could spend days there without a second thought. But above all, what keeps me coming back are the coffee shops.
The Higher Ground is one of my personal favourites. It boasts a 100% organic and fair-trade coffee menu, and a long-standing track record of community involvement. In September they hosted “Blank Canvas”, collaborating with ACAD artists to provide an exhibition space for over 50 students, hosted an all-ages show featuring Bob Quaschnick of the Dudes as part of Sled Island 2009, and have a monthly artist spotlight. The “All the Best Music” series brings Calgarians free performances from local up & coming artists on the last Thursday of every month. Playing next is Noel Johnson on the 28th. I know I’ll be attending for a welcome reprise from diploma-writing.
Most recently this cozy cafe has introduced Vegan Thursdays.
They’ve teamed up with Anahata Foods, a local independent business, to provide a full 3-course meal every Thursday between 5 and 7pm. If you’ve got some free time tonight, check it out. But call ahead – these meals are receiving such great reviews that they now require a reservation to attend.
The Higher Ground fuses concert venue, art space, restaurant, coffee shop, and even bar, meanwhile maintaining an all-ages friendly reputation. For more information head over to their Facebook page which is updated constantly with upcoming events and seasonal drink specials.
