Banff Ave Brewing Co.

I had looked into places to eat in Banff beforehand, and we decided that night would be perfect to head down to the Banff Ave Brewing Co. It was a little late to hike down, so we parked in the large parking lot on Buffalo Street, where you can park for free for three hours, and longer in the late evening. It was a short walk to the brewery from there.

After seating ourselves, we perused the menu but spotted a waitress carrying a sampler of beer and then decided on that. The two of us shared the six six-ounce beer sampler, trying all of the Banff Ave premium hops and malts. The brewery boasts everything is made with pure mountain water and ingredients. All were excellent; my favourite was the Reverend Rundle Stout, and Derek’s was the Lower Bankhead Black Pilsner.

For dinner, we started with the Classic Poutine, which we found later was completely unnecessary as our dinners would have been good enough. I had the Lower Bankhead Braised Brats; a dish with sausage, mashed potatoes, and sautéed red cabbage (I must find a recipe for this). Derek tried the Rustic Elk Meatloaf, which also came with mashed potatoes and veggies. We both thoroughly enjoyed these hearty dishes, and took leftovers. Everything on the menu was typical Canadian bar food – only better.

I definitely enjoyed hanging out in the rustic atmosphere that had many industrial touches. They have nice bar style seating overlooking Banff Ave for those coming to town in the warm summer months. Most of the people in the bar were wearing plaid so we felt quite at home. The bar has gluten-free and vegetarian options on the menu which was nice to see. The company, as well as Jasper Brewing Co, and the newest location Wood Buffalo Brewing Co in Fort McMurray, all operate under Bear Hill Brewing Co.

Banff Ave Brewing Co. gets two thumbs up from me; the food was excellent and the ambiance fit well within this Canadian mountain town.

Also you can click on the pictures to check out Tweed Telegraph, where they talk about the Banff weddings, and other things, they photograph while living in Banff!