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Bottlescrew Bill’s has done a thriving business for 23 years and has won numerous awards. Yet this quirky, welcoming establishment remains somewhat underrated.
It is still run by its original owner, ex Calgary Sun and Calgary Herald wine and spirits writer Stuart Allen. The pub has always had an adventurous and evolving selection of beers and certainly the largest bottle variety in the city. This was a little harder to do back in 1985 as the Alberta Liquor Board, for a lack of a better term, sucked. However, with his writing background, Stuart utilized the special orders selection of the liquor board to constantly bring in beers that were exclusive to his pub. On a funny note, in 1985, this was the first place in Alberta to serve Corona. Presently, with Bottlescrew’s monstrous selection, you will easily find brews much better than Corona, even with the lime.
Walking distance from the city’s core, it’s really three pubs in one, plus it features a stellar patio for those seeking to enjoy endless summer evenings. The first two rooms have an authentic British freehouse feel with numerous beers on tap, a long wooden bar and the charm of large leather chairs next to the pub’s fireplace. The furthest room from the bar has a rec-room feel to it, with dart boards, a pool table and walls full of beer signs. The televisions at this pub are not obtrusive as they are at some bars, but if sports are your thing, Bottlescrew Bill’s offers it all. Well, almost. I miss the comedy tracks that used to play in the washrooms.
The pub shares its kitchen with its more upscale brother, Buzzards Restaurant. As a result, Bottlescrew Bill’s offers top-notch pub fare. One of my favourite dishes is the bacon-wrapped stuffed meat loaf. It’s delicious meat wrapped in delicious meat. Buzzard’s menu draws on Stuart’s sommelier skills, offering wine and beer pairings for each menu item. Many restaurants offer wine pairing suggestions, but rarely beer. It’s nice to see this effort. A meal at Buzzard’s is recommended.
During the first week of March, Bottlescrew Bill’s holds a small beer festival that ranks as one of Calgary’s best. The pub also spurs interest in its extensive beer list by offering an around-the-world-in-80-beers passport system. As you successfully circumnavigate the globe, you receive progressive awards. Once you’ve consumed all 80 beers, your name will be engraved on a prominently displayed brass plaque.
Stampede is a perfect time to rediscover Bottlescrew Bill’s with the kickoff of the 15th annual Testicle Festival, which, true to its name, offers a chance to sample the famous “Prairie oyster” prepared in a variety of ways. Have a beer, have a ball; it’s all part of an evening at Bottlescrew Bill’s.
Bottlescrew Bill’s Pub is located at 140 10th Ave. S.W. — phone 403 263 7900.
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