In addition to retail therapy, this neighbourhood also offers residents expansive views of downtown and the Rocky Mountains, a car-free commute to the core, thanks to the West LRT line, amenities including a library and the Westside Recreation Centre and a connection to the city’s military past with the well-preserved Battalion Park monument, the large stone numbers on Signal Hill’s slope.
Perched along the western edge of the city, Signal Hill is a relatively new neighbourhood; the land was annexed in 1956, but development didn’t begin until 1986. The shopping areas off Richmond Road didn’t arrive until the early 1990s. The community is made up of primarily single-family homes, many with lots of windows to take in the stellar views.
Signal Hill Real Estate: By the Numbers
Average Days on Market (as of Nov. 2013)
21
Average Listing Price (as of Nov. 2013)
$740,000
Median Tax Assessment Value
$567,000
Number of Residents
13,795
Distance to Downtown
11km (20 minute drive)
Where to Eat
This elegant steak and seafood spot in West Market Square boasts fireplaces framed with river stone, floor-to-ceiling windows, skylights and an open kitchen. Meat is the star of LeVilla’s menu, with choices such as bison short ribs, prime rib and rack of lamb. Try the three- or four-course chef’s tasting menu.
(West Market Square, 404, 1851 Sirocco Dr. S.W., 403-217-9699, levilla.ca, @levillacalgary)
Bistro Rouge
The owners of Inglewood’s upscale Rouge restaurant brought a taste of France to the suburbs when they opened Bistro Rouge in Signal Hill’s Signature Park Plaza last spring. The laid-back spot features bistro favourites such as duck confit, steak frites and chocolate mousse.
(Signature Park Plaza, 1919 Sirocco Dr. S.W., 403-514-0561, @bistrorougeyyc)
Misato Sushi & Grill has been satisfying Signal Hill sushi lovers since 2003. Tucked into West Market Square, Misato offers sushi rolls, including the Misato roll special packed with avocado and crab, and hot items such as tempura, udon and teriyaki.
(West Market Square, 420, 1851 Sirocco Dr. S.W., 403-217-3000, misatosushi.com)
Where to Shop
Advertised as the “ultimate candy store for women,” Joydrop replaces sugary treats with on-trend jewellery, designer handbags, body-care products and scarves. Find goodies such as Prtty Peaushun body lotion, Tokyo Milk perfumes, Matt and Nat eco-friendly handbags and Satya jewellery. Joydrop also hosts private shopping parties for you and your fashion-forward friends.
(Westhills Shopping Centre, 230 Stewart Green S.W., 587-353-3767, joydrop.ca)
When it comes to finding the perfect fit, She Apparel has you covered for lingerie and swimwear. This locally owned boutique offers an extensive selection including lingerie by Chantelle, Pleasure State and Stella McCartney, swimwear by Vix and Azura and professional bra- and swimwear-fitting services to guarantee you find the right suit.
(Westhills Shopping Centre, 248 Stewart Green S.W., 403-230-5743, sheapparel.com, @shelingerie)
Signal Hill Services
Stacked with amenities, Westside became an instant hit with Signal Hill residents when it opened in 2000. The rec centre’s features include an indoor skating rink, hockey arena, climbing wall, running/walking track, fitness centre for both adults and youth, and an aquatic park. Westside offers programs for all age groups, from babies to seniors, such as swimming lessons, drop-in fitness classes and badminton.
(2000 69 St. S.W., 403-531-5875, westsiderec.com)
Cobblestone Corner
Featuring a whimsical and varied collection of offerings, including home decor, trinkets for the garden, bath and body products, jewellery, baby gifts and kitchen gadgets, Cobblestone Corner is a one-stop shop for gifts. Look for Canadian-made products such as Rocky Mountain Soap Company and Cocoon Designs Jewellery.
(West Market Square, 319, 1851 Sirocco Dr. S.W., 403-686-8880)
Tucked into the very edge of Signal Hill, Westside Laser & Light’s staff of medical doctors, registered nurses and licensed technicians specialize in laser treatments for the face and body. Treatments include rejuvenating laser facials, microdermabrasion, laser tattoo and hair removal and Botox treatments. The clinic won an Association for Retail Environments award in 2011 for its tranquil and calm retail space.
(152, 30 Springborough Blvd. S.W., 403-685-0110, westsidelaser.ca, @westsidelaser)