6 Things You Should Know About Pigeonhole

6 Things You Should Know About Pigeonhole Justin Leboe’s anticipated Pigeonhole is now open for business. Here are 6 things you should know about Calgary’s new snack-bar-meets-wine-bar. By Caitlin Best May 19, 2015 As the name suggests, Pigeonhole has rolled several savoury elements into one unique concept. Now taking reservations,…

6 Things You Should Know About Pigeonhole

Justin Leboe’s anticipated Pigeonhole is now open for business. Here are 6 things you should know about Calgary’s new snack-bar-meets-wine-bar.

As the name suggests, Pigeonhole has rolled several savoury elements into one unique concept. Now taking reservations, the restored space next to Model Milk has been re-imagined with creative sharing dishes, an alternative wine list and a casual European vibe.

Far from your average wine list

Commonplace in the bars and restaurants of Paris, New York and San Francisco, lists with a focus on “natural wine” is a relatively new concept in Calgary. “Natural wine” is a term referring to wines that have received little intervention during the winemaking process.

With a thoughtful and approachable collection of natural, organic and biodynamic wines on the Pigeonhole list, guests can sample well-known Canadian reds and whites or expand their wine horizons with the lesser-known options from French regions like Minervois.

S is for sharing

Whether it’s a quick bite, an extended stay or a midnight snack that you’re after, anything on the menu will do the trick but be warned: these are meant for sharing. With several bite size portions on many of the plates, it’s advisable to order a few different items.

Must-try plates

You’ll want to try everything on the menu, but the nori crumpets, edamame with crme fraiche and salted halibut perogies are three dishes that will stand out and probably have you ordering seconds, or quite possibly thirds.

The story with the outdoor sign

Seeing the neon letters that spell “Pigeonhole” overlaid on the vintage outdoor sign might seem odd for newer residents to Calgary but anyone who frequented 17th Avenue S.W. close to a decade ago will remember the former Victoria’s (a restaurant better known for its antiquated interior than its menu).

Je t’aime Paris

Re-designed with an intimate feel, the new space features exposed brick. There is also a feature wall with psychedelic wallpaper. A few more original artifacts from the Victoria’s days, including the stately vintage chandelier that hangs in the dining room. Anyone who’s spent time in bars and cafes of Paris will feel right at home.

Did someone say sherry?

Sherry generally gets a bad wrap for its status as cooking wine, but in 2015 that’s starting to change thanks to a few local advocates, like the staff at Metrovino. To cap off your culinary experience at Pigeonhole, consider ordering a fino to end a satisfying snack or a sweeter oloroso to pair with desert. You’ll be happy you did.

306 17 Ave. S.W., 403-452-4694, pigeonholeyyc.ca, @pigeonholeyyc

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