One of the latest additions to Calgary’s dining and bar scene, Blue Rock Swim Club (BRSC) is the new sister bar to Pricket Richard, the underground bar below Comery Block on 17th Avenue S.W. While the two spots share some similarities like their subterranean locales below barbecue joints and sophisticated atmospheres, guests can expect a different and enticing nightlife experience at BRSC.
To find BRSC, simply look for the door and sign behind South Block‘s patio. Inside, there’s a staircase that takes you down to the bar and restaurant. There’s an entrance bar where you can enjoy a few select drinks while you’re waiting to be seated.
According to the BRSC team, while Prickett Richard evokes more of a New York, East coast-inspired vibe, the goal was to create a space with a softer, West coast-inspired atmosphere for BRSC. BRSC’s space is almost three times the size of Prickett Richard, yet still feels cozy and luxurious with its dark lighting, foliage and plush sofas and seating.
BRSC’s food menu is also bigger, featuring 16 snack plates and larger dishes. There are yam chips, scallop crudo, ham and cheddar croquettes, milk buns with miso butter and oysters for those looking for a quick bite. Or you can tuck into dishes of grilled ribeye, seared duck or tortelloni.
The cocktail menu is where BRSC really shines, with creative and elevated drinks that look as good as they taste. The helpful menu makes it clear what you’re getting from the start with photos of each cocktail and tasting notes that indicate whether a drink is fruity, creamy, sour and more. Most of the cocktails range in price from $18 to $24, but if you’re feeling fancy, you can also opt for some particularly luxurious drinks like the Patron El Cielo Margarita (a $40 “premium marg”), the Angel’s Envy Caribbean Rye Manhattan (a $50 “lux Manhattan”) or the Michter’s 10yr Bourbon Old Fashioned (“the show stopper” coming in at $72).
Stay tuned for details about an upcoming membership program on BRSC’s website.
500 25 Ave. S.W., bluerockswimclub.com