Reuben Bullock first moved to Calgary when he was 13 and he later started his music career here by playing solo shows in local cafés. Now, as the lead singer of Reuben and the Dark, Bullock’s music takes him around the globe. The group’s third album, un love, came out last October on Toronto-based label Arts & Crafts, and their songs were used in trailers for El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie and the third season of The Handmaid’s Tale. While he now splits his time between Calgary and Montreal, Bullock is quick to profess his love for this city and its artistic spirit. “We’ve felt so supported in Calgary that it will forever be our hometown,” he says, “no matter where anyone lives.”
Here are 10 of his favourite things in Calgary.
Classic Breakfast from Blue Star Diner
“I’m a classic breakfast guy: scrambled eggs, bacon, toast and hash browns. Blue Star is like a boutique-style restaurant on top of that — a great environment, great ingredients and good, clean food.”
Market Collective
“The market is such a beautiful model for a new style of shopping. I go there to buy art, gifts, photography and handmade everything. That, along with music and food, it’s the whole package.”
Shoes from Ninetimes Skate Shop
“I grew up skateboarding and this is a rad little place. The brands are well curated and it’s owned by a local skateboarder who has done really well for himself. I always buy shoes there when I’m in town.”
Live Music at Broken City
“Broken City was the Holy Grail for me in music, to be on that stage. It’s just such a special place that has small, intimate shows and the best bands.”
Barbecue at The Palomino
“I love brisket and ribs, so it’s got to be the barbecue platter here. You have to love garlic because there’s tons of garlic on everything, and it’s so good.”
Americano and Croissant at Bridgeland Market
“Bridgeland Market has become my second home in Calgary. It has grocery staples such as ethically sourced meats, but I always go there for the coffee and the bakery. The croissants are so fresh and they make a great Americano.”
Clothing from The Livery Shop
“This is absolutely the place to go clothes shopping. They do things in a really intentional way and have an attention to detail. I would go there to buy a crewneck sweater from Camp Brand Goods.”
People-watching at Caffe Beano
“This is a hub of so many unique individuals, with so many people to meet — from old men playing chess to young ACAD [now AUArts] students eating breakfast, and everyone else.”
Negronis at Teatro
“Having a negroni at the bar is my Teatro trip [it’s not on the cocktail menu but bartenders will make it on request]. I love the staff, the drink and the building — it’s beautiful.”
Record shopping at Lukes Drug Mart in Bridgeland
“This is where I’ve bought most of my records, but it’s also a cool spot because I can get a scarf, soap, ice cream and a gift for my dad at the same time.”