Have you checked out Calgary’s newest brewery yet?! Marda Loop Brewing Company is in the heart of Marda Loop in southwest Calgary and it’s awesome.

I’m going to be honest with you here: I blog a lot and seldom in my highly verbose nature do I struggle to put pen to paper (or finger tips to keyboard) when it comes to writing about something that I truly love. I’ve struggled with writing this piece for a couple of weeks now (much longer than I ever take to compose something), and I realize it’s because I want to get it ‘just right’.

Marda Loop Brewing Company is more than just another local brewery – it’s something special. It’s a place that makes me want to move to the neighbourhood. It’s somewhere I can picture myself watching the first snow flakes of the season fall outside over a pint of dark beer. It’s somewhere I want to spend weekday summer evenings on the dog-friendly patio with Hattie (our dog) begging for french fries.

I don’t know if it’s the atmosphere, the luxe décor or just the essence of the place, but it feels extra special.

You know how sometimes you’re just struck by something and you can’t entirely describe why you love it, but you do?
That’s how I feel about Marda Loop Brewing Co.

A few months ago, in anticipation of its opening, I sat down with brewery founder, Mike De Jonge. I was immediately struck by his presence, his humility and just overall amazing vibe. You want to feel great? Spend a few minutes with this guy and somehow you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world. His passion and zest for life are positively contagious. He makes me proud to be an entrepreneur. He’s almost always at the Brewery, too, so make sure to say ‘hi’.

Now, here’s the thing. I travel a lot. I visit a lot of breweries, wineries, distilleries and other establishments. As a blogger, I get to hear a lot of incredible stories. I’m very fortunate this way. I think the best part about this job is that I get to share these inspiring stories with you so that you can experience them, too!

Here’s a little about what you can expect about Marda Loop Brewing Co.:

Beer + Fries

You can always expect 6-8 different beers to be on tap here – some are here to stay and others are seasonal favorites. Each beer has a unique name that was chosen by the community! Prior to opening, a contest was held to name the beers and each represents something special about the surrounding community and the history of the area. It’s a great way to grab a pint and learn a little more about Calgary!

I always have favorite beers, but when I’m able to order a flight of mini pints, I’m thrilled. I love being able to try what a brewery has to offer. Plus, their flights are super Instagram-able!

Street Car Fries. Because what goes better with beer than french fries? – MLBC. I couldn’t agree more! Their fresh cut, double fried french fries are incredible. And if you’re a lover of dipping sauces, you’re in luck because they have at least a half-dozen gourmet sauces to choose from!

If you’re not a beer drinker, not to worry – there’s plenty of local sodas and other non-alcoholic beverages to be enjoyed here, too.

Beer To Go

Can’t stay for a pint or love the beer so much you want to take it home? Marda Loop Brewing Co. has a Growler Bar where you can take home your favorite beers. Also available are Crowlers (little growlers) and mini kegs!

A Timeless Style

I don’t think it’s any secret that interior design is a passion and love of mine (one trip to our Pinterest page and you’ll see that!). If you’re a design lover, then a trip to MLBC is worthwhile, even if you don’t like beer! To me the style reminds me of a combination of art deco and old-world New York City combined with the charm of Frenchman Street in New Orleans (likely the Marda Loop Street Car influence there).

Charity Bins

The concept of the Charity Bins at the brewery is really interesting. Following the purchase of your beer, you’ll be given a coin that you can deposit in the bin of your choice! Each bin is labeled with the name of the cause and their story. At the end of the month, MLBC will donate the allotted funds to these chosen organizations.

Co-owner and wife of brewer, Mike, is Lolly. Lolly is passionate about the community in which she lives and works and wants to genuinely make a difference there. I don’t want to dub her a ‘social justice warrior’ because of the connotations associated with that phrasing, but rather would characterize her as someone who is doing great work behind the scenes to leave the world a better place than she found it. She doesn’t always seek the big name charities, but rather the smaller causes that deserve as much or more attention.

P.S. Lolly is also an animal lover (our Hattie loves her!) and so there’s always an animal-related charity in the mix!

Know someone in need or a cause that deserves some attention? Nominate them today by clicking here and filling out the form! 

Brewery Extras

Founder’s Circle

Want to be a part of Marda Loop Brewing Co. in a more permanent and special way? Check out their Founder’s Circle. Not only do you get one of these super cool mugs (stored at the Brewery), but you are privileged with exclusive discounts and much more!

Marda Loop Brewing Co. Swag

Who doesn’t love a good brewery tee or hat? Next time you’re at the brewery, be sure to check out their branded collection of incredibly soft shirts, snap-backs, growlers and mini-kegs.

Follow Marda Loop Brewing Co.
on Social!

Social: @mardaloopbrewing – Be sure to tag them in your photos!

Cheers!