Marda Loop, known for it’s local shopping and dining scene in SW Calgary, is located a 15-minute drive form downtown Calgary. The area is generally considered to consist of 34 and 33 Avenues from Crowchild to 17th Street, though there are many businesses outside these boundaries that use the name Marda Loop as well. Whether you’re interested in supporting local, finding some great restaurants and cafes, or shopping for a unique gift, Marda Loop is a great place to explore.
Recently, the area had significant construction as the City revamped some of the roadway infrastructure and changed traffic patterns to ease congestion. Now, the construction is mostly complete, making it easy to walk around the neighbourhood.
What’s in this guide?
- History of Marda Loop
- Where to Eat in Marda Loop
- Cute Cafes and Sweet Treats
- Local Shops to Browse
- My Map of Marda Loop
History of Marda Loop
Marda Loop is named for Marc and Mada Jenkins, residents from the early 20th century who founded the Marda Theatre in the area. The community dates back to 1909, when it was the location of the turnaround loop for the streetcar that ran through downtown and the outlying communities (hence “loop” in the area’s name).
While Marda Loop is not a specific community on its own, it refers to the business region on the borders of the communities of Garrison Woods, South Calgary, Altadore, and Richmond-Knob Hill. It has a community association and a long-established Business Improvement Association (one of the first BIAs in Calgary).
Today, Marda Loop remains a popular area for culture, local business, and community activity, From the nearby weekly Farmers and Makers Market at cSPACE to the community gardens along 16th Street, there is lots of support here for connection, community, and small businesses. The area is also home to Calgary’s oldest street festival, the Marda Gras Street Festival hosted annually on the second Sunday of August.
Where to Eat in Marda Loop
Marda Loop is home to many great restaurants from elegant, upscale spots to casual comfort food. I’ve included a few of my favourites, though there are many to choose from.
For delicious modern Italian fare, try Annabelle’s Kitchen on Garrison Gate. This restaurant is small but well-loved, so I’d recommend making a reservation. Their pizza was delicious and my friend enjoyed the pasta as well.
For more casual fare, I recommend stopping at Boogie’s Burgers. Founded in the Renfrew community in 1969, the Marda Loop location is the second of the business which just opened in 2017. As a vegetarian, I’ve loved their plant-based burger options (though I was introduced to the restaurant by a true meat lover, so don’t worry if you prefer chicken or beef). You’ve also got to try a milkshake and the spicy fries!
Another infamous Calgary establishment, Diner Deluxe, operates one of its two Calgary locations at the gateway to Marda Loop, just one block from Crowchild. They serve brunch and lunch, and are endlessly popular with Calgarians on weekends, so book a reservation! They have been in business since 2001, and offer many options for gluten free or vegetarian diners and a limited selection of vegan dishes.
One of my fiancé and I’s favourite brunch restaurants, Belmont Diner, has a vintage-style location in Marda Loop. Although we usually frequent the Willow Park location, the Marda Loop location was the first one I visited. The vintage booths, old school bar stools, and open kitchen all contribute to a unique, intimate environment here (and it’s small so plan to wait for a table on the weekends).
Finally, I’d recommend checking out Merchants Restaurant on 33rd Ave for a tasty meal any time of day. They serve brunch on the weekends and lunch, dinner, and happy hour 7 days a week. I visited for a girl’s lunch/brunch around noon on the weekend and we enjoyed ordered off both menus.
Cute Cafes and Sweet Treats
If there is one thing that you should know about me, it’s that I love to stop at a cafe or grab a sweet treat. I also prefer to visit local cafes and sample new drinks and baked goods over a chain. Luckily for me, Marda Loop and the surrounding areas are full of options!
Some of the cafes I have already included in my South Calgary guide, while others are new to the blog. I recommend checking out Le Comptoir by François on 34th Ave, Neighbour Coffee on 16th Street a few blocks south of Marda Loop, and Bell’s Cafe on 34th Ave near 14th Street.
The local brand, Phil & Sebastian’s coffee has a cafe in the heart of Marda Loop as well. If you’re interested in food alongside your coffee, I recommend Aroma Cafe Bar on 33rd Ave. They serve specialty coffee and authentic Mexican dishes, from breakfast bagels to tacos and choriqueso.
Aside from cafes, there are also several ice cream shops in the area perfect for an evening treat in the summers or a warm fall day. Along Garrison Gate and 34th Avenue is Village Ice Cream‘s Garrison Corner location. They are one of my favourite ice cream shops in Calgary, especially because they make their waffle cones fresh in store. The new Tat’s Treats located in the Henry Block building serves cereal-infused soft serve brimming with nostalgia. Finally, My Favourite Ice Cream Shoppe is a Calgary staple that was founded in 1981. It’s a go-to spot for a classic ice cream experience, serving 72 flavours on the border between Garrison Woods and Altadore.
Local Shops to Browse
Marda Loop is a shoppers dream. There are so many niche, small businesses to explore. From handmade goods to curated boutiques and genre-specific bookstores, you can spend a whole day exploring the local businesses along 33rd and 34th Avenues.
Bookworms will love Slow Burn Books, a romance-focused bookstore organized by sub-genres such as Contemporary, YA, and Sports, as well as used books. The shop is an aesthetic dream and I love the set up in their new location!
Located behind Le Comptoir is a beautiful little fibre arts shop. If you’re a knitter or crocheter you need to visit Little Bow Fibre Company.
Just down the block is the Henry Block building. This multi-story building is full of small local shops. From the spooky, horror-focused bookstore Nocturne Books to Sunday State, focused on conscious, slow fashion and everyday items. There are also hand-poured candles from Little Rituals and a French wine bar, AVITUS, at street level.
Finally, you can support local throughout the spring and summer at the cSPACE Marda Loop Farmer’s and Makers Market, every Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm in front of the King Edward School.
My Map of Marda Loop for Your Perfect Day
Use this map to guide you through a day in Marda Loop! You can save it to your own Google Account simply by selecting the star.
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