As young professionals, our tastes are eclectic. Although we enjoy checking out the latest and greatest places, we also have a bit of a penchant for those little hidden gems were you can relax, enjoy a pint or two and listen to some great live music. Mikey’s Juke Joint and Eatery, self-proclaimed as Calgary’s premier blues and roots music venue, is just that place. Located a bit off the beaten track (1901 10 Ave SW), Mikey’s serves up character. It has a friendly community pub vibe with the added bonus of amazing live music.
The room is small and intimate, so prepare to cozy up next to your neighbours and settle in for a few hours of good times. It’s pretty standard that strangers share tables, and by night’s end you’ll inevitably have some new-found friends.
For the eclectic music buff, the walls are a feast for your eyes with old posters and memorabilia. Just be careful – you may spend the whole night digesting all the cool pictures. Mikey’s also has a menu you’d expect from a place where the music is inspired by the that of the southern U.S. We suggest the pulled pork or one of the po’ boy sandwiches.
With a jammed calendar of events and shows, every night is a musical adventure. Saturday and Sunday afternoons are open jam sessions, which can lead to some amazing spur-of-the-moment musical magic. Most evenings supply a live act of some sort; Tuesday’s are resident Williams Solo Acoustic Blues, while the weekends are where talent – local and not so local – entertains the crowd.
The room may be small, but patrons always find a way to dance. Tables are often shuffled around for impromptu dance floors, where those who are so inclined can dance the night away to legendary blues and roots tunes.
For a complete list of events or for more information, follow them on Facebook and Twitter.