The Potion Room Restaurant Review
“Those who search for magic will surely find it.” That is a lovely quote that is loosely said by Ronald Dahl. Which is true, especially if you are looking in our historic Inglewood location here in Calgary. Witches and wizards alike can enjoy a little R and R at the whimsical cocktail (or should I say potion) bar in one of the hippest and happening places in the city. This is called the Potion Room, a place where magic comes alive right before your eyes. But the question is: What does it taste like?
Does this really need a title?
Atmosphere
Prepare yourself for floating candles and pages, twinkle lights that sparkle like stars, and other enchanted knickknacks that scream, “Welcome to our Fantastical Fiesta!” The atmosphere is a bit dark but with all of the neon signs, fairy lights, and TV screens playing various fantasy movies make this bar a colourful and exuberant place to be. Especially if you are a huge Harry Potter fan (I know I am). This is just the kind of place that would appeal to anyone who enjoys a good folk or fairy tale. Or if you just want to bring out your inner child with its playful ambiance and fun air. Not-to-mention, the seats are super comfortable and the music is bewitching. It also has this romantic gothic feel that is perfect for when you are out with friends or having a fun date night.
The Coolest Atmosphere Ever!
Service
This is where this place is lacking a bit and that is why points have been docked. They tell you that you only have an hour and a half to stay even if you have a reservation because it gets very busy. It later turns out that is not the case since there is so many empty tables. The second incident is that the busser clears the table even though jackets were placed there as a sign that people are sitting there so of course you have to stop him. Sadly, the servers did not seem to be as prepared as you would hope when you go to a restaurant. When appetizers are ordered you have to ask to get smaller plates, utensils, and napkins. It can take a long time to order and get what you’ve asked for. Luckily, everyone was still good and friendly. They also showed a lot of enthusiasm when presenting the cocktails to the patrons. So that was greatly appreciated.
A Witch is Brewing behind the Bar
Food
What was ordered was the nachos to go with the drinks and they were the best nachos ever! Loved the chipotle drizzle on top of them, and the added bonus of black beans, corn, and other kinds of veggies that a lot of restaurants don't put on is a nice touch. It was also great that they had the sour cream and salsa on the side. Some people don't like having these ingredients actually plopped on top like a lot of places do.
They have other foods that would be tempting to try but in this case the nachos were absolutely perfect. Some people will look at this menu and think that the menu is nothing special except for the fact that they have magical sounding names to them. But my advice is, give them a chance. You might be surprised at how well these dishes are prepared.
Speaking of which, we come to the drinks which is why people like to come to this lounge in the first place. Although on the pricy side, these drinks are presented in a way that makes a person believe that the impossible is possible. In other words, magic! The servers serve your chosen drink on a special tray with the props and presentations that this beverage is based on. Then as you drink it, you realize how delicious magic can taste. These potions were clearly well thought out and special in their own captivating way.
Magical and Yummy!
Book
Now I bet you are thinking that I am going to say, “the Harry Potter Series” (Although you are not wrong) but in this case the perfect book for this particular lounge is Sarah Penner’s “The Lost Apothecary.” I choose this book because potions and poisons are the main theme just like in this restaurant. Magic is also quite prevalent in this book when they talk about how there are potions that can help heal and poisons that could kill. When the servers speak about a certain cocktail you can’t help but wonder if you are going to be blessed with super powers or be damned into a life of horror. So, I guess the question is: Which potion/poison will you choose?
Click pic to purchase book
Final Thoughts/Ratings
7/10
All and all, this was a great experience, and would love to explore more of what they have to offer with the food and cocktails. They just need to fix their problems when it comes to customer service, paying attention to a person’s a reservation, and preparations if it is as busy as they think it is. Perhaps it was a curse that some insane beast has put on them?
Address: 1211 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB, T2G 0S9,
Website: The Potion Room Bar – Pub 36
