This place was great to work. In my industry experience, one of the best places that I've worked. It's been awhile where I can say "I genuinely loved working at Betty Lou's. For the owner, I can't say the same He has asked me "so, how can we can we improve at Betty Lou's". No matter what you say, it doesn't really matter. The owner seems to weaponize feedback, which is completely toxic. Sure, you're the owner, absolute respect to you for making this fair in this industry, it's accomplishment. However、please do not ask serving or bartending staff if you don't want genuine feedback. The owner will act against you. We requested one time that Blaine (the owner) does not come on floor if he's had more than two drinks and if he's not dressed in proper uniform. As an owner, sure, to some extent that's fine. But when you threaten a server, who is still new, you will fire them based off how long you're doing menu tours is not acceptable. If you didn't know, menu tours are just running through the drinks and food, which can take a considerable amount of time when you are busy. Now imagine the owner is so disconnected from the reality of the service, is also five drinks deep in the office. The owner will award you back off a few good days, but if you have one review where a customer believes you didn't believe you delivered "a personable experience" you're done. Now, that seems rough, but imagine an owner who values complete bullshit over actual truth. But I mean hey, would I work an environment where the owner can flip a switch, absolutely. It doesn't matter So hey, if you get hired at Betty Lou's, got bless you You can have a good few days, but ultimately, it doesn't matter. There is no HR, no general manger, you know why? They've left, to better and more complete opportunities that Betty Lou's cannot offer. If you're looking for any place to work, please, reconsider Betty Lou's. If you're looking for a place to drink, please reconsider Betty Lou's read more

Loved this place! Loved the drink options! Loved the appetizer type food options! Loved the decor and definitely loved the live music! What a great experience! Totally Calgary unique! read more

Betty Lou's Library - Ultra cool vibe - Speakeasies Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

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Lovely place! Definitely one of the more unique speakeasies I've been to and was certainly impressed. I'd recommend making a reservation beforehand. My boyfriend and I attended when they were having their burlesque show and it was so much fun! I wasn't sure what to expect but the dancers and the music definitely kept us entertained. The food and the drinks were amazing as well as their service. I'll certainly return! read more

Betty Lou's Library - Speakeasies Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

Honestly a bit of a bummer. I've been to several speakeasy bars and this did not hit the mark. We booked a resy, and given the limited information on how to get in, we accidentally ended up in the boiler room? We ended up running into another guest who told us weird directions on where to go and said "good luck". Like ok, it's NEVER been hard to find a speakeasy, and if you have a resy, they should tell you the steps to get there. Once we got there, it took several minutes after giving the code to even be greeted and the hostess acted like she'd need to work to make room for us (as if it wasn't planned). We then get in and are willing to give it an honest go. Well.. we are asked our water order - still of course... and 10 minutes later, we have a new waiter person who says they forgot our water order... We finally get order our drinks... 30 minutes fly by and we get asked if we are ready to order.. What? Based on our confusion, they realized we had ordered and quickly moved on. 45 minutes later, we get our drinks and are immediately told that it's last call and we have to order our final drinks now. Given we hadn't even tried our drinks by that point, it wasn't worth another wait. We then proceeded to watch them tell another group that it's last call over 15 minutes later... so were they confused on the time? Did they want us out? Overall, it's fine if it's your only late night weeknight option, but I'd easily go elsewhere. read more

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Can't say my visit there was recent but it's the kind of place that wouldn't change much over time. It was a delightful escape to another era! Sooooper slow service but maybe that's part of the charm? read more

Went here on a date night. Did a search on good bars and this place came up. This particular night they had live jazz. It was well done and we had a great time. Food, was good. Service was excellent, definitely recommend. read more

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Betty Lou's is home to one of the most unique performances I've ever seen. Very personable and the ambiance was infectious. The cocktails were something special. Our waiter John couldn't have been better, polite and knowledgeable. The dancers deserve their own round of applause and certainly add the cherry on top of the entire experience! Absolutely loved it. read more

Cute atmosphere. Love the secrecy of calling through a phone and waiting to be taken back through bookshelf door. Need a password to enter so it's better to make reservations as this place can get filled quickly. I appreciate that you can't do standing only, it makes it more intimate and not over crowded. It gives 1920 vibes. The wait staff was very attentive, always coming around to refill water and make sure you are happy with drinks. My friend had the old man in the sea (classic version of old fashion). She loved it. We also had the double smoked Manhattan and Jane eyre lemonade. This last one is good for someone that wants a drink a bit mote on thr sweet side. It takes like strawberry limeade read more

Betty Lou's Library - a glass of orange juice on a table - Speakeasies Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

Pretentious vibes? Check. Overpriced cocktails? Check. Racist staff? Check, check and check. I honestly hope this shit hole gets shut down by the AGLC. Had gone there with friends. Didn't know that I'd be racially profiled by the serving staff. We had gone there after dinner, and no one in our group was even remotely tipsy. Friends all got their drink orders taken, and the server (who refused to give her name) walked away without taking my order. When one of my friends pointed this out, she was told that they wouldn't be serving the "drunk Indian". The server couldn't even look at me when she was talking to my friend. I asked to speak to a manager and was loudly told no, the server obviously trying to start something so they could kick me out. My friends were very uncomfortable by this point, so they paid for their drinks while I waited outside. This was a one and done for our group. read more

Great ambience, great cocktails, and great service. Flappers & Philosophers was one of my all time favorite cocktails that I had tried (gin based). Their classic old fashioned was spirit forward but was good. read more

Betty Lou's Library - Flappers and Philosophers - Speakeasies Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

Went for the jazz on Thursday's and it was packed! Such good vibes and music, but the food and cocktails stole the show! read more

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A very cute speak easy bar! Each day there is a secret password to get in and you enter by using the phone too call the staff to be let in. The decor was amazing and the staff were excellent and attentive. They have a great drink menu. However, they are lacking in mocktails. The bartender will create one for you but I wasn't a fan of mine. They have live jazz and a burlesque show which they charge a $15 cover for it. Personally I think it's quite steep. We went to the Burlesque show. It started at 8:00, the ladies danced for 15 minutes and then there was a 45 minute intermission before they came back out for another 15 minutes. I need to come back for the jazz night. But won't be a regular customer. read more

I was really impressed with this speakeasy. I try to find one in every city I visit. Some are good and some are not so good. This one was classy and elegant inside and reminded me a lot of the one in Rome. Our waitress was really kind, I forgot her name but she definitely treated us well. The drinks were on point and strong. But most importantly I appreciated how the manager treated each table. Especially when a certain incident arose she handled it very well and resolved everything so professionally. Canada treated us well. So thanks ey :D Sorry no pics read more

Overpriced cocktails, constant on posting pictures on social media. Speakeasy's are to be secret. Posting photos isn't secret. Not my person definition of a speak easy. However everyone's different . For the ambience doesn't match the price of drinks. Not wheelchair accessible at all. Stairs down into it, simp as info. read more

First you need to phone in to request a password and a reservation. Then you need to dress to impress and make your way through the building and down stairs. There, you'll find an unassuming bookcase and an antique phone behind a velvet rope. Provide your password to the voice on the other end of the phone, and you'll be escorted through a secret passage way behind the bookcase. Once inside, you'll be treated to creative takes on classic cocktails. We especially loved the Anias Nin (basically a delicious pumpkin spice whisky sour). The appie menu includes a cheese board, charcuterie or shareable platter of mini grilled cheese bites. From start to finish, the service, food and drinks were all phenomenal. Quite an experience, I cannot wait to go back! read more

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Very disappointed made a reservation for my bday I was able to make a reservation for 5 but I was told that I would have to leave at 7 because they had a show starting and it was sold out so basically I could stay for food and a few drinks but the minute the show started we would get booted out Needless to say I cancelled that reservation. Cause they were definitely not as accommodating as they portray to be read more

I've been wanting to visit Betty Lou's Library for a year now and I was not disappointed. Walking through the bookcase was like taking a step back in time. The music was fantastic and the drinks were great. Make sure to make a reservation before visiting. Don't miss this one! read more

Betty Lou's Library - Speakeasies Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

Betty Lou's Library is a place hidden away from the everyday of today and puts you into a feeling of yesterday. Prohibition-era establishment that fits the speakeasy imagery well. The entrance, decor, furniture, and lighting: all nice touches that add to the atmosphere and remind you that you are here to enjoy the experience as a whole. Our librarian Blaine was professional and knowledgeable. The drink selection was strong enough to fit anyone's taste or preference, but not too lengthy to be overwhelming. Drinks were very well prepared and crafted with attention. My girlfriend really enjoyed the Zelda Fitzgerald (twice). I choose to start with the Josephine Baker, and finish the night with "The Beautiful and the Damned." Both were wonderful, balanced, and memorable drinks. We also sampled a couple food options: we really enjoyed the prosciutto grille, and the cheese and fruit platter. Both were well presented and flavourful indeed. Live music jazz trio (Red Line Trio?) were fantastic. This is not a place to be boisterous, nor a place to test your liver's endurance. The patrons here all knew what was to be expected and how to best enjoy it. Take your time. Relax. Savour your cocktail. Enjoy the library. We sure did. read more

Betty Lou's Library - Phonograph cabinet in the waiting area/lobby; menus and house rules for those new to the experience. - Speakeasies Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

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The owner Blain happened to be our server. He was very helpful with the cocktail & wine selection. Even though the sitting was for an hour & a half before we were meant to move to the bar, he let us sit at our table & watch the jazz performance. read more

I made reservations for 1 at Betty Lou's as it is one of the higher rated bars in Calgary. Lucky me, I made reservations on their Jazz night (Thursday night). I did research prior to coming to Betty Lou's and found out I needed a password to get into this speakeasy (pretty cool). I called around opening, told them my name, and was given a personal password to use at the front door. Some quick tips: Make reservations on yelp! Try to shoot for Thursday, Jazz nights. Call in when open to get a password Located in the basement/lower floor of address on Yelp Dress semi formal. I saw someone get turned away for wearing shorts and a t-shirt. I had a flannel button up and jeans ( other people wear in blazers, dress shirts, etc.). Ambiance: flapper era vibe, with purple lights, nice chandeliers. Jazz night was great with awesome music. Drinks: ON POINT!! So good that I ordered two!! The double smoke manhattan was super unique. It was Smokey and tasty. The Jane Erye was very refreshing, and good too!! Service: super friendly staff! Great recommendations and felt very welcomed! Overall: one of the best speakeasies I've been to. The drinks, vibe, service, etc. I'll definitely be back when I visit Calgary again! read more

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Super neat speakeasy. Live jazz played here. Great to sip on a drink and listen to some talented musicians.

I don't think you could get an experience like this anywhere else in Canada. 1920's themed taken to the next level. Service was phenomenal, quick, and genuine. Drinks were so clearly top quality and artisan. If you're looking for otherworldly vibes, this is it! read more

This is our 2nd visit to Betty Lous, Our cocktails were good, service was great. It was great experience overall. One small thing i'd like to mention is they charge a double cover charge if they have a guest appearance. $120 cover charge for 4 people is a little over price I believe. I don't believe we paid that much last time. read more

Betty Lou's Library - The Great Gatsby. - Speakeasies Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

Best date spot in the city. Cocktails are a taste for the senses. Great vibes and service. read more

Betty Lou's Library - Double smoked Manhattan - Speakeasies Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

Great entertainment, fun decor, good cocktails- skip the appetizers- really not set up for food service.

First time trying out a speak easy bar here in Calgary. Ambiance is great and I like how the overall feel of the place. Chic and elegant!! The bartender was so nice to explain what he was doing with our drinks and was very careful to ask about my friend's allergies - overall service is great. Food was also delicious even though it was a small menu what we ordered was superb. The drink I got is delicious. Will definitely be back! read more

Great atmosphere and service! Great cocktails and entertainment. A fun night out! Will go back.

We went to Betty Lou's on a Wednesday for the Burlesque show and it was really good! The burlesque girls did an amazing job! Show starts at 7:15pm and there will be 3 performances. You must book well in advance specially for the Burlesque nights. The place is small and it has gained a lot of popularity. They serve tapas and cocktails and there's an $8 entry fee for the show that will be added to each person's bill. I'd suggest dressing a little more formal, or even with something similar to 1920's attire, it would make the night more special and memorable. read more

What gre at experience. Instantly you are transported through the *secret" door into the library and back in time to the prohibition era. The night I went was also burlesque night which was outstanding. I believe they do live jazz every Tuesday as well. This place is straight out of the '20's. Comfy overstuffed Chris and sofas this place is completely legit. The staff are very friendly and the service is top notch. Cocktails Re amazingly good and lovingly prepared by knowledgeable bartenders. There a few options for food, and the food if very tasty but don't plan on hav8ng dinner here they are definately just appys. Great experience I will be back for more. read more

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Celebrated my friends bachelorette party here and she loved it ! Such a gorgeous atmosphere and the cocktails are great. read more

Betty Lou's Library - Speakeasies Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

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Betty Lou's is a wonderful place for a night out. The ambiance is cozy and the decor is a feast for the eyes. You'll enjoy the drinks, music, dancing and snacks. A great place! read more

Great atmosphere, remains a super unique spot to go for cocktails. Really popular and weekend reservations fill up early in the week. 2 hrs allotted for your booking: Our bartender was really quite rude about conveying when we were supposed to depart, frequently interrupting our conversation to obtusely 'let us know'. I checked the time and realized we hadn't even been there about an hour, she'd made a mistake about our reservation time! After sheepishly 'fixing the iPad', we were graciously gifted an extra 15mins over our 2 hours. The place wasn't even 70% full.. a bit annoying. Great cocktails. Do NOT get the cheese and meat plate. Even a double portion is small, the meats were dried out and I literally choked a few times on the dry ash gluten free crackers. The best part was the prepared mustard, which had a few tomatoes swimming around in there for show.. 4 drinks and an unfinished cheese plate = $120 read more

The cocktails and food was amazing. A tad pricey. The ambiance was fun. The Redline trio was fun to listen to, but, it was not a night in New Orleans. More like 1950/60 jazz. I would recommend. read more

Prohibition era bar with all the excitement, intrigue and ambience. Cocktails made with passion and interesting ingredients. read more

Betty Lou's Library - Intriguing entrance and all the charm - Speakeasies Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

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The entertainment was amazing and the vibe of the bar is just so classic. I love the furniture and decor. Drinks were fancy spectacular even virgin drinks were great and reasonably priced. Staff were friendly. Go here and expect an experience not just a night out. read more

How fun! This tiny speakeasy is tucked away downstairs and behind a bookshelf door. We popped by without a reservation and were able to be seated right away on a Wednesday night at 11. Delicious drinks and swanky decor make for a very fun experience. read more

Betty Lou's Library - Atmosphere - Speakeasies Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

A few of us booked Betty Lou's to meet for a drink on a Tuesday. First impressions - cool. 2nd impression - fantastic. It was jazz night and I am a big fan of connecting to the local jazz scene. It was a Tuesday and the place was packed. Service was exceptional and the drinks were amazing. I'm not a huge fan of gin so decided on a nice glass of red from Oregon. It was served chilled, just the way it was supposed to be. Well done! Friends had food and this is where Betty Lou's has some room to improve. A little more variety in the small plates area could make for a better all around experience. But this is a speakeasy so you are coming for the drinks. However a couple more items may make we want to stay just a little longer. This place is great. Cool vibe, great music, nice ambience. Oh, and the furniture, it will take you back, way back to the 20's and 30's. Great job Betty Lou's! read more

Betty Lou's Library - Speakeasies Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

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Quality service, drinks and care in the place. Been going here for years and really do miss the philosopher and flapper read more

Cozy place to enjoy Tuesday night of Jazz. Dim, exclusive and classy. Cocktails are okay, not a lot of choices but okay. Truly one of the gem in the lively 17th ave. Sitting there had me singing " Life is a cabaret old chum, so come to the cabaret." That's the perfect song for that perfect place read more

Betty Lou's Library - What good is sitting, alone in the room - Speakeasies Near Me - Calgary, Alberta

This is a unique speakeasy inspired experience. A reservation is essential and will get you a two hour window to enjoy some expertly crafted cocktails. With many of the drinks packing quite a punch, one needs to choose carefully from the tempting libations list-and this is where our amazing servers were so very helpful in offering assistance, suggestions and selections. The snacks were also delicious- the humus was incredible, served with a teacup of crackers. As we were celebrating a birthday the complimentary glass of Prosecco was a nice touch. The never empty complimentary glasses of still or sparkling water ensured that everyone was well hydrated. A fabulous experience read more