Original Joe’s is a place that welcomes everyone. We have craveable classics for lunch or dinner, down-to-earth vibes and a friendly team looking to brighten your day! Our OJ’s in Kensington matches the vibe of the area—fun and bright! We’re located on Kensington Road and are walking distance to many trendy stores, fun fitness studios and Riley Park. Here, you can stop for drinks before or after floating down the Bow River over the summer. In the winter, you can pop by on your way to or from a show at the Jubilee or Plaza Theatre. We’re only 5 minutes away from SAIT and are easily accessible to the University of Calgary by transit. How are you supposed to study or focus in class on an empty stomach? We have twice daily happy hour, brunch on weekends and holidays and a welcoming atmosphere for all. Join us for a drink! We’re down-to-earth and down the street.
Customers consistently praised the attentive and friendly service provided by staff, particularly highlighting servers like Zach, Jackson, and Sydney.
Food Quality
While many enjoyed the food, there were complaints about specific items being subpar, such as the nachos and issues with food handling.
Atmosphere
The restaurant's atmosphere received positive remarks for being comfortable and enjoyable, contributing to a pleasant dining experience.
Staff Recognition
Several reviews specifically mentioned individual staff members for their exceptional service, indicating a strong team presence.
BB
Brian Bowden
Dec 30, 2025
5.0
Zach was awesome! Took super good care of us for our yearly Computer Science nerds get-together! Thanks bud!
LK
leanne kenny
Dec 23, 2025
5.0
I went to the restaurant to get something that they don’t usually sell by itself and they gave it to me for free wonderful manager and staff when you walk in door.i hope these two wonderful men have a wonderful Christmas they are the best.
LG
Laurie Gagnon
Dec 23, 2025
5.0
Everything was amazing last night at OJs, the food, service, atmosphere and especially the bartender and our waiter, Zach, thanks for a great dinner!
AM
Alina Moore
Dec 13, 2025
5.0
Today I came for lunch while in the area. I wasn’t sure what to eat or drink, but my server, Jackson, gave me a few suggestions and I got them all. The drinks were out of this world, and the food was delicious. I got the cranberry margarita (shaken with love) and it was delicious!!! Jackson was so kind, accommodating, and a brought a great vibe to our table. We had a great experience. We were soooo impressed with the service we received. We have had a lot of great servers, but nobody compares to Jackson. We will definitely be back, and sit at the bar when Jackson is working ;) CANNOT WAIT to be back. see you soon big J
AA
Avery
Dec 13, 2025
5.0
At Original Joe’s, we sat down to dine,
Good food, good vibes, everything in line.
But what made the night truly shine and flow,
Was the service we got from JAXON at Joe’s.
With a welcoming smile and perfect timing,
Every small detail he handled with shining.
Refills arrived before we could say,
And every request just melted away.
Friendly and thoughtful, attentive and cool,
Making great service look easy, not rule-by-rule.
The food was great, but let it be known,
JAXON’S care set the ultimate tone.
So here’s to a lunch that couldn’t be beat,
With service so smooth and energy sweet.
Original Joe’s was already a win,
But JAXON made sure we’d be coming back in.
Does Original Joe's Calgary - Kensington have a patio?
Yes, Calgary - Kensington does have a patio for dining, open based on weather conditions.
Is the patio at Calgary - Kensington dog-friendly?
Yes, Calgary - Kensington offers a dog-friendly patio in Calgary. Dogs must enter from outside and stay on the ground during your visit. We look forward to seeing you and your furry friends!
Does my local OJ’s Restaurant & Bar offer brunch?
Yes! Original Joe’s Calgary - Kensington offers brunch on Saturdays, Sundays and Statutory Holidays till 3:00 PM. Brunch is available for dine-in only.
Is OJ’s Calgary - Kensington Canadian owned?
You bet we are. This Original Joe's restaurant located at 1220 Kensington Road NW in Calgary is Canadian owned and locally operated! We are 100% Canadian-owned under Canadian company Recipe Unlimited, and our head office is still in Calgary to this day.
Is the patio at Original Joe's Calgary - Kensington open year-round?
Absolutely! Our patio is your go-to spot year-round, offering a cozy retreat in every season. Whether it's a sunny day or a breezy evening, come bask in the ambiance at OJ's Calgary - Kensington.
Does Original Joe’s Calgary - Kensington accept reservations?
Yes, Original Joe’s Calgary - Kensington accepts reservations, which can be made through OpenTable.
What are the brunch hours at Original Joe’s Calgary - Kensington?
Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, including Statutory Holidays, for dine-in only.
Does Original Joe’s Calgary - Kensington offer vegetarian and vegan menu options?
Yes, the restaurant offers a variety of lacto-ovo vegetarian and vegan dishes, with menu icons to guide you and options for modifications.
Is the patio at Original Joe’s Calgary - Kensington dog-friendly?
Yes, the patio is dog-friendly. Dogs must enter from outside and remain on the ground during your visit.
What payment options are accepted at Original Joe’s Calgary - Kensington?
The restaurant accepts American Express, Visa, Mastercard, cash, debit cards, credit cards, and mobile NFC payments.
What are the happy hour times at Original Joe’s Calgary - Kensington?
Happy hours are twice daily: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM Monday through Thursday, with extended hours until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.
What nearby places can I visit before or after dining at Original Joe’s Calgary - Kensington?
You can explore trendy stores and fun fitness studios nearby, such as The Pilates Studio Body & Mind Works, or enjoy Riley Park just a short walk away.
How can I get to Original Joe’s Calgary - Kensington using public transit?
Original Joe’s is easily accessible by transit and is only 5 minutes away from SAIT and close to the University of Calgary, making it convenient to reach by public transportation.
Are there any nearby healthcare or wellness services close to Original Joe’s Calgary - Kensington?
Yes, nearby wellness services include the Advanced Naturopathic Medical Centre and The Vital Posture Clinic, which might be convenient if you plan to visit health providers before or after dining.
Can I order takeout or delivery from Original Joe’s Calgary - Kensington?
Yes, Original Joe’s offers both in-store pickup and delivery services for your convenience.