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.
Zach received overwhelmingly positive feedback for his exceptional service, with many customers praising his attentiveness, friendliness, and ability to handle large groups.
Food Consistency
While many enjoyed the food, there were complaints about inconsistent quality, with some dishes being described as cold or poorly prepared.
Atmosphere
Customers appreciated the welcoming and fun atmosphere, often highlighting the positive vibes created by the staff.
Staff Performance
In addition to Zach, other staff members like Sarah and Shayne were also noted for their excellent service, contributing to a positive overall experience.
MR
Mark Romanski
Nov 15, 2025
5.0
Had an amazing experience at Original Joe’s! The food was great, the atmosphere was comfortable, and the service was outstanding. Our waitress, Sidney, was incredible — super friendly, attentive, and made sure everything was perfect from start to finish. She really made the visit memorable. Highly recommend!
ZZ
Zest
Nov 15, 2025
5.0
Here’s a clean, big paragraph you can use:
Sydney was an amazing server and made my entire steak meal feel genuinely special. From the moment the plate hit the table, she described everything with confidence and clarity, making the dish sound as good as it looked. She checked in at the perfect moments — not too much, not too little — and made sure the steak was cooked exactly how I wanted it. She carried herself with a super friendly attitude, but also a level of professionalism that stood out compared to most servers I’ve had. Little things, like refilling my drink without me asking and making sure the sides were hot and fresh, made a huge difference. The way she presented the meal showed that she actually cared about the experience, not just dropping off food. Honestly, Sydney elevated the whole dinner, and she deserves a ton of credit for making it such a great night.
CH
christiane hirt
Nov 13, 2025
5.0
We sat at the bar where Kyle served us. He was attentive, kind and genuinely personable. Our orders were good, Brussel sprout & calamari for starters. West coast chop with shrimp for me and the whiskey chicken for my partner with good sides. His beer was fresh and crisp. A lovely experience all around. Though Earls is closer to us, we’ll choose OJ’s every time, better food, prices, atmosphere and service.
AC
Azrielle Christie
Nov 12, 2025
4.0
I had a date with someone who is celiac, and as someone who was once suspected to be celiac myself, I paid close attention to how the staff handled gluten-free needs. They do offer gluten-free options on the menu, but the staff really struggled to provide him with safe alternatives. Every question or change took upwards of thirty minutes for them to sort out.
For example, he needed the fries baked instead of cooked in shared oil because of the severity of his allergy. That’s not an unusual request for celiac customers, so it felt strange that it took so long for the kitchen to confirm whether they could do it. The issue wasn’t the limited options — it was the significant time gap every time we asked for clarification.
Outside of that, the location is beautiful and the overall experience was lovely. The staff were kind, but I hope they receive more training and support with allergy-friendly service so guests with medical dietary needs aren’t left waiting for half an hour every time they order.
AF
Ashley Flahr
Nov 8, 2025
5.0
Stopped in for lunch and the food was excellent — definitely worth the visit. There was a small mix-up in the kitchen that caused a slight delay, but our server handled it perfectly. She was super sweet, attentive, and genuinely apologetic, even offering a discount without us asking. I didn’t catch her name, but she was a beautiful blonde with green eyes and such a great energy — absolutely made the experience. Definitely will go again, five stars!
Where can I view the Original Joe's Calgary - Kensington menus?
Glad you’re planning a visit! Take a look at everything we’re serving, pricing included: <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/food/store-8202/ab/calgary/1220-kensington-road-nw.html">Food Menu</a>, <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/bar/store-8202/ab/calgary/1220-kensington-road-nw.html">Bar Menu</a>, <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/happy-hour/store-8202/ab/calgary/1220-kensington-road-nw.html">Happy Hour Menu</a>, <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/brunch/store-8202/ab/calgary/1220-kensington-road-nw.html">Brunch Menu</a> and <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/specials/store-8202/ab/calgary/1220-kensington-road-nw.html">Daily Deals</a>.
Does Original Joe’s Calgary - Kensington offer any Vegetarian menu options?
We have plenty of amazing lacto-ovo vegetarian dishes to choose from! That said, our two most popular vegetarian options will probably always be wine and beer. Any item with vegetarian icon beside is or can be modified to be a vegetarian item. If you’re cruising our website, you can filter <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/food.html?s=8202">our menu</a> by selecting the Vegetarian dietary preference to see all your options or just ask your server!
Are there Gluten-Free options at OJ's?
While we are not a gluten-free environment and products containing gluten are prepared in our kitchens, we do offer menu items that can be modified to accommodate a gluten sensitivity. On our menu, look for items with the gluten friendly icon to see which items are Gluten Friendly or can become Gluten Friendly with some modifications. If you’re checking out our website, you can filter <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/food.html?s=8202">the menu</a> by this dietary preference to see all your options. Or just ask your server the next time you’re at OJ’s!
Does Original Joe’s offer any Vegan menu options?
We do. Look for the vegan icon beside a <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/menus/food.html?s=8202">menu item</a> or use the filtering option on our website. We’ve got a few Vegan items at Original Joe’s Calgary - Kensington and many modifications to make an item Vegan. It’s all about choice at OJ’s.
What is Original Joe’s reservation policy?
On this page look under the heading, Restaurant Details, you will see if Calgary - Kensington takes reservations through OpenTable or is more old-school where you may have to call ahead to inquire about a reservation.
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.
How can I find out about employment opportunities at Original Joe’s Calgary - Kensington?
To apply for a job in Calgary, please visit the <a href="https://www.originaljoes.ca/en/join-our-team.html">Join Our Team</a> page to read more about the employment opportunities we offer and how to apply.
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.