Small Bar, Big Changes: How a Bridgeland Favorite Reinvented Itself

There is a quiet confidence radiating from Small Bar, the relatively new addition to Bridgeland’s bustling food scene.

It occupies the same beloved corner that housed Cannibale for nearly a decade, a spot known for its precise cocktails and a quirky, attached barbershop.

But this is not a simple rebranding; it is a thoughtful and complete transformation.

This marks a fundamental shift in philosophy, moving from a niche speakeasy concept to a warm, unpretentious neighborhood bar that feels both fresh and instantly familiar.

Co-owners Shayne Perrin and Mike Hope listened to the neighborhood.

While Cannibale had its loyal fans, there was a lingering perception that it was perhaps too niche, a place you visited for a special occasion rather than a casual Tuesday pint.

The owners heard a consistent refrain from locals: Bridgeland needed a go-to neighborhood bar.

So, they took a bold step.

They brought in local design firm Way of Normal, tore down literal and figurative walls, and removed the barbershop to create a more open, inviting space.

The result is a room that breathes, welcoming patrons with a laid-back energy that encourages you to settle in and stay awhile.

The food program, helmed by Executive Chef Kevin Turner, is a masterclass in executing classic bar fare with impeccable care.

The star of the show is undeniably the double cheeseburger.

This isn't just any burger; it’s a carefully constructed masterpiece, featuring two smash-style patties made from 100 percent dry-aged Angus chuck from Fire River Farms. 

The patties are pressed hard onto the flat top to achieve a perfect caramelized crust, then topped with sautéed onions and classic American cheese.

It’s all served on a soft, buttery Martin's Famous Potato Roll, a bun beloved for its ability to hold up to the juicy experience.

The supporting cast on the menu is equally strong.

Expect perfectly executed mussels and fries, slow-roasted chicken wings with a tangy Alabama white sauce, and even a throwback shrimp cocktail with jumbo tiger prawns.

The crinkle-cut fries are a nod to classic dive-bar culture, served crispy and seasoned well, with dipping options ranging from aioli to a rich Bushmills peppercorn gravy.

The drink menu has also evolved.

While the prohibition-era classics that Cannibale was known for are still available, the list has expanded to include a wider array of local craft beers and a well-curated wine list.

In a fun, unpretentious move, they’ve also introduced “beer and a shot” deals, creating a truly relaxed and approachable bar experience.

This transformation feels perfectly in step with the evolution of Bridgeland itself.

The neighborhood is experiencing a period of thoughtful growth, with new residential projects like the Bridgeland Place redevelopment and the East Riverside multi-family complex adding density and new residents.

As the community grows, with a focus on walkability and vibrant street life, the need for accessible, high-quality local businesses becomes paramount.

Small Bar serves as an anchor for this new era.

It's a place for the long-time residents who have watched the community change and for the newcomers moving into the latest condo developments.

It’s a testament to owners who have a proven track record of creating community-focused staples, like the beloved Blue Star Diner and Dairy Lane Café.

Their commitment to the neighborhood is palpable in every detail.

While nods to the past remain—the original bar top is still there, and the old cast iron Cannibale sign can be found downstairs—the focus is squarely on the future.

It’s about creating a durable, everyday institution where the service is friendly, the food is craveable, and the atmosphere is always welcoming.

Whether you're stopping in for a reliable daily happy hour after work, a low-key date, or a weekend meetup with friends, Small Bar delivers.

It has successfully shed its enigmatic mystique to become something arguably more valuable: Bridgeland’s living room.

And in a city full of fleeting trends, that feels like a very big deal indeed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of food does Small Bar in Bridgeland serve?

Small Bar focuses on elevated, classic pub and bar food. Their menu is famous for its double cheeseburger, slow-roasted chicken wings, mussels and fries, and shareable plates, all made with high-quality, locally-focused ingredients.

Is Small Bar the same as Cannibale?

Small Bar is the new concept in the same location as the former bar, Cannibale. While it shares the same owners and a commitment to quality, it has been completely renovated with a new, more relaxed and open neighborhood bar vibe, a different menu, and an expanded drink list.

Does Small Bar in Calgary have a happy hour?

Yes, Small Bar offers a reliable daily happy hour. It's a popular choice for after-work drinks and snacks, contributing to its reputation as a go-to neighborhood spot in Bridgeland.