Calgary’s Original Shaft

Tall. Dark. Cool.

Since the ’90s on 17th Avenue at The Living Room.

The Birth of a Calgary Icon

In the mid-90s to early 2000s, bartender Mark Smith at The Living Room on 17th Avenue created a quick revival drink for late-night crowds. Named after the legendary film detective John Shaft — tall, dark, and cool — it quickly became a staple. Today, we serve thousands every year right here where it all began.

Key Facts:

• Invented at The Living Room on 17th Avenue

• Originally a simple grown-up iced coffee: chilled espresso, coffee liqueur, skim milk

• Now a Calgary classic with many regional twists

• The Shaft is meant to be consumed in one big sip- whoever is last gets the bill!

• You can walk right up to the bar anytime for a shaft- known as the drive by

How We Make Calgary’s Original Shaft

Ingredients (Serves 1)

• 1.5 oz of your favourite coffee liqueur

• 0.5 oz skim milk

• 3 oz chilled espresso or cold brew

• Plenty of ice

• 1 straw

Method

1. Fill a tall Collins glass with ice.

2. Build the drink: Coffee liqueur first, then milk, then chilled espresso.

3. Stir gently with the straw.

4. Cheers your friends — then suck it down in one go.

Local Roots, 17th Avenue Energy

At The Living Room on 17th Avenue, we honour Calgary’s stories while creating unforgettable nights. The Shaft is the perfect example — a local legend that fuels the energy on the avenue, just like our menu and vibrant patio scene.

Start your night right with a Shaft, or end the night bright with a Shaft for dessert.

Fuel for the night. Born on 17th.

      
   The Living Room Restaurant
   868 Google reviews 
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       Posted on Google  
   
   Kimberly Mae Capuyan 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had our intimate wedding celebration at The Living Room and honestly couldn’t have asked for a better experience.

From the very beginning, everyone was so easy to work with and incredibly accommodating. They even opened the restaurant early for us and let us come in to decorate, which meant so much and helped make our day exactly how we envisioned it.

Planning a wedding can be stressful, but they made everything feel easy. They were always quick to respond, flexible with our requests, and genuinely cared about making our day special.

We’re so grateful for all the extra effort and kindness they showed us. The space was beautiful, the atmosphere was perfect, and our wedding day turned out even better than we imagined.

Thank you for being such a special part of our day. We highly recommend The Living Room for anyone looking for a venue with amazing service and people who truly care.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Yves Boudreau 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Went for dinner for our first anniversary. The wait staff/hostess were top notch. We had "pick me up on 17th" and Lions, Tigers and Pears to start. Excellent cocktails. We ordered the Fondue for 2 (came with bread) and added on seasonal vegetables and chicken thighs as an add on. Quite filling. Had an other Lion, Tigers and Pears and Old Fashion with Pavlova for dessert (forgot to get a picture of dessert)
Was a great experience at the Living Room. Very filling. Will come back next time we're in YYC.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nihilistic Sadboi 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Bill was the best server I think I’ve ever had.  I will be back because of him
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Bennet Beach 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Michael pointed out the two best things on the menu and had hilarious banter for the evening. My girlfriend and I love this place and will be back for his service!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Katelyn 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Love having Bill as a server he is super chill and such a good vibe. always have a good experience here. Fondue is my absolute favourite. Can’t wait to come back again.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Alex Vasilakos 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Griffen was so awesome! I will definitely be back to be served by him!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   leonell-mae amoranto 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Griffen was amazing made us feel so welcomed. Will be back just for him !!

Welcome Chase flavor

Calgary’s Original Shaft

Tall. Dark. Cool.

The Birth of a Calgary Icon

How We Make Calgary’s Original Shaft

Ingredients (Serves 1)

Method

Local Roots, 17th Avenue Energy

At The Living Room on 17th Avenue, we honour Calgary’s stories while creating unforgettable nights. The Shaft is the perfect example — a local legend that fuels the energy on the avenue, just like our menu and vibrant patio scene.

Start your night right with a Shaft, or end the night bright with a Shaft for dessert.

Fuel for the night. Born on 17th.

Contact

(403) 228-9830

514 – 17th Avenue SW Calgary, AB

info@livingroomrestaurant.ca

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