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, Kahlúa, skim milk

• Now a Calgary classic with many regional twists

• The Living Room remains one of Canada’s top sellers of Kahlúa thanks to The Shaft

• 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 Kahlúa (or your favourite coffee liqueur)

• 0.5 oz skim milk (or substitute Irish cream for a richer twist)

• 3 oz chilled espresso or cold brew (we love local Phil & Sebastian)

• Plenty of ice

• 1 straw

Method

1. Fill a tall Collins glass with ice.

2. Build the drink: Kahlúa 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.

Contact

(403) 228-9830

514 – 17th Avenue SW Calgary, AB

info@livingroomrestaurant.ca

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