1886 Buffalo Cafe

Come for breakfast, but stay for the history.

The tiny 1886 Buffalo Cafe building, overshadowed by skyscrapers, was once the second office of the Eau Claire & Bow River Lumber Company and the related Water Power Company. Established in the 1880s, these were two of Calgary’s first big businesses.

Dating back to 1903-1904, the black and white wooden building looks as it did more than a century ago. Inside, the wooden floors, pressed tin ceiling, and mounted bison head are reminders of days long gone. There’s an amazing collection of historic photos in the basement as well. 

For your after-brunch stroll, walk across the nearby footbridge and onto Prince’s Island. Peter Prince was the boss of Eau Claire and its related enterprises. He was also responsible for building Calgary’s first skyscraper.

The 1886 Buffalo Cafe serves a decent selection of home-cooked breakfasts and always feels cozy.