“Michelle is an entrepreneur that recognized the need for a pub like ours in the community. Blair is Michelle’s son, a red-seal electrician and now bartender/pub owner. Dawne… well she simply never saw this coming!” laughs Dawn, who has been in the bar business for 25 years. She is also the previous owner of Straight Up Sassy Bar Services (from 2012-2018). “We all have different strengths that have contributed to the success of our pub since conception.”
The Twisted Lizard opened on June 20, 2022 in Carstairs and is a bar with a difference. Minors are admitted until 8 pm, allowing for inclusive dining with family and friends. Entertainment, such as comedy shows and live music, is provided. This is enjoyed alongside fresh dishes that are created in-house, 8 local draught beers on tap and custom cocktails.
Michelle describes some of the most popular dishes.
“Currently, our twisted burger, fried chicken sandwich and our twisted steak (that we won a Readers’ Choice award for only two months after opening) are ahead just a bit from our other amazing contenders. Our Yorkshire beef dip, clubhouse and quesadilla are not far behind though!”
Blair credits hard work, determination and creative thinking, along with a fun, friendly atmosphere and staff that provide amazing customer service as key factors in The Twisted Lizard’s success. The fresh dishes and live entertainment also prove to be great draws.
“Pubs are traditionally where you go to socialize, have a beverage and some grub…plus, since we are the perfect host for fun, we attract people from far and wide. Chatting with customers is a highlight,” he says.
The team is happy to be active in the community.
Dawne is excited to note, “We successfully fundraised $6,000 to buy a pair of OrCam glasses for a local, visually impaired high school student. We continue to support our local groups such as amateur hockey, grad, 4-H Canada, etc.”
In under a year of business The Twisted Lizard has managed to place in and win several Readers’ Choice award categories.
“That is very inspiring and drives us to keep getting better and better,” the team says.
What does the future hold?
“We will continue to grow with the community and strive to offer award winning service, products and to be your favorite local pub. We also have big dreams… the future just might involve The Twisted Lizard Beach Bar & Grill!”
Michelle, Blair, Dawne and Dawn invite you to watch those dreams unfold by following The Twisted Lizard online and on Facebook and Instagram.
The Twisted Lizard, 103 - 9 Avenue Carstairs, AB T0M 0N0
