First Street Market ordered to close after cockroaches, 'unsanitary conditions' found: AHS

Article Published November 30, 2025
Article Source: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/first-street-market-closed-9.6998153

Closure began Nov. 28 and affects all vendors in First Street Market

A Calgary food hall says it has been closed for the time being due to "pest activity" identified by Alberta Health Services (AHS).

First Street Market, located at 1327 1st St. S.W. in Victoria Park, was closed effective Nov. 28, according to an order issued by AHS.

The closure order says it is in effect for all vendors in the food hall.

The closure came after an "investigation identified pest activity in the market," a First Street Market spokesperson told CBC News in an emailed statement.

On Monday, Alberta Health Services clarified in an email statement that the food hall was inspected following a complaint, and found "conditions that pose serious risk to public health.

"This inspection revealed a significant infestation of cockroaches, and unsanitary conditions overall," the statement says.

AHS said there have been no reported illnesses linked to the food hall's conditions to date.

The closure order will remain until AHS lifts it.

"Commercial grade sanitation is being completed across all surfaces, food storage areas, and preparation facilities," the statement from First Street Market reads.

"Treatment and follow up inspections are underway, and we will only reopen once AHS confirms that it is safe to do so."

Actually, Pretty Good serves pizza at the food market. General manager Chris Gale told CBC News in an emailed statement that "in a multi-vendor food market, health concerns at one vendor’s operation can quickly impact others, so vigilance is essential."

First Street Market first opened in 2021.