No. 1
Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey
Hayden Block serves up a taste of the South in the heart of Calgary. Smoked meats and traditional sides like collard greens and bacon mac ’n’ cheese are highlights here, as is the list of more than 100 whiskies.
1136 Kensington Rd. N.W., 403-283-3021, haydenblockyyc.com, @haydenblockyyc
Runners-up
Jane Bond BBQ
The next time you’re craving southern barbecue, head to Jane Bond BBQ. There, you can choose from delicious barbecue plates of smoked brisket, St. Louis ribs or fried catfish, or opt for a po’ boy sandwich with brisket or pulled pig. For groups, consider the barbecue platters that can feed two to six people.
321, 723 46 Ave. S.E., 403-277-7064, janebondbbq.com, @janebondbbq
Comery Block Barbecue
Much like sister restaurants Hayden Block and South Block focus on their own regional barbecue styles, Comery Block focuses on Tennessee-style barbecue. Brisket, turkey, ribs and pulled pork are available by the half-pound along with three house-made barbecue sauces. Plus, the option for Nashville-style hot chicken is there for those who can handle the heat.
638 17 Ave. S.W., 403-453-7636, comeryblock.com, @comeryblock
The Palomino Smokehouse
The Palomino Smokehouse’s barbecue is smoked in-house and goes perfectly with its other claim to fame – being one of the best music venues in the city. Order the barbecue on its own or try it in dishes like the smoked meatloaf, mac n’ cheese, pulled pork springs rolls and an array of sandwiches.
109 7 Ave. S.W., 403-532-1911, thepalomino.ca, @palominosmokehouse
Big T’s BBQ & Smokehouse
Four locations mean it’s easy to get your barbecue fix from Big T’s BBQ (the Calgary Farmer’s Market and Airdrie locations are geared more towards quick service). Famous for its pork ribs, Big T’s also offers smoked chicken wings, fried dill pickles, blackened catfish and several sandwiches and burgers filled with juicy meat.
Three locations in Calgary, (plus one in Airdrie), bigtsbbq.com, @bigtsbbq
Prairie Dog Brewing
Barbecue and beer are a match made in heaven, and Prairie Dog Brewing does both all under one roof. Classic southern barbecue ranging from brisket to pork side ribs is available along with more than 17 styles of craft beer made in-house. On Sundays, try to place an order for burnt ends before the popular dish sells out.
105D 58 Ave. S.E., 403-407-2448, prairiedogbrewing.ca, @prariedogbeer
Big Sky BBQ
Just a few minutes outside of Okotoks is Big Sky BBQ, which serves Texas-style barbecue that is worth the trip from Calgary. Using all Alberta meats, Big Sky takes barbecue seriously. Platters with smoked brisket, pork or chicken and sides for up to ten people are available, or get it by the plate or pound. Also available is a “5 pound sandwich of deliciousness” with a bit of all the meats and topped with southern coleslaw and beans, which is big enough for four people.
306016 15 St. E., Okotoks, 403-938-0701, bigskybbq.ca