Hayden Block - Calgary

We wandered into this joint just to grab a cocktail on a hot day but couldn't resist the delicious smell of the BBQ and smoked ribs and brisket. It's a good thi... read more We wandered into this joint just to grab a cocktail on a hot day but couldn't resist the delicious smell of the BBQ and smoked ribs and brisket. It's a good thing we walked more than 14 km that day because the bacon wrapped corn alone was probably my entire calorie bank for the day. Super friendly servers and nice ambience on the patio at the back of the restaurant.

We went to Whiskey and Smoke for the first time. The set up is really casual. A number of communal tables, we sat at one outside. They don't take reservations s... read more We went to Whiskey and Smoke for the first time. The set up is really casual. A number of communal tables, we sat at one outside. They don't take reservations so big groups need to go early. Having said that, just go. The barbecue is amazing. We had the brisket sandwich, it was outstanding. Certainly the best I have had in the city. Also had the beef rib, big and superb as well. We had sides like beans, super - they use the brisket drippings. Also had the watermelon salad, very good. The sauces they make themselves. The espresso sauce is wonderful. Wine list is simple but reasonable. Good beer and a bunch of whiskeys and bourbuns, not a surprise. We did not have room for dessert. Service was excellent. The food is too good to be healthy for you, but oh well.

The smoked turkey breast is very flavorful, juicy and just a bit sweet. The smells of other foods that are served nearby are mouth watering. Great music with lo... read more The smoked turkey breast is very flavorful, juicy and just a bit sweet. The smells of other foods that are served nearby are mouth watering. Great music with lots of room indide and out on 2 patios. Pamphlet style menu has one page of food and 2 pages of whiskey.

Today I went to brunch with a group and we all had a fantastic experience. The bacon-wrapped corn was a standout dish with great flavor. The Brisket Sandwich wi... read more Today I went to brunch with a group and we all had a fantastic experience. The bacon-wrapped corn was a standout dish with great flavor. The Brisket Sandwich with Broccoli salad was perfect, although it does come with jalapeno peppers. I ordered the breakfast special which was Eggs with smoked meat - a delicious combo of sausage and brisket. The restaurant had a great selection of beers and a decent selection of wines. Overall, a great dining experience.

Every time I visit this restaurant, I feel like I become more hip. With a great whiskey selection and delicious BBQ, I always leave feeling satisfied but also a... read more Every time I visit this restaurant, I feel like I become more hip. With a great whiskey selection and delicious BBQ, I always leave feeling satisfied but also a bit stuffed. It's interesting to see how Calgarians put their own spin on southern BBQ, and I appreciate the variations from what I'm used to in Texas. I highly recommend trying the sausage and cornbread - they really stand out among the menu items!