Smokehouse Tavern

We got the 4 meat/4 side family meal. Everything was delicious, but the smoked salmon was like nothing I've ever had before. You know when food is so good you just can't talk for a moment? As each of us tried the salmon that's how it was, mid-sentence, "wow, this salmon!" Anyway, it's great. We got pp, brisket, salmon and ribs. Sides: green, beans, cole slaw and mac salad. I detected a bit of the polish restaurant in some of the sides-- the beans aren't the sickly sweet American version, they were all more on the vinegar side, which I like. BBQ sauce was smoky and super flavorful.

The food here is fantastic whether it's breakfast, lunch, or dinner you are after. For brunch the brisket Benedict with smoked hollandaise is must. The deviled eggs with hotlink are perfection. If you've got an appetite I recommend the pitmaster. Their collards are some of the best in town. The shells and cheese paired with the toasted cornbread crumbles adds a caramel flavor to a usually fully savory dish.

OMG this place is the best. We've been fans of their work from their other location on NW 21st, so we swung by for their brunch, and it did not disappoint. My wife got some sort of brisket scramble (their brisket is the best BTW) and I got a sausage/bacon sandwich and a hot link (their hot links are the best BTW). Also, if you're in for dinner, make sure to get an appetizer of deviled eggs, which come topped with a slice of hot link, and oyster shooters. One of the best BBQ joints in town.

Food was pretty excellent, and going during happy hour allowed us to take advantage of some nice specials, including some unique starters. However, when it came to the main course, the serving of pork was a little light, as compared to the brisket. Biggest complaint was that the menu has sweet tea on it, but they don't actually have sweet tea - they have unsweetened iced tea that they'll add sweetener to after the fact. Not the same thing, and kind of a big deal if you're trying to be a real BBQ place. Overall, though, I like the blend of traditional BBQ with a modern, hipster twist.

Taco Tuesday begins at 5pm. People gather outside the Smokehouse Tavern's door for the 5pm opening. No wonder! This was my first visit to the Tavern. I didn't know what to anticipate. A bit after 5 the door opened, the line queued to the bar where appetizers, tacos, beer, amazing margaritas and soft drinks were ordered. Small groups and couples took seats at shared tables. Then, my elderberry and mint margarita and a generous guacamole appetizer were served. Later, my tacos arrived and I was having fun. I must emphasize the Tuesday fare: tacos. I had ordered both a smoked pork belly taco and an octopus taco. These unique tacos were great! My photos show you their presentation. I'd been told to expect a good time. I was not disappointed. There was the opportunity to share great food, enjoy the company I was with, and do a bit of people watching. Tables emptied and those who had arrived later began their "Taco Tuesday".

Fantastic barbecue and a full bar. We had delicious pulled pork, scrumptious ribs, and tasty brisket. The poutine was amazing too. The fries were crispy and tasty, the coleslaw was very good as well. Everything was well prepared and the server was friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Wonderful meals.