Torontonians and those in/around the GTA would be be wise to head over to the 519 (area code) and pay a visit to another one of Kitchener-Waterloo’s gems, the Lancaster Smokehouse. Owner Chris Corrigan took over the historical tavern and turned into a BBQ joint that hits your nose as soon as you enter…BBQ!
The two times I’ve dined here there were people waiting in the lobby for tables but if you don’t mind sitting at the bar, you’re likely to get served quicker and one of the bartender’s will serve you up a pint of local brew and help you through the vast menu options. I wish I could eat it all!
I came to Lancaster for BBQ and that means the classics: ribs, brisket, pulled pork, chicken wings and a local specialty – pig tails! Yes, that’s right – pig tails. They say every part of the hog gets used up and here at Lancaster, they turn the oft’neglected pig tail into a delicious must-have!
Think glistening rib meat with pig tail skin and sweet BBQ sauce to balance the flavour of the pork. The beef brisket is moist as are the ribs – both succulent and a smoke ring present on the meat. You can order pulled pork as part of a BBQ combo platter or order what looks like a mile-high sandwich.
Not to be forgotten are the chicken wings – both smoked but you have a choice of either fried or grilled. Go for grilled. The sides are another delight from mac n’ cheese to corn bread, there’s molasses baked beans and of course collard greens, a smoky bowl of corn, sweet potato fries and onion rings.
Last time I was at Lancaster I also tried their Pimento Cheese Bites – think cheese croquettes served with a tangy & zesty sauce. I’m ordering these again!
Bottom line, if it’s your first time at Lancaster, order a BBQ combo and grab some sides. Enjoy the array of BBQ with some local brew and go back again but this time with friends. Order more, order a different BBQ combo and share with your gang.
On the two times I visited Lancaster it was Friday evening and there’s a live band playing. The staff are friendly, they know the menu (tasted everything) and you’ll see owner Chris walking around, greeting guests and making sure the eatery is running smoothly.
One final message…don’t forget to order some pigtails!
The Lancaster Smokehouse
574 Lancaster St. West
Kitchener, Ontario
N2K1M3
call to make a reservation
or inquire about private dining
519-743-433
What gorgeous food! I love anything that is smoked…
Cheers,
Rosa
Do they have any sauce that isn’t sweet – BBQ I love, but not sugar. Everything does look unbelievably good though. We are headed up to Toronto in the Spring and this could be a great stop.