Cookshack BBQ — Restaurant in Alberta

We came here because we needed something to eat close to the Airport and chose this place because it had a 4.8 rating with almost 500 reviews, which is not easy to accomplish. In short, it definitely lived up to these expectations and the food was very good. However, this review is to speak very highly of Lanaya, who made the whole experience so authentic, engaging and unique. We felt like we were in middle America at a hidden-gem roadside diner and will never forget the whole experience she created.

We arrived in the late afternoon when the place was completely empty and Lanaya had the time to give us the royal blue-collar treatment. She was incredibly welcoming and took the time to show and explain every single dish available for us to pick from. As a result, we both ordered more food than necessary because we wanted to try so many different things. I imagine there would be times where it's very busy there and this experience couldn't be replicated exactly, but I'm confident her personality would still shine and make people's day.

Lanaya, I hope you love your job and get great tips. We thought you owned the place. You certainly brought that level of joy and excitement to describing the food, menu options, etc. To the owner of this place, I recommend you give Lanaya a healthy raise. I've reviewed Fairmont hotels recently that don't get this glowing of a review, so I suggest you do whatever you can to keep this woman happily working for you. Thanks...

On a whim I stopped in for lunch takeout. A friend had recommended this spot, saying the bbq was top notch. I concur, it was pretty tasty. The lady who served me very friendly. Great ambiance, with old time-country diner vibes.

I got the ribs, a brisket sandwich, a few sides, a number of sauces and some corn bread.

The ribs were ok. They were a bit dry, but I did arrive fairly late after lunch and I did have about a 20 minute drive back to the office. So that's on me.

The sandwich was phenomenal. I couldn't stop eating the thing, and it was huge! Absolutely friggin' loved it. Lots of beef, a ton of flavour, and with the root beer sauce, even better. 4 stars for this alone.

The mac n' cheese was not good. I love a traditional creamy southern-style mac. This was not it. Not cheesy at all, pasta was cooked decently. Tasted a bit like they used too much Johnny's Garlic Spread. Meh.

The coleslaw was fire. Absolutely amazing. The cabbage was really crisp and perfect amoumt of dressing. The cheddar corn bread was dry and forgettable.

The sauces were quite tasty. My favourite was the root beer sauce.

Next time I will stay for dine in. Overall not a...

What a gem of a place! The best BBQ in Alberta (likely even Canada!), hands down. You've gotta eat here! The Cookshack BBQ will make you a meal tha you can't stop eating, even when you're full. You know what I'm talking about... My generous portion of fresh in-house prepped and smoked brisket was perfectly dry rubbed/spiced and so tender. My husband opted for the chopped brisket (Friday special) which is served in sauce, with or without a bun. So, so good. There's also a serve-yourself sauce bar, with several homemade sauces thay are out of this world. There is something for every taste (check out the Charley Horse and the Spicy Rootbeer!) and trying a few makes every bite a new adventure. Now let's talk about the sides. If you love BBQ sides, you won't be disappointed by the selections - the potatoes, homemade creamed corn, beans, and Mac and cheese are to die for. Dinner for 2 (2 meals and 2 pop) was about $55, which is amazing for such a huge, hearty and satisfying meal. The welcoming atmosphere when you walk in, the delightful staff, and incredible food made our visit a 10/10. We will...