If you love BBQ, this one is for you. This Alberta BBQ joint has been regarded as one of the best, if not the best, in the province. If you don’t believe us, let the reviews speak for themselves. Well, actually, let us do it for you. One reviewer said, “The brisket is one of the best I’ve had,” another said, “This is one of the best BBQ places in Alberta!” and another went as far as to say, “Visiting from Ontario and crying that this establishment won't be available to me when I return home.” What is this place, you ask? None other than Big Sky BBQ in Okotoks, Alberta. The authentic Texas BBA Joint serves up the freshest smoked meat every single day. Tragically, that means that when it sells out, it’s gone. So, you better be diligent when getting your BBQ fix.
It’s as legit as it comes. You won’t find a single fryer, freezer, or grill in the building. But, what you will find is a 6-foot window looking into the cooler so you can see what you’re about to eat, as fresh as can be. Beyond the food, Big Sky is home to one of Western Canada’s largest patios with an amazing sunset view. They’ve also got over 5,000” of big-screen TVs, so you’ll never miss a game while you’re dining out. Honestly, you can’t really say a bad thing about this place.
Now, let’s talk about the crown jewel: the food. One of their claims to fame is the party platers. Build to serve multiple people with some big enough to serve up to 10, you’ll find massive platters of assorted smoked meat along with side dishes like Scalloped Cheddar Bacon Potatoes, Caesar Salad, Beans, Smoked Bacon Alfredo Mac N Cheese, Slaw, Biscuits, and more. If you’re not dining with a big group, you can go solo with a meat plate. Choose from the Smoked Brisket, St. Louis Ribs, Smoked Chicken, Smoked Pulled Pork, Homemade Sausage, and a ton of other mouth-watering creations.
There are also amazing sandwiches like the Signature Brisket Chopped, Texas Pulled Pork, Smoked Pulled Chicken, and Homemade Sausage. Appetizers include Hog Spuds, Burnt Ends, Smoked Pulled Pork Nachos, Porky Mac N Cheese Skillet, and more. If you’re not starving right now, you’re not reading close enough.
One thing that all patrons can agree on is that this place has an undeniably homey feel. From the welcoming environment to the extremely friendly staff, it’s a wonderful place to enjoy a great meal, and there seem to be endless reasons to keep on coming back.
We should probably mention the daily specials. On Sunday, you’ve got discounted Caesars, and you can get a full rack of ribs for only $25.99. On Monday, sandwiches are $3 off, and highballs are $1 off. On Tuesdays, you can drink discounted Peach Sunrise Sangria or Tall Boys. On Wednesday you’ve for half-priced bottled wine and wing night. Next up, on Thursday, there are discounted pints and $22.99 MEATZA PIZZAs. Friday offers cheap beef dips, blended margaritas, and Landshark. And finally, on Saturdays, bring discounted Corona and Texas Tipsy Cocktails.
So, which day of the week are you going to Big Sky BBQ? If your answer is “every day,” we’re with you on that.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the 2023/24 Cool Winter Guide advertising feature. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
