Big T's BBQ & Smokehouse

Big T's BBQ & Smokehouse in Airdrie brings the bold, slow-smoked traditions of Southern Alberta barbecue right to your table. From the first whiff of BC applewood smoke to the last bite of tender, pulled pork, every meal celebrates handcrafted comfort food made from scratch. Whether you’re grabbing a quick takeout lunch on Yankee Valley Boulevard or gathering the family for a full platter of smoked meats and homestyle sides, Big T's delivers flavor with a personal touch.

Located at 112 – 960 Yankee Valley Blvd SE in the Yankee Valley Crossing shopping area, this Airdrie smokehouse is part of a family-owned group that has been serving Calgary and the surrounding region since 2004. With a focus on premium Alberta-raised Certified Angus Beef, Canadian pork, and chicken, the team at Big T's lets nothing go to waste, crafting their own sausages, burgers, and signature rubs from quality cuts. Patience is the secret ingredient: briskets, pork butts, St. Louis ribs, baby back ribs, and half chickens are carefully loaded into the smoker and transformed over slow, deliberate hours, while brisket drippings become the base for house-made gravy and tangy sauces are mixed fresh daily.

What Sets Big T's BBQ Apart

Authenticity and craftsmanship sit at the heart of everything Big T's does. Unlike faster-paced food joints, this smokehouse honors time-honored techniques that require waking up long before sunrise. The result is deeply flavored, melt-in-your-mouth meats that have earned them the title "Best BBQ on a Bone" at the Calgary Stampede.

• All meats are slow-smoked over premium BC applewood for a genuine Southern Alberta profile.
• House-made sausages, burgers, and rubs use quality trim, ensuring no waste and maximum freshness.
• Even the cheesecake gets a subtle kiss of smoke, creating an unexpected depth of flavor.
• Family owned and operated since 2014, with local roots and deep community ties.
• Strict commitment to scratch cooking — nothing is pre-packaged or reheated.

Signature Dishes and Menu Highlights

Walking into Big T's, you are greeted by the unmistakable aroma of smoked meat. The menu is built around generous platters that let guests sample the full range of pitmaster expertise. While the specific offerings can vary, certain items have become legendary among regulars.

Must-Try Meats

• Brisket: Smoked for hours until a perfect bark forms, sliced thick and served juicy.
• Pulled Pork: Fork-tender shoulder with a tangy, slightly sweet finish.
• Ribs: Both St. Louis cut and baby back ribs, caramelized and bursting with flavor.
• Smoked Chicken: Half chickens with crispy skin and succulent, smoky meat.
• Andouille Sausage: Spicy, course-ground links made in-house, ideal alongside a poutine.

Comforting Sides and Extras

• Cornbread: A sweet, crumbly classic that pairs perfectly with savory meats.
• Potato Salad: Creamy and homestyle, a cooling counterpoint to smoky, spicy flavors.
• Poutine: Crisp fries drenched in gravy made from brisket drippings and topped with cheese curds. Try it with chopped andouille sausage for an extra kick.
• Smoked Cheesecake: A dessert that surprises with a delicate, smoky sweetness.

Dining Options: Dine-In, Takeout, and Delivery

Big T's Airdrie offers a flexible experience to suit any schedule or preference. The cozy restaurant space on Yankee Valley Boulevard is perfect for a relaxed meal where you can soak in the aroma and enjoy blues music while your food arrives on paper-lined platters. Many customers find the intimate setting best suited for takeout, allowing them to enjoy the feast at home. For added convenience, the restaurant provides delivery, bringing the smokehouse straight to your doorstep. Ordering online is seamless through the official website, where you can browse the menu, place an order for pickup, or arrange delivery in just a few clicks.

Location and Hours in Airdrie

Conveniently situated in a busy commercial area, Big T's BBQ & Smokehouse is easy to reach for both Airdrie residents and visitors. The restaurant is located on the ground floor of Yankee Valley Crossing, providing ample parking and straightforward access.

Address: 112 – 960 Yankee Valley Blvd SE, Airdrie, AB T4A 2E4, Canada

Phone: +1 403-945-4960

Operating Hours

• Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Family Roots and Community Involvement

After 27 years of military service, Leslie Gardner sought a new mission and found it at Big T's in 2014. Together with her son Andrew, the Master Pit Boss and Director of Operations, the family has grown the brand from one location to six across Calgary and Airdrie, always applying the same philosophy to expansion that they apply to their barbecue — slow and steady. The team’s commitment extends beyond the walls of the restaurant. Big T's regularly gives back to the community by supporting organizations such as the Calgary Dream Centre, Janus Academy, the Canadian Parkinson’s Association, and The Mustard Seed, providing food, time, and a helping hand.

Catering and Special Events

Big T's smoky creations are not limited to the restaurant. The catering service brings the same award-winning barbecue to weddings, corporate events, family reunions, and any gathering that deserves a show-stopping meal. With a dedicated catering team and a mobile BBQ truck, the brand is equipped to serve both intimate groups and large parties, delivering a “smokin’ experience for your tastebuds” anywhere in the region. Customizable menus ensure that each event reflects the host’s preferences while maintaining the quality and scratch-made pride that defines the smokehouse.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Big T's different from other barbecue spots?

Big T's uses locally sourced Alberta meats, BC applewood, and makes everything from scratch — including sausages, burgers, sauces, and even smoked cheesecakes. The time-intensive, low-and-slow process creates unparalleled depth and tenderness.

Can I order online for pickup or delivery?

Yes. Online ordering is available through the Big T's website and partner platforms. Choose your location, select from the menu, and pick up your order or have it delivered.

Is there gluten-free or allergy-friendly food?

Many of the smoked meats and sides are naturally gluten free, but guests with dietary concerns should discuss specific needs with the team when ordering, as all food is prepared in a shared kitchen.

Do they accommodate large groups or private events?

While the Airdrie location itself is cozy and best suited for smaller groups, catering and the BBQ truck allow Big T's to serve large-scale events throughout the area.

How long has Big T's been in business?

The original Big T's BBQ was established in 2004. The current owner, Leslie Gardner, acquired the business in 2014 and has expanded it to six family-run locations.