If you are a fan of a proper classic BBQ, be sure to check out Vancouver’s Buckstop as they are serving up some damn delicious fare. This authentic BBQ spot smokes all in-house so be prepared to leave with the aroma of meaty goodness lingering in your hair; you may not ever want to wash it out!

This West End spot has a southern saloon vibe and is best visited on a rainy night where you can huddle up inside with bunch of pals and share a feast. Dark wood is big here in the long narrow room, which has bar and window seating, as well as the series of tables tightly positioned along the left side of the room. You’ll get to know your dining companions here, so be sure to bring some good ones.

It’s already a neighbourhood favourite, but many cross town to visit, as it’s that good. Buckstop is owned by Fiona Grieve, who tolled in various restaurants and bars until she saved enough money to start her own place; a huge bravo to her! Although the kitchen was set up by a former pro BBQ chef, she’s now often in charge of manning smoker as well as tending the bar and front of house, and handles it all in stride.

Everything is house-made here including the chipotle ketchup and chutney, and they’ve got a nice selection of craft beers which are essential for this style of fare. And thankfully there’s a descent bourbon list and some cocktails that are equally appropriate.

We had the SocialShopper Deal, which is a classic American barbecue feast for two people, including fried dill pickles, a pulled pork sandwich, a smoked chicken leg, St. Louis pork ribs, navy beans, Kennebec fries, hush puppies, cornbread and honey butter. (value $57 – costs merely $28-$30 depending of the day of the week)

To start the hush puppies, cornbread and deep-fried pickles made a tasty appearance and we had to hold back as we were warned of the upcoming feast; not an easy task. We eventually failed and finished the pickles.

The platter is stacked full of flavourful smoky and tender chicken, a saucy and fully stuffed pulled pork burger, super crisp fries just screaming out for that chipotle ketchup, baked beans, pork rips and a side of coleslaw. This was a killer way to sample at least a few items, but we’ll be back to check out the mac and cheese, brisket, venison burger, buttermilk calamari and WAY more. There’s also this amazing brunch menu that we’ll definitely try on a day we’ve need the sustenance, although the menu has a few less dense items and even has a vegetarian scramble.

Great value even without the Social Shopper deal, but grab one while you can as it’s half price. There will be some leftover for late night snacks if you split this between two, but our leftovers certainly didn’t make it til the morning.
Buckstop Website
833 Denman St Vancouver, BC
604.428.2528