I’ve heard good things about the food at Hayden Block Smoke & Whisky. So on a sunny Friday evening, L and I decided to drop by for dinner. We parked on the street right next to Original Joe’s. Who should walk by but his colleague Bottlenick! He was on his way home, carrying two thoughtfully chosen bottles of wine. For his wife Candy, he selected a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. He opted for an Italian Pinot Noir. I know if L ever thought to pick me up a bottle of wine, it would either red or white and on sale that week at the Highlander. That’s just how we roll.
Bottlenick asked me if L and I were going to Original Joe’s. I couldn’t tell if he was being sarcastic, serious or condescending. We would have invited him for drinks at Hayden’s, but it was pretty apparent that he had a hot date with Candy. And with a name like Candy, you know the date’s going to be sweet.
L and I ordered pints of Banded Peak ($7.50), but we were positive that we were served a different beer. Oh well. We shared a half pound of pork ribs ($10), brisket ($11), beans, coleslaw and two pieces of cornbread ($2.00).
The ribs were tender and juicy. I could taste the smoky flavour and I liked the dry rub spices on the top. I didn’t feel like there was a need to put sauce on the top.
The brisket was a little dry and delicious. There was a trim line of fat that balanced the leanness of the soft meat. Again, I didn’t bother to sauce it up.
The cornbread was yummy, far better than Booker’s or Palominos. Cake-like, moist, warm and sweet, it was a steal for only $1.00.
Sometimes I like to include a link to a song to go with the post. In this case, I’d like to say….
Beans, beans, they’re good for your heart,
The more you eat, the more you fart!
The more you fart, the happier/better you feel
So let’s eat beans with every meal!
Hayden’s version are worth farting for. The baked beans were soft with chunks of meat.
The broccoli salad was fresh and crunchy. Personally, I’d pass on ordering the salad in the future. I didn’t like the dressing.
The prices are very reasonable for the quality and taste. Of all the other BBQ joints in Calgary, Hayden is my favourite. If you haven’t yet, check it out. Hayden offers specials all week and BBQ meat is half off after 10:00 p.m.
Hitting the Sauce 