Smoque has been around for a couple of years now and every time I go its pumping. This is probably due to its unique offering of American BBQ. So I thought I would check it out to kick off this new food series – Business Lunches.
Situated in Baileys Corner, parking for Smoque can sometimes be tricky if you are attempting to park in the London Circuit car park opposite, so the Canberra Centre car park is often a better option.
Smoque always seems to be bustling with an American diner/mans cave type atmosphere. The restaurant is well decorated and airy.
I was with a group of 4 we went about 12:45 and we were able to be seated without a booking.
The menu is extensive with lots of meaty options (possibly not a great venue for vegetarians..). You’ve got protein plates that offer a bunch of different meats – my favorites have to be the Kansas City Chicken $14.90, and Memphis Pork Ribs 1 rack $26.90. There are also hamburger options which smoque call sandwiches. The standout in the range would have to be the sloppy joe for $14.90. There are also salad options although if you’re after a salad this place probably isn’t for you.
The combo platters were great for us as a group. There are three to choose from:
BBQ Trifecta $39 -Pulled Pork, Pork Ribs, Brisket & 1 side (serves 1-2)
Hi-Five Platter $79 -Pulled Pork, Pork Ribs, Brisket, ½ Chicken, Beef Rib & 2 sides (serves 1-4)
And the one we chose the Smoque Ultimate with a round of Cokes and Coke Zeros which was $99 for Pulled Pork, Pork Ribs, Brisket, Beef Rib, ½ Chicken, 12 Wings & 3 Sides (serves 1-6). We went with the mac cheese (x2) and Corn bread.
This made for a really heavy meal and was nearly too much for the 4 of us but we cleared the plates and it was sumptuous. The wings spicy and full of flavour. I was not a fan of the brisket, but my associates disagreed. The true stand out for all of us were the Memphis pork ribs sweet and spicy, although very messy (so if you’re trying to make an impression with your colleagues perhaps choose another venue or steer clear of the ribs).
This place is ideal for a business lunch and on this occasion I really it enjoyed it and so did my guests. Smoque is a cheerful and unique Canberra restaurant.
Smoque is located Baileys Arcade, Shop 2 131 London Circuit Canberra City
p: (02) 6162 3350