Big Dog Smokehouse and BBQ is set to open a permanent restaurant at 806 Main Street in Canmore, Alberta, this May. The expansion marks a transition for the business, which has previously operated as a popular seasonal food truck in the community since 2021.
The new location in the heart of downtown Canmore will provide a year-round space for the restaurant, which specializes in regional Southern barbecue. Owned and operated by chef Michael Anderson, the business is part of Bow Valley Gourmet, a catering company Anderson founded in 2009. Anderson, who graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 2002 and served as an executive chef in Vail, Colorado, launched the barbecue concept to introduce traditional Southern smoking techniques to the Canadian Rockies.
The restaurant is known for using hardwood, such as hickory for ribs and applewood for pulled pork, alongside house-made sauces, rubs, and side dishes. Over the past several years, the operation has earned local recognition, including awards for best food truck and best international food in Canmore.
While the new Main Street storefront establishes a fixed presence, the business will maintain its operations within the regional food truck market. This includes continuing to serve customers during the food truck season in Calgary.
