OurStory
Open Daily | 11am - 10pm
Located just off Whyte Ave, MEAT has been the Edmonton staple for authentic Texas-style barbecue since 2014. The idea sparked when owners of The Next Act, and childhood friends, found the space next door suddenly available. Inspired, the trio headed down to Texas to explore the best barbecue the state had to offer, bringing home the craft that would become the backbone of MEAT.
When the doors opened over 10 years ago, we proudly declared, "EAT MEAT HERE!". In 2015, MEAT ranked among one of Avenue's Best New Restaurants, and was recognized as Edmonton's Best Southern in 2016 & 2017. In 2016, MEAT was featured on the TV show You Gotta Eat Here!
We start with the basics done right. Every day the smoker fires up and every day our barbecue is smoked fresh, low and slow. All our sides and barbecue sauces are housemade with quality ingredients. Our taps pour from Alberta craft breweries we love and proudly support, and our Southern-inspired cocktails are made for easy sipping. If you're a whisky fan, we've got you covered - our Bourbon & Whisky list is something we've built bottle by bottle over the years, and is one of the most unique offerings in the city. Nothing fancy, nothing overworked. Just simple, made exceptionally well.
As is the tradition of Barbecue, MEAT is about much more than just the food. Our family-style dining is about sharing plates, telling stories, and simply enjoying time with the people who matter. Warm service, lively atmosphere, big flavours, and slow-smoked goodness in every bite - that's the MEAT way!
Our People
Aron Pakan
Head Chef & Pit Boss
Aron has been part of the MEAT family for over 10 years, starting as a cook and quickly working his way to Sous Chef before stepping into the role of Head Chef in 2016. With over 20 years in the industry, Aron's path took him from Culinary school at NAIT to kitchens in Vancouver & Australia, with years of experience in high-end steakhouses. Aron found his way back home, and luckily to us, where he's been exploring the full creative potential of barbecue ever since. Inspired by a family love of food and making people happy, Aron brings curiosity, creativity, and a collaborative spirit to everything he cooks, with a special passion for working with local restaurants and purveyors.
Andy Heroux
Owner & Operator
Andy has been MEAT's General Manager for over a decade and became part-owner in 2019. Before joining MEAT, he spent ten years with the Earls group, where he discovered his passion for hospitality while opening several new restaurants across Canada and the U.S. Raised in a family where Saturday dinners were a given and the door was always open to anyone who needed a place to be, Andy learned early on the value of hospitality, shared experiences, and community.
Michael Rebalkin,
Saylish Haas,
Nathan McLaughlin
Owners
Childhood friends Saylish Haas, Michael Rebalkin, and Nathan McLaughlin are the team behind some of Old Strathcona's favourite spots - The Next Act, MEAT, Pip, Pals, and Marlo - all conveniently tucked into one lively corner of the neighbourhood. Before striking out on their own, each of them honed their craft in different ways. Mike cut his teeth in restaurant operations with the Joey group; Nathan earned his Red Seal and cooked his way through kitchens at Earls, Joey, and the Fairmont; and Saylish built a strong business foundation as a regional manager with Urban Barn. After a trip to Mexico in 2010, the three decided to take the leap and buy The Next Act. From there, things grew naturally, as neighbouring spaces became available. Over the years, they've been proud to help shape Old Strathcona's food scene and contribute to Edmonton's dining culture, one restaurant at a time. For this trio it's always been about the same simple things: great food, welcoming spaces, and being part of a community they love.
Have you met the entire family?
