Where there is smoke, there are bones. And where there is Smoque N’ Bones (869 Queen St. W.), there are some delicious eats.

Walking into the restaurant, the first thing that I noticed was the open concept setting and the Southern Pride smoker cooking up a rack of ribs. The place smelled of smoked meat, and this is not a bad thing. If I can get a preview with my nose of what my mouth is about to taste, I am all in. The second thing that I immediately noticed was that the place was filled with friendly and informative staff. Anyone who frequents restaurants will tell you that a staff that knows their menu and genuinely wants patrons to have a good time is almost as important as the food. ALMOST.

Now let’s get to the good stuff (I am still having dreams about their pulled pork sandwich – but more on that later). The hickory-smoked ribs melted off the bone and didn’t even need the addition of a sauce. If, however, one wants that extra dash of flavour; Owner Alex Rad has you covered. Sauce and a brush are served on the side for a little DIY application. The ribs are cooked in three-hour intervals and sell for $27.50/full rack and $15.50/half rack. Of course, what would ribs be without some tasty sides? Some of the sides (which are all priced at $3.90) included creamy mac n’ cheese, coleslaw, dirty rice, baked beans, candied yams, collard greens and my personal favourite, potato salad (you will find small shreds of pulled pork throughout). They also offer fried faves like shoestring fries, onion rings and sweet potato waffle fries. Finally, I have to quickly mention the breadbasket, which came with a homemade butter that any cinnamon lover would swoon for.

Another star item on the menu was the previously mentioned pulled pork sandwich ($7.50). Meat is piled high on a toasted white bun (which came from a local bakery) and served on top is a healthy offering of BBQ sauce and creamy coleslaw. I’m going on record stating that it is one of the best in the city. And I know my pulled pork.

Smoque N’ Bones offers draught beer ($6.50 – $7) such as Amsterdam Blonde, Flying Money, Mill St. Tankhouse, Muskoka Detour and Samuel Adams and cocktails that are mainly infused with bourbon. If you are looking for something of the non-alcoholic variety, they offer a refreshing smokehouse lemonade (amazing!) and sweet tea, both of which sell for $3.50.

Some of the other menu items include brisket, andouille sausage and wings. Now, wipe the drool from your face, and try it out for yourself. You won’t be sorry.

Follow Smoque N’ Bones on Twitter @SmoqueNBones