6 Beverages That Go Great With BBQ Food

There’s something universally joyful about gathering around a grill. No matter the season, people light up (and so do the coals) when the smoky aroma of sizzling meat fills the air. It’s why backyard cookouts, weekend gatherings, and community feasts happen so often — we’re wired to love barbecue. In Calgary, especially, great food and great company go hand in hand, which is why BBQ catering in the city has become such a crowd favourite.

Calgary’s Take on BBQ Food and Beverage Pairing

From that first whiff of charred goodness to the moment your taste buds spark at the very first bite, BBQ never disappoints. Whether it’s beef, chicken, ribs, or veggies catching those perfect grill marks, the flavours are irresistible. And here in Calgary — a city famous for its Alberta beef, weekend backyard cookouts, Stampede-season smoke-offs, and year-round grill warriors who barbecue even in a snowstorm — great BBQ is practically a local specialty!

In the BBQ food-and-beverage pairing, the beauty of barbecue lies not just in the smoked meat itself, but in the experience. We’re talking about the laughter, the gathering, the crackle of the grill, and that slow-cooked magic that brings people together across neighbourhoods, seasons, and celebrations. Especially with BBQ catering in Calgary, you get all the flavour without the fuss!

Top Beverages That Go Best With BBQ Food Pairing

Beer

Beer and barbecue go hand in hand — and in Alberta, we’re spoiled with choices. With a booming craft beer scene, Calgary offers everything from crisp lagers to smoky porters that pair beautifully with grilled and smoked meats.

A citrusy IPA can brighten fatty cuts like brisket, while a malty amber ale complements ribs, pulled pork, and anything glazed in a sweet-and-sticky sauce. And for lighter BBQ fare like grilled chicken or veggies? A refreshing wheat beer or local pilsner hits the spot every time. Alberta’s craft breweries have turned beer into a flavour playground, making it easier than ever to find the perfect pour for your next BBQ feast.

Lemonade

Lemonade is a refreshing drink and a top favourite in the summer season. It is also a well-known beverage partner for BBQ. You can always opt for freshly squeezed lemons– homemade lemons usually taste the best. Make sure the seeds are strained. To make your lemonade taste a lot better, you can add bits of strawberries, peach rosemarys, and blueberries. Do not forget to serve with ice!

Iced Fruit Punch

It is always nice to taste something fruity, especially after eating hot, very flavorful BBQ. Well, you can go for iced fruit punch. All you have to do is freeze a variety of fruit juices using an ice tray. It would be better if you had ice trays that feature random shapes. Combine the juice cubes in a single glass. As they melt, they will create your delicious iced fruit punch.

Raspberry Spritzer

BBQ can always be consumed with a low-calorie drink. If that is what you want, you can go for a Raspberry Spritzer. It is a drink composed of equal amounts of seltzer and frozen raspberries. Add two sprigs of fresh mint and three ounces of raspberry syrup for flavour and aroma. Serve with ice and enjoy! Raspberries are very healthy, especially since they protect your liver from damage, and they are very rich in antioxidants.

Soda

Of course, there will always be those who will crave a fizzy drink after eating BBQ. Soda is one of the best-tasting beverages and a perfect alternative to beer and wine. But be careful with soda because too much is definitely bad for you. Soda is also very high in calories. So if you plan to eat a lot of BBQ, you should cut back on your soda intake.

Apple Orchard Punch

Consider having Apple Orchard Punch. It is a popular drink in weddings, banquets, and most especially, BBQ cookouts. It is very easy to make. All you have to do is combine proportionate amounts of apple juice, frozen cranberry juice concentrate, and orange juice. After stirring the mixture, add a bit of ginger ale and freshly diced apples.

BBQ Catering Services in Calgary

Whether you’re grilling at home or hosting an event, the right drink can make all the difference. From crisp iced teas to craft beer and beyond, session after session proves that smart drink choices will make the mean and the memories unforgettable! And if you’d rather leave the cooking to the pros, let the BBQ catering at Rocky Mountain BBQ Catering in Calgary take care of it. We’ll bring the smoky, slow-cooked magic come to you.

Request a quote from us today!