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The Lancaster Smokehouse began as a family passion and has become a local institution.
Chris and Cathy Corrigan, along with their family, spent years travelling to barbecue competitions, developing their approach to smoked meats and learning what worked. What began as a labour of love eventually grew into catering, and then into Hog Tails BBQ in Waterloo in 2009.
In 2011, Chris and Cathy purchased the historic Lancaster Tavern and opened The Smokehouse. For several years, Hog Tails and The Smokehouse operated alongside one another. Hog Tails was eventually sold and continued for a period before ultimately closing. The Smokehouse remained and continued to grow.
What started as a family venture has grown into a business employing more than 80 people.
The family aspect of The Smokehouse has extended well beyond its ownership. Over the years, The Smokehouse has become a place where parents and children, husbands and wives, and even best friends work side by side. That sense of family has become an important part of The Smokehouse's history.
The Smokehouse has also developed its own identity by paying attention to the tastes of the Waterloo Region and the surrounding community. Our flavour profiles have been shaped by what people in the Kitchener-Waterloo area enjoy, including local favourites such as pig tails, which have long been part of the region's food culture.
Supporting Ontario and the people who live here is an important part of The Smokehouse. We work with Ontario producers, suppliers and other local businesses whenever possible, and look for opportunities to support the communities we are part of.
The Lanc has been an important part of the Waterloo Region's history and community for nearly 200 years.
Built in the 1840s as the Lancaster Hotel, The Lanc was originally a railroad hotel, serving travellers along the rail line that passed through the former village of Bridgeport and into Berlin (now Kitchener). It was the first hotel built in Bridgeport and became an important gathering place for the growing community.
The Lanc was there through major periods of local and Canadian history, including Prohibition. Its long history as a hospitality and entertainment venue has given the building a unique place in the community.
From 1956 to 1976, the building was home to the Ocean Queen Lounge, a nautical-themed jazz venue. The Ocean Queen became known for live music and was part of the Kitchener-Waterloo entertainment scene during that era. The space is now used as The Lanc Loft.
The building later went through a particularly difficult period, experiencing four separate fires between 1992 and 1994. It was extensively renovated following the fires and ultimately continued on as a place of business and entertainment.
There have long been stories and speculation about the building being haunted. While there is no shortage of lore, The Lanc's history is documented enough to make the stories interesting on their own. The building has even attracted the attention of paranormal investigators, including Selena Spooky Boo, who has featured The Lanc in one of her investigations.
Back of House Pizza was created by Chef and co-owner Tim Borys as part of the Lancaster Co. family, bringing his vision of quality-crafted New York-style pizza to Waterloo Region.
Built around handcrafted dough, quality ingredients, and a commitment to doing the classics right, the menu features everything from timeless New York favourites to rotating feature pizzas that give the kitchen the freedom to explore more creative combinations.
What began as a fresh concept has become one of Waterloo Region's favourite hidden gems, building a loyal following one slice at a time.
Guests can also enjoy Back of House Pizza Happy Hour in The Smokehouse dining room, Tuesday through Thursday from 4 to 6.
