Once a Lilydale poultry plant, then a discount fashion outlet, then a restaurant, the home of Bookers BBQ Grill & Crab Shack has seen a lot of history. And with 23 years in service, it’s become a part of Calgary’s history too. Serving southern-style barbecue and seafood since 1998, Bookers continues to offer the signature dishes they are known for like buckets of crab, jambalaya, St. Louis ribs, and brisket, plus some gluten-free and plant-based options. Red Seal Chef Brendan Bohan joined Bookers to assist with the re-opening after the first lockdown bringing his own recipes and personal touches to an already established menu. Bohan has kept busy during lockdown with one of his favourite pastimes: pickling and preserving. Look for some of his creations on the menu sometime this year.