Just in time for winter, we’ve found the perfect spot for (finger-licking good!) Southern comfort. Blackstrap serves up Southern style BBQ (think 16-hour smoked meats) like we’ve never tasted – especially not in Montreal! Results? We’re indulging our inner carnivore like never before.

From the savory burnt ends poutine ($10) to the simplicity of delectable pulled pork (with a scene-stealing side of fried mac and cheese balls, please, $10.99), every bite is as good as the last – especially when doused in homemade spicy sauce.

Word to the wise: Quantities are limited, so check Twitter for sell-out advisories before heading down to the deep (Verdun) south. —Christine Laroche

4436 Wellington St., Montreal, 514-507-6772, www.promenadewellington.com

This city suffers from a sad lack of soul food, but now that Icehouse has moved into the Plateau, Montrealers finally have a spot to savour some spicy Southern-style staples.

This casual wood-panelled eatery serves Texas-style fare with an added kick, like their dare-you-to-drink-just-one (we didn’t) Bourbon-spiked fresh-squeezed lemonade and homemade hot sauce. We tried two tasty types of tacos ($8 each), one featuring teriyaki short ribs with green goddess sauce and a jalapeno-daikon slaw, and the other filled with red fish, pineapple salsa and black beans. But the ultimate foodie fantasy presented itself in the luscious lobster burrito with corn, chilli and black beans ($22). Just make sure you take note of the wall-mounted napkin rolls, because things are going to get messy.

Talk about finger lickin’ good. —JN

Icehouse, 51 Roy St. E, Montreal, 514-439-6691.