Overall Rating and is it worth a visit: 7/10 and no it’s not. The BBQ Brewpub sits on a quaint little main street in the small town of Mount Vernon. A pleasant smell of smoke hits your nose when you walk into the restaurant, which is a small little area with seating for maybe 30-40 max. One of the rare spots that brew their own beers, as well as smoke their own barbecue, it does have nice homey vibes, with the owners actively working the front and back of house. That said, the barbecue was really nothing special and the Oktoberfest was pretty average as well. The customer service was good and its a nice chill vibe when you roll in, but overall not really worth a stop in regards to the barbecue itself, especially if it’s even remotely out of your way. Skip it and continue on to you destination where hopefully better bbq options await
Number of Years in Business: Originally opened in 2017, moved to new location in 2021
Number of People in Line: 0, but 16 people sitting down and 4 came in after me
Regional Style of BBQ: “Iowa-style” Barbecue
Total Cost: $34 with tip. Ordered 3 meat platter with two sides and an Oktoberfest beer (7.75/10). Came with brisket, ribs, and burnt ends, with coleslaw and honey cornbread for sides
Type of Wood: Cherry and hickory
Type of Smoker: Southern Pride Rotisserie Smoker (Commercial electric or gas)
Type of Seasoning: Multiple influences and blends
Best Dish: Burnt Ends
Best Sauce: Original
Best Side: Honey cornbread
Interior Description: A small little spot, with a walk-up bar and tap list of their own in-houser brewed beers. Bench and table seating for about 30-40 people with minimal decoration, theme, or BBQ ambiance being created
Pro Tip: Honestly, just skip this place and find an alternative option. If stopping though, the cornbread was the best thing to get
Brisket
0/10 Ranking: 7.25/10
Seasoning: Unsure, but minimal
Description: Slightly overcooked, with no bark to it, and trimmed in a very odd way where it had almost zero fat on it. No smoke ring to speak of and its only saving grace was that it was juicy, but the flavor came across more similar to smoked venison than brisket. A little tough to the bite as well. Skip it if ordering
Burnt Ends
0/10 Ranking: 7.5 to 7.75/10
Seasoning: Unsure
Description: Lathered in a sweeter sauce and slightly tough to the bite. The sauce is the only flavor really coming through, with minimal smokiness and a hard-to-distinguish seasoning blend. Would skip this one as well, but it is slightly better than the brisket
Pork Spare Ribs
0/10 Ranking: 7.25/10
Seasoning: Unsure
Description: These were overcooked and under-seasoned. Minimal smoke flavor coming through, if any at all. Tough and slightly dry ribs that don’t have much going for it outside of the pork flavor. Can pass on ordering these too
Sauces – Classic
0/10 Ranking: 7.75/10
Description: Sweet with a little hit of heat to it at the end. Seems like a slightly enhanced version of Sweet Baby Rays
Sides – Coleslaw
0/10 Ranking: 7.75 to 8/10
Description: Mayo-based, with it being mostly cabbage, with some carrots and sesame seeds mixed in as well. Okay overall, but too heavy on the mayo for my liking, which is typical for a mid-western bbq spot. Could skip ordering next time, but a decent slaw if needed
Sides – Honey Cornbread
0/10 Ranking: 8.5/10
Description: Sadly, this was the best thing I had on the menu. The cornbread was moist with a really good flavor, but it was also slightly undercooked, leading to the interior being a little dense, but it was great beyond that. Only thing I can say I would order again
Overall Rating and is it worth a visit: 9/10 and absolutely it is. Admittedly, when I think of Portland, I don’t think of BBQ, but Matt’s has completely flipped my perception of what the Pacific Northwest is capable off when it comes to smoking meats. I had this place marked to visit for a couple years ever since I read Aaron Franklin’s recommendation in his Masterclass guide. Needless to say, Franklin was as much right on the money with Matt’s as he is with his own barbecue. Walking up to the food truck (and yes it is in a food truck, but they smoke everything off-site), you’re a little unsure of what you’re about to have, but are quickly rewarded as soon as you receive your order. This was easily the best brisket I have had outside of Texas and sits in my Top 5 of all time. The ribs are also a Top 10 contender of all time for me, so suffice to say, I left full and happy when I stopped by with my wife this past October. You can grab beers next door or in typical Portland fashion, there are several coffee and alternative drink options among the multiple other food trucks that lie in this little conclave in north Portland. Great atmosphere and even better bbq, make this a must for any enthusiast looking for change up to the more traditional PNW options. I will 100% be back the next time I visit the city and would recommend anyone making the trip to plan a stop
Date Visited: 10/23/2024
Address: 4233 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97217
Day of the Week: Wednesday
Time of Day: 12:19 PM. Open at 11:00 AM and same day call ahead ordering
Number of People in Line: 4 people in front of us and 10-12 already seating with plates
Regional Style of BBQ: Texas Style
Total Cost: $60.95 with tip. 1/2 lb brisket, 1/2 rack of ribs, 1 original sausage, 1 cheddar jalapeno sausage, a side order of queso mac and coleslaw
Type of Wood: White Oak
Type of Smoker: Off-set smokers in a covered open-air off-site location
Type of Seasoning: Salt, pepper, maybe others for select dishes
Best Dish: Brisket
Best Sauce: No review
Best Side: Coleslaw
Interior Description: No interior as they operate out of a food truck and sits in a grouping of about 8-10 food trucks, tucked in under a covered decking area and next to a German Beer tap house and restaurant where you can order beers from. Comfortable and fun atmosphere and very traditional Portland vibes
Pro Tip: Make sure you visit when coming to Portland, and you must order the brisket and ribs, but especially the brisket. They apparently make delicious tacos as well, but we didn’t try any this time around
Brisket
0/10 Ranking: 9.5/10
Seasoning: Salt and pepper
Description: Thickly cut but perfectly tender. Had great bark with heavy seasoning and a nice level of smokiness. It had a 1/4 smoke ring to it and was really well-trimmed overall, with a great meat-to-fat ratio in each bite. This is easily a Top 5 brisket I’ve ever had and certainly lives up to the recommendation that Aaron Franklin gives it in his book. Each bite left me smiling and wanting to come back for another. Will for sure be making a second visit the next time I visit Portland
Pork Spare Ribs
0/10 Ranking: 9/10
Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and sauce
Description: Really great rib overall. Well trimmed and cooked perfectly. Fall off the bone tender but with a slight bite to it as well. Could use a little more smoke, but the seasoning and sauce combine for a deliciously sweet and peppery finish making it a Top 10 rib I’ve ever had. Will also be getting again the next time around
Sausage – Original
0/10 Ranking: 8.25/10
Description: Good casing but a little too fatty for the meat-to-fat ratio. Tastes similar to a kielbasa sausage, which is fine if that’s your thing, but not typically my favorite. Could skip or get one to share next time
Sausage – Cheddar Jalapeno
0/10 Ranking: 8.75 to 9/10
Description: Taut casing and creamy interior texture with a nice mixture blend to it. Not overly spicy or smoky, but certainly has the jalapeno and cheddar flavors present. Would order again
Sauces – No Review
Sides – Queso Mac
0/10 Ranking: 8.25/10
Description: Al dente noodles and a unique menu item that I haven’t come across before. Has a mild heat from the queso and a nice overall flavor, but could use some more salt or a bread crumble for some texture to it. Would get to share with the table
Sides – Coleslaw
0/10 Ranking: 8.25 to 8.5/10
Description: Really good for cutting the fattiness from the meats, seems to be more of an oil and vinegar base with maybe some slight mayo. Cabbage only with sesame seeds. Could use a little more flavor but would get again
Overall Rating and is it worth a visit: 8/10 and Yes. Sitting almost directly in the middle between Loveland & Fort Collins, Serious Texas B-B-Q sits on a large property and building, with great views of the surrounding Front Range Mountains, and a great outdoor patio area with a mini waterfall and space for your furry friends. Very much a Texas style interior, with corrugated steel along the walls and large wooden tables for dining, with red metal fold-up chairs. While the BBQ is okay overall, the setting and views give them some extra points towards being worth a recommendation. A cool place for Colorado BBQ where you can have a great view of the Front Range, enjoy some good food next to a running hardscape waterfall, and can bring along your dog for the patio seating. Would stop by again if in the area
Date Visited: 9/8/2024
Address: 201 W 71st St, Loveland, CO 80538
Day of the Week: Saturday
Time of Day: 1:30 PM. Open at 11:00 AM
Owner: Hunter Swanson. Took over for his parents that started it, Joe & Cookie
Number of Years in Business: Founded in 1998 in Durango, CO. This is one of their 4 locations, with one 2 in Durango, 1 in Fort Collins, and 1 in Loveland
Number of People in Line: 4 in front of us and about 20-30 sitting down already
Regional Style of BBQ: Texas Style
Total Cost: $48 with Tip. Got brisket, ribs, pulled pork, turkey, chicken wings, chipotle coleslaw, mac & cheese, and apple crumble
Type of Wood: Unsure, but I believe it was either Oak or Hickory
Type of Smoker: Electric smoker in the back it appears
Type of Seasoning: Salt, pepper, maybe others
Best Dish: Pulled Pork
Best Sauce: Original
Best Side: Apple Cobbler
Interior Description: It has a nice smell of smoke when you walk in with a pleasant staff and comfortable seating for probably over 100 people. Switch back lines for ordering your food at the counter and then you can take it back to your seat, either inside or out. Rustic setting with exposed ceilings and several bar signs, vintage gas station apparel, and stickers lining the walls with 90s rock music playing when we came in. Had an electric smoker in the back with sweet and unsweetened tea, and grab-and-go cooler beers as you’re waiting in line, which definitely lives up to the Texas influence
Pro Tip: Visit this location for the views if nothing else, but the BBQ is pretty good too. Sit outside on the patio if possible, and go with the pulled pork, ribs, and the apple cobbler
Brisket
0/10 Ranking: 8 to 8.25/10
Seasoning: Salt, pepper, maybe some others
Description: The brisket had a good smoke flavor to it with minimal seasoning and bark. Had about a 1/4-inch smoke ring, but was slightly tough to the bite and was slightly chewy with more thick-cut pieces. Would get it again though, especially if visiting earlier in the day, but it does need more seasoning to it overall and was oddly cut
Pork Spare Ribs
0/10 Ranking: 8.25/10
Seasoning: Salt, pepper, maybe others
Description: Fall off the bone tender with a nice smoke flavor and level of seasoning, but could use a bit more of both to take it to the next tier. Would get it again though
Pulled Pork
0/10 Ranking: 8.25 to 8.5/10
Seasoning: Unsure
Description: It had some bark to it, with moderate smoke flavor coming through in each bite. Slightly dry, but also good on its own. Would recommend the original sauce with it among all the options available
Sausage
0/10 Ranking: 8.5/10
Description: Creamy interior texture with a slight snap in the casing. It had a little bit of spice and heat to it, which was enjoyable and tasty. Had a nice meat-to-fat ratio but could use a little more smokiness to them. Would get again
Turkey
0/10 Ranking: 8/10
Seasoning: Unsure
Description: Peppery with mild to moderate smokiness. The bird was tender and juicy, but not the best of the best for Colorado. Would get again through if in the mood for smoked turkey
Chicken Wings
0/10 Ranking: 8.25 to 8.5/10
Seasoning: Unsure, multiple spices
Description: They were crisp to each bite, with a light smokiness and a juicy wing overall. They had a dry rub on them as well, with crispy, but not rubbery skin. Good on its own or with ranch, would get these again, and they are one of the rare spots that does chicken wings, so grab them if you’re craving a smoked wing option
Sauces – Didn’t review them, but the Original was good for the pulled pork
Sides – Chipotle Coleslaw
0/10 Ranking: 7.5/10
Description: It was okay, but nothing special at all, with pretty mild flavor in general. Light mayo and acidity to it, needs more seasoning/flavoring to everything overall. Free tree to skip this one as a side
Sides – Mac & Cheese
0/10 Ranking: 7.75/10
Description: Thin and runny sauce, but good overall flavor and cooked al dente. Could skip for the next time as this also needs extra seasoning or thicker base sauce for it to be worth a reorder
Sides – Apple Cobbler
0/10 Ranking: 8.5/10
Description: Sweet, but not overly so, with a nice crunch to the crumble and good crispness to the apples. Would get again, but a small order is all you need
Overall Rating and is it worth a visit: 8.5/10 and Yes. Decided to stop here on my way back from Colorado Springs, as the reviews were outstanding on Google and I am rarely down this far south. Stopped in almost right when they opened, with the restaurant sitting right along the main street in Palmer Lake. Had nice views looking out into the mountains, with counter service ordering right when you walk in the door. Ended up getting to chat with JT, his fiance, and staff member, all of who were super welcoming and provided great customer service and conversation. Learned that JT has been the service industry for years and was finally able to open his own spot with Sundance. Originally from Palmer Lake, he grew up in Central Texas as well as attended Culinary school in Austin, which is where his passion for brisket and post oak comes from, and when he moved back he decided he wanted to bring some of Texas back with him. That passion for Central Texas style bbq definitely comes through, especially with the brisket, Texas Twinkie, and even the Tex-Mex influenced elote. With them starting out less than a year ago, will absolutely be back to see the evolution of the bbq and the restaurant and would recommend for anyone swinging through the area or on your way in between Denver and Colorado Springs. Would recommend for a visit and worth a stop for sure
Number of Years in Business: Opened December 16th, 2023
Number of People in Line: 0, but 3 came after me and two to-go orders
Regional Style of BBQ: Central Texas
Total Cost: $54 with tip. Ordered 1/2 lb Brisket, Pulled Pork (no 1/4 lb options), 1 Sausage, 1 Texas Twinkie, Coleslaw, 1 Shiner Bock
Type of Wood: Red, white, and post oak depending on availability
Type of Smoker: Off-set smoker, from BBQ Pits by Klose in Houston, Texas
Type of Seasoning: Salt & Pepper
Best Dish: Brisket or Sausge
Best Sauce: Didn’t review
Best Side: Texas Twinkie
Interior Description: Cozy and unique layout, with seating right in front when you walk in, as well as several rooms in back with larger tables for bigger groups. Could probably fit about 30-40 people if needed. Full drink menu including beer, wine, and spirits
Pro Tip: Texas Twinkie is a rare item in Colorado, be sure to grab one or several while you’re here
Brisket
0/10 Ranking: 8.5/10
Seasoning: Salt & pepper
Description: 1/2 lb order ended up being one very thickly cut fatty slice, with some nice bark to it. It had a nice 3/4 inch smoke ring to it and was super tender and juicy and cooked almost perfectly. While the salt and pepper come through each bite, the brisket needs more of both overall. Had a good level of smokiness to it, but could use more intensity there as well. Solid brisket and probably a top 10-15 in the state. Would order again
Pulled Pork
0/10 Ranking: 7/10
Seasoning: Unsure
Description: The pulled pork was dry and didn’t have much for seasoning or smokiness coming through. Chopped up vs pulled, while some pieces had some bark, not much overall. BBQ sauce helps a little, but not the best overall. Could skip this next time to try something else
German Sausage
0/10 Ranking: 8.75/10
Description: Gets these from Sarah’s sausages right now, but is planning on making these in-house down the road. The sausages had a great fat to meat ratio, with a taut snap to the casing and a nice smoke flavor to it. Will absolutely order the next time I’m there
Sides – Coleslaw
0/10 Ranking: 8.25/10
Description: Cream texture with crisp cabbage. Leans more mayo than vinegar, but balanced overall and a nice side to break up the bbq with. Worth ordering for the table
Sides – Texas Twinkie
0/10 Ranking: 8.75/10
Description: A unique item not found in the Denver area, so this was a nice surprise to see. It’s essentially a smoked jalapeno, wrapped with bacon, and stuffed with a cream cheese brisket filling. The bacon was crisp on the outside and the internal filling was very tasty as well. Good spice level to it and would recommend you grab them if they are available
Sides – Pickles
0/10 Ranking: 9/10
Description: Crisp with almost a perfect level of acidity. Finishes clean for each bite, with a slight saltiness perfect for cutting some of the meat’s fattiness. Comes included with all the meats, but don’t skip them
Overall Rating and is it worth a visit: 8.75/10 and Yes. Walking up to the building, the smell of smoke hits you almost 10 feet before you even get to the front door, already a good sign of things to come. They had rock music casually playing on low volume as you enter and head towards the counter to order, with multiple picnic tables adorned by sauces and bbq books, with a full bar in the back as well. A thick smell of smoke lingered in the air the entire time I was there, strongly giving off that authentic BBQ vibe. Having won a Bib Gourmand award in 2023 from Michelin which is given to restaurants offering “fine cuisine at a moderate price” I was curious to try it again after not being blown away the first time I had it back in 2020. As far as the menu and the bbq itself, I was pleasantly surprised with what I found. They have several unique items such as the tri-tip and wagyu pastrami, but also cover all of the standard options you would hope to find such as brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and sausages. While the BBQ itself was good across the board, I wouldn’t say anything took home the best in Colorado for me. For beverage options, noticed they had lemonade and sweet tea on tap, to go along with several canned and local draft beer choices and was very happy to see they kept true to their Texas influence by having Shiner Bock available as well. Once you have your order, there are several options for seating both inside or out depending on the vibe you’re feeling or size of your group. The murals in back give a nice little tip of the hat to Texas BBQ and their respective pit masters, while also being the location where they host BBQ classes on the weekends, helping to potentially bring us the next generation of bbq bosses here locally. Overall, it’s a great spot to go and grab some barbecue if you’re craving the Central Texas style vibe, with a fun, quirky, and inviting atmosphere and good menu selection all around. Certainly a spot worth checking out, especially for you Michelin chasers, but also not the best of the best when it comes BBQ in Colorado. Would go back again
Number of Years in Business: Started in 2010 in Chicago, opened in January 2019 in Denver
Number of People in Line: 15 sitting/in line ahead of me, with 25 who rolled in after me over about 60 minutes
Regional Style of BBQ: Texas Style
Total Cost: $65.15 with tip. Ordered 1/4 lb Brisket, Burnt Ends, Sausage, Turkey, Jerk Chicken, Banana Pudding, and Coleslaw with a Shiner Bock
Type of Wood: Post Oak
Type of Smoker: A.N. Bewley Upright Wood Burning Pit
Type of Seasoning: Salt, pepper, others
Best Dish: Brisket
Best Sauce: Carolina Gold
Best Side: Banana Pudding
Interior Description: An eclectic combination of seating options, gives this place a strong Austin weird vibe to it. With interior seating in the front that gives reclaimed and recycled Texas vibes, leading into a simple brick and mortar interior where you order and can grab a seat family style at the many picnic tables, heading to the outdoor seating section in back with open and covered options available. The back is lined with Austin murals, giving call outs to some of the Central Texas BBQ’s biggest legends and institutions. Fun and relaxing BBQ vibes to be found no matter where you sit
Pro Tip: One of the only places doing pastrami in Colorado and they use Wagyu beef for it as well. Didn’t try this or the Tri-Tip, but both are pretty exclusive to AJ’s as an offering. Would go back to try their beef ribs too
Brisket
0/10 Ranking: 8.5 to 9/10
Seasoning: Salt and pepper
Description: Ordered fatty cut pieces and they were really juicy overall. They had a light but enjoyable smoke flavor with a minimal red ring to it. The slice was really well trimmed, being a nice blend of fat and meat to each bite. Would like more seasoning and smoke flavor to come through as my only critique. Would order again
Burnt Ends
0/10 Ranking: 8 to 8.5/10
Seasoning: Unsure, but looks like a BBQ sauce coating on top of the salt and pepper
Description: Much smokier than the brisket, but also tougher and more dried out. Appears they cut them off and then toss in a sauce before smoking them again, but this batch might have been slightly overcooked. Could skip the next time and just get the brisket
Pork Spare Ribs
0/10 Ranking: 8.5/10
Seasoning: Salt, pepper, maybe others
Description: Good bark and smoke ring to them. The ribs were tasty, with a sweeter flavor than most found in Colorado. To the bite, they were tender with a nice consistency to them, but not quite fall off the bone. Had moderate smoke flavor and seasoning to it and could have used more of each, similar to the brisket, but were really juicy and solid rib overall. Would get again
Sausage – Texas Style
0/10 Ranking: 8/10
Description: Cheddar cheese and jalapenos are the headlining flavors with this sausage, which they slice into thin cut pieces for easy grabbing. The casing still had a nice snap to it though, with a well blended fat to meat ratio and mixture. Mild spiciness for the jalapeno being in it and could use a little more smokiness to it as well. 50/50 on if I’d order it again
Sausage – Jerk Chicken
0/10 Ranking: 8/10
Description: Creamier consistency than the Texas sausage, but also having a good snap to the casing. Medium level of spiciness for a jerk sausage where the spice hits quickly on the the tongue, but leaves just as fast. Would try again, but not a must order
Turkey
0/10 Ranking: 7.75 to 8/10
Seasoning: Salt and heavy pepper
Description: Juicy but a bit overcooked, making most of the pieces a little tough. Thickly cut, it had strong and enjoyable pepper flavoring, but could use more smoke and was just a little too overcooked which dropped it down into the 7’s for ratings. Would skip for the next time
Sauces – Smokey Sweet
0/10 Ranking: 7.5/10
Description: Certainly lives up to the name and description, with an acidic kick to it as well. Medium viscosity and thickness for the consistency. Was a little too heavy on the brown sugar though, as it is the strongest flavor that comes through and lingers on. Would skip for next time
Sauces – Citrus Chipotle
0/10 Ranking: 8/10
Description: This sauce had a nice little tang and sweetness to it. Had medium viscosity and thickness to its consistency, similar to the smokey sweet. Could see this one being good on pulled pork or with the turkey. Well balanced and with the slightest bit of heat from the chipotle, it was good overall, but I’m 50/50 on if I would want it again
Sauces – Smoke Jalapeno
0/10 Ranking: 7.5 to 8/10
Description: Smokey and a light acidity to it, definitely the spiciest option of the 4 available, but nothing too crazy or over the top with heat level. Similar to the other sauces, medium viscosity and thickness for its consistency. While the jalapeno flavor is there, it’s not really one I would need to get again, as this isn’t my typical type of bbq sauce I go for
Sauces – Carolina Gold
0/10 Ranking: 8/10
Description: Ringing true to being a Carolina style bbq sauce, the mustard flavor comes through right away, but with a nicely balanced level of acidity. Yellow mustard is the clear backbone of this sauce and has a nice overall flavor to it. Would recommend for anyone interested in this style of sauce. Slightly odd that a Texas Style place has a Carolina mustard as their best sauce, but would get again
Sides – Coleslaw
0/10 Ranking: 7.75 to 8/10
Description: Mayo based with mostly cabbage, followed by carrots, red onions, and some sesame seeds. Crisp and light with a moderate amount of mayo and mild acidity. Okay overall, but not exactly my style of coleslaw. Would only get it again to share with the table for a few bites, but not worth ordering if just on my own
Sides – Banana Pudding
0/10 Ranking: 8.5 to 9/10
Description: Rare to find menu item for Colorado bbq spots, so had to try it even though I’m not usually a sweets person. Seemed to be a very fluffy whipped cream/tiramisu type of filling to it, with crunchy lady fingers and fresh chunks of banana mixed in. Wasn’t overly sweet either and was a really nice light dessert option. Would absolutely order again
Overall Rating and is it worth a visit: 8/10 and Yes. For being down in the corporate wasteland that is DTC, admittedly my expectations were tempered with this visit. When I rolled up at 11:40 AM, the sign still said closed and I wasn’t sure if they were still operating, but when I peeked inside, some staff saw me and came out to confirm that they were open, but they had forgotten to unlock the door that morning. Upon walking in, there wasn’t any smoke smell to speak of, but the place had chill and comfortable vibes to it, with reclaimed wood along the walls, concrete floors, and seating for about 100, with some outdoor options as well. While nothing really blew me away with the barbecue, I have to give them credit that everything was pretty solid and had a good floor to its flavors across the board. With burnt ends being less common to find in Colorado, it was nice to see them a staple on the menu and the they were also the only place I’ve seen offering a pork burnt end option and only the second place in Colorado behind Pit Fiend, that I’ve seen offer smoked jackfruit. For being corporate owned, I’m pleasantly surprised at the quality and would recommend it if you’re in town for a conference and craving some bbq
Date Visited: 7/7/2024
Address: 5332 DTC Blvd #100, Greenwood Village, CO 80111
Day of the Week: Sunday
Time of Day: 11:40 AM. Open at 11:00 AM
Owner: PB&J Restaurants Group aka Paul Khoury. Paul partnered with Pit Master, Stephen “Smokey” Schwartz (Who worked at Joe’s Kansas City BBQ, Jack Stack BBQ, & The Golden Ox, all Kansas City meat legends)
Number of Years in Business: Unsure, but I somewhere between 2010 and 2015
Number of People in Line: 0 in front of me and no one had been there yet before me, since the doors were locked. Did have 8 people come in after
Regional Style of BBQ: Kansas City Style
Total Cost: $86.76 with tip. Ordered 1/4 lb of brisket, burnt ends, sausage, turkey, pulled pork, and 1/4 rack of ribs. For sides, added in mac & cheese and coleslaw. Came with 6 pieces of Texas Toast and a Kona beer
Type of Wood: Hickory
Type of Smoker: Vertical Electric (I believe)
Type of Seasoning: Several blends
Best Dish: Pulled Pork or Burnt Ends
Best Sauce: Southwest
Best Side: Pickles
Interior Description: Sitting in a DTC business park area inside an upscale strip mall. Cafeteria style ordering with meats broken out down to the quarter pound. They also have bowls, platters, salads, wings, and even some taco options. Seating for about 100 and a familiar layout and feel to a Qdoba or Chipotle. Music was 70s and 80s pop and soft rock hits, which wasn’t exactly the type of bbq vibe I’m usually looking for
Pro Tip: Go for the burnt ends, pulled pork, and grab the pickles for a nice crisp and balanced acidity hit
Brisket
0/10 Ranking: 7.5 to 8/10
Seasoning: Salt and pepper, possibly others
Description: Thinly cut with a light smoke ring to each piece. Was juicy for both the fatty and lean sections, but was a little tough to chew. Not much for smoke or seasoning coming through either. Serviceable but nothing special either, I’m 50/50 on needing to order this again
Burnt Ends
0/10 Ranking: 8/10
Seasoning: Salt and pepper, possibly others
Description: More tender than the brisket and with better smoke and seasoning coming through each bite, but still pretty light on both. For a place called Burnt Ends, this was the better of the two brisket options and I would get again. 1/4lb is plenty for ordering next time
Pork Spare Ribs
0/10 Ranking: 8 to 8.5/10
Seasoning: Salt, pepper, possibly others, and bbq sauce
Description: Fall off the bone tender, but not overcooked and still had a good bite to it. Not a ton of seasoning coming through and a light amount of smoke to them, most of the flavor seems to be coming from the sauce. Cooked really well, but needs more smoke and seasoning to them. Would get the again though, with 1/4 lb being enough with 3 ribs
Pulled Pork
0/10 Ranking: 8.5/10
Seasoning: Unsure
Description: Super juicy and smoky flavor coming through in each and every bite. Not much for seasoning, but cooked perfectly and one of the smokier pulled porks in Colorado and definitely a top 3 for juiciest. Would order again
Sausage
0/10 Ranking: 7.5 to 8/10
Description: Chopped into bite sized pieces, the sausage was a little mushy and leaning a little fatty for its internal blend. Had good flavor and seasoning to it though, with a nice bit of heat as well. Would get again to share with the table, but also not one that I would probably order again for just myself
Turkey
0/10 Ranking: 7.5 to 8/10
Seasoning: Unsure
Description: Juicy through most, but not all of the pieces. This was the smokiest meat they served, but needs more seasoning and for it to be cooked just a little bit less. Would probably get again if in the mood for turkey, but not a necessity either
Sauces – Didn’t review, but tried all three with the Southwest being the best one
Sides – Mac & Cheese
0/10 Ranking: 7.5/10
Description: Noodles were cooked perfectly and the sauce was creamy without being thin. However, the mac & cheese was way under seasoned. Added some salt which made it better, but could skip the next time
Sides – Coleslaw
0/10 Ranking: 7 to 7.5/10
Description: Light and crisp, with more of a mayo base to it. More sweet than acidic, it was an okay slaw but nothing special either
Overall Rating and is it worth a visit: 7.5 to 8/10 and maybe. We decided the try out one of the Front Ranges longest running barbecue joints in KT’s BBQ after an early morning hike with the dogs. Upon walking up to the old house turned barbecue restaurant, we were pleasantly greeted with the smell of hickory smoke all around us, which only intensified once we went inside. The staff were friendly and provided great service, even being so kind as to come out with come chicken in a cup for our dogs. As far as the barbecue itself, we weren’t overly blown away by any dish outside of the hot links, but the ribs and the brisket were decent overall. Would give them another try down the line, but could easily skip the pulled pork the next time around
Number of Years in Business: Opened this original location on January 3rd, 1992. Opened second downtown Boulder location in 1995
Number of People in Line: 0, but 4 people came in after us
Regional Style of BBQ: Memphis
Total Cost: $65 with Tip for two people. Ordered full rack of ribs for Saturday $24 special, 1/2 lb of brisket, 1/4 lb pulled pork, hot link, coleslaw, red skinned mashers, and 2 soft drinks
Type of Wood: Hickory
Type of Smoker: Vertical
Type of Seasoning: Varies
Best Dish: Hot Link
Best Sauce: Didn’t review
Best Side: Coleslaw
Interior Description: Small interior section with seating for maybe 10-15, but had additional seating outside that is dog friendly. The restaurant is a converted old house, so it has a small cozy feel to it, with wood lined walls and hickory smoke lingering in the air
Pro Tip: Go for the hot link and coleslaw, maybe the ribs
Brisket
0/10 Ranking: 7.5/10
Seasoning: Unsure beyond salt and pepper
Description: They chop the brisket which I’m not a fan of typically, but the brisket was still good overall. Tender, but on the tougher side, it had a nice hickory smokiness coming through, but not much else for flavor or seasoning. 50/50 on if I would order again
Pork Spare Ribs
0/10 Ranking: 7.5 to 8/10
Seasoning: Unsure
Description: Tender and almost fall off the bone, but were a little dried out and slightly overcooked. I think they add a little bit of bbq sauce to them during the smoking process, as they did have a creamy texture to the top, but they do have some seasoning on the outside and the hickory comes through nicely. Similarly, unsure on if I would order again
Pulled Pork
0/10 Ranking: 6.5 to 7/10
Seasoning: Unsure
Description: The pulled pork was very dried out with little seasoning or smoke flavor coming through at all and no bark to speak of. Skip it
Hot Link Sausage
0/10 Ranking: 8.5/10
Description: Reminds me of a smoked summer sausage with a really good smokiness and flavor overall. One of the staff said they get it from a producer in town, so not in-house. Was slightly dried out, but still a really good sausage that had a nice little bit kick of spice to it. Would order these again
Sauces – No reviews given
Sides – Coleslaw
0/10 Ranking: 8.5/10
Description: Light and crisp with minimal mayo to it. Not overly seasoned, but it cuts all of the meat fattiness really well. Would order this again no question
Sides – Red Skinned Mashers
0/10 Ranking: 8/10
Description: Creamy and well blended, that had a good taste but was also pretty mild in flavor. Would get again, but it needs some slat or something else added to it to take it over the top
Overall Rating and is it worth a visit: 7.5 to 8/10 and maybe worth a stop. Upon arrival, they had Eric Clapton and blues music playing, but no smoke smell to really speak of. Overall, the barbecue didn’t really blow me away, but he makes a great hot sauce and the service was top notch. The staff and the owner were super friendly and welcoming, so would stop by and try them out again, as I may have just caught them on an off day
Number of Years in Business: Opened as a food tuck in 2019 and brick and mortar in 2021
Number of People in Line: 0, but 3 came in after for to-go orders and 4 came in to sit while I was finishing up
Regional Style of BBQ: Oklahoma/Texas
Total Cost: $33.22 before tip. Ordered 3 meat 2 side combo platter with a hot link, jalapeno cornbread, and soda added on. Got the brisket, two ribs, & pulled pork with bacon mac and cheese and the chili corn
Type of Wood: Oak
Type of Smoker: Split offset
Type of Seasoning: Mostly just salt and pepper
Best Dish: Hot Link
Best Sauce: Hot
Best Side: Bacon mac & cheese
Interior Description: Had 5 picnic tables for seating, but are expanding into the back for probably double the seating space. Wanted Outlaw Reward signs hang next to old western rifles and pistols, as they line the walls along with a few barbecue themed ones. Small and cozy little bbq spot to pop into off of Santa Fe
Pro Tip: Go with the hot links, and pulled pork with the hot sauce
Brisket
0/10 Ranking: 7/10
Seasoning: Salt & pepper
Description: Didn’t ask if I wanted it fatty or lean, just served as is. Ended up being a fatty and thick cut, which had minimal bark and seasoning to it. Was tough and a little dried out, as it looks like it may have been cut the day before and simply reheated on the grill. I’d skip this the next time around unless I was for sure getting a freshly cut piece
Pork Spare Ribs
0/10 Ranking: 7.5/10
Seasoning: Unsure, but light seasoning
Description: Minimal seasoning on these and they also appear to have been precut from a former batch and then placed on a grill to heat back up, as the grill marks were clearly visible. Sadly, this left the ribs a little tough and chewy, but their saving grace was that they did have a nice smokiness to them. Would try them again in a half-rack to see if it improves
Pulled Pork
0/10 Ranking: 8/10
Seasoning: Unsure
Description: Really juicy overall, but needs some seasoning added to it, as it was pretty light with the flavoring that comes through. That said, adding the hot sauce gives it a nice pop of flavor to enhance it. Would order again
Louisiana Hotlink Sausage
0/10 Ranking: 8.5 to 9/10
Description: Doesn’t make them in house, but had a great flavor and blend of meat to fat ratio. Splits them for a quick turn on the grill and the casings had a nice snap to it, with a dash of heat to each bite. Best thing they had and would get again
Sauces – Original
0/10 Ranking: 8/10
Description: Thicker and sweeter than the hot sauce, it had a good smokiness to it and wasn’t overly sweet. Vaguely reminds me of KC Masterclass BBQ Sauce
Sauces – Hot
0/10 Ranking: 8.5 to 9/10
Description: One of the better hot bbq sauces I have had in awhile. It’s thin in it’s consistency, but never approaches being watery. Has a good flavor and perfect heat level to it. Would order and use again, especially with the pulled pork
Sauces – Carolina Mustard
0/10 Ranking: 8 to 8.5/10
Description: A thin sauce as well, that has a good vinegar pop to it. Finished light and doesn’t lean too heavy into the mustard flavoring. Would use again as well
Sides – Bacon Mac & Cheese
0/10 Ranking: 8/10
Description: Noodles were al dente with a nice smokiness coming through each bite. Creamy consistency and nice bacon bits throughout the dish. Good portion size and flavoring, make this a yes for ordering again
Sides – Chili Corn
0/10 Ranking: 7.5 to 8/10
Description: Corn was crisp, with what looked like marinated bell pepper strips and green chili added in. Was okay overall, but not a dish I would normally have gotten. Definitely a unique option that I haven’t seen anywhere else, but would probably skip it next time
Sides – Jalapeno Cornbread
0/10 Ranking: 8/10
Description: Moist with a nice jalapeno flavor and heat coming through each bite. Hit’s the spot if craving some southern cornbread and would order again
Overall Rating and is it worth a visit: 9/10 and Yes. Even though we had to park two blocks away, as soon as we opened the car doors, we could already smell the delicious bbq that awaited us. When walking up, you’re greeted by pig themed art work and neon lights, guiding you into your pork haven. A heads up for any brisket fans, that they will need to scratch their itch elsewhere, as Peg Leg exclusively deals in hog, with a little chicken added on the side. That said, they certainly know what they are doing when it comes to crafting delicious pork barbecue and anyone in the area should certainly make a stop, especially for the pulled pork. Laid back vibes, fantastic smells & tastes, with affordable pricing make this an easy recommendation to add this as a pit stop on your next adventure in Nashville
Number of Years in Business: Opened in 2013, but has been catering since 1998
Number of People in Line: 6 in line, with about 30 waiting for their order or already sitting down
Regional Style of BBQ: Nashville Style and Memphis Style dry rub ribs
Total Cost: N/A
Type of Wood: Hickory
Type of Smoker: Electric
Type of Seasoning: In-house blends and rubs
Best Dish: Pulled pork
Best Sauce: None reviewed, but several in-house made options available
Best Side: None reviewed, but the kool-aid pickles are a unique option to try out if you’ve never had them
Interior Description: Laid back sports bar themed vibes. Walk up window for ordering your food with several seating options inside and out depending on your preference, with a full bar and the smell of hickory smoke hanging heavy in the air inside or out
Pro Tip: Arrive early if you can, as some locals I was talking to says it can run out on the weekends, with lines starting early. Order the pulled pork in whatever variation pleases you, as it is some of the best I’ve had
St Louis Style Spare Ribs
0/10 Ranking: 8 to 8.5/10
Seasoning: Coated with a in-house dry rub
Description: Very tasty rib overall. They had good smoke and seasoning in each bite, with the ratio being a pretty perfect blend so that you could taste both simultaneously. As far as texture, while they weren’t fall off the bone tender they also weren’t tough either. Could have been a little moister, but the ribs were trimmed well for a nice fat and meat balance. Would order again
Pulled Pork
0/10 Ranking: 9/10
Seasoning: Unsure
Description: Super juicy with a great smoke flavor coming through each bite. One of the best pulled porks I’ve had, with no sauce needed on this one. Great blend of meat and fat with a very tasty seasoned bark on the outside with just a little bit of crunch to it. Would absolutely order this one again
Sauces – None reviewed, but had several available
Sides – None reviewed, but had kool aid pickles, mac & cheese, smoked green beans, and coleslaw
Overall Rating and is it worth a visit: 8/10 and Yes. Good bbq overall and a quick easy stop either on your way or coming back from the mountains via HWY 70. When we rolled in after a hike, they were prepping for a Lobster Boil later that evening, so they also have several events and live music events throughout the year. As far as the bbq, the Kielbasa was the group favorite, followed by the turkey and the brisket. The fried okra was definitely a highlight, to go along with a really tasty and light coleslaw as the best sides. Cool setting, solid service, and tasty bbq make it easily worth a stop, especially with being dog friendly!
Date Visited: 6/1/2024
Address: 25948 Genesee Trail Rd, Golde, CO 801401
Day of the Week: Saturday
Time of Day: 12:36 PM. Opens at 10 AM on weekends and 11 on weekdays
Number of People in Line: 0, but 12 were already sitting down. Table side service
Regional Style of BBQ: Texas
Total Cost: Had three of us, so order the 1/2 Sampler, which comes with 1/2 rack of ribs, 1/4 lb of brisket, pork, turkey, and chicken. Included 8oz baked beans, mac & cheese, coleslaw, and potato salad. Added on a kielbasa sausage, an order of fried okra, and 7 drinks, for $126.46 before tip
Type of Wood: Hickory
Type of Smoker: Electric
Type of Seasoning: Salt & pepper typically
Best Dish: Kielbasa Sausage
Best Sauce: Spicy
Best Side: Fried okra
Interior Description: Elevated interior, with a nice bar and several seating options. Best seat in the house though is outside on the back patio, as it has several tables and sitting areas to accommodate larger crowds when they have live music playing.
Pro Tip: Make sure to order the okra and coleslaw to go along with Kielbasa, turkey, and possibly the brisket
Brisket
0/10 Ranking: 8/10
Seasoning: Salt & pepper
Description: Good flavor overall, with light smoke and light seasoning coming across each bite. Could use more of both, but it had a good meat to fat ratio and every piece was moist. Would order again, but also not a necessity
Pork Spare Ribs
0/10 Ranking: 7.5 to 8/10
Seasoning: Unsure
Description: Fall off the bone tender, but not much for smoke flavor coming through. Seasoning is tasty, but pretty light again and needs more to it. Split on if I would order them again
Pulled Pork
0/10 Ranking: 7.5/10
Seasoning: Unsure
Description: Not much seasoning or smokiness to it, but it was juicy. Add in the spicy sauce to make it a better blend, as it’s a little bland on its own. Could skip this one for the next time
Kielbasa Sausage
0/10 Ranking: 8 to 8.5/10
Description: They split and then grill the links after smoking them. Good meat and fat ratio with a very tasty overall flavor. Would order again
Chicken
0/10 Ranking: 7/10
Seasoning: Unsure
Description: Low seasoning and smoke coming through. A little dried out as well, not worth ordering again
Turkey
0/10 Ranking: 8/10
Seasoning: Unsure
Description: Really tasty and juicy turkey. Nice seasoning, flavor and overall smokiness level. Would order again
Sauces – Original
0/10 Ranking: 7.5/10
Description: Sweet with a little bit of spiciness to it. Okay overall, but nothing special. Reminds me of KC Masterpiece BBQ Sauce
Sauces – Spicy
0/10 Ranking: 8/10
Description: Good heat and spice flavor to it. Not too thick or too watery, with good heat balance overall and would get again, especially for the pulled pork. Best sauce they have
Sauces – Carolina Mustard
0/10 Ranking: 7.5 to 8/10
Description: Very mustard heavy in the flavor with a sweetness to it. Reminds me of Heinz mustard flavoring, which was okay overall, but also nothing that special
Sides – Fried Okra
0/10 Ranking: 8.5 to 9/10
Description: Lightly battered and cooked perfectly. Good seasoning and not overly cooked, with a good bit to the tooth on each piece. As a rare Colorado BBQ side option, would absolutely recommend ordering them if you stop by and I will be ordering again next time
Sides – Mac & Cheese
0/10 Ranking: 7.5 to 8/10
Description: okay overall, but in-between on if I would order again. Creamy with al dente noodles, but unfortunately it had low flavor and needs more seasoning to make it better and worth ordering a second time around
Sides – Coleslaw
0/10 Ranking: 8.5/10
Description: Super light coleslaw, with some apples mixed in for a nice crispy sweetness. Could have used just slightly more vinegar to take it over the top, but really good overall and would for sure order again
Sides – Baked Beans
0/10 Ranking: 7.5 to 8/10
Description: Admittedly, I’m not a huge baked bean guy, but these came with the platter. They were okay overall, but almost taste like Bush’s Baked Beans and could skip for the next order
The House of Salt & Smoke 