Kansas City BBQ (and bbq in general)

[Ragone]

I've travelled around quite a bit.. trying bbq in a ton of different states, styles etc. With kansas city area being where i've tried the most.

I've lived in kc for quite awhile, honestly.. i've never been impressed with the so called "legends" of kc bbq.. (gates,arthur bryants)

I tried Oklahoma Joe's bbq the other day, and by god if that wasn't the best bbq i ever had.. I'd highly suggest skipping the so called "legends" and find the tiny restaurant thats attached to a gas station.

I'd love to hear of more bbq places around the country, as its one of my passions to find good bbq.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I've travelled around quite a bit.. trying bbq in a ton of different states, styles etc. With kansas city area being where i've tried the most.

I've lived in kc for quite awhile, honestly.. i've never been impressed with the so called "legends" of kc bbq.. (gates,arthur bryants)

I tried Oklahoma Joe's bbq the other day, and by god if that wasn't the best bbq i ever had.. I'd highly suggest skipping the so called "legends" and find the tiny restaurant thats attached to a gas station.

I'd love to hear of more bbq places around the country, as its one of my passions to find good bbq.

OK Joe's is maybe 4th best in KC. That's probably being generous.

Bryant's, Gates, and Smokestack all outrank OK Joe's.

[Ragone]

man. i'm telling you.. gates and bryants are a joke now. Last time i went to either of their restaurants i left saying i wouldn't ever go back. They used to be so good, i just dunno what happened with them.


I'm ok with smokestack being equivalent or even better.. but its also quite a bit more expensive

[kcchief19]

I think Oklahoma Joe's is good but overrated. It's the trendy pick as a top 3 BBQ joint in KC but it's not that good with me. Gates is better than it was for a while -- I think Ollie got over extended with his restaurants there for a while and the quality of the meet was very low. It's a lot better now than it was, but I agree that it doesn't meet the reputation. I will agree with Bryant's -- I think it's best days are behind them.

Jack Stack/Smokestack is probably the consensus pick for No. 1 these days. I do think that overall it's very good.

Generally, I like different places for different things. Jack Stack has the best sides and is tied with Gates for burnt ends. I love Smokehouse (Gladstone) for chicken. Wabash in Excelsior Springs has my favorite sliced meet -- best sliced turkey and pork for sure.

A lot of the smaller places to me are better than the big names. Winslow's and LC's are pretty good. I'm embarrassed as a BBQ connoisseur that I haven't been to Danny Edwards -- I hear it's awesome.

[MacroGuru]

Wow...the Memphis guys can chime in on the BBQ around there...I can't think of the names of half the places I have had there beyond Rendezvous, Corky's and Interstate BBQ..

There was one I ate at out by the Memphis Airport that was in like an old bunker years and years ago that was amazing.

South Carolina I actually like Maurice's.

[CU Tiger]

South Carolina I actually like Maurice's.


yeah if you can get past eating under a KKK grand master outfit hanging on the wall, not too bad.

[MacroGuru]

yeah if you can get past eating under a KKK grand master outfit hanging on the wall, not too bad.

I didn't see that in the one place I ate at...

[MacroGuru]

yeah if you can get past eating under a KKK grand master outfit hanging on the wall, not too bad.

And I am going to Dola post....

Thanks for the wakeup....I googled him and I know he will never, ever get my business again when I am out there...(It's what I get for being a damn Yank)

[JediKooter]

yeah if you can get past eating under a KKK grand master outfit hanging on the wall, not too bad.


<object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/35Lt4bIXyrY&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/35Lt4bIXyrY&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object>

I'll make sure I don't ever go to that place.

[Scarecrow]

I think Oklahoma Joe's is good but overrated. It's the trendy pick as a top 3 BBQ joint in KC but it's not that good with me. Gates is better than it was for a while -- I think Ollie got over extended with his restaurants there for a while and the quality of the meet was very low. It's a lot better now than it was, but I agree that it doesn't meet the reputation. I will agree with Bryant's -- I think it's best days are behind them.

Jack Stack/Smokestack is probably the consensus pick for No. 1 these days. I do think that overall it's very good.

Generally, I like different places for different things. Jack Stack has the best sides and is tied with Gates for burnt ends. I love Smokehouse (Gladstone) for chicken. Wabash in Excelsior Springs has my favorite sliced meet -- best sliced turkey and pork for sure.

A lot of the smaller places to me are better than the big names. Winslow's and LC's are pretty good. I'm embarrassed as a BBQ connoisseur that I haven't been to Danny Edwards -- I hear it's awesome.

+1 for the most part, except for the following:

1) Bryant's have the best meats - too bad I don't like their sauce. What I do is get a Arthur Bryant's beef, and douse it in the Gates BBQ sauce I sneak in.

2) You and I might be the only people that would mention Wabash BBQ with 'the big boys'. Only difference is that I think they have the best ribs in KC. Plus there's nothing better than sitting out on a picnic table, splitting a slab of ribs, and listening to some local jazz.

[Ragone]

I've heard of wabash but never been up there.

Smokehouse i will never go to again, i have never been treated worse then i have when i have gone there. Can have the best food in the world, but treat people like crap.. and it won't matter

[kcchief19]

2) You and I might be the only people that would mention Wabash BBQ with 'the big boys'. Only difference is that I think they have the best ribs in KC. Plus there's nothing better than sitting out on a picnic table, splitting a slab of ribs, and listening to some local jazz.
First time I went to Wabash I got the big meat platter -- whatever it's called -- with about four sliced meats and a half slab of ribs. Those might have been the best ribs I've ever had. They simply melted off the bone. The atmosphere is great too, especially at night with music. I also recommend the sweat potato fries -- great stuff.

I don't think Bryant's is bad I just don't think it's as good as it was at one time and not as good as a few other places. I'm with you on the sauce -- that might be what holds them back for me.

The only thing I can't forgive is anyone going to a sweatshop barbecue place in a city like KC. It kills me to see people go to a place like Famous Dave's I went there against my will once and never again -- low grade dog food. St. Louis barbecue? No such thing.

[kcchief19]

I've heard of wabash but never been up there.

Smokehouse i will never go to again, i have never been treated worse then i have when i have gone there. Can have the best food in the world, but treat people like crap.. and it won't matter
One in Gladstone or one of the others? I don't really care for the other locations that much -- only the original. We were there yesterday and our server was great. Now they have a couple of cranky waitresses but I've never really been treated poorly.

Back when we lived down the street from there, I would eat Smokehouse once a week or more. When I started dating Mrs. kcchief19, she would order a salad. I went to pick up our order one night and the guy working the pickup window took the ticket and told the hostess it was the wrong one. She said it was right -- his response: "This guy doesn't order salads." Gold.

[tucking fypo]

If you're ever traveling on Interstate 10 on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, try The Shed in Ocean Springs (actually the Gautier/Vancleave exit). It has been pretty awesome with the food and blues music today.

[SackAttack]

Smokehouse was fantastic when I was there ten years ago.

There are a couple places I've been recommended down in Appleton since moving to WI, but I haven't made that pilgrimage yet.

[AZSpeechCoach]

I was in KC a few weeks ago. We ate at a Gates in KC, Kansas. I guess yelling at people is part of their gimmick. The food was okay. The restaurant was very no frills. We watched game 5 of the NBA finals on their mis=colored TV.

We went to the Smokehouse at Zona Rosa a few days later. I had a great plate of meat. Unfortunately, I wasn't feeling well that day, and I got to taste it again a few hours later when I got very sick at the hotel.

We also ate at Minsky's Pizza a couple of times.

[kcchief19]

I was in KC a few weeks ago. We ate at a Gates in KC, Kansas. I guess yelling at people is part of their gimmick. The food was okay. The restaurant was very no frills. We watched game 5 of the NBA finals on their mis=colored TV.
NFL tournament at Park Hill? :)

Yeah, Gates has there, "Hi, may I hep you?" that they scream when you walk in. I'm only pleased with the service about 1 in 3 trips to Gates. I was at Gates last week watching tennis and the screen had lines running through it. TV had to be at least 20 years old.

[ISiddiqui]

If you're ever traveling on Interstate 10 on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, try The Shed in Ocean Springs (actually the Gautier/Vancleave exit). It has been pretty awesome with the food and blues music today.

+1 on The Shed. It's a very fun place. Good food and interesting atmosphere (it does play up to it's "shed" name).

[larrymcg421]

People in Atlanta swear by Fat Matt's Rib Shack (it even got mentioned in Up in the Air), but I'm not really a fan. I prefer Williamson Bros. BBQ. They may be shameless Republicans, but they sure know how to cook pig.

I also love Maddy's and Spiced Right. However, the number of bad BBQ restaurants in the area is surprising. I've had way too many experiences at restaurants who apparently think it's perfectly fine to serve tough, rubbery, unseasoned ribs and try to hide that by drenching it with BBQ sauce.

[ISiddiqui]

Williamson Bros's sauce kinda sucks though.

Best BBQ in Atlanta is probably Fox Bros' BBQ. Great cooked meat and wonderful sauce, and some great appetizers and sides (I'm partial to the fried jalapeno slices). I also like Dreamland BBQ up in Roswell, which is, of course, part of the Alabama chain of BBQ restaurants.

[RainMaker]

Ha! I had the same thoughts when I was in Kansas City a few years back. I was all amped up for some killer BBQ and while it was good, it also wasn't that great. I've had better down South in Georgia, Mississippi, and Louisiana.

[tucking fypo]

Oh, my. How could I forget Dreamland BBQ, Siddi? Excellent all the way around. Some of the best ribs I've ever eaten (never really had the BBQ there, been drunk on ribs all the time) was at Bishop's BBQ in Saltillo, Mississippi, just north of Tupelo.

[Warhammer]

Wow...the Memphis guys can chime in on the BBQ around there...I can't think of the names of half the places I have had there beyond Rendezvous, Corky's and Interstate BBQ..

There was one I ate at out by the Memphis Airport that was in like an old bunker years and years ago that was amazing.

South Carolina I actually like Maurice's.

OK, for dry rub or muddy ribs, you can't beat the Rendezvous. However, if they screw up the ribs and dry them out, make sure to send them back, dry rub with dried out ribs are not good (only had this happen once). Once of the best experiences in Memphis, you go to the Peabody piano bar downstairs, watch the ducks go back up to their penthouse, grab a few cocktails, then head across the street to the Rendezvous. Make sure you try the BBQ cheese and sausage plate!

For ribs with sauce, you have to go to the ORIGINAL Corky's. The branch locations and franchise locations are too hit and miss, the original is still the best.

For best BBQ buffet, you have to go to Leonards, don't go there after dark though.

All around BBQ, I would probably say Interstate, they don't do anything poorly.

For a pulled pork plate, I love Pig N' Whistle, however, I heard their quality has gone down the last couple of years.

For sandwiches, you have to go to the Germantown Comissary. Their sides here are probably the best, deviled eggs, sweet potato fries, mmmmm....

Tom's BBQ is pretty dang good as well. It is a bit different from most other BBQ places here in that they have a fairly sweet sauce compared to other places.

The best BBQ I have ever had though, was a little place in Decatur, AL. Big Bob Gibson's BBQ. Absolutely awesome, make sure to get their BBQ potatoes, those are a meal in and of themselves and are to die for completely loaded.

[Warhammer]

Oh, my. How could I forget Dreamland BBQ, Siddi? Excellent all the way around. Some of the best ribs I've ever eaten (never really had the BBQ there, been drunk on ribs all the time) was at Bishop's BBQ in Saltillo, Mississippi, just north of Tupelo.

Where is Bishop's? Is it off of 45?

[tucking fypo]

Yes it is, Hammer. At the Hwy 145 exit at Saltillo. Near the Mexican restaurant and liquor store across from the main businesses....McDonald's and such.

The ribs almost melt in your mouth.

[kcchief19]

Ha! I had the same thoughts when I was in Kansas City a few years back. I was all amped up for some killer BBQ and while it was good, it also wasn't that great. I've had better down South in Georgia, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
My critique of KC barbecue has to be taken in context. The worst KC barbecue is still better than the best barbecue anywhere else. Hands down.

The only minor exception is pulled pork, where I will give the nod to Memphis. Otherwise, KC all the way.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

My critique of KC barbecue has to be taken in context. The worst KC barbecue is still better than the best barbecue anywhere else. Hands down.

The only minor exception is pulled pork, where I will give the nod to Memphis. Otherwise, KC all the way.

+1

It's embarrassing to see what constitutes good BBQ in most states. Memphis and the Carolinas are the only areas that deserve real consideration with KC BBQ.

[tucking fypo]

Never had anything out of the Carolinas but for good BBQ all around and not in just one spot, KC and Memphis has to be tops.

[Wolfpack]

yeah if you can get past eating under a KKK grand master outfit hanging on the wall, not too bad.

Actually, that's secondary to being a BBQ joint in South Carolina period. Mustard?! Heresy! :p :D

[Warhammer]

Used to be you couldn't find anything BUT pulled pork in Memphis.

Will need to try out Bishop's this week as I will be in Tupelo later this week.

[larrymcg421]

Actually, that's secondary to being a BBQ joint in South Carolina period. Mustard?! Heresy! :p :D

I'd rather eat BBQ that David Duke served me than some of that mustard based bullshit.

[kcchief19]

I'd rather eat BBQ that David Duke served me than some of that mustard based bullshit.
I hesitate to attach a +1 to David Duke but ... +1. That Carolina sauce makes me sick.

If you want a great sauce with a little kick, try Big Rick's. It's more of what I call a "gourmet sauce" in that a little goes a long way. But it's got great flavor, a nice bit and is well seasoned.

[AZSpeechCoach]

NFL tournament at Park Hill? :)



That's the one.:)

[JediKooter]

I can't stand the molasses or brown sugar based bbq sauces. I like them tangy or spicy.

[ntndeacon]

The only Dreamland that Iwill go to is thoe original shack in Tuscaloosa. It seems a little like blasphemy to find there are bbq sandwiches there now. I loved it when the only menu items was ribs white bread and beer and coke.

Now several of my friends claim there is a better bbq joint in Tuscaloosa, well Northport. Archibald's is another little hole in the wall that has great ribs.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Used to be you couldn't find anything BUT pulled pork in Memphis.

As it should be.

Anything that doesn't involve pork isn't BBQ.

[digamma]

As it should be.

Anything that doesn't involve pork isn't BBQ.

+1 bazillion

[miked]

Williamson Bros's sauce kinda sucks though.

Best BBQ in Atlanta is probably Fox Bros' BBQ. Great cooked meat and wonderful sauce, and some great appetizers and sides (I'm partial to the fried jalapeno slices). I also like Dreamland BBQ up in Roswell, which is, of course, part of the Alabama chain of BBQ restaurants.

This this and this. Too bad it's all the way down Dekalb Avenue on the other side of the planet from me :)

Maddy's is ok at best. Loud, bad music, ok food. If you go to a Braves game, Harold's is the shit, but not sure what the hours are. My wife will pretty much only go to Fox Bros now, especially with Fat Tire on tap and those huge Mac and Cheese servings. Get yourself some to go before a Braves game (you can hop right on Moreland to 20 and sneak up behind the park).

There are 2 new places near me, one called Community BBQ (near Emory) and the other one is in the Highlands but I forget the name.

[JediKooter]

I like hearing the regional differences in what someone thinks is BBQ. In the west BBQ is how something is cooked, not what is cooked.

[Wolfpack]

I like hearing the regional differences in what someone thinks is BBQ. In the west BBQ is how something is cooked, not what is cooked.

Here, it's definitely the "how". About the only agreement anyone from North Carolina has is that BBQ is chopped/shredded pork meat. After that, it's all about how it's cooked. Vinegar or ketchup base for the sauce? Whole hog or just the shoulder? And so forth. The fault line between styles tends to run on a northeast-southwest line that roughly passes through or just to the west of the Raleigh-Durham area. On either side of that line, you pretty much announce favor for the opposing style at your own peril. :D

[wade moore]

Here, it's definitely the "how". About the only agreement anyone from North Carolina has is that BBQ is chopped/shredded pork meat. After that, it's all about how it's cooked. Vinegar or ketchup base for the sauce? Whole hog or just the shoulder? And so forth. The fault line between styles tends to run on a northeast-southwest line that roughly passes through or just to the west of the Raleigh-Durham area. On either side of that line, you pretty much announce favor for the opposing style at your own peril. :D
Allen and Sons ftw.

[larrymcg421]

I like hearing the regional differences in what someone thinks is BBQ. In the west BBQ is how something is cooked, not what is cooked.

I do remember being confused when I was a kid and my mom took me to a barbecue and all they had were Hot dogs and Hamburgers. I wanted to know where the hell were the Ribs?

[dawgfan]

I like hearing the regional differences in what someone thinks is BBQ. In the west BBQ is how something is cooked, not what is cooked.
Yeah, people on the West Coast conflate "grilling" with "barbecuing". Definitely a misnomer...

I've had pulled pork sandwiches at Gates and both pulled pork and ribs at Shorty's (a famous place in Miami) - both very good, but I've also had really good pulled pork sandwiches in Seattle. I think the regional superiority thing is seriously over-stated...

[CU Tiger]

Actually, that's secondary to being a BBQ joint in South Carolina period. Mustard?! Heresy! :p :D


Mustard sauce blows...period.

I like both eastern and western (carolina) style they are just totally different thins to me. Vinegar on occasion and red sauce most of the time..but no sweet red I want it as spicy as buffalo wings or hotter....

[JonInMiddleGA]

Mustard sauce blows...period.

Testify.

[JediKooter]

Speaking of BBQ, slaw...Just saw on our lunch menu here at work that the slaw they are serving today has apples in it. Apples????

[JonInMiddleGA]

Speaking of BBQ, slaw...Just saw on our lunch menu here at work that the slaw they are serving today has apples in it. Apples????

I have to figure that whoever came up with that idea originally did so when opportunity of not knowing how to make slaw met having too many apples lying around.

[JediKooter]

I have to figure that whoever came up with that idea originally did so when opportunity of not knowing how to make slaw met having too many apples lying around.

That's probably not far from the truth. I've seen people put apples in their dressing for Thanksgiving, which is just wrong to begin with and now apples in coleslaw, wow.

[JonInMiddleGA]

That's probably not far from the truth. I've seen people put apples in their dressing for Thanksgiving, which is just wrong to begin with and now apples in coleslaw, wow.

It's actually a minor trendy thing (or was at some point, I haven't noticed it much lately). A Google of the phrase (http://www.google.com/search?q=who+the+hell+puts+apples+in+slaw&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=com.google:en-US:official&client=firefox-a) "who the hell puts apples in slaw" produced a number of references to how wonderfully it goes with pork :rolleyes:

[Airhog]

Speaking of BBQ, slaw...Just saw on our lunch menu here at work that the slaw they are serving today has apples in it. Apples????


Chopped brisket, slaw, and a hotlink on a bun. Yummy

[JediKooter]

It's actually a minor trendy thing (or was at some point, I haven't noticed it much lately). A Google of the phrase (http://www.google.com/search?q=who+the+hell+puts+apples+in+slaw&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=com.google:en-US:official&client=firefox-a) "who the hell puts apples in slaw" produced a number of references to how wonderfully it goes with pork :rolleyes:

I think Homeland Security should get involved now. That is just beyond wrong.




Chopped brisket, slaw, and a hotlink on a bun. Yummy

I just ate lunch, but, that just made me hungry. :D

[CU Tiger]

There is a local place that lots of people love (black's bbq) that does not have meat in their BBQ....it is just slaw soacked in BBQ sauce....that is pure blasphemy.

[Ragone]

Obama was in kc today.. apparently he went to oklahoma joes, and apparently they had to make everyone who waited in line leave..

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Just got back from downing a full rack of ribs and a half chicken order at Arthur Bryant's. Pure gluttony.......and I loved every minute of it.

Now I just have to figure out how I'm going to sleep on my back tonight.

[lordscarlet]

Obama was in kc today.. apparently he went to oklahoma joes, and apparently they had to make everyone who waited in line leave..

That's odd.. Whenever he goes out in DC he hangs out and talks to the other customers for at least a "hello, how are you?"

[cartman]

The Salt Lick family style plate (all you can eat):

http://assets.amber.org/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/saltlick_bbq.jpg

The open pit, which is inside the restaurant:

http://www.foodgps.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/p5180186.jpg

[ISiddiqui]

This this and this. Too bad it's all the way down Dekalb Avenue on the other side of the planet from me :)

Maddy's is ok at best. Loud, bad music, ok food. If you go to a Braves game, Harold's is the shit, but not sure what the hours are. My wife will pretty much only go to Fox Bros now, especially with Fat Tire on tap and those huge Mac and Cheese servings. Get yourself some to go before a Braves game (you can hop right on Moreland to 20 and sneak up behind the park).

There are 2 new places near me, one called Community BBQ (near Emory) and the other one is in the Highlands but I forget the name.

Lemme know how Community BBQ is if you go. It looks interesting. And we must live pretty close (I'm right outside the city limits of Decatur, close to the border with Avondale Estates) ;).

[ISiddiqui]

That's probably not far from the truth. I've seen people put apples in their dressing for Thanksgiving, which is just wrong to begin with and now apples in coleslaw, wow.

I'm going to kill you now :mad: . I always put granny smith apples in my stuffing for Thanksgiving, and it's freaking awesome.

[DanGarion]

It's actually a minor trendy thing (or was at some point, I haven't noticed it much lately). A Google of the phrase (http://www.google.com/search?q=who+the+hell+puts+apples+in+slaw&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=com.google:en-US:official&client=firefox-a) "who the hell puts apples in slaw" produced a number of references to how wonderfully it goes with pork :rolleyes:

Nothing wrong with some apple in the slaw. Especially with pork. Haven't you ever heard of apple sauce on pork chops, or apple cider based BBQ sauces and finishing sauces...?

[clemsonfan]

The best BBQ I've ever had was up here in Dayton, OH at a place called City BBQ. I always get the brisket, which is phenomenal. They have about 5-6 different sauces on the table that you can use. They have the eastern Carolina vinegar sauce, the Carolina mustard sauce, a sweet BBQ sauce, and a more firey sauce. They have another one but I can't remember what it is. I highly recommend this place if you are in the Ohio area.

[DanGarion]

The best is my own...

http://dangarion.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG_3110.jpg

[Scarecrow]

The Salt Lick family style plate (all you can eat):

http://assets.amber.org/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/saltlick_bbq.jpg






What the hell, did someone sneeze or is that high school cafeteria gravy all over the brisket?

[cartman]

What the hell, did someone sneeze or is that high school cafeteria gravy all over the brisket?

A vinegar based BBQ sauce

[miked]

Lemme know how Community BBQ is if you go. It looks interesting. And we must live pretty close (I'm right outside the city limits of Decatur, close to the border with Avondale Estates) ;).

I'm the opposite direction, near Toco Hills (not too far from the benevolent dictator's old stomping grounds of Tucker). I like the Indian place next to Community, but I may give it a try in the next week or two.

[Scarecrow]

A vinegar based BBQ sauce

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2433/3876863766_8bd2010a24.jpg

No, THAT's vinegar based BBQ sauce!!!

[ISiddiqui]

I'm the opposite direction, near Toco Hills (not too far from the benevolent dictator's old stomping grounds of Tucker). I like the Indian place next to Community, but I may give it a try in the next week or two.

Bhojanic... and yeah, its good.

I used to live near Toco Hills when I went to Emory Law. Mmmm, Shorty's Pizza...

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2433/3876863766_8bd2010a24.jpg

No, THAT's vinegar based BBQ sauce!!!

You're making my mouth water. I know exactly where that came from. And yes, real vinegar-based sauce doesn't look like Gerber peas that my seven month old child eats.

[lungs]

Bump.... Going to KC tomorrow for three days for a conference. The conference is at the Hilton by the airport and that's where I am staying... Any good BBQ near there?

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Bump.... Going to KC tomorrow for three days for a conference. The conference is at the Hilton by the airport and that's where I am staying... Any good BBQ near there?

If you can't travel too far, Smokehouse BBQ has a location at Zona Rosa, which is a couple miles from the airport. Really good pork meats and some very good baked beans. If you want the good stuff and don't mind company, I'd be happy to take you downtown for some Gates or Arthur Bryants. I'm off on Thursday night and live about 10 minutes from the airport.

[lungs]

Thanks for the offer. I'm going to need to see what the agenda is for the conference. I know they feed us right there during the day but I'm not sure what the deal is going to be at night.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I'm sure we could get a couple of the other FOFC locals to tag along. You never have to bend the arm of a KC resident to get them to go out for BBQ. :)

[rjolley]

mmmmmm Gates. Been about 7 years since I've had some.

Nothing to add, really. Just saw that Gates and got really hungry for ribs.

[TRO]

I'm sure we could get a couple of the other FOFC locals to tag along. You never have to bend the arm of a KC resident to get them to go out for BBQ. :)

You'll just have a hard time getting us all to meet at the same place :)

I do agree that the best spot in the Airport area is probably Smokehouse.

[kcchief19]

I'll also endorse Smokehouse as best near the airport BBQ, even if that location is not as good as the original. I'd suggest starting with corn nugget appetizer and getting a mixed platter, something like pork and burnt ends. The Crispy is the best sandwich, and make sure you get beans.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I'll also endorse Smokehouse as best near the airport BBQ, even if that location is not as good as the original. I'd suggest starting with corn nugget appetizer and getting a mixed platter, something like pork and burnt ends. The Crispy is the best sandwich, and make sure you get beans.

LOL. KC people are so friendly they'll order for you before you get to town to ensure you get the best food.

With that said, I endorse this selection. :)

[lungs]

Schedule was hectic but I did manage to hit up Smokehouse and it was excellent. I am not much of a baked beans guy but those were fantastic. Pork spare ribs was my main course and I ate so much I only had room for one more beer.

I also quite enjoyed Boulevard Wheat beer. Tried a few but liked the Wheat the best.

If I make it back To KC I will bump this thread again and maybe give a little more notice so we can set something up. Thanks for the Smokehouse suggestion though. The guy I am with also loved it.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Yeah, Boulevard Wheat is a great beer. Really become a staple in the community.

Glad you liked the pork and beans. Good stuff.

Definitely bump the thread next time. I talked with a few of the FOFC guys in the area and they're interested in a meet-up.

[Ragone]

I'm always interested in a meet-up.. bbq is always a good option...

I've never had anything but BAD service experiences at smokehouse.. the food has been ok to good.. however the service has been AWFUL.

[lungs]

I'm always interested in a meet-up.. bbq is always a good option...

I've never had anything but BAD service experiences at smokehouse.. the food has been ok to good.. however the service has been AWFUL.

Hmm, mine was fine. Waiter was friendly, service was prompt, some dude (probably the manager) checked up to make sure everything was all right, and the waiter arranged me a cab ride out of there.

It wasn't super busy so that probably helped.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

We hit Arthur Bryant's last night before the storm rolled in. Sausage, burnt ends, ham, rack of ribs, and beef brisket along with three plates of fries.

http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/16480_4989468348747_1516038417_n.jpg

[Desnudo]

Best BBQ I've had in a while is at Whole Hog in Little Rock. Six different sauces, all of them excellent. It may be hearsay in Texas, I definitely prefer pulled pork and ribs to brisket.

[BYU 14]

We hit Arthur Bryant's last night before the storm rolled in. Sausage, burnt ends, ham, rack of ribs, and beef brisket along with three plates of fries.

http://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/16480_4989468348747_1516038417_n.jpg

Damn you for this!!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Damn you for this!!

No, damn you for not bothering to join me. :)

[larrymcg421]

Interesting that this thread was bumped and I went back to check my earlier comments. I've done a complete 180 on Fat Matt's. I must've just had a bad experience before, but now they are my favorite BBQ place by far.

There was another Atlanta location I used to frequent called KC Pit BBQ and they were very good when they were a hole in the wall restaurant. Then they moved to a bigger location and completely changed the atmosphere with fancy tablecloths, waiters with ties (at a BBQ restaurant!?), and increased prices. The owners were caught money laundering and drug trafficking and the location is now closed.

Also, Maddy's sadly closed down. A Fox Bros was supposed to move into that location, but that deal fell through for some reason.

[JediKooter]

Why isn't that picture in the Cool Pictures thread?

[rjolley]

Interesting that this thread was bumped and I went back to check my earlier comments. I've done a complete 180 on Fat Matt's. I must've just had a bad experience before, but now they are my favorite BBQ place by far.

There was another Atlanta location I used to frequent called KC Pit BBQ and they were very good when they were a hole in the wall restaurant. Then they moved to a bigger location and completely changed the atmosphere with fancy tablecloths, waiters with ties (at a BBQ restaurant!?), and increased prices. The owners were caught money laundering and drug trafficking and the location is now closed.

Also, Maddy's sadly closed down. A Fox Bros was supposed to move into that location, but that deal fell through for some reason.

Fat Matt's is here in the Atlanta area? I'll have to try it out. I was pissed when Fox Bros decided not to take over Maddy's location. The current location is a bit out of the way for me, and the Maddy's spot would've worked out well. Plus, they were going to put beef ribs on the menu as a regular item and I was looking forward to that. And it'd be great to have a place with fried ribs closer. :)

Out here in Marietta where I work, there's Heirloom Market BBQ. It's a small place but very good food. If you're out here sometime, it's worth a stop.

[ISiddiqui]

Who needs Fox Bros anyways when you have Community Q (aka, by far the best BBQ joint in the Atlanta Metro Area)?

[Easy Mac]

Unfortunately, they closed down the best one around me in Greenville, Smokin' Stokes. Never found out why, but I was quite sad.

Lil Pigs proper in Mauldin is probably the best of the Greenville area shops, but they tend to put far too much sauce. When its sauced good, you get a lot of the smoky flavor, but otherwise it just overpowers it.

[rjolley]

Who needs Fox Bros anyways when you have Community Q (aka, by far the best BBQ joint in the Atlanta Metro Area)?

I'll put it on the list of places to try. Thanks.

[OldGiants]

Tuffy Stone (of Pitmasters fame) is opening a place 5 minutes from my home.

He has a place 25 minutes away and we eat there once or twice a month, so I'm expecting weekly visits soon.

[MizzouRah]

I'm so hungry looking at that picture. I love BBQ..

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

WTF moment here. I'm not sure Jack Stack is even on the top 3 in KC for most residents, yet somehow they were listed as top three in the nation in this list.

Top 10 barbecue restaurants in the US | Fox News (http://www.foxnews.com/leisure/2013/09/12/top-10-barbecue-restaurants-in-us/)

[Scoobz0202]

List is bullshit because there is no way Montgomery Inn in cinci is a top 10 BBQ place in the country.

[Warhammer]

They must have stuck to major metros because most tof the best BBQ places I have been to are hole in the wall places in smaller towns.

[PilotMan]

agreed, Montgomery Inn is way overrated. I didn't know ketchup qualified as a BBQ sauce.

[CU Tiger]

Unfortunately, they closed down the best one around me in Greenville, Smokin' Stokes. Never found out why, but I was quite sad.

Lil Pigs proper in Mauldin is probably the best of the Greenville area shops, but they tend to put far too much sauce. When its sauced good, you get a lot of the smoky flavor, but otherwise it just overpowers it.

There are two pretty god places I know not far away.
1 is bull hawgs in Pauline . Actually I haven't eaten there since they built the nice new building and moved out f the convenience store side shop, but ve heard the food hasnt changed.

The second is pig out at the corner of John Dodd rd and new cut rd in Spartanburg. This place doesn't look like anything but has amazing que. they even have a daily capacity limit at lunch where after which they will shut down the cash register...because lunch hour can run 3 hours during the week. I haven't been there much lately as ive been trying to trim some weight...and they are good for a +5lb day for me.

[MizzouRah]

They must have stuck to major metros because most tof the best BBQ places I have been to are hole in the wall places in smaller towns.

No doubt.. I don't see Franklin bbq anywhere on that list. I haven't personally been to Franklin.. but I've read many top 10's on bbq and they are almost always on there.

I was thinking about a vacation in Austin just so we can eat there. :)

[sterlingice]

WTF moment here. I'm not sure Jack Stack is even on the top 3 in KC for most residents, yet somehow they were listed as top three in the nation in this list.

Top 10 barbecue restaurants in the US | Fox News (http://www.foxnews.com/leisure/2013/09/12/top-10-barbecue-restaurants-in-us/)

I find that hard to believe (not top 3?) but whatever. Jack Stack was #1 in my book but it's also a bit different as it's more upscale than your usual BBQ joint (I only went to the one near Union Station so maybe other ones are different). But this is one of those religious wars that won't find a clear winner.

Then again, any list that starts with a place in NYC as #1 is just wrong.

SI

[EagleFan]

Then again, any list that starts with a place in NYC as #1 is just wrong.


That we can all agree on.

... and 2 of the top 10 from California?

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I find that hard to believe (not top 3?) but whatever. Jack Stack was #1 in my book but it's also a bit different as it's more upscale than your usual BBQ joint (I only went to the one near Union Station so maybe other ones are different). But this is one of those religious wars that won't find a clear winner.

Then again, any list that starts with a place in NYC as #1 is just wrong.

SI

Most would put Oklahoma Joe's (even if it it owned by beakers), Arthur Bryant's, Gates, or Smoke Stack in front of Jack Stack. There's no way it's better than all four of those places.

[Matthean]

I know Jackson, MI. is suppose to have a really good BBQ place. When somebody was finding the best BBQ in the state, a guy from Texas called the reviewer and told them they were going to eat the best this side of the Mississippi or something like that since the caller was the one who taught almost everything he knew to the guy who runs the place in Jackson. We also got an amazing place here in Lansing. It's funny because the place is called Meat, and they simply list drinks underneath vegetarian.

[ntndeacon]

Heck there are SEVERAL better places in Birmingham (Hoover is a suburb btw) I would start with Saw's Barbeque in Homewood...(There is another location called Saw's Juke Joint, but I haven't been there)

[TRO]

Don't go putting words in our mouths Mizzou. SI put it correctly that this is akin to a religious argument in KC, there is no true list.

I have little problem in Jack Stack being considered for a top 10 list, they are damn good.

For the record, my number one is Okie Joes. I think Bryant's and Gates are both a bit overrated.

[sterlingice]

(My thoughts on Bryant and Gates are that if you could combine them you'd have a super BBQ but Bryant has good meat with mediocre sauce while Gates is great sauce with mediocre meat)

SI

[sterlingice]

WTF moment here. I'm not sure Jack Stack is even on the top 3 in KC for most residents, yet somehow they were listed as top three in the nation in this list.

Top 10 barbecue restaurants in the US | Fox News (http://www.foxnews.com/leisure/2013/09/12/top-10-barbecue-restaurants-in-us/)

Forgot the layup joke of: Well, it is Fox News

SI

[kcchief19]

Most would put Oklahoma Joe's (even if it it owned by beakers), Arthur Bryant's, Gates, or Smoke Stack in front of Jack Stack. There's no way it's better than all four of those places.
I know a lot of people who have Jack Stack as their favorite place. It's not a huge stretch, but it seems outdated. Two years ago if you wanted to name a best KC BBQ place that wasn't one of the Old Guard (Gates, Bryant's, etc.) you went with Jack Stack now it's Oklahoma Joe's.

Honestly, I'd probably put Jack Stack ahead of Bryant's or Gates. Midtown is too fancy for me, so give me the Martin City location. Gates has restored some of its glory, but I generally find their meat too dry. I put Bryant's in the overrated category too. They would be pretty low on the list for me behind LC's, Danny Edwards and a lot of others.

With the Smokestack, are you talking about the one in Waldo? It closed a while back, but it was actually owned by another member of the Fiorella family (Jack Fiorella being the Jack in Jack Stake) that family doesn't get it long, and have been in long-running BBQ restaurant feud.

[dawgfan]

I know I'm wading into what is very nearly a religious argument here, but I find it amusing the idea that locations other than Kansas, Missouri, Texas, etc. could possibly have top-notch BBQ. As if quality ingredients are only available there, and knowledgeable cooks are unable to move to other locations.

I've had outstanding BBQ in Miami (Shorty's) and more than adequate BBQ here in Seattle. I've also had fried chicken here in Seattle that would rank with any in the country (Heaven Sent, the new chain started by the Ezell who founded Ezell's).

But I'm sure the true believers will tell me how wrong I am, so I'll step away...

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I know I'm wading into what is very nearly a religious argument here, but I find it amusing the idea that locations other than Kansas, Missouri, Texas, etc. could possibly have top-notch BBQ. As if quality ingredients are only available there, and knowledgeable cooks are unable to move to other locations.

I've had outstanding BBQ in Miami (Shorty's) and more than adequate BBQ here in Seattle. I've also had fried chicken here in Seattle that would rank with any in the country (Heaven Sent, the new chain started by the Ezell who founded Ezell's).

But I'm sure the true believers will tell me how wrong I am, so I'll step away...

Wait, did you say fried chicken???????? In a BBQ thread? Good God man.

[TRO]

(My thoughts on Bryant and Gates are that if you could combine them you'd have a super BBQ but Bryant has good meat with mediocre sauce while Gates is great sauce with mediocre meat)

SI

Agreed.

[kcchief19]

I know I'm wading into what is very nearly a religious argument here, but I find it amusing the idea that locations other than Kansas, Missouri, Texas, etc. could possibly have top-notch BBQ. As if quality ingredients are only available there, and knowledgeable cooks are unable to move to other locations.

I've had outstanding BBQ in Miami (Shorty's) and more than adequate BBQ here in Seattle. I've also had fried chicken here in Seattle that would rank with any in the country (Heaven Sent, the new chain started by the Ezell who founded Ezell's).

But I'm sure the true believers will tell me how wrong I am, so I'll step away...
I don't rule out that someone can learn how to barbecue in non-traditional areas but it's going to be rare for a lot of reasons. Chief among them is that the local market isn't accustomed to barbecue and it's not a primary dining destination. I chuckle at the idea of California barbecue because I don't think they enjoy fat out there as much as us midwesterners and southerners.

I actually do think quality ingredients are an issue. The best barbecue places are going to use the highest quality meats, and the best meats are freshly butchered and never frozen. There are many places across the country where getting fresh cuts of beef and pork are very difficult to impossible. It's the same reason why I don't expect to find a Kansas City restaurant on the list of top 10 seafood restaurants.

I try not to eat barbecue when I travel because it's usually going to be an assault on my palate. But just like other regional foods, if you have a list of the ten best barbecue restaurants and you have more than restaurant the range of Missouri/Kansas/Texas to the Carolinas, I'm highly skeptical, just as I would be if I see two restaurants from landlocked states on a list of top seafood.

I'll assume you were just using good fried chicken outside the south as an example, since we all (hopefully) know that fried chicken is not BBQ. :)

[dawgfan]

I try not to eat barbecue when I travel because it's usually going to be an assault on my palate. But just like other regional foods, if you have a list of the ten best barbecue restaurants and you have more than restaurant the range of Missouri/Kansas/Texas to the Carolinas, I'm highly skeptical, just as I would be if I see two restaurants from landlocked states on a list of top seafood.
Cattle, pigs and chicken are raised in places beyond just the midwest :)

So while I get the trepidation of seafood in places not close to the coast, it's not quite the same thing as with beef, pork or chicken.

I'll assume you were just using good fried chicken outside the south as an example, since we all (hopefully) know that fried chicken is not BBQ. :)
Sure, I wasn't trying to equate fried chicken with BBQ; I was only making the regional food specialty comparison.

[kcchief19]

Cattle, pigs and chicken are raised in places beyond just the midwest :)

So while I get the trepidation of seafood in places not close to the coast, it's not quite the same thing as with beef, pork or chicken.

A few years ago we were in DC for a convention and took a group out to a fancy restaurant with seafood and steaks. We mentioned to the waiter we were from Kansas City, and he laughed. He said that is where they get their steaks. He said just like good restaurants in the Midwest fly in fresh seafood, they fly in fresh beef. I've since learned that's a pretty common practice for high-end restaurants.

Sure, there are livestock everywhere. But we have more cattle than people. There are almost 10 million head of cattle in Kansas & Missouri and 8.6 million people. Meanwhile there are 7 people for every head of cattle in California and 15 people for every head in New York. About 60% of U.S. beef comes from the region from Montana to Wisconsin and south to Texas. If you don't live in that region, most of your beef comes from us -- and virtually all of it is frozen at some point.

Chickens are even worse. About 90% of the nation's chicken supply comes from below the Mason-Dixon line. There are more than a billion chickens in Missouri and Arkansas alone. If you live west of Missouri (outside Texas) your chickens from from half a continent away. For pork outside North Carolina, Virgina and Pennsylvania, the rest of the nation's hog population is located between Ohio and Colorado. If you live on the West Coast or northeast including New York, you've got frozen pork.

Did you want to talk about livestock populations or were you just making chit chat? :)

[dawgfan]

A few years ago we were in DC for a convention and took a group out to a fancy restaurant with seafood and steaks. We mentioned to the waiter we were from Kansas City, and he laughed. He said that is where they get their steaks. He said just like good restaurants in the Midwest fly in fresh seafood, they fly in fresh beef. I've since learned that's a pretty common practice for high-end restaurants.

Sure, there are livestock everywhere. But we have more cattle than people. There are almost 10 million head of cattle in Kansas & Missouri and 8.6 million people. Meanwhile there are 7 people for every head of cattle in California and 15 people for every head in New York. About 60% of U.S. beef comes from the region from Montana to Wisconsin and south to Texas. If you don't live in that region, most of your beef comes from us -- and virtually all of it is frozen at some point.

Chickens are even worse. About 90% of the nation's chicken supply comes from below the Mason-Dixon line. There are more than a billion chickens in Missouri and Arkansas alone. If you live west of Missouri (outside Texas) your chickens from from half a continent away. For pork outside North Carolina, Virgina and Pennsylvania, the rest of the nation's hog population is located between Ohio and Colorado. If you live on the West Coast or northeast including New York, you've got frozen pork.

Did you want to talk about livestock populations or were you just making chit chat? :)
Plenty of local chicken and beef in my state (most of what's available in my stores is locally-grown), and quite a few of the places I frequent use Washington-bred meat.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

A few years ago we were in DC for a convention and took a group out to a fancy restaurant with seafood and steaks. We mentioned to the waiter we were from Kansas City, and he laughed. He said that is where they get their steaks. He said just like good restaurants in the Midwest fly in fresh seafood, they fly in fresh beef. I've since learned that's a pretty common practice for high-end restaurants.

Sure, there are livestock everywhere. But we have more cattle than people. There are almost 10 million head of cattle in Kansas & Missouri and 8.6 million people. Meanwhile there are 7 people for every head of cattle in California and 15 people for every head in New York. About 60% of U.S. beef comes from the region from Montana to Wisconsin and south to Texas. If you don't live in that region, most of your beef comes from us -- and virtually all of it is frozen at some point.

Chickens are even worse. About 90% of the nation's chicken supply comes from below the Mason-Dixon line. There are more than a billion chickens in Missouri and Arkansas alone. If you live west of Missouri (outside Texas) your chickens from from half a continent away. For pork outside North Carolina, Virgina and Pennsylvania, the rest of the nation's hog population is located between Ohio and Colorado. If you live on the West Coast or northeast including New York, you've got frozen pork.

Did you want to talk about livestock populations or were you just making chit chat? :)

Absolutely. There's a huge difference in food quality. The ONLY reason I miss living in Baltimore is because of the seafood. The difference in quality was embarrassing compared to what we have in KC. However, you could take a bite of steak and quickly figure out if it was a Midwest steak, whether it was frozen or not and what kind of feed it ate.

It's no different than my industry. Could I grow some California grapes in my area? Yeah, a few. Would they taste anywhere near as good as if they were grown in native soils where they grow well? No way, hence the reason we grow the grapes in this area that provide the best flavor and body given our soil content and moisture.

[kcchief19]

Plenty of local chicken and beef in my state (most of what's available in my stores is locally-grown), and quite a few of the places I frequent use Washington-bred meat.
Statistically it's unlikely. I don't see in consumption by state data, but if Washington state had an average per capita beef consumption, local production is only able to provide 50% of demand. For chickens it's less than that, less than 25%.

If you guys don't eat much beef and chicken, then yeah, you have enough beef and chicken. But if you don't eat that much, it's because you don't know how to barbecue. :)

[kcchief19]

Absolutely. There's a huge difference in food quality. The ONLY reason I miss living in Baltimore is because of the seafood. The difference in quality was embarrassing compared to what we have in KC. However, you could take a bite of steak and quickly figure out if it was a Midwest steak, whether it was frozen or not and what kind of feed it ate.

It's no different than my industry. Could I grow some California grapes in my area? Yeah, a few. Would they taste anywhere near as good as if they were grown in native soils where they grow well? No way, hence the reason we grow the grapes in this area that provide the best flavor and body given our soil content and moisture.
Exactly. It's true of any food. I grew up on a farm, and after we moved off the farm I ate a lot less vegetables. Store bought tomatoes, green beans and peas just tasted awful. It took a long time before I could get accustomed to food that wasn't fresh grown. Yes, you can get food at farmer's markets, but as small farmers we kept the best food for ourselves and sold the rest.

Milk was the hardest. I grew up on home pasteurized whole milk. There is nothing like it. I always brought a thermos of tea to drink for lunch at school because the only drink available with our school lunch as milk, and even whole milk in a carton was awful. The first time I drank skim milk, I threw up.

[albionmoonlight]

There is also the fact that humans inspire each other to greater and greater heights.

One of the things I miss about New Orleans is the ultra-high quality of the restaurants. Basically, if a place stays open for 6 months or more, you know that it is great, because it is isn't, then it would have closed down. (There might be a small exception for a place called, like, Jambalaya Cafe, and located in the heart of tourist country--it might be able to survive totally on tourists).

I am sure that BBQ in a place like KC is the same way. A BBQ restaurant that might be one of the best in town in non BBQ country might not last 3 months in a place like KC or Texas. Same thing with a seafood restaurant in Charleston, or a sushi place in coastal California. When the bar for success is set higher, we tend to elevate our game to compete.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

There is also the fact that humans inspire each other to greater and greater heights.

One of the things I miss about New Orleans is the ultra-high quality of the restaurants. Basically, if a place stays open for 6 months or more, you know that it is great, because it is isn't, then it would have closed down. (There might be a small exception for a place called, like, Jambalaya Cafe, and located in the heart of tourist country--it might be able to survive totally on tourists).

I am sure that BBQ in a place like KC is the same way. A BBQ restaurant that might be one of the best in town in non BBQ country might not last 3 months in a place like KC or Texas. Same thing with a seafood restaurant in Charleston, or a sushi place in coastal California. When the bar for success is set higher, we tend to elevate our game to compete.

Oh yeah. This is very true. It's laughable how many people try to open up a BBQ restaurant in KC serving wholesale-bought sauces or frozen meats. People will sniff that out in no time and you'll be out of business in 2-3 months.

[TRO]

Oh yeah. This is very true. It's laughable how many people try to open up a BBQ restaurant in KC serving wholesale-bought sauces or frozen meats. People will sniff that out in no time and you'll be out of business in 2-3 months.

Though somehow Famous Dave's has survived (granted, near the tourist trap of a speedway complex) and has a 2nd location opened in Overland Park.

Blech.

[Matthean]

Though somehow Famous Dave's has survived (granted, near the tourist trap of a speedway complex) and has a 2nd location opened in Overland Park.

Blech.

We had one open up here recently. I have low expectations for a name chain like that though. I'm sure I'll try it out and then go back to better places.

[dawgfan]

Statistically it's unlikely. I don't see in consumption by state data, but if Washington state had an average per capita beef consumption, local production is only able to provide 50% of demand. For chickens it's less than that, less than 25%.

If you guys don't eat much beef and chicken, then yeah, you have enough beef and chicken. But if you don't eat that much, it's because you don't know how to barbecue. :)
While some of the restaurants might be lying, I'm pretty sure the packages labeled as fresh local Washington-raised chicken & beef that I buy in my grocery stores aren't.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Though somehow Famous Dave's has survived (granted, near the tourist trap of a speedway complex) and has a 2nd location opened in Overland Park.

Blech.

Yeah, they usually set up in the high-traffic areas for out of town travelers. In Baltimore, there were a bunch of people who referenced me to Famous Dave's as a great place for BBQ. I just chuckled.

[larrymcg421]

We have Famous Dave's here in GA and it's pretty weak, as are most sanitized big chain BBQ restaurants. My general rule of thumb: The worse the restaurant looks on the outside, the better the BBQ tastes inside.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

We have Famous Dave's here in GA and it's pretty weak, as are most sanitized big chain BBQ restaurants. My general rule of thumb: The worse the restaurant looks on the outside, the better the BBQ tastes inside.

Arthur Bryant's takes that a step further. I always go to the original location, where they have wood tables and linoleum floors. You can literally feel the grease on the floor when you walk through the place. That's how you know there's a great BBQ pit located in the building.

[finketr]

List is bullshit because there is no way Montgomery Inn in cinci is a top 10 BBQ place in the country.

i'd rather go to old hickory... if it's still there. Haven't been back to Dayton since 2000.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Pretty impressive work by the KC joints on this list of best ribs. Three of the top four best ribs in the nation and four of the top eight.

America's 35 Best Ribs | The Daily Meal (http://www.thedailymeal.com/americas-35-best-ribs/5514)

[sterlingice]

Pretty impressive work by the KC joints on this list of best ribs. Three of the top four best ribs in the nation and four of the top eight.

America's 35 Best Ribs | The Daily Meal (http://www.thedailymeal.com/americas-35-best-ribs/5514)

Looks like I'll be going to #5 from this particular list this week on the way to San Antonio

SI

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

They don't call it the President's Sauce for nothing. I'm sure his photo will be alongside all the other presidential photos when I go in there next week........

http://www.kmbc.com/image/view/-/27216894/highRes/2/-/maxh/358/maxw/538/-/kf0t2w/-/Image-President-Obama-inside-Arthur-Bryant-s.jpg

http://www.kmbc.com/image/view/-/27216878/highRes/1/-/maxh/358/maxw/538/-/12v5nc3/-/Image-President-Obama-s-limo-outside-Arthur-Bryant-s.jpg

[Ragone]

Hell mizzou.. I think the dickeys in liberty is
Better then Arthur Bryant's at this point.. Last
3 times to Bryant's has been subpar at best..

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Hell mizzou.. I think the dickeys in liberty is
Better then Arthur Bryant's at this point.. Last
3 times to Bryant's has been subpar at best..

You're going to hell in gasoline underpants.

[cartman]

Just ate some BBQ from Franklin's in Austin. The brisket is indeed the best I've ever tasted. Simply incredible.

[sterlingice]

How long was the wait?

SI

[cartman]

Preorder, baby! :D

They open up pre-orders for the next month about the middle of the month. So when it opened up for August on July 14th, we sent in an order at 12:02am. When I got there at 10:15, the line was already around the block. With the pre-order, I was able to just walk right in and get the stuff. When I was walking back to my car, I overheard someone on their phone that just got there, and said they left because they wouldn't get to eat until 2-2:30.

[DaddyTorgo]

Just ate some BBQ from Franklin's in Austin. The brisket is indeed the best I've ever tasted. Simply incredible.

Nice.

We ended up going to Lambert's and I thought it was pretty good.

[MizzouRah]

Just ate some BBQ from Franklin's in Austin. The brisket is indeed the best I've ever tasted. Simply incredible.

I dream about eating there. :)

[Ragone]

Had Jack stack burnt ends and crown prime today.. yum

[MizzouRah]

Had Jack stack burnt ends and crown prime today.. yum

Damn you! :D

[cartman]

Austin, the Best New Barbecue Destination (http://online.wsj.com/articles/austin-the-best-new-barbecue-destination-1415994424)

I never get tired of seeing this:

http://si.wsj.net/public/resources/images/OD-BE389_BBQ_M_20141113182958.jpg

[larrymcg421]

Austin, the Best New Barbecue Destination (http://online.wsj.com/articles/austin-the-best-new-barbecue-destination-1415994424)

I never get tired of seeing this:

http://si.wsj.net/public/resources/images/OD-BE389_BBQ_M_20141113182958.jpg

Is this picture allowed? I'm pretty sure it's porn.

[timmae]

Oh my!

That reminds me I have a site visit for work tomorrow that may result in some BBQ for lunch on my way back into the city. Good timing!!

[JeeberD]

Austin, the Best New Barbecue Destination (http://online.wsj.com/articles/austin-the-best-new-barbecue-destination-1415994424)

I never get tired of seeing this:

http://si.wsj.net/public/resources/images/OD-BE389_BBQ_M_20141113182958.jpg

Saltlick?

Saltlick.

[MizzouRah]

Is this picture allowed? I'm pretty sure it's porn.

It's better than porn........ ok.... very close.

[cartman]

Google is way too conservative on the drive time from my house to the Salt Lick.

http://www.fofc-bbcf.com/h2sl.jpg

[Dutch]

Austin eh? Dem boyz don't play.

[DanGarion]

Best BBQ North of Dallas (Plano area)?

[DanGarion]

To answer my question, Lockhart Smokehouse in Plano, TX is worth the trip. Great beef ribs and some amazing bread pudding.

[DanGarion]

Google is way too conservative on the drive time from my house to the Salt Lick.

http://www.fofc-bbcf.com/h2sl.jpg

Why go to Saltlick when there are such better places for BBQ around Austin. Such as Southside Market in Elgin and Black's BBQ in Lockhart? :)

[MizzouRah]

I must eat BBQ this weekend!

[cartman]

I must eat BBQ this weekend!

I'm having lunch at the Salt Lick tomorrow :D

[NobodyHere]

The Raiders were feasting on some tasty KC BBQ tonight...

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

No surprise who #1 is, but always interesting to see who are the other top competitors in these lists.

America's Best Cities for Barbecue | Travel + Leisure (http://www.travelandleisure.com/slideshows/americas-best-barbecue)

[cartman]

Really isn't surprising who #1 is, but it is always interesting to see what other cities are considered.

Best BBQ Cities in America - Best Places to Eat BBQ (http://www.thrillist.com/eat/nation/best-bbq-cities-in-america-best-places-to-eat-bbq)

[albionmoonlight]

. . . wonders when a poster from Memphis is going to show up

[britrock88]

Glad to see Lexington get a bit of recognition.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

. . . wonders when a poster from Memphis is going to show up

Memphis actually has some good stuff. Had some dry rub ribs last time I was down there that were fantastic.

[albionmoonlight]

I have not (yet) done a national BBQ tour. But in my head, and from everything I've heard, Kansas City, Memphis, and Austin are 1,2,3 in some order.

[MizzouRah]

I have the best BBQ right from my backyard. :)

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Forgot to post this from earlier this month, but the World Series of BBQ Championship (considered the top crown for BBQ cooks) is being moved to Arrowhead Stadium to accommodate the growing crowds.

American Royal Announces Move for Annual World Series of Barbecue Championship (http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/article-2/American-Royal-Announces-Move-for-Annual-World-Series-of-Barbecue-Championship/fe1e0f58-d562-423e-820e-0649200e6171)

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Forgot to post this from earlier this month, but the World Series of BBQ Championship (considered the top crown for BBQ cooks) is being moved to Arrowhead Stadium to accommodate the growing crowds.

American Royal Announces Move for Annual World Series of Barbecue Championship (http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/article-2/American-Royal-Announces-Move-for-Annual-World-Series-of-Barbecue-Championship/fe1e0f58-d562-423e-820e-0649200e6171)

[JAG]

Forgot to post this from earlier this month, but the World Series of BBQ Championship (considered the top crown for BBQ cooks) is being moved to Arrowhead Stadium to accommodate the growing crowds.

American Royal Announces Move for Annual World Series of Barbecue Championship (http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/article-2/American-Royal-Announces-Move-for-Annual-World-Series-of-Barbecue-Championship/fe1e0f58-d562-423e-820e-0649200e6171)

Hope they wear ear protection.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Photo from today at Q39 here in KC. Andrew Zimmern is evidently in town filming his show.

https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/11406867_10207250026995477_8514059877311105301_n.jpg?oh=cab7f852386838cd10c26a1e7efd98d1&oe=56013508

[Cap Ologist]

Hope they wear ear protection.

Nicely played!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

America’s 35 Best Ribs 2015 | The Daily Meal (http://www.thedailymeal.com/americas-best-ribs)

[cartman]

If any of our STL area FOFCers are going to Q in the Lou in a couple of weeks, The Salt Lick will be there, as well as several other nationally known pitmasters.

Q in the Lou Pitmasters (http://www.qinthelou.com/pitmasters/)

[MizzouRah]

If any of our STL area FOFCers are going to Q in the Lou in a couple of weeks, The Salt Lick will be there, as well as several other nationally known pitmasters.

Q in the Lou Pitmasters (http://www.qinthelou.com/pitmasters/)

Thanks!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Reading Joe Poz's article about my favorite restaurant makes my mouth water.

The Proper Way to Order Bryant’s Burnt Ends | NBC SportsWorld (http://sportsworld.nbcsports.com/the-proper-way-to-order-bryants-burnt-ends/)

[flere-imsaho]

Right before lunch, too. Thanks a lot, jerk. :p

[cartman]

Looks like my dinner plans are set for next Friday and Saturday night.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lone-star-beer-presents-blazing-saddles-quote-along-at-the-salt-lick-tickets-19364541866

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lone-star-beer-presents-three-amigos-quote-along-at-the-salt-lick-tickets-19368469614

[dave731]

If ever in Hilton Head, try The SmokeHouse bbq....really good stuff!

[Julio Riddols]

I learned to make my own BBQ sauce this past year using a recipe.. Slow cooked pulled pork at my house is the best BBQ I have ever had.

The recipe is this one:

Sweet/Spicy BBQ (http://allrecipes.com/recipe/51226/a-very-popular-bbq-sauce/?internalSource=recipe%20hub&referringId=2257&referringContentType=recipe%20hub)

With a few mods:

Instead of 1 tbl worcestershire sauce use 1/2 cup.
Add 2 cloves of garlic (minced).
Delete pepper sauce.
Use 1 teaspoon of ground cayanne pepper.

Boil that til it mixes real well, then sit it in a fridge over night. Put it in a slow cooker with some pork shoulder the next day and let it go for about 8 hours. For added flavor, marinate the pork in it while it sits overnight.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Replay of the KC episode of Bizarre Foods is replaying today at 1:00 EST on the Travel Channel if anyone missed it last week. It's very BBQ heavy for obvious reasons.

[cartman]

Finally made it out to Snow's BBQ in Lexington, TX. Only open on Saturday mornings, and several places have named it the best BBQ in Texas. The pitmaster is an 83 year old grandma, and she recently was named a James Beard semi-finalist.

The food definitely lived up to the hype. Had to wait a little over an hour, and then drive an hour and a half back home.

[albionmoonlight]

Finally made it out to Snow's BBQ in Lexington, TX. Only open on Saturday mornings, and several places have named it the best BBQ in Texas. The pitmaster is an 83 year old grandma, and she recently was named a James Beard semi-finalist.

The food definitely lived up to the hype. Had to wait a little over an hour, and then drive an hour and a half back home.

:party:

[albionmoonlight]

Very likely going to KC at the end of the month for a training.

I'm actually thinking of going up a day early just to make sure I get enough BBQ before my co-workers show up and I have to start agreeing with people where to go. (Complicated by the fact that that would be Memorial Day, so several places will be closed).

It seems like the consensus now is to try and hit at least a few of

Bryant's
Joe's
Jack Stack
Gates
Q39

If folks here have updates, I am happy to hear them.

[Scarecrow]

If you're coming to KC, this my be of some help: The A-Z list of Kansas City-area barbecue restaurants, food trucks (http://inkkc.com/articles/154641424/)

My opinion of those you listed:
Bryant's: great meat, don't like their sauce. I have taken Gates BBQ sauce into Arthur Bryant's before.
Joe's: A must. I've waited in line 60 minutes before, and I hate waiting in lines. Can't go wrong with a Z-Man or their ribs
Jack Stack: Was alright. A little too formal for me. The atmosphere has more of a steakhouse vibe to it
Gates: Great sauce and great atmosphere (Hi, may I help you). Been many times to most (if not all) of them. Food is usually on, but there are times I've been and it misses.
Q39: Like Jack Stack, the food was good, but didn't care for the atmosphere. It has that 'industrial for millennials' look/feel.

[albionmoonlight]

Thanks!

What are your thoughts on Danny Edwards?

[Scarecrow]

Thanks!

What are your thoughts on Danny Edwards?

Never been there, only because the 2 best mexican restaurants (Ponaks and Margaritas) are within a couple blocks of Danny Edwards.

[kcchief19]

Danny Edwards is good but it’s more of a lunch place. Don’t think they open for dinner and it’s super casual. I wouldn’t put in my Tourist Top 5. It’s more of deep dive for locals.

Bryant’s carries a historic reputation but I think the consensus is that it’s not what it once was. Scarecrow is right about Jack Stack downtown. The original restaurant is where to go but it’s only practical if you’re staying on the south side. Go to the one downtown if you need a fancy dinner place.

I’m a Q39 hater although it is the hip trendy place. Side dishes are mediocre, menu is overpriced and the meats are inconsistent.

Definitely hit Joe’s, it’s worth it. I think Gates is worth it for a local experience. But 90 percent of KC barbecue restaurants are worth it. Bad ones don’t survive.

[albionmoonlight]

Thanks for all the advice.

I flew in early the first day and Ubered to Joe's to get there when it opened. I got the pork ribs and brisket plate. It was the best BBQ of the trip. Amazing. And the spicy slaw was great (and NC is known for slaw, so that's a real complement).

Then I walked to HopCat to try local beers. Notable how things got much more developed when I crossed from the KS side to the MO side. (And I realize I might be entering into a huge debate here. I don't mean to take a side. I just noticed that it was less run down when I crossed into MO). The local beers are good.

Then I walked back downtown to the hotel to walk off the beer and BBQ. Hot day. Y'all could stand to plant more shade trees :-)

My co-workers had heard of Jack Stack, so we went to the downtown one. It was fine. My co-worker got the fried mushrooms. They were big as your fist and had a real rich mushroom flavor. Surprisingly great as a side.

Got Bates pulled pork at a catered event. It was meh, but steam tray catered BBQ is always meh, so the real grade is incomplete. Won't hold it against them.

Finally, got the burnt ends at Bryant's Amazing. Not quite Joe's, but really really good.

Couple random KC observations:

I love that y'all have very few chain places in town. Most cities, you have CVS or a Kinkos on every block. Y'all have managed to keep that stuff out. Not sure if that's intentional or organic, but it's refreshing.

Very few pedestrians. Even at night when it wasn't as hot, there just weren't a lot of people walking on the roads.

Your airport is weird. Not saying it's better or worse. But it's weird.

Overall, a good trip. Thanks for the advice.