Last week, American's celebrated the 4th with smoked and grilled goodness coming off smokers and backyard grills. Others, however, visited their favorite BBQ joint.
In last week's blog, I referred to Daniel Vaughn, (the BBQ Snob), and his fantastic new book The Prophets of Smoked Meat: A Journey Through Texas Barbecue. Daniel traveled thousands of miles to give you his thoughts on countless BBQ joints. Here is my take on a couple of the ones that he included in his book, as well as the Top 50 list that he and Texas Monthly recently compiled.
Angelo's Bar-B-Que 2533 White Settlement Rd. Fort Worth, TX 76107 817.332.0357
This famous Fort Worth restaurant was the first BBQ joint I visited when I moved here. The meats are hit hard with their signature rub and hickory smoked for flavor. They've been hosting Fort Worth families and famous visitors for more than 50 years. The draft beer is served as cold as any that I've drank and the atmosphere is one that truly makes me feel at home. It's what a great BBQ place should feel like.
BBQ on the Brazos 9001 East Hwy 377 Cresson, TX 76035 (Look for the Texaco) 817.396.4758
Truth be told, I have never been here. However, this piece isn't me giving criteria of certain places, but sharing places that I enjoy and think perhaps some of you will as well. I am planning on stopping by this week. It’s located about 10 miles away from the house, so it will be a quick trip to grab some lunch before they run out. Yes, before they run out. Fort Worth’s own BBQ Guru, Bud Kennedy, put this place on my BBQ radar. Bud is the most well traveled BBQ expert in Fort Worth and a glowing review from him means it’s certainly worth the time to try out.
Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que 301 Stockyards Blvd. Fort Worth, TX 76164 817.626.6464
My first experience with Cooper's was at the original location in Llano. During the summertime, while in college, a couple of buddies and I would always visit a family ranch in the hill country. These trips always included a pit stop at Cooper's for a “Big Chop.” The 26,000 sq. ft. location opened in the Stockyards across from Billy Bob’s a few years ago. Just like the original, you choose your meat from the pit at the front when you enter. I continue to order the “Big Chop” when we visit. It takes me down memory lane which is something that is hard to purchase anywhere.
Cousin's, Multiple Locations
I tend to stay away from chain establishments and not just with my choices in BBQ joints. That's not to say there aren't some good ones out there, and Cousin's is an exception to the rule. I had never visited them until they were highlighted on Good Morning America. Once I visited, I realized what I had been missing with my stubbornness. They do a nice job with all of their meats and although I have had a better experience at some locations than others, the consistency between the restaurants is really good.
Longoria's BBQ 100 S Christopher Dr. Everman, TX 76140 817.568.9494
Fred Longoria and family have been operating this joint in Everman since 1995. It's one of those places that you visit for a single item and then find that you like quite a few. I heard of their brisket sausage and decided to visit. Although I always continue to get the sausage when I return, nothing on the menu has ever disappointed me.
What is your favorite BBQ joint?
