rev:text
| - Whiskey River BBQ and Brew may have a few kinks to unravel, but there are good things in the mix, too. We've dined there four times, and each time we've had delicious truly smoked BBQ.
Yes, they smoke their meat on site. The smoke ring is there. We have enjoyed their smoked half chicken with choice of sides, and last time, I asked about their smoked brisket. There is nothing worse than dry stringy brisket, and I like my smoked meat fatty, lush, and tender. Whiskey River managed to get all three right.
The menu is not too extensive, with just a few choices in each key BBQ area: beef brisket, pulled pork, the above-mentioned smoked half chicken, salads, and lots of fried sides. Appetizers are on the pricey side, with a small order of ordinary bacon and cheddar potato skins close to $10. Why bother. Just go for the meal. Fried fish is also available on Friday, and there are several off menu specials only available to whiskey River's Outlaw Club Members.
You can become an Outlaw by signing up to receive text or email updates on the air website. This, unfortunately, is one of Whiskey River's flaws. In the first few weeks I was an outlaw, I received multiple daily texts and emails. After it hit the point of bothersome, I asked them to back off, and they did.
Some of the specials for members include all you can eat BBQ beef ribs on Saturdays, or inexpensive brews during the week.
Whiskey River has a large space, with both a dining room and plenty of seating space in the bar/lounge. We've seen live musicians in the dining room, even as early as 5 PM. That's nice for families with kids, and others who need to make it an early night. The entire space is casual, with denim slipcovers over the chairs and non-fancy wooden tables. Last time we were there, an artist was painting a mural behind the curved wall at the restaurant entrance. It's a bit of a western theme, and some of the other artwork is playful, cowboy fare.
Service is casual, friendly, and yes, it can be a bit slow. I am a fanatic about my iced tea refills, and with good saucy Q, I don't want to wait.
Speaking of the sauce, there are three options at your table. A sweet apple BBQ sauce, the whiskey sauce, which is probably their house sauce, and something more Southwestern, that they say is more spicy. Not sure I agree with that, but it's all good.
According to their recent ads, Whiskey River now offers delivery. However, there's nothing like sitting in close quarters with a smoker...not the pack a day kind, but the kind that turns tough cuts into meaty goodness.
We have dined at this location before its current cowboy makeover, and while we loved Eureka Grill, this is more practical for Surprise. Family friendly, economical, and with live music several nights each week, it's a fun night out at one easy location.
|