| rev:text
| - Before I throw in my two cents, I feel like I should point out something that many of the reviewers here are overlooking: There are many different styles of barbeque, and it is not really appropriate to complain about one style because it's not like another. (To me, this is like going to a real Chicago pizzeria and complaining that the pizzas are "thick.") Some styles of BBQ involve thin, vinegary sauces; others involve meat that's swimming in a thick sauce; and still others (like Joe's) involve meat that's served "dry" with sauce added like a condiment.
In my opinion, this latter form of BBQ is the hardest to pull off. The reason is that the meat must be able to stand on its own. I think Joe's does this quite well. I usually get pulled pork or chicken. The meat is generally moist and smoky, but with a good crust (on chicken breasts, the outside edges may start to dry during smoking, but I actually enjoy that). I believe the meat is dry-rubbed before it is smoked, as it has a good spiced flavor to it. I usually place my order with "no sauce" so that I can get the spicy BBQ sauce that is available at the condiment bar.
The sides are homemade--my favorite is the baked beans, which is smoky and contains chunks of chicken and pork. The cornbread is of the variety that is not sweet, but it also is a bit too dry for my taste.
If you go during a very busy time, you should be prepared to wait in line 15-20 minutes. But keep in mind it is cafeteria style, so you get your food right when you order. Sit-down restaurants would likely take 15-20 minutes to bring your food to the table anyway. Also, if it's crowded (and too hot to sit outside), it might be difficult to get a table, and the busboys might not be able to clear the tables as fast as people are leaving them, so scout out a table early. (That being said, if it is not crowded, Joe's is as fast as any fast food restaurant--you could be sitting down and eating within two minutes.)
|