rev:text
| - One thing you worry about when it comes to new branch locations is: "Is the quality and feel going to be the same?"
Well, the seating/dining area of the Champaign Black Dog isn't ready yet, but this new branch is taking carry-out orders! I am pleased to report back that the taste and quality that you've experienced and loved in the original Urbana location is definitely here.
I called in ahead of time to order 4 platters for the family: burnt ends, beef brisket, salmon, and pulled pork. 20 minutes later, I pulled into downtown Champaign and into their new parking lot.
This new Black Dog is situated in an old train depot building. It's a little bit hidden off the intersection of Main St and Chestnut, just around the corner from establishments like Memphis Off Main and etc...makes me wonder if this Black Dog might be open as a late night option for those of us who make a night out of downtown Champaign.
The new interior looks beautiful. Full of polished and warm woody browns. I'm super excited for when I come back to Illinois to try dine-in when this place opens up entirely.
As for the food, the pick-up was easy enough and after unwrapping the beautiful feast before us, my family came away stuffed and quite happy. All the meat is tender and moist. Again, in Black Dog goodness, the BBQ sauce is delicious and great augmentation to the flavors of the meat. That meat doesn't need sauce in order to be juicy and moist. Praise be!
Also, let me tell you. I ordered their smoked salmon for the first time and yes. Please. That is some of the best salmon I've had in a long time. Just like the red meats, the salmon is moist and tender and flakey. Not a hint of dryness in there and just oh so smokey. Why haven't I tried this sooner?
So yes, Champaign Black Dog is just as good as Urbana Black Dog, so don't be scared! Come enjoy this place just as much! It probably isn't as crowded as the Urbana location for carry out anyways...Shhhhh
|