What a great concept restaurant and executed really well! Brought a large group of co-workers here on a recent weekday (first time for all of us), and we all walked away full and extremely impressed!
Mission BBQ is one of the newer fast-casual style restaurants that cater to the growing love of 'Que. With smokers clearly evident right behind the service counters, these guys are trying to do it the right way and infuse all their meats with the goodness of fire and smoke. Before you order they will allow you a sample of any meat you choose...might be good for those thinking about lean or fatty brisket for example.
I decided to go with a two-meat platter and added a single spare rib (on the side) to give them a try. Platter also came with two sides and cornbread, although I sampled other sides as well.
The pulled pork and (moist) brisket were both tender and juicy with good, subtle smoke flavor. The spare rib was way too soft and fall-off-the-bone for my liking...the only real disappointment in the whole meal. There are six sauce choices...my favorites were the "KC Classic", "Memphis Belle" and "Smoky Mountain" versions. Sides sampled were fries (crispy and perfect), mac-n-cheese (gooey and slightly tangy, bitey cheese) and beans (sweet at first, then a peppery kick). Cornbread was on the dry side, but good flavor especially when butter was added. Plenty of regular and sweet tea to drink.
The lines were nearly out the door and the seating area (with some long, communal tables, booths, etc.) was bustling and lively. We will most certainly be back!