A recent story on the Travel Channel made me aware of a BBQ restaurant in my own backyard that I had yet to try. Apparently, the restaurant has won Best BBQ in St. Louis by a couple of local publications. I guess I really gotta pay more attention to what’s going on in my part of the world.
Nonetheless, I made the journey to Pappy’s Smokehouse for lunch today. Before leaving work, I looked up their hours or operation only to discover that their hours are variable based on what time they sell out of their various meats. Apparently they prepare enough meat for each day and when it’s gone it’s gone. So I headed out with a sense of urgency. When I walked in, I was greeted by a line that stretched almost the entire length of the place.
As I watched plate after plate of good looking BBQ being brought from the kitchen, I was greeted by the sight of 3 Memphis in May trophies near the front counter. I guess these guys really know what they’re doing. I was also very encouraged to see that the BBQ was served sans sauce but there were three types available as condiments on the table.
I ordered up a pulled pork sandwich with a side of baked beans and an ear of deep-fried corn on the cob.
This was the small sandwich but the pulled pork was generously piled onto a bun. It was very tender and had a nice smoke flavor. I opted for their sauce called “Holly’s Hot Sauce”. They bill it as a Texas style sauce, and I enjoyed it very much. The baked beans had a nice flavor but I have to say that I wasn’t wild about the deep fried corn on the cob, although it was definitely a first for me. I also tried a bite of their brisket (one of my lunch pals gave a sample from his plate), and found it to be very good as well.
Like most BBQ joints, the place was minimally decorated. They had a super wait staff though and I enjoyed the blues music that played while we ate. They were very prompt in getting the food out, cleaning off tables, and ensuring that everyone was satisfied with their meal. In fact, the owner himself was very visible around the place.
The menu is extensive and they do a very nice variety of meats and sidedishes. If their catering business is anywhere near as busy as their lunchtime business, then they must do a great business.
I’ll make another trip here you can bet. I’d like to try more of their brisket and maybe some chicken, but they’ve got a real shot at being my recommendation as best in St. Louis. Oh, there’s one other “clear the bar” item for any good BBQ joint and Pappy’s didn’t disappoint. They serve sweet tea! ;>)
Here’s my final report card:
- BBQ – A
- Side Dishes – A-
- Atmosphere – A
- Value – A
- Overall – A
Pappy’s Smoke House 3106 Olive Street
Saint Louis MO 63103
Email: mike@pappyssmokehouse.com
Phone: 314-535-4340
Fax: 314-535-4337
Hours: M-F 11-7 or 8 (we sell out around then)
Week-ends 11-around 4 (we sell out fast on week-ends)
Cheers,
Braddog
grillandbarrel.com 