Saturdays are always nice, but this past one had a few particularly great moments. To start, The Wife completed her first half marathon (as I drank coffee and strolled around downtown Orlando) and then later that day she picked BBQ for dinner as a little reward for all of her hard work. The greatness of that choice comes because we finally made it to a new place that opened (somewhat) recently on our side of town. In no way did that meal supplant my adoration for Dinosaur BBQ, but 4 Rivers Smokehouse is finally the BBQ place in Orlando that we have been waiting for.
Granted I am basing my reaction on one meal but I have every intention of going back again (and again) to sample other items on the menu. That is probably the best compliment that I can give a restaurant. The only (slight) downside was that parking was difficult and that was really because the place was so busy. A full parking lot and a line out the door can’t be held against them.
Any wait is well worth it
When you go you will likely be waiting in line, but it moves along pretty quickly and you will need the time to look over the menu to decide what you want anyway. I say likely because the inside is pretty small but also because there will probably be a lot of people already there. You have your food in hand before you leave the line, so the wait is really no issue. Besides, I am more than OK to stand in a room that smells so damn good!
Time to study up
It is a good there there was glass keeping me from it.
I will be back for those jalapenos!
Getting a sample of the brisket as we waited in line only solidified my decision to go with the stacker consisting of the smoked brisket topped with onion rings, jalapenos, and melted provolone dubbed the “Texas Destroyer.” The impossible decision of choosing sides ended up with the mac and cheese (a must) and the smokehouse corn, which turned out to be the surprise star of the show. The Wife went with pulled pork, shredded cabbage, and homemade Creole mustard served on a baguette named the “Cochon De Lait.” She also went with the fried pickles and collards so we ended up with a pretty good sampling for our first visit. No complaints other than not having a second stomach to sample more of the menu. There is certainly enough there to get to before deciding on a favorite.
Before attacking the "Cochon De Lait"
Some dessert to go next time?
Most people that were in line with us ordered their food to go which keeps the flow of vehicles in and out of the parking lot pretty consistent. We sat at the outside tables in back since there was plenty of room to do so and because there was no reason to torture ourselves by sitting in a car with those aromas for the entire ride home. Those tables are the only seating options, but they are all under roof and are well stocked with sauces and napkins. Who wants to eat BBQ inside if given the option anyway?
Well done to the people at 4 Rivers and we are happy to have to in Orlando! You were all exceptionally nice (even to the few incredibly rude people in line ahead of us) and now all of my relatives and friends will know where we are going to eat when they come to visit.
That place is amazing. I need to go back and sample some more offerings.