When it comes to barbecue restaurants, the aroma of smoked meats and the sizzle of grills might lure you in, but not every item on the menu guarantees a delightful dining experience. This exploration into what not to order at a barbecue joint reveals some surprising no-nos that could transform your next visit.
1. Hamburger
While a hamburger might seem like a safe choice, it’s often the underdog at a barbecue spot. These establishments focus on smoked and grilled meats, meaning the humble burger can be overlooked and underwhelming. Chefs at top barbecue restaurants suggest avoiding it for more specialized items.
Moreover, a burger in a barbecue joint is rarely the star of the show. Unlike specialty burger restaurants, the attention to detail and quality might be lacking. The patty could be overcooked or lack the juicy flavors you’d expect from a barbecue.
In a place celebrated for its mastery of smoked ribs or brisket, a hamburger is just an afterthought. It’s best to steer clear of this option and dive into the true essence of barbecue cuisine.
2. Queso Macaroni and Cheese
Queso macaroni and cheese might sound like a delicious fusion, but at a barbecue restaurant, it’s a dish to avoid. The reason is not in the flavor but the preparation. Barbecue joints prioritize meats, which means sides like macaroni can be pre-made and not given the fresh treatment they deserve.
This dish might come across as overly creamy or too rich, overshadowing the smoked meats. The balance of flavors in a barbecue meal is delicate, and an overpowering side dish can disrupt this harmony.
Instead of settling for a potentially disappointing mac and cheese, opt for classic sides like coleslaw or baked beans that complement the barbecue flavors.
3. Overcooked Foods with Black Tar Substance
Barbecue is an art, and overcooked food with a black tar-like substance is a sign of a kitchen not respecting this craft. This warning sign indicates not only a lack of expertise but also a potential health risk.
Charred and burnt meats can be carcinogenic, posing a health concern. If you notice any meat with an excessively burnt exterior, it’s best to avoid it. This indicates either a rushed cooking process or a lack of attention to the meat’s quality.
Good barbecue is about balance – a well-cooked exterior with a juicy interior. Anything excessively burnt betrays this principle and should be bypassed.
4. Pie and Pizza
While pie and pizza are beloved American classics, they’re out of place in a barbecue restaurant. These items, often found as an afterthought on the menu, are not the specialties of a place dedicated to smoked and grilled meats.
Barbecue joints might offer these dishes as a nod to comfort food, but they typically lack the authenticity and quality you’d find in specialized restaurants. Opting for these could lead to a subpar experience compared to what the restaurant truly excels at.
Focus on what barbecue restaurants do best – smoked meats and traditional sides. Leave the pizza and pie for places that specialize in them.
5. Deli Classics
Deli classics like sandwiches or cold cuts might appear on a barbecue menu, but they’re often not the main draw. These items can be pre-made and lack the fresh, smoked quality of other barbecue specialties.
A deli sandwich in a barbecue joint might not receive the same care and attention as their smoked meats. The bread might be stale, or the fillings lackluster, making it a less appealing choice.
For a true barbecue experience, focus on dishes that showcase the art of smoking and grilling, like ribs, brisket, or pulled pork.
6. Cold Foods in Improper Conditions
Cold foods, like macaroni salad or fruit salad, are staples at any barbecue. However, when these items are not kept at the correct temperature, they pose a food safety risk. According to food safety experts, improperly stored cold foods can harbor harmful bacteria.
If you notice that cold dishes are not kept cold, either on ice or refrigerated, it’s best to avoid them. The risk of foodborne illness increases when these foods are kept at room temperature for extended periods.
Always check the conditions under which cold foods are served at a barbecue restaurant. Your health should never be compromised for the sake of a side dish.
