Bucket-list barbecue restaurants in every New England state
Cheapism, a website dedicated to finding the best products and services at the very best prices, recently published a list of bucket-list-worthy barbecue joints that have received “top marks from customers and critics” in all 50 states.
In Massachusetts, Blue Ribbon BBQ in Arlington was voted the bucket list restaurant. The eatery has been serving a variety of Southern barbecue since 1995.
“The North Carolina-style pork is the way to go here because it pairs exceptionally well with the vinegar-based barbecue sauce available at the sauce bar. A big slice of cornbread and fluffy mashed potatoes make great side dishes,” Cheapism said of Blue Ribbon BBQ .
In New Hampshire, Smoke Shack Cafe in Londonderry earned bucket list honors for its Texas-style barbecue.
“There’s a Texas flag when you enter, and Texas license plates adorn the counter. You’d be doing yourself a favor by ordering the brisket sliced or chopped,” Cheapism said of Smoke Shack Cafe.
In Vermont, Top of the Hill Grill in Brattleboro was voted the bucket list place to eat. Located on a hill, it would be a cozy seasonal smokehouse with a great view from the outdoor deck.
Cheapism said of Top of the Hill Grill: “Whimsical, colorful hand-drawn signs illustrate the menu by the window. Hickory-smoked meaty burnt ends and apple-smoked turkey pair well on the combo platter, which is served with cornbread, slaw, and baked beans. For a to-go option, have your barbecue stuffed in a tortilla wrap, such as a burrito.
In Maine, Spring Creek Bar-B-Q in Monson received much praise, in part because it was once frequented by the famous Anthony Bourdain.
“The restaurant is as casual as you can get, and the meat is Texas-style and spicy. The ever-changing menu is written in chalk on the wall, so just order whatever sounds best that day, from hot ribs to mac and cheese,” Cheapism said of Spring Creek Bar-B-Q.
In Rhode Island, Becky’s BBQ in Middletown earned the bucket list nomination for its smoke pit, where meat is cooked over hickory wood.
“The ribs are hand rubbed in a signature blend of spices before being barbecued over the hickory pit for hours. While the ribs are delicious on their own, both the sweet Kansas City sauce and the vinegary North Carolina sauce are worth tasting. Diners say the sides are just as good, from the moist cornbread to the potato salad,” Cheapism said of Becky’s.
In Connecticut, the Taino Smokehouse in Middletown was flagged as a must-see spot despite its location in a small storefront.
“People line up for smoked corned beef turned into a great Reuben sandwich. There is also a Thai twist on barbecue with drunken noodles made with minced smoked meat and Thai basil,” Cheapism wrote of Taino Smokehouse.
Click here to view the full list.
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