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9/13/04 |
The mere thought
of good ‘cue’ in Midtown excites me. And
I arrived at Smokey Q with much anticipation after reading
food writer, Cynthia Wong’s (Creative Loafing) glowing
review, but still cognizant of the fact that inconsistencies
plague most, if not all, ‘cue’ joints in town.
That being said, I’d also like to say that Cynthia Wong,
in my opinion, is truly one of the most talented and entertaining
food writer’s I’ve ever come across. |
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We entered Smokey Q greeted by
stacked layers of smoke and the pleasant reverberation of blues
bouncing from one brick-walled corner to another – I really
dig the setting. Too bad they don’t sell beer, though.
Unfortunately, most of what I dig about Smokey Q starts and
ends with its ambience. My three visits yielded Pork as memorable
as the average Bush speech. Yawn.
St Louis Ribs were mediocre
at best. That is, when they weren’t tough and stringy,
the meat often strongly gripped the bone and wouldn't let go.
I like for succulent, tender meat to effortlessly slip right
off the bone.
The food woes at Smokey Q are even more evident in their
side orders. In fact, I’ve come to the conclusion that
sides here are actually worse than those offered at Pig-N-Chik.
Previously, I didn’t think that was even remotely possible.
Beans taste as if from a can and onion rings, doused with
parmesan, are limp and salty – I’d prefer a deeper
fried ring – 86 the parmesan.
I was anxious to try the Beer Can Chicken, but they told
me they wouldn’t have any available for a few hours.
A real let down to say the least. However, the brisket was
commendable. Actually, the brisket appears to be the highlight
of all their offerings. No, it’s not in the same league
with Champ’s BBQ in Smyrna but I wouldn’t kick
it out of bed, or even off my plate. I like the fact that
they leave a thin layer of clinging fat, just enough to flavor
the slender strips.
Smokey Q offers several different sauces from Carolina mustard
to the sweet and tangy stuff. I prefer to mix the sweet and
tangy with their NC vinegar. Unfortunately, the NC vinegar
doesn’t have enough body to stand on its own.
Is there any chance in hell we’ll ever see the day
good ‘cue’ comes to Midtown?
Price Range: $4.99-$16.99
Key Notes:
The pork will make you yawn
The ribs are very inconsistent
Go for the brisket but stay clear of side orders
No alcohol served
554-A Piedmont Ave., Midtown Tel: 404-897-3588
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