Thorp Springs is another blip on the map community nestled in the twisting channels of Lake…read moreGranbury. Along the roads most locals take to avoid the main highways, you can find Smoking Barrel BBQ and Catering. A small, family-owned restaurant who didn't even know they were on the map, but definitely should be.
There were only two choices for lunch in this small community, other than the pizza and Subway at the local gas stations, so I decided to go with BBQ for the win. When I pulled up, the pitmaster was taking a brisket fresh off thee mesquite fueled smoker right in the front. I was met by his daughter when I entered who was tending to the customers in the dining area, backed by her mom who was helping run the kitchen. Some of the friendliest people you could imagine and genuinely thankful for having your business.
I did what I normally do when trying a new BBQ joint and ordered the Three Meat Plate so I could try several things. I selected their Brisket, Pork Ribs and Pulled Pork, along with their Potato Salad and Cowboy Beans for the sides. The Brisket was moist, tender and juicy, with a nice smoke ring and a crisp outside bark. The pulled pork was smoky, juicy and salty in the perfect way to mix with the sweet and bold barbeque sauce. The ribs were honestly slightly dryer than I like, but the flavor instantly made up for that minor flaw. The mesquite smoke was heavy throughout the ribs, but not overpowering or bitter like mesquite can get if not properly managed and there was a spice with just a bit of a bite to the bark. Incredible.
The sides were decent. The potato salad was acceptable, but it was just not they style that I prefer and the beans were a real treat, smoky and well seasoned. However, it was the meat that stole the show.
Thorp Springs is out of the way for almost anyone, but if you are ever making you way out to Lipan or between Granbury and Weatherford, then it is well worth the detour. If you are a local, this is a place you cannot miss.
