The typical New Yorker is a connoisseur of the fine art of pizza and hot dog eating. So much so it becomes encoded in their genetic makeup. In San Antonio we know barbeque and thus, the relationship is just the same. Whether we enjoy it in a backyard setting or the fanciest restaurant the subtle art of barbecuing is fierce here.
After a conference a coworker and I had attended we had some spare time for a lunch break. The Smokehouse was suggested as a place to eat and when it comes to barbeque I am all mouth and ears. So I said, " Why not." The place itself is small. There is somewhat ample parking here. Inside tries to give the impression of a bbq smoke house, with the smell of brisket and sausage slowly cooking. Instead it had the feel of a level down Grady's.
There are lines separated by chain link strips where you place your order. Inside a window staff person takes your order and you are given a number. This is where my first critique comes in, the menu is confusing. I wasn't sure of the combos, or more importantly what constituted as one. Could I add or substitute items to my order?
In terms of the service, at least in my experience the staff seemed indifferent and not too friendly. For example when I had the glazed look of confusion on my face, rather than make a suggestion the server gestured for me to hurry up. So I opted for a simple brisket sandwich, potato salad and a drink. I must add that the prices for things seemed a smidge high, especially for this area.
Over the P.A. a server with a voice less discernible than the teacher from Charlie Brown calls out your number. After picking up my plate I glanced at it and was struck by how small the portion was. Famished I ate into the sandwich and my initial impression, the meat was criminally dry. In addition it seemed a bit bland. I became suspicious when i saw a bottle of barbecue sauce displayed prominently on the table. I sprinkled a few drops in my sandwich. Sadly It could not liven up nor disguise the shortcomings of the meat. The potato salad portion, more befitting a Hobbit was a bit lackluster; a bit heavy on the egg, without the umph of a superior one.
I did however like the choice of decorations in the room. It had the theme of pigs on the tables and everyplace else, which I thought was clever. Unfortunately that would not carry unto their food or more poignantly, my experience here.
The Smokehouse is a bbq joint located in an area bursting with great eateries. In any case this place does not carry in that tradition. The service is neither here nor there. And the food was lacking. Luckily for me as a Texan I am cautiously optimistic. Good bbq experiences can still be had here and are as perennial as the Bluebonnets that grow along I-10. read more