Dining Out Gulf Coast: The Smokehouse Barbeque, Cape San Blas, FL

The heat index on the Gulf Coast was forecast to be around 115 degrees today.  So, we decided against spending another full day on the beach and loaded up for a day of exploring.

We enjoyed a visit to the state park on Cape San Blas and then, as it was lunch time, spied The Smokehouse Barbeque.  Without a second's hesitation, Sweet Harold pulled into the parking lot and we raced to the front door!  

I'll begin by giving you my immediate observation:  the parking lot and exterior of the building were immaculate.  No little bits of paper or trash anywhere in the parking lot!  

Upon entering the restaurant, again, everything was spic and span.  We were warmly greeted by Makiyah who helpfully reviewed the menu and gave suggestions.  Ordering is at the counter and you can choose your own table.  By the time we fixed our drinks and sat down, our food was being delivered to the table.  

We started with the fried dill pickles which are lightly breaded and seasoned with "smokehouse seasoning" and served with ranch dressing.  A LARGE serving and I really liked the light breading.

Sweet Harold chose the beef brisket plate with his choice of two sides.  He selected the cowboy baked beans and slaw.  The beef brisket is hand sliced and you have your choice of lean or marbled.  He chose marbled.

I'm going to simply type his commentary on his lunch.  The brisket was some of the best brisket he's ever eaten even at professional KCBS competition level.  Well seasoned, moist, tender, perfectly cooked.  The Cowboy Baked Beans were absolutely delicious and enjoyable with the slight amount of heat.  The slaw was freshly made, nice and crunchy, and dressed with a mayo/mustard dressing.  The Loaded Cornbread doughnut was filled with peppers, onions, jalapenos, corn, and served with a soft honey butter.  YUM!

I always head toward the pulled pork as y'all know.  I want to try other things on the menu, but the pulled pork always calls to me!

I will confirm Sweet Harold's assessment:  this pulled pork was better than most professional teams on the KCBS BBQ competition circuit.  The smoke flavor was perfect.  The pork was moist and flavorful.  I, too, loved the Cowboy Baked Beans and I have been without fries for months, so I embraced my moment of weakness and ordered them.  

I loved everything on this plate! There were two options on the table for sauces:  Spicy and Sweet.  They were both delicious, but I would probably lean more toward the spicy version.  

Here's a close up pic of the pulled pork.  Look at that smoke ring!  

Their menu includes ribs, chicken, burgers, salads, fried chicken, and seafood.  Do NOT be surprised if you read another review of their food before we leave the Gulf Coast.  It's that good.  We're already discussing what we will order on our next visit!