When people think of barbecue, Nevada isn’t necessarily one of the first places that comes to mind as having good barbecue. And certainly not northern Nevada. But you’re in for a surprise, as BJ’s BBQ in Sparks, just outside Reno, serves great barbecue with superb smoked flavor, great sides, desserts and tasteful décor to enhance that Deep South feeling.
BJ’s, located at 754 N. McCarran Blvd., is a little underwhelming at first if you see it from the main road. And that’s if you see it. I must have driven past the place four times trying to find it, but little did I know it’s inside a strip mall. Go figure. But the reputation among locals and with Mike Mills, the godfather of low and slow smoking, meant I had to persevere.
Upon opening the door, it was as if I’d stepped through some sort of anti-matter teleportation device and was whisked away to Memphis or St. Louis. The décor was typical of barbecue joints with the old signs, festive lights and quirky sayings. But the food was truly superb.
What sets BJ’s apart from some of the other joints in the West is they offer the succulent delicacy known as the hot link. Popular in the Deep South, including Louisiana and the heavily German-influenced areas of Texas, the hot links are not to be passed up and BJ’s does them well. Pair them up on the combo meat plate with the melt-in-your mouth ribs and some brisket or pork and you’ll literally be in hog heaven.
Some people get the ribs to the point where the meat is cooked, but there’s not much play in the meat on the bone. Meaning, when one bites into the rib meat it’s rather firm and in some cases stringy. BJ’s ribs will actually slip off the bone as you’re eating them. Watch out so you don’t let that tender morsel hit the table, otherwise one of your buddies or family members with sticky fingers is liable to reach over and grab it before you knew what happened.
While traditional sides like the beans and cole slaw are good, you should try the sweet potato crunch. It’s great candied and put into a pie, so why not make it into a crunch? BJ’s figured that one out, and I’m glad they did because it’s the perfect compliment to a meal.
So what if your wife or hubby drags you to BJ’s and you’re not in the mood for barbecue. Well, fear not because they offer a meatloaf sandwich or as a dinner with two sides. And on Friday, BJ’s does a fish fry with haddock fillets.
My only regret is I didn’t go when sweet corn was in season, otherwise I could’ve tried their Southern Baked Corn — surely a crowd pleaser.
And don’t you dare leave without trying their bread pudding with bourbon pecan sauce. The sauce itself is worth the $3.50. The peach crisp with ice cream isn’t too shabby either.
Don’t let the term barbecue joint throw you. Although barbecue is their specialty, the wait staff is just as courteous and diligent as in any high class bistro — but without the arrogant attitude!
