4Rivers Smokehouse

It was a good sign: the line was out the door; we had to park down the street and walk. This seems to be the only way to properly experience the phenomenon that is 4Rivers. My brother and I made a date of it and knew before hand what we wanted. Of course I had read the review in the Orlando Sentinel and my brother had enjoyed 4Rivers' catering at an event earlier in the year but both of us were eager to try out the deli ourselves.

Warning to all vegetarians and vegans: this may convert you. I ordered the brisket sandwich with fried pickles and baked beans. My brother ordered the burnt end sandwich with potato salad and coleslaw. Finding a spot out back at the picnic tables was a bit tricky but eventually some people left and we got a more comfortable seat.

I delved into the brisket sandwich first. Smokey goodness. It was like having a bonfire in your mouth. Drizzled with a little of the bar-b-q sauce, and Ooo, la, la. The pickles that are added I could do without but the chopped jalapenos provide a nice little kick. The carver will ask you if you want the fat cap left on. Doooo it. Ignore all inclination to cut it away. This little morsel melts in your mouth like butter and holds a lot of the smokey spice rub that covers the outside. The brisket is the 4Rivers classic, what they are known for so don't leave there without trying one.

Next I loosened my belt for the burnt end sandwich. It just melted; it is baked in the BBQ sauce and then more is added when you order. A mix of brisket and pork it is just down right tasty. Seriously, how do all these other BBQ chains stay in business?

As I was sitting there eating, I thought, "This has to be the best bun ever." I wouldn't want a fancy whole grain bun (and I'm a whole grain nut, let me tell you!) trying to steal the show from this awesome meat.

Now the sides were decent in flavor, generous is serving. The baked beans were by far the best of the four sides we got (I got a nice chunk of fat; more faaattt!!). Fried pickes, nah, coleslaw, nah, potato salad, ok. The sandwiches on there own are incredibly filling so I think I'm going to skip the sides next time I go.

When you go (not if, but when; you won't be able to stay away), pray there is a line and cars parked down the quiet neighborhood street. It makes it an experience. Be respectful of property markers and driveways but other than that you should be good to go. Excellent food, nice people;a full tip jar (seriously, a sign of a good restaurant is how full their tip jar is). I am incredibly envious of Winter Park citizens who have this place right in their backyard.

Must Have: Brisket, on or in anything (note for those who don't dig buns: get your meat naked, sans the bun)

Next Bite: Messy Pig (and brisket, of course)