Smokehouse on Shelby. The name alone makes my mouth water.
The best nachos EVER!
I first heard about Smokehouse during Devour Downtown week. I did some research and as soon as I found out that they had ribs, I was sold. My haughty palate lured me to a high end steak house, but I made a vow to myself that I’d dine at the Fountain Square restaurant.
My wish came sooner than I had expected. For Valentine’s Day, the love of my life gave me the choice of celebrating our love there or another restaurant. He had already swept me off my feet with lavish gifts and words of admiration so I decided to simplify things and chose Smokehouse on Shelby.
I had no preconceived notions about the corner restaurant and I was glad. Smokehouse has a very 50s diner-ish kind of feel to it. The high ceilings, large movie posters and humble seating create the perfect atmosphere for getting down and dirty with some good food.
Smokehouse on Shelby had a Valentine’s Day special, but their prices are always super affordable. My honey and I ordered the Chili Cheese nachos, which were honestly the best nachos I’d ever tasted. You could tell they smoked the meat before adding the chili goodness. The platter was huge and could have been a meal in itself. (Uh, staff, I will be back for lunch, so be prepared.)
Smokehouse on Shelby's ribs and sides are excellent
For our entree, I had a half slab of St. Louis style ribs with baked beans and sweet potato fries to round out my dinner. Andre’ had a half of chicken (which was smoked too), baked beans and breaded mushrooms.
We both had a vanilla coke. It was soooooooo good! We had to take our dessert home because we were filled to the brim.
Smokehouse on Shelby may have a modest menu, but many restaurants can learn a lesson or two from them: create a menu with a fair amount of familiar cuisine and perfect the deliciousness.
The service was wonderful and the food will make you want to smack somebody. I’m definitely going back there.
Next time I go, I'll have to try their wings
