I have two “barbecue” spots that I love: Caveman Kitchen in Kent, Wash., and Franklin’s BBQ in Austin, Texas. All other barbecue just seems too dry, too sweet, too spicy, or – heaven forbid – all three. Honestly I don’t know why I am so picky about barbecue considering the fact that I’m born and bred in the Pacific Northwest; we’re known for our salmon, clam chowder and coffee – not our barbecue.
Anyway, now that I am living in Portland I haven’t found my new favorite barbecue spot. And no, I have not yet had the chance to try Podnah’s BUT I SWEAR IT IS ON MY LIST, OKAY? Right next to the southbound entrance on I-5 in downtown Vancouver (lovingly known as Vantucky) there’s a spot with a patio that always smells really, really, really good. It took well over a year and a pandemic, but we finally made it to their patio recently and HOLY. SH*T.
Now, I still love my favorite spots in Kent and Austin. They will always reign supreme. But Smokin’ Oak had something they don’t: a menu of pure gluttony. They have a sandwich I did not try but hope to someday called “The Fatty” that comes with pulled pork, brisket, sausage, pork BBQ sauce, coleslaw and…..wait for it….MACARONI AND CHEESE. If you read my last post about the ‘sghetti sando from Demarco’s, you know I have an obsession with stacked carbs.
I planned to try The Fatty another time, and instead took advantage of the pretty solid happy hour menu that is available all day on Sunday. We had brisket macaroni and cheese, smoked sausage corn dogs (sleeper hit), and a side of brisket just because it was so damn good.
Highly recommend stopping by and make it during happy hour to get a good sampling of their options, or try out one of their daily specials.