If you're curious about Smokey Bones, their rib-tippling specials, super cool reward programs, and convenient locations spread across the country, I’d suggest you hop over to their official website at www.smokeybones.com.
I gotta say, popping into Smokey Bones was like walking straight into an all-American cookout. They're a fast-casual joint, perfect for satisfying thirst and hunger be it for lunch, dinner, or late-night drinks. They specialize in BBQ (think juicy smoked meats and lip-smacking sauces), but also serve a mean assortment of classic American goodies like burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
The Story Behind Smokey Bones
Founded by Barbeque Integrated, Inc., Smokey Bones unusually hails from Aventura, Florida. Despite its southern roots, this restaurant flies the flag for American BBQ, rather than regional cuisine. It all started back in 1999 with the first branch opening in Orlando, and at its peak, the brand boomed to over 100 restaurants nationwide. Originally under the care of Darden Restaurants - yep, the creators of Red Lobster and Olive Garden - business took a bit of a dip in the early 2000s. Luckily Barbecue Integrated, Inc. swooped in to take the reins and they’ve been pulling the strings (and the pulled pork) ever since.
The Smokey Bones Difference
What sets Smokey Bones apart from other BBQ places is its universal appeal. While most BBQ joints in the States cater to a regional palate, Smokey Bones broadens their horizons to create a menu with national appeal. The same team that successfully launched Olive Garden and Red Lobster saw a gap in the market for a BBQ restaurant with a wide appeal and Smokey Bones was born, ready to satisfy a country-wide craving for high-quality, slow-cooked and well-grilled BBQ dishes.
Designed to operate as a sports bar, they've kept their vibe welcoming and family-friendly. Their menu is expansive and uses only the freshest ingredients, but they're always about value for money. They invest in top-quality meats and are serious about the way they roast and grill 'em. Sure, it’s a bit pricier than most BBQ joints, but people come back time and time again for the relaxed environment and seriously awesome food.
Your Order at Smokey Bones
Sure, they're known for their BBQ meats, but their menu isn't all smoky and saucy. They've got everything from appetizing starters to fresh salads, hearty sandwiches, comforting soups, flavor-packed wings, and fire-grilled favorites. Not to mention an indulgent dessert selection and, of course, a full bar. Here’s a sneak peek at what awaits you in their menu categories:
- Fire Starters
- Sandwiches
- BBQ Street Tacos
- Slow Smoked BBQ
- Fire-Grilled Favorites
- Ribs
- Bones Burgers
- Wings
- Pasta and Seafood
- Chicken
- Soup and Salad
- Sides
- Kid's Meals
- Desserts
- Beverages
Each item on their menu is made fresh with quality ingredients, including USDA-standard meats. Their team of master grillers are committed to serving only the best-grilled and cooked meats.
Error-proof Picks from the Smokey Bones Menu
For first-timers, the extensive menu at Smokey Bones may be a tad overwhelming. But hey, that's where I come in with a mini guide to some of their most popular dishes:
- Giant Ribeye Special - A 2-pound smoked and grilled USDA Ribeye that comes with 2 sides, 2 salads, and a bag of Smokey Bones donuts (yes, donuts!). It's a feast in itself.
- Baby Back Ribs - Smokey Bones's award-winning prime ribs smoked for 4 hours, grilled to perfection, and covered in a sweet BBQ sauce served with crispy garlic bread.
- Family Meals - These are custom designed for large groups, offering a spread of bestsellers and complete meal items including the BBQ Party Pack.
- Special Steaks - Their 16-ounce bone-in New York Strip is USDA Prime - a quality standard you usually find only in top-end steakhouses.
- Colossal Ribfest - 4 pounds of delicious ribs served with garlic toast, four sides, and beverages - this one's for the real rib lovers.
- Hand-Pulled Pork Platter - The 9-hour smoked pork is well-seasoned with salt and pepper and served with your pick of 2 sides.
- Apple Cobbler - The most ordered dessert on the menu, this delightful dessert features cinnamon apples, crumble, candied pecans, and caramel sauce topped off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Food for the Little Ones
Keeping true to their family-friendly ethos, Smokey Bones of course has a Kid's menu. They offer comfort food classics like mac and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, and mini steak, burgies and pulled pork sandwiches.
Looking for Healthy Options?
If you're hunting for healthier options at a Barbecue restaurant, you might need to be a bit creative. While their salads are packed with protein and a possibly dairy-laced dressing, you can order 'em sans protein and request the dressing on the side. Some of the vegan-friendly sides include baked potatoes, cinnamon apples, and a variety of fries.
Does Smokey Bones Cater?
Need to host a large gathering or throw a party? Smokey Bones offers catering services, with dedicated areas for your group. They even feature a carving station and bourbon-tasting bar with one day’s advanced notice, and for a full catering experience they’d like a bit more of a heads up.
Too Comfy to Come In?
Tossed up between a top-notch meal and the comfort of your couch? With Smokey Bones, you don't have to choose - you can place an order online on their website or just get the food delivered to your doorstep via their partners like UberEats.
When Can You Drop by?
Smokey Bones is open from 11 AM till the wee hours of 1 AM. Their Happy Hour kicks in at 9 PM and goes on till closing time, where you can grab your favorite drinks at discounted prices. So before you drop by, be sure to check your local Smokey Bones for their daily specials, current offers, and exact opening hours.
The Pros
- Wide variety of BBQ and American dishes
- Fresh and high-quality ingredients
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Happy hour on offer
- Online ordering and delivery available
The Cons
- Slightly pricier than typical BBQ joints
- Limited vegan options
- Requires advanced notice for Family Meals and full-event catering