Probably not surprisingly, I’m not a big fan of chain BBQ joints. Typically they are too commercial and just don’t produce high-quality flavorful smoked meat. Happily, however, I recently found an exception. And I hope it wasn’t a one-time thing.

A close relative works at Spring Creek Barbecue – so we had to visit. They had a beef rib on special for a smokin’ deal (yes, pun intended). Ever the bbq nut, I couldn’t pass it up. I was pleasantly surprised by.how tasty it was. The fat was well-rendered and had that hoped-for velvety mouth feel you expect from a monster beef rib. The bark was outstanding, with a good black pepper bite to it. The smoke ring was excellent and it had a good smoky flavor. Gotta give credit where credit is due – they did a great job on the king of Texas smoked meat. Kudos to Spring Creek Barbecue.