Drowning in BBQ Sauce

With a unique tangy sauce, an array of pig décor, and friendly service, the Bar-B-Q Ranch will surely satisfy your appetite and curiosity. I give it three out of four prongs on the spork.

Students can enjoy the tastes of Virginia-style barbecue cooking just five minutes north of EMU on Route 11. I shared my dining experience with a friend for both personal enjoyment and a second opinion. When entering the restaurant, we had no idea what to do. I was breathless from the massive country décor that covered every nook and cranny.

We proceeded to seat ourselves in the back at one of several red gingham-covered tables. We were immediately greeted with a, "How ya'll doing this evening," from Vicky, our waitress.

When we asked what she recommended, Vicky replied, "Honey, I recommend it all." The menu consisted of a great collection of tangy barbecue favorites.

We ordered cheese sticks as an appetizer. Although they were a little greasy and a bit smaller than what I've experienced before, we had no problem putting them down.

For the meal I ordered a steak sandwich, and my companion ordered the quarter chicken with fries and a roll. My sandwich was a bit runny from all the sauce on it, (helped by the couple extra squirts I added), but it was very tasty. There could have been a little more cheese, but it was still very good.

My date's quarter chicken seemed huge, and the outside skin left a little to be desired. Basically soaked with sauce, this selection is probably ideal for the consistent barbecue lover. The fries and roll were good, not spectacular, but far from poor.

Prices were decent, given the authentic environment and friendly service, making occasional dining experiences affordable for the college budget. The presentation of the food was nothing amazing-just a hot dish served fresh off the grill or out of the oven.

My friend and I prolonged our dinning experience with great conversation and abundant laughter and were encouraged to take our time as Vicky offered us numerous types of pie from the dessert list. Even though it was the beginning of rush hour for dinner, we were in and out of the restaurant in an hour. The Bar-B-Q Ranch is a good place to throw your feet up and relax. The food quality is solid, and the people are friendly. If you're hungry for barbecue, I would recommend it.