Great Texas BBQ in Henderson: Big B’s

By: Bob Gourley
 
One of the lures of great BBQ places is the smoky aroma that permeates the air not only inside but also in the parking lot as you make your way to the door. The smokers that most restaurants have usually toil away all night.
 
In interviews I have done with barbecue entrepreneurs they like to cook meats differing amounts of time depending what is being prepared so many of them arrive early in the morning to start the process.
    
Big B’s Texas BBQ is one of the newer places that has opened in Henderson. The dining room is full of wooden picnic tables where small or large groups can gather. In fact, moms will appreciate the fact that their kids can spread out. Paper towels are placed on every table and house-made sauces are ready to be poured.

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The pleasant smoke aroma whets the appetite as you step up to the counter and ponder the menu. A plate is the best way to experience the food as options abound.
 
For instance, a “one” plate is $9.99 and three meats will fill you up for $17.99. And what meats are available? Everything from chicken to brisket.
 
The latter can be ordered in two ways: with a lot of marbling or more lean. I opted for the marbled version and really enjoyed tender slices of meat that were tasty without any sauce. If you choose to lather them up, you will notice a vinegar-friendly sauce that is a great accompaniment.
 
By the way, Big B’s also has Tri-Tip which usually is anathema to most Texas barbecuers. In fact, many from the Lone Star state don’t even like to mention that type of beef that has its roots as part of Santa Maria-style feasts. But both cuts live together in great harmony here.
    
If you are looking for another meat, pulled pork is a nice option along with hot links and smoked turkey. Both pork baby back and beef ribs are also available.
    
Po-Boy sandwiches are not normally found in BBQ places, but they are front and center here with both 6 and 12 inch versions. Sliders are another option.
   
Sides are an important part of a successful BBQ restaurant and Big B’s passes the test. Not only will you find a creamy mac and cheese but creamed corn is popular along with fried okra and two types of salad: pasta and potato. Cole slaw works for fans of it and the BBQ beans have an attractive mix of beans and meat.
 
A piece of wheat or white bread accompanies every plate and cornbread can be ordered for an additional $1.50. A few desserts are available to finish off the meal.
Catering is one of the big things they do and an attractive slate of affordable options should make any party-planner happy. A four to six-person package is available for $59 and includes 2 pounds of meat, 2 quarts of sides, a loaf of bread and sauces. If you want a gigantic feast, fork out $399 for a spread that feeds 30 to 35.
    
Texas hospitality meets Vegas at Big B’s. Big B’s Texas BBQ, 3019 St. Rose Pkwy., Suite 130.  Henderson. (702) 260-6327. www.bigbztexasbbq.com.