904 North 6th Street
Longview, TX 75601-5532
903-753-2714
This downtown location of the chain does not do a brisk evening business during the week. My work-related group of three were the only patrons for most of our visit, which began at 7:45pm. The staff appeared to be comprised entirely of somewhat disaffected high schoolers. We suffered for it. I was well familiar with the cafeteria style layout and the décor is western but appears to date back to ‘70s era theme restaurant. They were, horror of horrors, out of ribs. It took a surprisingly long time to get my sliced beef and turkey. The brisket was sliced parallel to the grain. I didn’t get much of it, but there was a strong, dark crust in which I could detect a salty rub. It did have some good smoke and I think would have been fairly tender had it not been cut the wrong way. The turkey was thin-sliced deli meat that only had the slightest hint of smoke. Coleslaw and beans were a bit below average. Bodacious is held in high regards by many Texans. After mediocre results at the Arlington outlet, I was hoping this location would stand out. It did, but not for the better.
Rating: **
I would highly recommend giving the Marshall location a try. I worked here back in the early 2000's and I eat here every time I come in from Dallas. This is the most consistent food quality and service I have experienced, and it's been that way for 10+ years. Same management and most of the same staff for 10+ years. This place will rank pretty high compared to some other places you've been to.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely try the location in Gilmer (maybe 15 minutes outside Longview). For me, a total nostalgia trip, but I think they have some of the best ribs around. haven't ever tried the brisket except on a sandwhich, but seems nicely smoky. Also, this location doesn't seem to have the same problem with the thin, anemic slices of turkey.
ReplyDeleteHate to say it, guys, but he's right. The BBQ is average at best. The only thing that stands out is the sauce (which is really good), but 9 out of 10 Kansas City or St. Louis joints could smoke Bodacious, hands down.
ReplyDeleteYou know, Bodacious is average but its a good average... especially for a chain. I think typical chain mentality was the main reason for your let down; less than enthusiastic staff near closing time.
ReplyDeleteThe person reviewing this Bodacious does not know what they are talking about. Who goes to a restaurant just before it closes and expects to get amazing fresh food? Especially at a restaurant that focuses on the lunch crowd and not late night dinning... His taste buds are wrong because there is no "salt" seasoning on the brisket and the potato salad and cole slaw is made from scratch every morning. If you don’t like the BBQ here there is something wrong with you. Or you're just not from Texas and in that case go back from where ever you came from.
ReplyDeleteDear Anonymous,
ReplyDeleteAs the author of the review, I have to take exception to your comments. I try not to expect anything from the places I visit. As long as they keep the lights on and take my money, I will tell you about my individual and subjective experience. This one wasn't impressive. BBQ joints are almost always better at the opening bell, which is why I mentioned the time. I do want to get their best effort, but that wasn't possible on this particular day. It is also why I (and the BBQ Snob) are so excited by places that can get it consistently right. I'm not sure how to respond to the statement that my "tastebuds are wrong" unless it was meant with some sense of sarcasm.
Regardless, I suggest you take a trip to a few of the places we like best and then try this Bodacious location again. I think you'll want to hit the road more often.