Tillman's Roadhouse

FORT WORTH: Tillman's Roadhouse
2933 Crockett St
Fort Worth, TX 76107
817-850-9255
Open M-Thur 11-11, F-Sat 11-2am, Sun 10:30-11
www.tillmansroadhouse.com

While this restaurant has long hours every day of the week, barbecue is served at lunch only, and during brunch on Sunday. Chef Lance Smith blames it on the size of their wood fired Oyler smoker, which is just too small to smoke a days worth of 'cue. I applaud their willingness to sacrifice some options on the dinner menu to ensure that the BBQ is at it's best for lunch. This is the second location of Tillman's with the first location in the Bishop Arts District in Dallas, and they have one item that has unfortunately carried over - Chipotle BBQ Baby Back Ribs. These ribs were devised as a non-smoked item in the original location, so they're served covered in a gritty marinara-like sauce that is under seasoned with little heat. The meat was a bit dry beneath the sauce, and any smokiness was masked by the unfortunate sauce. Luckily, the rest of the smoked meat items were much better.



The mixture of oak, hickory and pecan worked well to create a great crust on the brisket, which had a hefty smoky flavor, but nary a smokering. The meat was tender and the nicely rendered fat created some slices worth a return visit. An all beef sausage is made in house. Flecks of herbs and pepper combined with the smoky, well seasoned beef for some great slices of sausage with a nice snap. Crispy potato chips were served on the side, but I had already had my fill since these same chips are complimentary for every table. I guess of all days to get a fill of chips it was most appropriate on National Potato Chip Day.

With slightly better ribs, this place would be a real contender, but their rating suffers despite the excellent brisket and sausage.

Rating ***