CJ's Smoketown USA Review

http://www.courier-journal.com/story/entertainment/dining/restaurant/2016/02/24/review-smoketown-usa-bbq-joint-above-rest/80190888/

I really don't get how this lady grades places. I mean, I'm not trying to slight Smoketown--I'm a big fan of Smoketown and of its owner, who I think is just a treat--but I'm not sure how a place like that gets a pass on décor while other places have been dinged as much for their look as their food. Other, smarter people than myself: is there a consistent way she's reviewing places? Or is it a little less about the food or décor and more about her particular mood on her visits?

[Robin Garr]

Other, smarter people than myself: is there a consistent way she's reviewing places? Or is it a little less about the food or décor and more about her particular mood on her visits?

I'm not sure that there IS a pattern, Ron. The only one I've seen - and I admit this is colored by snark, though I believe it to be true - is that any chef she has featured in her book or worked with in PR is probably going to get an easy ride.

I'll go on to add my usual meme about the Binghams, father and son, whirling in their graves at the elevation of a restaurant PR person to the restaurant critic's post. During their realm, the food critic had to be a full-time reporter on the newspapers' staff. That's probably the only reason I got the job in 1984.

and I admit this is colored by snark,

Robin, your snark has been well-documented!!

[Robin Garr]

and I admit this is colored by snark,

Robin, your snark has been well-documented!!

Fair enough, but at least I'm honest about it. And can argue it from a basis of real-world experience.

The place received pretty mixed reviews on this forum a year or two back. I'm curious to know if anyone has tried it more recently and if it holds up to the CJ review. I only eat such fare once or twice a year, wondering if it's worth the trip.

We live nearby and get carryout from Eric quite often. I think I've tried everything on the menu, and I like it all. The sides are excellent. The space is a bit campy and fun. Good local spot, well worth a visit.

I agree with Jimmy, that place is a local treasure and it will never be a chain, there's only one Eric..