Buck’s BBQ (Dayton, KY)

Contributor: Jesse Pratt

Having grown up in the Deep South, I often struggle to find BBQ restaurants in the Midwest that warrant a return visit. This does not deter me from a constant search, however. My determination paid off, as a few weeks ago I had the pleasure of acquainting my palate with the fine smoked meats, sides, and desserts at Buck’s BBQ in the Cincinnati suburb of Dayton, KY. When I judge BBQ, it’s simple. It’s all about the meat. Does it have the proper texture? Is it fresh? Is it appropriately smoked? A sauce can be a nice accompaniment, but the meat should stand alone, with the sauce complimenting the flavors of the said meat. Buck’s BBQ excels in quality of ingredients and preparation technique. As an aside, all meats come from his butchery in nearby Latonia, KY.

Before I discuss the culinary delights that I experienced here, I would like to say a few words about environment and ambiance. The décor is unique, with a combination of pictures of menu items and design seemingly inspired by owner Buck Buchanan’s native South Africa.

I should also add that Buck takes great pride and care in the cleanliness of his establishment, and that is apparent upon the first step into the front door. In addition to the clean, pleasant surroundings, the staff is exceptionally friendly and helpful. The owner, Buck, even takes time to personally converse with customers when he is present at this location.

Now for the part that I am most excited to talk about, the food itself. I’ll divulge a little secret, I don’t write reviews after only one visit. I need to properly experience the menu in order to do it justice. That said, I will be discussing a handful of my favorite menu items. First will be the delicious ribs. They are slow smoked, tender, and generous in size. They can be a side, or an entire meal, with the option of ordering as few as two or as many as 12. The BBQ sauce has a hint of sweetness, a slight tang, but in no way overpowers or overshadows the meat.

Buck smokes all of the meats that he serves, including the burgers. I have had burgers all across town, all across the state, all across the Midwest and South. This is a bold statement, but the burgers here are the best I have ever had. The smoky taste, the tender texture, and the perfect temperature make these burgers truly unique. There are several varieties available as well. Let’s first look at the signature “Buck’s Burger:

This burger features two perfectly smoked Angus beef patties, cheese, smoked bacon, choice of pulled pork or brisket (pulled pork is pictured), and topped with coleslaw. Simple, meaty, perfect. A word about the pulled pork, it is smoked with care, velvety in texture, and at a level above other local establishments in terms of taste and quality. Hungry for a larger specimen? The “Ultra Mega Burger” will satisfy even the largest of appetites, as the following shows:

The simplicity, despite the gargantuan size, truly highlights the quality. The only non-protein ingredients on this burger are caramelized onions, pickles, and BBQ sauce. The side is Buck’s signature “Smashed Potato”, a boiled potato, slightly smashed, then fried and covered in a smooth cheese sauce.

Moving on to the next meaty delight, we have a smoked (that’s right) New York Strip:

Most steaks in a restaurant are simply grilled or prepared in a cast iron skillet. This one is smoked and then cooked to order (I enjoy my steaks when they are still mooing…). In the top picture, we have a garlic butter-based steak sauce to the left and not pictured is another steak sauce that Buck freshly prepares that puts A.1. Sauce to shame. I enjoyed it so much that I snuck a sip straight from my side cup while no one was looking, then took another and didn’t care who saw me. The sides are fries and mac & cheese which, unsurprisingly, do not disappoint.

Last on the discussion of meats is the beef brisket, which unfortunately I do not have a picture of. I finished eating it before I remembered to take one. Slow smoked for 14 hours, supple, and erupting with flavor, this is brisket done right. I look forward to trying it on the aforementioned “Buck’s Burger.”

What meal would be completely satisfying without dessert? Buck takes care of us in this arena as well. I have chosen to discuss the “Flaming Banana” offering. On one particular visit, my lovely wife suggested we order this. I hesitated, as I hate bananas, but acquiesced. I figured I just had the best burger in my entire life, so why not give it a chance. What a treat, as this dish is prepared table-side from scratch.

The chocolate, nuts, and bananas are caramelized in real time, creating a sensational flavor profile and texture, especially when placed over vanilla ice cream. Three people could share this dessert and be satisfied. I am happy that I made the decision to try it, and I have since ordered it again. Did I mention I hate bananas?

Buck’s BBQ provides an incredible customer experience from start to finish, has now been placed on my regular rotation of restaurants, and comes with my highest of recommendations. Buck’s BBQ state that they “love to spoil our customers.” Speaking from experience, this is more than a slogan, more than a gimmick, it’s the reality of how this establishment is operated. If you are ever in the greater Cincinnati area, let them spoil you.

For more details, visit their website at http://premiumelitefoods.com/

(Words and photographs courtesy of Jesse Pratt)

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