For a couple years now, I've seen recommendations from friends for the Texas-style brisket at Hog Wild Barbeque in Placerville. On my first day in town, the plan was to drive by and decide if I would return tomorrow. But then I see the announcement that it's National BBQ Day and I caught a whiff of the smoke ...
The place changed hands early this year. Purchased by long-time customers, the same pitmasters, staff and recipes are in place. The original owners moved back to Texas.
This entire 2-Meat and 2-sides combo plate, $17, deserved to be devoured in total. And I would have, if I'd been hungrier. I especially liked the St Louis ribs, just a bit of glazed sauce over the top, so tasty with a good balance of smoke with other elements. I think the counter guy misunderstood me when I asked about brisket burnt ends. The kitchen should not have served me the ossified, truly burned edges. The slice of brisket could have used more smoke, rub and salt to be eaten without sauce, as they promote here. Both meats were on the soft side, but that's the norm at restaurants versus what we aim for in competition because that's what the public wants.
The housebaked roll was fluffy and deeply yeasty. Mac and cheese was the soft style with plenty of cheese. Green beans were too rubbery for my taste. I sampled all three sauces, and did not use them on the meats.
Friendly staff, good barbecue . . . I'd happily return.
Hog Wild Barbeque
38 Main Street
Placerville, CA 95667
(530) 622-3883
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays
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