Pat's BBQ

So, I'm finally getting around to writing this one. My wife and I visited Pat's a number of weeks ago and I'd been procrastinating.

I first heard about Pat's BBQ on 155 W. Commonwealth Ave in Salt Lake while watching a local episode of the Food Network's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. You can click here to view the segment. It wasn't until the restaurant was featured on a podcast I listen to, however, that I decided we had to visit.

The Atmosphere 4/5

Pat's is located inside of an old manufacturing warehouse and they've made some interesting decisions on how to use the space. When we walked in the the early evening, it was difficult to tell if anyone was in. We cautiously wandered through the hallway, peering into storerooms and kitchen space trying to determine if we had entered from the correct door. We made it all the way into the back of the building, where the dining hall is located, before seeing a single employee. We were greeted there and shown to our seat. The place is set up with picnic tables and feels very much like a backyard barbecue, complete with live music.

The Service 3/5

We had arrived too early for the music. The band was just setting up as we left. There seemed to be plenty of servers and only a few early diners, so I don't know why the servers all seemed a little rushed. Nonetheless, the server was able to give us a rudimentary introduction to the menu.

Featured predominantly in the center of the menu is the Smoked Meatloaf. It was the item that was highlighted on the TV show, so I decided that I would go for that. My wife ordered the brisket. I was surprised at the time by how lightening fast or food was served, but in hindsight realize that all of the food at a real BBQ is smoked for hours before we arrived and therefore would be instantly available.

The Food 4/5

Smoked Meatloaf was an experience and a half. It was absolutely amazing, but it seemed to have the same minor problem as the brisket. The meat at Pat's is prepared really sweet. Everything had a natural honey flavor. It wasn't really a problem, rather it was simply unexpected. Everything on the plate is made from scratch and the mashed potatoes were some of the best I have had in a very long time. The corn had been creamed in such a homestyle method, I'm not sure I'll prefer them any other way again. 

The Conclusion

Pat's is a local gem and I would suggest it to any and all BBQ lovers out there. Go on a Thursday, Friday, or Saturday night and enjoy the live band.