Restaurant Review: Smokin’ Rock BBQ (Rocky Hill, CT)

Smokin’ Rock BBQ is an unexpected find on the I-91 corridor in Rocky Hill. You’d never know this place was serving up some outstanding barbecue just by driving by.  It’s part of a local bar, The Rock Cafe at 944 Cromwell Ave., and the barbecue operation serves as its kitchen. Now, I’m not sure if some of the other reviewers on this page have actually eaten here.  Make no mistake- the barbecue here is very good. Portions are plentiful and there is a lot variety on the menu.  I’ve eaten here several times as it is close to work and it is always top notch. Some highlights:  beef brisket or pulled pork sandwiches with spicy BBQ sauce, (served with one side dish) are moist and served on a buttered bun.  The full rack of St. Louis style ribs, (with two sides and cornbread) is a huge, satisfying meal.  The Rock has excellent sides including baked mac & cheese, giant breaded onion rings, coleslaw, corn fritters and baked beans, and a hidden gem-  the fried chicken fingers.  This appetizer is a meal in itself even as a half-order.  You can choose your sauce to go with it, whether it be spicy or mild BBQ, honey mustard or buffalo.  I was blown away by how good these all white meat tenders were. They were hand battered and not greasy at all. Definitely a great start to any meal.  They offer three types of sauces for the BBQ meats- mild, spicy and mustard.  You really can’t go wrong with whatever you choose here. The service is fast whether you eat in or take out.  Large takeout orders are generally ready in 20 minutes.  Prices are a bit steep but the old adage that you pay a bit more for quality applies.  Tasty barbecue is seemingly hard to find in the Central Connecticut area but the Smokin’ Rock is a nice addition to the field.

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