February 26, 2008 NECN Review: Memphis Roadhouse Play video

Featuring barbecue cooked over a wood fire pit, Memphis Roadhouse in South Attleboro, Massachusetts has made a name for its low and slow cooking, lip-smacking sauces, casual juke-joint atmosphere, and toe-tapping Memphis blues soundtrack. But did it live up to our great expectations?

We begin with a cup of hit-the-spot smoked sausage soup, filled with meaty slices, corn, cilantro and beans, in a flavorsome broth. The Buffalo wings smoked in Memphis Roadhouse's signature wood-fired pit were chicken delight. Although sided with the customary blue cheese dressing and celery sticks, these tid-bits were a cut above because of the slow-cooked preparation.

We cried "uncle" about half-way through what is affectionately called the "family platter" plate, a five meat platter of pulled pork, beef brisket, ribs, a hot link sausage and barbecued chicken…oh, in case that's not enough it comes with beans, slaw and corn bread, thank you very much. This loaded dish of Memphis-style comfort food was pure down home satisfaction. The blackened catfish was a whisker undercooked, but pleasing nonetheless. We were, however, disappointed with the red beans and rice. A spoonful of what appeared to be straight from the can kidney beans over a small heap of plain white rice was not an authentic Southern side.

A large wedge of the chocolate cake was smooth, dense and carried just the right amount of flavor. And the cow flop sundae - an enormous chocolate chip cookie piled with

ice cream, whipped cream and chocolate sauce - was a fun-for-the-whole-family sweet ending. Value is extraordinary at Memphis Roadhouse, with appetizers from $2 to $9; sandwiches and entrees from $7 to $28; and desserts about $4. And our reliable server made us feel right at home. For its good eats, reasonable prices, friendly service and cool surroundings, Memphis Roadhouse will take the Gold Plate. Open daily for dinner and take-out, Memphis Roadhouse is located at 383 Washington Street - that's Route 1 - in South Attleboro, Massachusetts. Call 508-761-5700 or visit www.memphisroadhouse.com .

Memphis Roadhouse 383 Washington St Attleboro MA 02703 508.761.5700

www.memphisroadhouse.com