This place opened in DEC 2015, and the Washington Post FOOD section had a really positive review in late January 2016. We went to lunch there today (30 March 2016). and were thrilled to find that the review UNDERstated how good the food is. Go to
https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifes...5ce_story.html
for the full review; it's hard to find with the WashPost's "Search" function.
FOOD IMPRESSIONS - The positive review did not, in my opinion, capture how really good the food is. Brisket was, literally, melt in your mouth with great bark, wonderful smoke rim, and a not-too-sweet, LIGHTLY applied finishing sauce. The ribs rivaled any ribs I've had in Kansas City; want dry ribs? Wipe that little bit of sauce off. The chicken was not overdone or dry and was finished with a slightly sweeter sauce (molasses? I didn't ask). They get their chorizo sausage from a local sausage maker.
THE CREW - The review summarizes the BBQ experience of the staff and owners, and we expected TJ's would be good based on our visits to those BBQ places in WashDC. The chef, Matt Lang, (whom I spoke with) also has worked around town and according to the WashPost review won Food Network's "Best in Smoke" in 2011. My wife loved the sides, particularly a "mashed" cucumber salad that had just enough coolness to offset the spices. Matt Lang said they'd be adding a slightly milder sausage soon. He said he doesn't sleep near the smokers as much as he used to; his staff loads them about 10PM for the next day's lunch, and he comes in about 4AM to tend until done.
OTHER - They had about a dozen beers on tap, most of them regional, and another dozen by the bottle. Their wine selection fits (no kidding!!) with their meats, and they also have a nice selection of cocktails and bourbons available. As you can see from the picture I took of the exterior, it's not all flash with no flavor; the interior (as their website shows) is nicely done - tables are spread out and, I noticed, are on locking wheels which (I can tell you from working in a commercial kitchen once upon a time) makes it easy to keep the floor really clean.
We are already planning a return trip. AND, they have carry-out. 2761 Washington Blvd (at the corner of WashBlvd and Pershing Drive on the northeast corner), Arlington VA. Parking lot is behind that yellow curb.
www.txjacks.com
And, no, I have no connection with the place. I am just thrilled to know it is there whenever I need it.
.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifes...5ce_story.html
for the full review; it's hard to find with the WashPost's "Search" function.
FOOD IMPRESSIONS - The positive review did not, in my opinion, capture how really good the food is. Brisket was, literally, melt in your mouth with great bark, wonderful smoke rim, and a not-too-sweet, LIGHTLY applied finishing sauce. The ribs rivaled any ribs I've had in Kansas City; want dry ribs? Wipe that little bit of sauce off. The chicken was not overdone or dry and was finished with a slightly sweeter sauce (molasses? I didn't ask). They get their chorizo sausage from a local sausage maker.
THE CREW - The review summarizes the BBQ experience of the staff and owners, and we expected TJ's would be good based on our visits to those BBQ places in WashDC. The chef, Matt Lang, (whom I spoke with) also has worked around town and according to the WashPost review won Food Network's "Best in Smoke" in 2011. My wife loved the sides, particularly a "mashed" cucumber salad that had just enough coolness to offset the spices. Matt Lang said they'd be adding a slightly milder sausage soon. He said he doesn't sleep near the smokers as much as he used to; his staff loads them about 10PM for the next day's lunch, and he comes in about 4AM to tend until done.
OTHER - They had about a dozen beers on tap, most of them regional, and another dozen by the bottle. Their wine selection fits (no kidding!!) with their meats, and they also have a nice selection of cocktails and bourbons available. As you can see from the picture I took of the exterior, it's not all flash with no flavor; the interior (as their website shows) is nicely done - tables are spread out and, I noticed, are on locking wheels which (I can tell you from working in a commercial kitchen once upon a time) makes it easy to keep the floor really clean.
We are already planning a return trip. AND, they have carry-out. 2761 Washington Blvd (at the corner of WashBlvd and Pershing Drive on the northeast corner), Arlington VA. Parking lot is behind that yellow curb.
www.txjacks.com
And, no, I have no connection with the place. I am just thrilled to know it is there whenever I need it.
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