Seattle BBQ Done Right -- At Home & Out on the Town

First off, let it be known that the proper name for this establishment is “Chuck’s” — which is neither here nor there, as the food is more than able to speak for itself.

Chuck’s is aptly named, as it does indeed reside in a little hole in the wall next to the courthouse. What I really enjoy is that things are kept simple here; 5 or so items on the menu, and they’re only open 3 hours a day (11a-2p, M-F). I think the short hours work in everyone’s favor, since you know what you’re getting hasn’t been under the lamp all day. Which should be the beef brisket. The pork is tasty as well… but seriously, have the brisket.

It’s all about the Georgia Gold, which is the mustard-based BBQ sauce that they generously slather over a pork shoulder before smoking it to perfection, pulling it off the bone and onto a soft roll. Add a side of their freshly-made cole slaw (the mac and cheese is insanely good too), and welcome to Seattle barbeque heaven.

Roy’s BBQ Website

Large quantities of spicy, garlicy, cheesy barbeque wings any way you like. The trick here is that you have to be specific If you want them crispy, tell them exactly what you want, i.e. “seconds away from burnt” or “half of half spicy.”

Wingdome Website

I’ve spent more than my fair share of time at Willie’s — let’s just say that I no longer need a menu. My order sounds like this:

~ 4 Way Combo with pork ribs, baby back ribs, bbq chicken, and hot links.
~ Greens
~ Yams
~ Extra side of cole slaw
~ Cornbread
~ Faygo Redpop (soda)

I’ve yet to require it, but word is that your first ambulance ride is on the house.

Willie’s Taste of Soul Website

For me personally, this is by far one of the best places to eat in the International District. Period. The barbeque duck is so juicy, it’s as close as meet can get to “melt in your mouth” good. For those of you that get a little freaked out at the though of eating duck, worry not. You can have your pick of anything off the BBQ Specialty Menu and do no wrong, whether it’s the roasted pig or specially-prepared chicken.

Kau Kau Barbeque Website

Without a doubt the best meat in town. The freshness and quality service you find here never ceases to amaze me. Yes, they are somewhat pricier than Safeway, or even one of the other few butchers in Seattle, but the fact of the matter is that you get what you pay for.

Just remember — you can sauce it and season it up any way you like it, but BBQ perfection will forever remain unattainable without a quality cut of meat.