Winona, ON
905-930-7675
In her opinion:
This last Sunday we drove into Hamilton not quite sure of where to grab a meal. After checking out the Urbanspoon App. we decided that we would give Memphis Fire Barbeque Company a try since it was so highly rated. However, what we didn't expect was that it was in the middle of nowhere...literally.
After a scenic drive. we came upon this barbeque joint which had been showcased on Food Network Canada's "You Gotta Eat Here" with John Catucci. It reminded me a bit of Flesherton's "The Flying Spatula" to be honest.
We walked in and where seated at a communal long table in the middle of the small room. After reviewing the menu...I opted for a Diet Coke and set about studying the menu.
We decided to share the "Slider Combo" to start. This consisted of one "Nirvana Moo", one "Pulled Pork Sandwich with Smokehouse sauce" and one "Beef Brisket Sandwich".
For my main, I ordered a "Whistle Dog" with a side of "Lori's Mac and Cheese". The whistle dog consisted of an all beef hot dog covered with diced bacon and shredded Cheddar cheese. I opted to get it with mustard and ketchup.
All around a really good hot dog. I found that the amount of bacon and cheese was a little overwhelming but that was just me. The mac and cheese is decadent and absolutely delectable.
Overall, I thought this was a really great place. I would actually like to return Monday to Wednesday to try their fried chicken. If you are out Stoney Creek way...give this place a try.
In his opinion:
Memphis Fire Barbeque Company..the adventure of trying to find this place was half the battle. Why this BBQ place is put under Hamilton eateries on Urbanspoon when it's located in Winona, 30 KM from Hamilton's downtown is beyond me. Well...at least the drive helped increase the appetite that I had been carrying for a couple of hours.
Typically unattractive from the outside, this eatery could very well be a miss by many people. It is; however, popular and judging by the number of cars in the parking lot might be a good start. The interior has no affiliation to the exterior of the building. It is well appointed, spacious and bright with hints of a classy 50's diner but much more updated and fun.
As you walk in there is a souvenir stand that doubles as a host stand and someone behind it can show you to your seat. The seating is predominantly rows of tables which lacks privacy but gives the establishment a familial, comfy feel. I started by ordering a Rickard's White but clearly the beer of choice here is Steamwhistle given all the advertising on the walls and outside.
I was a bit underwhelmed by the menu and even though there were a fair number of selections, nothing was really making me jump out of my seat. We then decided to share some food as that made sense to be able to try more dishes. The Slider Combo was a pulled pork sandwich with smokehouse sauce that was very flavourful and messy (as most tasty things should be). The sauce was good and not overwhelming as some smokehouse sauces can be. The beef brisket sandwich was also good but the brisket felt dry and not as flavourful as I usually like it. Lastly, the "Nirvana Moo Burger" was the surprise I didn't expect. Juicy, packed with flavour and melts in your mouth. A must try but unfortunately not available outside the slider combo.
For my main I took the waitress advice and ordered the Big Chef Burger. Great recommendation as it is indeed a great burger. Big juicy patties topped with ranch dressing, onions tomatoes, sweet pickles, aged cheddar and diced bacon. I can add that the diced bacon is the cherry on the top on this burger, a must try in this establishment.
The Good: Great BBQ spot, friendly staff and a family approach to BBQ joint.
The Bad: Awkward seating and remote location.
The Verdict: Worth the drive for sure but depending on how far you would have to travel. The food is plentiful in portions and the traditional BBQ feel is present in all the dishes we tried. Great place to stop in on the way to or back from Niagara.
I give it 3 1/2 out of 5 Olives as rating
