C&G's Smoking Barbecue

[Jeremy Iggers]

It's pretty much common knowledge among barbecue lovers that there is an inverse relationship between the amount of ambience in a rib joint and the quality of the 'que. So I walked into the new C&G's Smoking Barbecue with very high expectations. To try as many different items as possible, I ordered the $12.99 combo - three ribs, three chicken wings, and two catfish filets, with fries, potatoes and a couple of barbecue sauces on the side. The lightly breaded, lightly seasoned catfish didn't do much for me, and neither did the cole slawbut the ribs and the chicken wings were both first-rate. Both were meaty and succulent, and the wings were crisp and very flavorful. The barbecue sauces (one hot spicy and vinegary, the other sweet and mild) didn't add much, but they weren't really needed either. There's lots more I would like to try, including the sunfish sandwich ($4.70), the barbecued chicken ($8.95 half/ $13.95 whole) and the beef brisket sandwich ($8.90 with fries). If you are feeding a crowd, options include the Family Pack - 18 ribs, a whole BBQ chicken, large fries, large coleslaw and bread for $40, or 200 wings for $109.99. Delivery is available for orders of $15 or more.

C&G's Smoking Barbecue, 4743 Nicollet Ave. S., Minneapolis, 612-825-3400. Open Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

[Jason Walker]

Sauce on the side means I will try this place. When I saw it open I had my fingers crossed. Can't be worse than Scott Jamamas or whatever that gross place is called at Diamond Lake and 54th.

[PM]

Yeah, I am no fan of Scott Jamama's either--although, to be fair, they just grill stuff--not smoke it. It is not slow cooked barbeque, rather chicken and ribs cooked on a grill. I'm going to this place soon, and will let you know what I think.

[PM]

Went for dinner this evening--got the rib tips and chicken wings. Rib tips were great--chewy and tasty/smoky. Wings were also great--lots of pepper in the breading. Crispy and juicy. Good hot sauce to go with them. French fries are . really home made potato wedges, fried--and wonderful.

Make certain you get the BBQ sauce on the side--it wasn't great--sugar and smoke and tomato.

I'll be back for the ribs next time

[Stuart Borken]

Without doubt, this is some of the best BBQ in the cities. It's a small spot not a dine-in place, it's for take out mostly. You will not believe the ribs, they are so good.