Sorry for the late return to this thread, couldn't get back to it.
Went to 12 Bones Smokehouse in Arden, NC (south side of Asheville). This is actually a second restaurant, there's one up in Asheville open M-F 11-4, till 6 for takeout. The one in Arden is Tu-Sat, same hours. Line was out the door and around the corner, always a good sign.
Fabulous. Marvelous. It was farkin' good.
I was told to try the blueberry-chipotle ribs. They were outstanding, the sauce had just a hint of both for a great balance. Someone took the time to make sure that it was exactly what it needed to be, not overpowering in anyway, shape or form. Meat on the ribs were a little tough, but it is a restaurant serving a ton of folks, not backyard. My wife tried the peach ribs, had a nice peach glaze, but not as good as the ones I had. If I had to judge the blueberry-chipotle ribs, I'd say 8 on appearance, 8 on tenderness, and 9 on taste.
They let you have two sides, and more meat can be one of them (yes...!!) I had the brisket, and it was really good. Held together good, but came apart with just a slight tug, good beefy flavor, crust was a little crunchy...8, 9, and 9 (I'm a sucker for brisket).
My wife had some pulled pork as a side, and it was good too. I didn't get much of it, she tried to stab me with a fork, but it was pretty good too. Didn't get enough to judge, but I'd definitely serve it in my house.
Other sides were Mac & Cheese (it was ok), corn pudding (very good), and I can't stand collard greens - but these were good (don't tell my Mother-in-Law...). Oh, and RC Cola products - with decent prices to boot, this is one of the better joints I've been to in a long time.
Thanks to those who recommended it, a few at the retreat mentioned it too. Can't wait to hit it up again next time I go back!! :thumb:
Jalon
