Big D serves up real Texas barbecue

By Amanda Rogers

Mansfield Record

The Food: Texas barbecue

The Story: If you’re looking for a no-fuss, no-muss barbecue joint where they remember your name, this is the spot.

My dining partner went in with an appetite, ordering the three-meat plate ($17), choosing  brisket, pork ribs and jalapeno cheddar sausage. Other choices included chicken, turkey, burnt ends and black pepper sausage. The meal came with choice of two sides, and he went with mac & sausage and skillet taters.

The brisket was lean with just enough fat to keep it tender and a smoky charred rub on the outside. He said he couldn’t decide which was better, the meat or the rub, but was glad he didn’t have to choose. The trio of ribs were tender, full of flavor and just the right size. The jalapeno cheddar sausage had the flavor of the peppers but did not have the heat, which he liked.

He also enjoyed his sides, the mac & sausage, a blend of cheese, macaroni noodles and bits of sausage, and the skillet taters, cubed potatoes that were crispy and seasoned on the outside and tender inside.

I went with the big pulled pork sandwich plate ($12.50), which arrived with more than an inch high pile of meat on a tall, handmade bun. The sweet and spicy sauce served on the side made it perfect. I chose the fried okra, lightly coated in spices and cornmeal and some of the best I’ve had in a long time, and the above-average mustard-based potato salad.

The Atmosphere: This location was home to several different restaurants before Big D Barbecue moved in during the summer of 2013. The building has been remodeled and changed multiple times. Now, it’s a big open room with a bar full of craft beers in the back, a pair of glass garage doors that can be opened on nice days and tables scattered throughout. Order at the counter and watch them slice up your meal.

The restaurant is following pandemic protocol with the tables spread out and a bottle of hand sanitizer on every table. Big D also has curbside service and delivery.

The Details: 226 North Walnut Creek Drive; open 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. (682) 400-8728; bigdbarbecue.com

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