Friday, May 28, 2010

Review: Branded '72 Pit Barbecue

People often ask us, in our BBQ travels, what is the biggest mistake we have seen restaurateurs make? For us it’s an easy answer… To many BBQ chefs put more emphasis on establishing a BBQ feel to their place and as a result… the BBQ itself suffers.
This is the case of Branded 72, a Texas-themed BBQ restaurant in Rockville, MD.

Branded 72 had all of the makings of a good BBQ joint. A long history retold on the back of its menu and other placards in the restaurant. A posted set of rules to real BBQ (many of which we agree with). They even had paper towels on every table. All in all, this place looked exactly like what most people think a large, sit-down family-style BBQ place should look like.
But, when are people gonna learn – it’s not the décor of the restaurant that makes the joint, it’s the Que... You can set up a smoker on the side of road and people will buy it as long as it tastes good.

Once you get past the look and feel of Branded 72, the barbecue itself was uninspiring, and the sauce as well. It wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t good. It was eh… The ribs came overcooked and lacking a distinct taste. The sides we got did not live up to a satisfactory standard either, also lacking in the distinct taste department.
Branded 72 has a large menu, served cafeteria style. A half-rack of ribs, two sides and a drink runs $16.

Presentation: 7
Tenderness: 5
Taste/Smoke Flavor: 5
Sauce: 6
Overall Impression: 5ish

Recommendation: There are better options not only in DC but in Rockville. Maybe we got them on an off night but based off our experience, save your hard earned money for another establishment. 

387 East Gude Dr.
Rockville, MD 20850
www.branded72.com

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