Dinosaur Bar-B-Que: A Premier Culinary Adventure in Syracuse, NY

The culinary scene of Syracuse, NY, is graced with an enduring icon - Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. This quintessential BBQ joint, with its roots deeply embedded in the city's culture, has stirred among locals and visitors alike. Let us embark on a delicious journey, exploring the flavors, ambiance, and heritage of Dinosaur Bar-B-Que.

The Legend of Dinosaur Bar-B-Que

Before diving into the delectable offerings of Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, here is a glimpse into its fascinating backstory. The brainchild of John Stage and his partner, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, began as a mobile BBQ stand in the early 80s. By 1988, the BBQ enthusiasts had set up their first restaurant in Downtown Syracuse. Today, their venture has grown into a culinary empire, with six locations spread across New York.

The secret sauce behind Dinosaur's success is their unwavering passion for BBQ and their refusal to cut corners. Kevin Speciale, the Operations Manager, asserts that their commitment to quality and consistency sets them apart from the rest. The pitmasters at Dinosaur taste every dish on the menu three times a day, ensuring that it meets their high standards.

The Dinosaur Experience

Stepping inside Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, you are instantly enveloped by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant usually bustles with patrons and live music, adding to its lively vibe. While the wait might seem long during peak hours, the promise of mouthwatering BBQ is well worth it.

The Beer and Appetizers

Your culinary journey at Dinosaur begins with an impressive selection of beers. With a wine list available, the beer list takes precedence, with 21 drafts, 45 bottled beers, and six canned varieties. There is something for everyone, from local brews to international selections.

Kickstart your meal with a Swag Sampler appetizer. This platter includes crisp fried green tomato slices, four large spicy boiled shrimp, meaty chicken wings, and deviled egg halves. The deviled eggs, in particular, boast a delightful kick from Dinosaur's Cajun spice mix. 

The BBQ Delicacies

Regarding BBQ, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que is a master of the craft. From succulent pulled pork to tender beef brisket, their offerings are a meat lover's dream come true. The pulled pork, in particular, is a cloud of meaty deliciousness. Tender yet not fatty, its rich flavor is so robust that you will not need any sauces.

The beef brisket, lovingly smoked for hours, is another star on the menu. The best parts are the pieces of blackened debris under the pretty slices, with their little ridges of fat on top.

The restaurant offers a variety of combination platters, allowing first-timers to sample much of what Dinosaur has to offer. For instance, the Tres Hombres and the Sampler Extreme are popular among patrons.

The Sides to Die For

At Dinosaur, the sides are as noteworthy as the main dishes. The mashed potatoes with gravy are a comforting blend of hand-mashed potatoes and homemade gravy. The turkey-neck collard greens, teeming with shreds of dark meat and rich flavor, are a meal.

However, not all sides are created equal. The baked beans, macaroni, and cheese might not meet your expectations, but the standout sides are more than makeup for them.

The BBQ Sauces

Dinosaur's array of BBQ sauces deserves a special mention. From their own Devil's Duel and Wango Tango sauces, labeled as habanero sauces, none are overwhelmingly hot. Instead, they offer deep flavors that complement the meats perfectly.

Wrapping Up with Desserts

Every meal at Dinosaur is complete with indulging in their desserts. The chocolate-cherry pie and cheesecake with berries are delightful conclusions to your BBQ feast.

The Verdict

In conclusion, a visit to Dinosaur Bar-B-Que is a culinary experience you will remember. From the delicious BBQ delicacies and comforting sides to the lively ambiance and friendly staff, it is a place that will keep you coming back for more. As a first-time visitor, I was more than pleased with my experience. Dinosaur lived up to its reputation, and I cannot wait for my next visit.

Restaurant Details

Restaurant: Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, 246 West Willow Street, Syracuse.

Credit Cards: Yes

Access to Disabled: Yes

Hours: Monday to Wednesday, 11 am to 11 pm; Thursday, 11 am to midnight; Friday and Saturday, 11 am to 1 am; Sunday, noon to 10 pm.

So, if you are in Syracuse, put Dinosaur Bar-B-Que on your culinary map. It is guaranteed to be a finger-licking good time!