You can’t trust the GPS on your phone. I’ve wanted to buy one for use exclusively in my car (where else would I use it?). If I had, it would have come in handy today.
I get lost whenever I drive around Downtown Miami. Luckily, Sparky’s Roadside Barbecue (204 Northeast 1st Street) was easy to find after a near-disastrous attempt to drive down a one-way road, thanks to an app.
I walked in and could smell the BBQ goodness in the air. I felt right at home since this isn’t one of those pretentious joints trying to pass themselves as a down-home barbecue joint. While I don’t consider myself a BBQ expert, I do consider myself a maestro at spotting a fake.
I was torn about which appetizer to order, but the smoked wings and corn nuggets ended up being my choices. I also wanted to try the hush puppies, but I figured there’s always next time if I enjoy this spot (which I eventually did).
The wings were awesomely smokey and delicious, but those corn nuggets. Damn those guys! The corn nuggets are breaded cream of corn deep-fried.
They’re served with a side of ranch for dipping, but it’s really not necessary. I know these aren’t house-made, but they’re so good.
Marcela ordered Tyler’s Pressed Sandwich (brisket, pulled pork, sauteed onions, American cheese, and BBQ sauce). At the same time, I chose the half-pound angus beef burger with American cheese. The sandwiches are served with waffle fries (an interesting choice) and coleslaw (not my first choice for sides).
There are six sauces at the table, to be exact. Sparky’s BBQ Sauce was my favorite of the six, but the one labeled Magma is sure to guarantee a bad time for the person who doesn’t realize the severe heat they’re about to take on.
I enjoyed Tyler’s Pressed Sandwich, but I wish we had ordered the brisket or the pulled pork individually. I’m not trying to dissuade you from having this; I think since it was our first time here, we should have tried the goods solo.
Half-pound Angus Beef Cheeseburger
Now, as for the burger…..well, I was speechless. It was so good since the smokey taste permeated the patty. It had two slices of American cheese and nothing else on it. I barely touched the waffle fries. I was mesmerized by it so much that I ordered a second one.
The mac ‘n cheese and cornbread were both fresh and solid. They’re good stuff, and the cornbread ended up being my guinea pig for the sauces I mentioned before. Also, try the applewood and hickory-smoked boneless chicken thigh; it’s killer.
Cheeseburger numero two arrives, and I don’t even remember eating it, but I know I did. I’d suggest you do the same, and when you go, save me a seat!
