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 easily whenever I’m driving 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 that 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 kinda torn as to which of the appetizers to go for, but the Smoked Wings and Corn Nuggets ended up being my choices. I wanted to try the Hush Puppies also, but I figured there’s always next time if I dig this place (which I 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 housemade, but they’re so good.
Marcela orders Tyler’s Pressed Sandwich (Brisket, pulled pork, sauteed onions, American cheese & BBQ sauce) while I go for the obvious choice of the half-pound Angus Beef Burger w/American Cheese. The sandwiches are served with waffle fries (interesting choice) and Coleslaw (not my first choice for sides). There are a bunch of sauces at the table, six 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 serious heat they’re about to take on.
I liked Tyler’s Pressed Sandwich, but I wish we had pulled the trigger to have 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 out the goods solo. Now, as for the burger…..well, I was kinda 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 so that I ordered a second one.
The Mac’n Cheese and Cornbread were both fresh and solid. 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!
Sparky’s Roadside Barbecue Food Pictures
