Saturday, January 24, 2009: Mills County BBQ Company (Goldthwaite, Texas)

Well, it turns out that my first time to stumble upon a Man-Up outing is also my first time to stumble upon a Texas BBQ gem. A vinyl-sided, two-room structure, with a covered-patio BBQ pit and a gravel parking lot, Mills County BBQ Company in Goldthwaite, Texas, is worth the stop. Rodeo-cowboy-turned-BBQ-pitmaster Chris Paskett single handedly mans the mesquite-fired smoker’s spread of beef brisket, pork ribs, sausage, turkey, and ham. He does the smoking, and he does the cutting. (Be sure to check out the pictures on the wall from his rodeo days.)

I ordered everything but ham, and every meat was absolutely succulent. The thick, lean brisket had nice burnt ends, the sausage had great flavor and texture (meaning it didn’t crumble, which I hate), the salt-brined turkey was moist, and you could pull the thick rib meat right off the bone with hardly any effort. I enjoyed the brisket and the sausage, but the turkey and the ribs were outstanding. I didn’t try either of the sides, but there was no need to. The pickles and thin-and-tangy sauce were excellent additions, but, for these meats, not essential.

Judging on the quality of the food alone, Mills County is fantastic; but, when you consider the price you pay for the amount and quality of food you get, it’s even better. The portions are substantial, and a three-meat plate (which includes one side) is just $9.95. As far as value goes, Mills County is first-rate. Service was also first-rate, as Chris took the time to show us the pit area and answer all of our questions.

My first visit to Mills County BBQ Company was by happenstance. My next visit will not be.

Amber’s scores – Brisket: 8.5; Pork ribs: 9.65; Sausage: 9.02; Turkey: 9.85; Overall experience: 9.75

Drew’s scores – Brisket: 8.75; Pork ribs: 9.78; Sausage: 8.9; Turkey: 9.9; Sauce: 9.7; Overall experience: 9.78

Overall Man-Up Score: 9.765