Venturing down the picturesque roads of Montgomery, Alabama, I stumbled upon Chandler’s Smokehouse Grill, a hidden treasure tucked away at 3827 Norman Bridge Rd. Nestled in a modest setting, this smokehouse beckoned with promises of smoky delights and bold flavors, much like the culinary adventures of my beloved Jonathan Gold.
My journey began with a plate of pork ribs that could only be described as a revelation. Bathed in a HOMEMADE MESQUITE BBQ SAUCE, they arrived at the table with a fragrant, mouthwatering aura. The tenderness of these ribs was nothing short of remarkable, a testament to the slow-cooking expertise of the kitchen. Yet, as with any great rib, the mystery lay in the seasoning – was it a rub, or was it something else altogether? The line blurred, but the result was undeniably delicious. Each bite delivered an intricate dance of flavors, a harmonious blend of smokiness, sweetness, and a subtle but delightful seasoning that defied categorization.
Next came an in-house contracted hamburger, a true hands-on experience. A canvas of fresh lettuce, sliced tomato, onion, and condiments awaited me, allowing me to craft my burger to perfection. This interactive approach added a layer of excitement to the meal, as I could tailor each bite to my liking. The hamburger was a worthy canvas, with a juicy patty that played harmoniously with the crisp freshness of the vegetables and the condiments’ zesty accents. It was a delightful, customizable masterpiece.
Regrettably, the fried fish on my visit didn’t quite meet the high standards set by the dynamic ribs and burger. The batter lacked the desired crispness and veered toward oiliness, obscuring the fish’s natural flavors. The seasoning, alas, was a forgettable affair, lacking the distinctive character that would have complemented the other dishes.
The side items, too, could benefit from some culinary affection. While not unpleasant, they didn’t leave a lasting impression, paling in comparison to the star attractions on the menu.
Nonetheless, Chandler’s Smokehouse Grill is a true smokehouse gem. It excels in the art of churning out amazing burgers and ribs, the kind that lingers in your memory long after you’ve left the table. If you find yourself in Montgomery, make the pilgrimage for those tender, mesquite-infused ribs, and the hands-on hamburger experience. While some dishes may falter, the essence of Chandler’s lies in its smoke-kissed offerings, and in that realm, it truly shines. Call them at (334) 593-6686.
