VanFoodies.com

Last week, we were invited to Memphis Blues’ newest location on Robson Street for its grand opening party. Now who’s going to say no to barbecue meat and beer? I didn’t!

It’s been awhile since I ate at Memphis Blues, so I was curious how its quality has held up. On top of that was our rather disappointing experience at Hog Shack; I was hoping that attending this party would give BBQ joints a chance to redeem themselves.

Memphis Blues on Robson

First I was greeted with a glass of Selbach Riesling. Even though it was a bit drier than most Riesling, its slight tartness (think green apple) helps cut through the heavy, rich barbecue meat. Despite that, on its own it was still a rather easy-drinking white.

Staff working the food stations

Of the variety of meat and sides that we could try, I had a sample of:

• Triple-smoked Pork Sausage
• Pork Side Ribs
• Pulled Pork
• Beef Brisket
• Memphis Blues Cornbread
• Creamy Coleslaw

My BBQ plate

They were all quite good, much better than Hog Shack. The pulled pork was moist, beef brisket was tender and not overly charred, and the sausage was juicy and flavourful. I personally would have liked the side ribs to be tenderer, the “right-off-the-bone” type. The Memphis Blues All-Purpose BBQ Sauce was nice and thick, and a bit smokey; it really is good on any meat. I was given a bottle of its Carolina Mustard Sauce to take home; tried it on some chicken and it was light, a bit runny and tangy. Reminds me of a honey mustard sauce.

Live music at the party

All in all, I think Memphis Blues delivers the quality of good barbecue meat that I had remembered. And I think consistency is definitely its key to success. That area of Robson Street has been developed into such a foodie spot, so Memphis Blues is going to make a great addition to the area. If I didn’t have dinner plans, I would’ve had tried everything and eaten more of everything. I think this calls for another visit to Memphis Blues.

Memphis Blues Barbeque House
430 Robson Street, Vancouver
604-682-6220
memphisbluesbbq.com