17Th Street Bat & Grill

[Gatorjet]

I finally got to try the 17th Street Bar & Grill in O'Fallon Illinois yesterday. It has been open there for a year or so. While working in Carbondale back in the early 1990's I used to eat at the original location regularly. I always thought they had the BEST BBQ ribs I have ever eaten. They have the trophies to prove it. 3 Grand National Championships from Memphis in May, and the entire place is covered with shelves and cabinets filled with other trophies and awards.

The new location did not disappoint me! The name they use for their BBQ is Apple City Bar-B-Que. It comes partially from the nick name for Murphysboro, and also from the apple wood they use to smoke the meat.

I had the signature world champion baby back ribs, my wife the smoked chicken. The ribs were meaty, and fall of the bone tender. Still juicy and flavorful with a great smoke line, but no overwhelming smoke flavor. The chicken was also moist and very tender. The sides we selected were cole slaw, and baked beans. Both were exceptional.

I have been to Memphis and visited the Rendezvous, supposedly the place for BBQ. In my opinion 17th Street's Apple City BBQ makes Rendezvous,s best look like a McRib!!