Players Smoked BBQ
Discovering Players Smoked BBQ
Introduction to Players Smoked BBQ
I recently discovered Players Smoked BBQ, a hidden gem located at 1816 Howard Road in Madera, California. When I walked in, I was immediately greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of smoked meats. This restaurant offers a delightful menu featuring tri-tip, pulled pork, barbecue chicken, and hot links, all cooked daily. The new owners, Michael Hoffman and Junia Painter, have reopened the establishment with a mission to maintain the beloved flavors that keep customers coming back for more (Madera Tribune).
Location and Menu Offerings
Players Smoked BBQ is not just another barbecue joint; it boasts a diverse menu that includes not only smoked meats but also home-style dishes. Here’s a quick overview of what they offer:
| Menu Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Tri Tip | Tender, thinly sliced barbecue beef |
| Pulled Pork | Juicy and flavorful smoked pork |
| Baby Back Ribs | Moist and succulent ribs |
| Barbecue Chicken | Savory chicken with signature sauce |
| Hot Links | Spicy sausages for a kick |
| Rice Pilaf Bowls | Topped with a choice of meat |
| Hand-Tossed Salads | Fresh salads with various toppings |
| Fruit Smoothies | Refreshing and fruity beverages |
| Boba | Chewy tapioca pearls in drinks |
Players Smoked BBQ also provides options for private and corporate events, ensuring that their delicious food can be enjoyed on special occasions (Yelp). The cozy atmosphere, combined with friendly service, makes it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family.
Taste of Players Smoked BBQ
Customer Reviews and Recommendations
I’ve heard a lot about Players Smoked BBQ, and the feedback from fellow diners has been quite mixed. Many have raved about the food, particularly the tri-tip sandwich, which is priced around $11. The fast service and flavorful dishes have left a positive impression on most customers. The restaurant also offers a unique hybrid sandwich that combines tri-tip and hot links, which patrons have highly recommended. Reviews suggest that the three-meat combo, featuring tri-tip, baby back ribs, and chicken for $15, provides great value and is a must-try.
| Menu Item | Price | Customer Sentiment |
|---|---|---|
| Tri-Tip Sandwich | $11 | Impressive, flavorful |
| Hybrid Sandwich (Tri-tip & Hot Links) | – | Highly recommended |
| Three-Meat Combo | $15 | Great value, delicious |
Positive Feedback on Food Quality
There’s no denying that many customers have enjoyed their meals at Players Smoked BBQ. The tri-tip is often praised for being thinly sliced and packed with flavor. The baby back ribs are described as moist and juicy, while the chicken is also noted for its taste. The BBQ sauce has been highlighted as a fantastic addition that enhances the overall experience. Many diners appreciate the generous portions, and the sides have received compliments as well. For more detailed reviews, you can check out Madera restaurant reviews.
Criticisms and Decline in Quality
Despite the positive remarks, there are some concerning reviews regarding the decline in food quality. A few customers have mentioned that their tri-tip sandwiches have been tough and bland, lacking the signature smoke flavor expected from a BBQ joint. Some even reported boiled meats paired with generic BBQ sauce, which was disappointing given the high expectations. The portion sizes remain massive, but the overall flavor and quality may not meet the standards set by previous experiences. It’s worth noting that some regulars believe the absence of the new owner might have contributed to these inconsistencies. For more dining options in Madera, consider exploring places like Thai Basil or The Vineyard Restaurant & Bar.
Menu Highlights at Players Smoked BBQ
I couldn’t be more excited to share the menu highlights from Players Smoked BBQ! This gem in Madera, California, truly specializes in mouthwatering barbecue that keeps customers coming back for more. Here’s a closer look at some signature dishes and popular sandwich options that you won’t want to miss.
Signature Dishes and Combos
Players Smoked BBQ offers a variety of smoked meats that are simply divine. Here are some standout items from the menu:
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Tri-Tip Combo | Thinly sliced tri-tip served with two sides and bread | $15 |
| Three-Meat Combo | A hearty combination of tri-tip, baby back ribs, and chicken with two sides | $15 |
| Pulled Pork Plate | Tender pulled pork served with your choice of sides | $12 |
| BBQ Chicken | Juicy barbecue chicken that’s grilled to perfection | $10 |
| Baby Back Ribs | Moist and juicy ribs, falling off the bone | $16 |
The Three-Meat Combo is a favorite among regulars, providing great value for money and delicious flavors that leave you wanting more. I love how the tri-tip is perfectly sliced and the baby back ribs are always so juicy!
Popular Sandwich Options
If you’re in the mood for something handheld, Players Smoked BBQ has some fantastic sandwich options that are sure to please:
| Sandwich | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Hybrid Sandwich | A delightful mix of tri-tip and hot links | $12 |
| Pulled Pork Sandwich | Flavorful pulled pork piled high on a bun | $10 |
| BBQ Chicken Sandwich | Grilled chicken smothered in BBQ sauce | $10 |
| Tri-Tip Sandwich | Tender tri-tip on a fresh bun that’s hard to resist | $11 |
The Hybrid Sandwich has been a real winner, combining the best of both worlds with tri-tip and hot links. Customers rave about it, and I can see why! Players Smoked BBQ truly takes pride in their quality ingredients and delicious flavors.
When you visit, be sure to check out their full menu which includes rice pilaf bowls, hand-tossed salad bowls, and even fruit smoothies for a refreshing treat! For more local restaurant options, explore my reviews on other Madera eateries like the vineyard restaurant & bar and sugar pine smokehouse.
Experience at Players Smoked BBQ
Dining Atmosphere and Service
Walking into Players Smoked BBQ, I immediately felt a warm and inviting atmosphere. The interior is cozy, with a charming decor that perfectly complements the BBQ theme. The friendly service is a highlight, making you feel right at home as soon as you arrive. The staff is attentive, ensuring that my dining experience was seamless from start to finish. Many customers rave about the excellent service, often mentioning it as a reason they love returning to this spot. According to Yelp, it’s not just about the food; the overall experience keeps patrons coming back for more.
Dog-Friendly Patio Setting
One of the standout features of Players Smoked BBQ is its dog-friendly patio. This lovely outdoor space is perfect for enjoying a meal while spending time with furry friends. The courtyard is equipped with umbrellas providing shade, making it a comfortable spot to dine even on warm days. It’s great to see a restaurant that accommodates pets, offering a water bowl for those pups who join their owners for a meal. Many dog owners appreciate this feature, which adds to the welcoming vibe of the establishment.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Cozy and inviting, perfect for BBQ lovers |
| Service | Friendly and attentive staff |
| Patio Setting | Dog-friendly courtyard with umbrellas |
| Customer Feedback | Patrons often express their desire to return |
Players Smoked BBQ truly embodies a delightful dining experience, blending great food with a friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re dining solo, with friends, or bringing along your dog, this place has something special for everyone. For more local restaurant options, you can explore other reviews like Madera restaurant reviews to find your next favorite spot!
Ownership Changes and Impact
Shifts in Operations and Consistency
I remember when Players Smoked BBQ was a go-to spot in Madera for delicious tri-tip and pulled pork. However, recent ownership changes have caused some noticeable shifts in operations and consistency. The restaurant, located at 1816 Howard Road, Madera, was reopened by Michael Hoffman and Junia Painter, who aimed to maintain the same beloved taste that customers have come to know (Madera Tribune). But it seems that the new owner’s frequent absences due to operating a food truck have affected the restaurant’s availability and consistency.
Many customers have expressed concern over the quality of food, particularly with the tri-tip sandwiches. Complaints of tough and bland meat, along with a noticeable lack of the signature smoke flavor, have surfaced. While the portion sizes remain massive, the overall dining experience has taken a hit, leading some to feel disappointed with their visits to Players Smoked BBQ.
| Issue | Customer Feedback |
|---|---|
| Meat Quality | Tough and bland tri-tip sandwiches |
| Flavor | Lack of smoke flavor; generic BBQ sauce |
| Consistency | Inconsistent service and food quality |
Customer Reactions to New Ownership
The reactions from the community regarding the new ownership have been mixed. While some longtime patrons hold onto the hope that the restaurant can regain its former glory, others have voiced their frustrations on platforms like Yelp. Many have mentioned that they feel the quality of food has declined significantly, which has led to a negative shift in their dining experience at Players Smoked BBQ (Yelp).
Despite the disappointment, some customers still appreciate the massive portion sizes, indicating that there are still some positive aspects to the dining experience. However, without consistent quality and flavor, the excitement surrounding Players Smoked BBQ is waning.
In conclusion, while the ownership changes at Players Smoked BBQ have brought about some challenges, the community’s passion for great BBQ remains strong. Whether the new owners can address these issues and restore the restaurant to its former status is yet to be seen. For those looking to explore other local dining options in Madera, be sure to check out my reviews on madera restaurant reviews.