Author: Brian_Przystup

Folks, I'm a bit of a BBQ snob. I avoid 'rib-fests' like a bad smell, never order BBQ at restaurants that don't exclusively serve BBQ because I'm often disappointed by over-sauced, fall-off-the-bone ribs (say "overcooked" with me) and brisket that is on life support because...its been held to long then coated in sauce to hide chef's transgressions. Dixie's held great promise on Wednesday night as I walked in to see if we could be seated. 2 diners, right at opening, sure 'nuff, we're in. The first things you notice is the smoky smell the minute you walk in. A good start. Cowboy cool decor, lots of corrugated on the walls, rustic wood furniture, looks like a legit Texas BBQ place, and yes, I've been to a few to compare. Greeted promptly, drinks quickly delivered as we looked over the menu.Big House Pinot (served cold in a can, get over yourself) and a great local IPA, I think it was Russell if I recall. Went with full rack of ribs ($26) and a half pound of brisket ($13) and 3 sides to share, Mac N Cheese, buttermilk biscuits and cole slaw, each $3 for a small portion, perfect for sharing. Ribs arrived without sauce, but a really nice bark. There is house made BBQ sauce on the table and ketchup (don't even THINK about that bottle!!) the house sauce is really good, the right amount of heat, a sweet note in the background, spot on. Ribs have a perfect bite, they pull from the bone with a bit of tug, and leave a clean bone behind. How ribs are supposed to behave. Well done. Brisket passed the bend test with ease, nice smoke ring, again served dry with the bark being the star of the show. Add a dab of sauce and hold on to your sox. I managed to get a peek at the smoker, and it's full legit, wood fired only, no charcoal in site and the mark of a passionate pit master. Cooking starts really early in the day, and as the menu states, when they're out, they're out. Not like you can rush a 5 - 6 hour rib cook. Other reviews have mentioned Dixie's in is a.....sketchier part of town, sure it's not False Creek or Coal Harbour, but you'll be fine, and trust me, it's well worth the effort to find this gem of a BBQ joint. And save room for the pecan pie!More