Sitting just next to Downtown Lakeland’s General Store is Good Buddies BBQ, a piece of Lakeland Barbecue Rib and Brisket Nirvana right here in our own backyard.
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I walked into Good Buddies yesterday to ask about an interview and was asked to contact owner Joel Vann on his cell phone (863-221-8144).
Why was Joel not in the restaurant? Simple. He was out on a catering gig doing what he does best – rock the smoker!
So, I left a voicemail for him explaining that I’m a BBQ enthusiast looking to write about and showcase some of Florida’s best BBQ joints, and that I’d like to speak with him about Good Buddies. He sent a text message back to me within minutes stating: “At a catering. I am in!” My guess? He probably had to put a new set of gloves on after speaking with me so he could get back to pulling pork for his guests. Gotta love the hands on owner.
Stay tuned to this blog as we hope to have an in-depth talk with Joel at his Downtown Lakeland Good Buddies BBQ location. I know I can’t wait – and I hope you can’t either!
About the BBQ Smoker Site’s BBQ Restaurant and Cook Team Reviews
This article continues a tradition here on the BBQ Smoker Site where we review and promote some of Florida’s best BBQ joints. Our criteria? Simple. We look for sole proprietor restaurants or competitive cook teams who are getting down to the art of good barbecue in true hands on fashion.
We don’t have anything against warehouse barbecue or chain BBQ restaurants. We just like the close to it – personal touch – we see and experience with the guys working things on the smaller side of the scale.
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Winter Haven BBQ Restaurant, Brock’s Smoke Hut.
4200 Dundee Road
Winter Haven, FL 33884
Phone: (863) 326-9640
Review
Stopped by for a chat with Dennis Brock today, owner of Brock’s Smoke Hut. Great guy – and genuine smoke hound. He’s a competition judge here in FL, and his restaurant is one of two Florida Barbecue joints recognized by the National Barbecue News.
Dennis buys quality pork spare ribs and Boston Butts from IBP, and smokes them to perfection using no seasoning or rub at all. Nope – just the pork, steady 225 heat from his Southern Pride Smoker, and Live Oak wood. He likes the rougher bark live oak because he says it smokes better, has a subtle smoke taste, and is readily available here in Central Florida.
95% of Brock’s business is carry out. There’s a great covered seating area in back if you want to hang out and eat your grub.
Dennis Brock – Owner -He’s serious about good BBQ!
Low and Slow Baby, This Southern Pride Smoker is set to a perfect 225 degrees F.
Live Oak Wood Smoke – and a propane fed flame.
Lip smackin’ smoked goodness – almost ready! Can’t wait!
Winter Haven Barbecue Prices That Cant’ Be Beat!
- $15.00 Slab of Pork Spare Ribs
- $7.99 BBQ Dinners – Ribs, Pulled Pork, Turkey, Sausage, etc.
No Rub, Sauce, or Seasoning Here… just plain Live Oak Smoke! Mmm… this is some of the best BBQ you’ll eat anywhere. And it’s right here in Winter Haven, FL!
So, If you’re in the Central Florida area – maybe traveling down Highway 27 – stop by Brock’s Smoke Hut.
You’re mouth will thank you!
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