You're The Reviewer: Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que

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On the theory that everyone’s a critic, we asked you, our readers, to try your hand at writing a restaurant review. Reader Lisa Thibodeau Thompson responded with this review of Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que in Rocklin.

Grandma and Grandpa were in town and we had just marked our anniversary, so my husband suggested we celebrate at Lucille’s in Rocklin. I wasn’t thrilled; my idea of romance or fun does not include a meat-heavy menu, drippy sauces, and dining out with my baby and toddler. But Lucille’s is an energetic roadhouse with stick-to-your-ribs grub so succulent and delicious that I had to let my hair down and get a little messy.

Our waiter showed us the huge house smoker, and we all deeply inhaled the fruitwood-perfumed smoke. Next to the smoker, a chart listed cooking times for the meats, anywhere from two to 22 hours. My husband ordered the brisket (22 hours) and, while good, it did not elicit the jealous glances directed at my short ribs (four hours), which came on a huge pile of garlic mashed potatoes with a side of spinach. The plump ribs were perfectly sauced in rich, brown gravy. Grandpa was in hog heaven with his gigantic platter of baby back ribs (three hours). Grandma was very happy with her “small” chicken salad, and we all were greedy with the generous plate of housemade biscuits. My picky toddler dove into a large bowl of creamy mac ’n’ cheese, and the baby was so distracted by the noise that he forgot to be fussy.

After a toast with Mason jar glasses of sweet tea, we mopped up with big, warm, moist towels (sealing the deal for this mom), and we all agreed that Lucille Buchanan’s granny would be proud. This is authentic, slow-smoked Southern barbecue served up with huge portions, hospitality and homey goodness.

6628 Lonetree Blvd., Rocklin; (916) 780-7427; lucillesbbq.com

Would you like to write a review? Pick a local restaurant where you’ve eaten recently and tell us about it. What did you like and not like? Be honest, creative and brief—no more than 400 words. We’ll print the best reviews in upcoming issues. Send your review to food@sacmag.com or Food Editor, Sacramento magazine, 706 56th St., Suite 210, Sacramento, CA 95819. Please include your name, phone number and e-mail address.