Texas BBQ in LA, Anyone?

Over the weekend I went to Dr. Hogly Wogly’s Tyler Texas BBQ—which, fortunately for us Angelenos, isn’t in Texas at all, but is just a hop, jump, and a skip away in the city of Van Nuys. I opted not to take a photo of the beef ribs I ordered, or else my phone would be dripping in BBQ sauce. But let me try my best to describe it in words. The colossal beef ribs were reminiscent of The Flintstones—think of the pterodactyl leg that Fred liked to gnash on. The friendly staff kept insisting that I order from the dinner menu because it comes with sides for just $3 more. I resisted and just ordered from the à la carte menu. Best decision I could make. The plate was HUGE–five pieces of juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs. Though I only got the ribs, I was able to sneak a peek at what other people were eating. From spareribs to brisket to hot links to chicken, everyone had smiles of joy and BBQ sauce dripping from their fingers, mouths, and shirts. The waiters were great and quick to suggest their favorite dish (beef brisket sandwich). I love when waiters actually suggest ONE dish versus saying that everything is good and that it depends on your taste. Another thing that I liked was their sauces. Everything is double dipped—first in their secret sauce, then in their BBQ sauce. You can choose between the mild or spicy BBQ sauce. I highly recommend you try their spicy BBQ sauce—great flavor with just the right amount of heat.

I never pictured myself as a ribs type of guy, but I was introduced to its magical powers when one of my friends, Erik Litwin, brought me into his circle of Litwin Ribs, a family specialty. Erik spends days prepping the ribs from hand—cutting the fat, then marinating, smoking, and basting the meat. Once I was a convert, Erik suggested I try Dr. Hogly Wogly’s Tyler Texas BBQ; and boy, am I glad I listened! With all this being said though, the Litwin ribs edge out the Doctor’s ribs by a slight margin because of the extra time and patience put into the preparation. For the rest of you who don’t have access to the Litwin Ribs circle, you will love Dr. Hogly Wogly’s Tyler Texas BBQ. Bring a bib.