Barbecue Beat: Hawg Jaw makes a mean chili
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Get the large sandwich if you're feeling really hungry. Photo: Travis Meier/Axios
There's a barbecue restaurant tucked into an industrial corner just north of the river that's worth a visit for one side alone.
- Its midday sandwich special will make your mouth water, too.
The big picture: Kansas City's barbecue scene runs deeper than the big names, and we're highlighting the single-store pits that deserve a bite.
Cue the 'cue: Hawg Jaw Que & Brew in North Kansas City.
Dig in: Brothers Sam and Nick Silvio started in Riverside, earning The Pitch's "Best New BBQ" designation in 2012. They moved to NKC in 2017, landing next to The Big Rip Brewing Company (now closed).
What to try: Staff recommended the working folks special (11am-4pm) — I chose a large sandwich with brisket and burnt ends, which comes with a drink and a side ($16).
- What really surprised me was the burnt end chili, which was rich and loaded with meat, beans and veggies. I'd go back just for a bowl of that.
- Three sauces, which are all made with apple cider vinegar, range from standard KC style to spiced (not hot) and sweet (made with molasses and blueberries).
- As for the "Brew" part of their name, they've got 20-plus beers on tap.
The vibe: I told the staff it was my first time, and they took pleasure walking me through the menu and the sauces. The folks and food are down-to-earth and just what I was looking for.
- Plus, this restaurant is ready for Chiefs season.
Stop by: Open for lunch and dinner Monday-Saturday. Closed Sunday.