Yes, more than the day promised, still, behold the glory of Mueller's BBQ!

Every weekend in high-school, my dad would take me to Louie Mueller's BBQ in Taylor, Texas. I was going through and over some rough spots and Louie Mueller's became a retreat at the end of the week where my father and I grew closer. Being able to eat in the spot my dad did when he was my age was surreal; that is a good word to describe Louie Mueller's, surreal. The air is hearty and flavorful,the people genuine and kind, the food continues to shatter whatever bar has been set and the decor is a charming character, all itself.

Louie Mueller's is known for their signature brisket and beef short ribs, with a pepper heavy dry rub. Now, their brisket is top notch, but I've always been a rib man. These short ribs are as much of an experience as they are a food; perhaps that's a strong additive to the surrealism of visiting this legendary hallmark of BBQ dynasty. The way the pepper hugs and guards the outside of these beef ribs is remarkable. It is in breaking through the exterior crust of spice, which will make you work just enough in getting your prize, that you will find the joyous fruits (meats) of your labor - A tender bite of red, making one wonder how the meat inside can retain it's flavor and juiciness when the crust has been scarred and blackened in such a way. It is an experience unlike any other found in the BBQ world. There is no way I was leaving the BBQ fest without a rack.

Yes, these things are pulled from some prehistoric alpha predator, over four pounds of meat, three bones! Now for some money shots of that beautiful crust. Keep an eye out for the burnt ends on one of these clubs! Crunchy, tender, emotionally-moving all in one bite!

Truly, wield the ribs of a giant to vanquish your hunger!

It is with all this being said, that for this Texan, visiting Louie Mueller's is more than a trip to a BBQ joint or journey to satisfy hunger, but an opportunity to see old friends. For more info on Wayne's BBQ rub, wood used and technique along with some back story on the Louie Mueller legacy: http://www.texasmonthly.com/eat-my-words/tmbbqfest-%E2%80%9C23-pitmasters-23-days%E2%80%9D-louie-mueller-bbq http://www.tmbbq.com/interview-wayne-mueller-of-louie-mueller-barbecue/ Louie Mueller's BBB: 206 W Second Street Taylor, TX 76574