Happy Valentine’s (to All the King’s Men)!

It’s been exactly one year since I wrote about All The King’s Men here in Bryan, TX. At the time, I had some bold things to say, including the claim that if they tightened up their brisket, Bryan could have another top 50 BBQ Joint on its hands. One year later, and there are plenty of indicators that this will happen!

First, they caught the attention of Texas Monthly, with their review stating that “the beef combined the kind of tenderness and smoky flavor that points to the skill of a true pitmaster.” And as you can see, the brisket is incredibly photogenic.

Furthermore, Daniel Vaughn, TM BBQ Editor (and personal hero of mine), named the pork belly burnt ends featured at ATKM in his list of “The Best Texas BBQ Bites of 2018.” Vaughn states-

“This version is one of the best I’ve eaten. The menu describes their pork belly burnt ends as ‘candied,’ but the sweetness isn’t overwhelming. The thin coat of sauce melds together with the melting fat of the pork, and the gush of juice as you bite into one is so satisfying. They’re perfectly executed.”

I can’t top that, although the burnt ends have changed a bit since their inception. They used to be smaller, and sweeter but now they are huge and a bit more subtle. The burnt ends are still decadence incarnate though, and they are just one reason that ATKM stands out among the joints in Texas.

I’ve also had the opportunity to try additional sides at ATKM. The side I have NOT tried is the Parmesean Broccoli. My rankings of the sides- 1. Gouda Mac and Cheese (pretty much perfect) 2. Creamy Havarti Grits (some of the best grits you will find) 3. Mashed Sweet Potato (really almost a dessert) 4. Three Bean and Meat (this is basically chili) 5. Dill Potato Salad (good but needs more mustard) 6. Jicama Apple Slaw (just kinda bland)

I’ve also tried a few of their desserts, and the Bourbon Pecan Pie is the highlight of the sweet side of the menu. The bourbon flavor is real and heavenly, and it strikes the perfect balance of sweetness and boozy flavor.

But on the meat side, I’ve only ever been disappointed ONCE on the turkey (I recommend you try the turkey with their house buffalo sauce), and they’ve even added pulled pork. Like the other meats ATKM serves, this is executed with perfection, and the pulled meat has been SOAKING in the juices and spices. Each bite is moist, with a hint of salt, and plenty of smoke. I feel it pairs very well with the acidic Serrano sauce.

Whatever choice you make when you come to All the King’s Men, you are in good hands. Congrats on the recognition! Looking forward to seeing what the future holds for BBQ in Bryan, TX.