Posted by Norman G. Hoskins on July 03, 2008
I live in Knoxville, TN but while attending college at East Tennessee State (in nearby Johnson City, about 30 years ago) I was "indoctrinated" by a local girl into the exclusive club of those who have discovered this incredible place. So for the last 26 or so years I have driven up to Ridgewood from Knoxville (over 100 miles) to eat here, with occasional overnight stays centered around the BBQ experience. It is SO that worth it.
This BBQ is unlike any other anywhere, and I've eaten a lot of BBQ. The meat is actually sliced ham smoked on-site, served either on a bun or plated. The coleslaw is fresh-made with a bite of vinegar, and you can get it on the sandwich or in a bowl on the side (in the bowl it's served first, like a salad). Now for the other side items: the fries are hand-cut fresh potatoes; you'll never appreciate frozen ever again. But the best thing of all is the little bowl of BBQ beans; be sure to get two bowls! They are sweet and savory, the best!
If you come anywhere within driving distance (let's see, how far? The southeastern United States should cover it) then do not miss this great little hidden BBQ joint!
Overall: Worth driving from anyplace
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Reviewers "Must Eats" List
"Just north of the restaurant is this smoky building where hams are slow-smoked over hickory wood for hours."
Michael Stern
"This is the view from a booth near the kitchen: a beef sandwich and a pork plate, just assembled by the cook and ready to be carried to a table -- OUR table, we pray!"
Michael Stern
"Mostly what you see are French fries -- delicious, hot-from-the-kettle fries -- but beneath them is a heap of smoky pork slices bathed in tongue-tingling sauce. "
Michael Stern
"Although it is far off the beaten path, the Ridgwood is almost always crowded. Expect to wait at peak mealtimes."
Michael Stern
"Smoky, sweet, and laced with meat, Ridgewood's beans are a must-eat side dish."
Michael Stern
