Heaton's

619 Marion Rd., Princeton, KY - (270) 345-2052

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Posted By Michael Stern on May 29, 2006 4:43 AM

We'll admit to getting a slightly perverse, anti-snob pleasure from dining at a table opposite shelves of motor oil and other automotive necessities. While Heaton's does have a fairly normal restaurant area, it has been closed for a while, so all meals are served inside the adjacent gas station, which resembles a thousand other quick-stop, quick-eat mini-marts around rural America.

But here the cuisine is a cut above: real Kentucky barbecue, in this case pulled pork, is served in a sandwich, large or small, as a plate with two side dishes, by the pound and whole shoulder. It is hickory smoked, rugged-textured, and comes with an interesting sauce that is slightly sweet with a bright citrus flavor. We thought the meat had a mealy character; and while the taste was fine, it was not all that much fun to eat.

While we did not love Heaton's barbecue as much as others in the region –this part of Kentucky is a barbecue bonanza – we could never completely fault any restaurant that smokes its own and serves it in a service station.

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Posted By fran prince on October 25, 2010 12:50 PM

Heatons is fabulous..Having learned to eat Bbq from a Texan, it is not easy to find good Bbbq ;especially outside of Texas..
Living in NY, it is impossible..

Let me tell you, the Brisket at Heatons, melts in your mouth..tender and moist,just the way it should be . The flavor of the meat is not overwhelmed by spice or sauce.The pork ribs and chicken are really good as well.

Best get to Heaton's early cause the Brisket sells out..prices are reasonable and the people are lovely..

The "dining area" is a minimart..adds to the charm..part of the experience.clean and friendly.big gulp cups for the soda..
Can't wait to go back for bisquits and gravy breakfast.Portion size is good for the main and sides..good coleslaw and beans..

Next time, take out back to the Big Apple..

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Brisket

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