Had lunch today at Martin's BBQ Joint located at 3029 Pump House Road in Vestavia Hills, Alabama…read more It's actually in the Cahaba Heights area off of Highway 280. You order at the counter, which can be a little hectic for a first-timer. Luckily for me, I knew what I wanted and quickly found it on the big menu on the wall beside me. I later noticed that people were looking at handheld menus as you entered the restaurant. There was no one in front of me when I entered, so I didn't see those. The lady at the counter was very friendly and helpful in answering my questions.
I ordered the pulled pork shoulder tray with two sides. If you have read my reviews, you know I only eat fries, so I doubled up the fries. You are given a number and can sit anywhere in their very big (for a BBQ joint) indoor dining area, or you can sit on a patio or outside. The walls are COVERED with pictures of old movie posters, country music stars, album covers, car tags, signs, and even a picture of the NWO (IYKYK). I didn't see the required Alabama BBQ joint picture of The Bear, Alabama football coach Paul Bryant, but with so many things on the wall, I'm sure it has to be there somewhere. There is a separate 'To-Go' spot for placing orders on the run. This also looked like a bar area as I saw advertising for alcohol. They also offer T-shirts and hats for sale if that is your thing. The menu consists of burgers, tacos, brisket, chicken, catfish, smoked chicken wings, BBQ nachos with just about any kind of side you can ask for, and pie for dessert.
My order was brought to me in a timely manner. The BBQ is West Tennessee-style whole hog that Martin's cooks low and slow over hickory wood for up to 24 hours. The pulled pork is melt-in-your-mouth delicious, topped off with their special Jack's Creek BBQ sauce, on the table, which is a sweet vinegar and pepper-based sauce. I did see other sauces behind the counter, so I'm sure you just have to ask. The portions were just right for me. The fries are real cut potatoes that have been peeled. I doubled up, and that was enough to feed a family of four. Next time I will just ask for one side so as not to waste fries. The Jack's Creek sauce was great poured over my fries; it is water-based and not thick, and that is how I like my sauce. The sweet tea wasn't as sweet as some places, but I'm not complaining; it was good, and the day was hot.
There seemed to be a lot of staff working. I guess it can be busy on Saturdays for lunch. I visited around 2:30 pm, and it was not crowded when I arrived but picked up as my time went on. The staff didn't have anything to say as several walked past me while doing random things. Not that it's a bad thing; I just always acknowledged customers with a "how ya doing?"--little things. The music was a mix of classic rock, soft 70s to hair metal, set at a decent volume. I don't mind being able to hear the radio, but maw maw and paw paw may complain that it was too loud.
The parking lot may fill up with a big dinner crowd as there is a business next door that shares the parking lot. There is handicap parking available.
Overall, Martin's offered a cool atmosphere for BBQ and a relaxing meal. They offer live music some nights (check their website), and it seems to be a great place for socializing in a casual setting.
5/5
-Kevin