Michigan’s Best BBQ: An Inside Look at Bad Brad’s BBQ
Bad Brad BBQ is renowned for serving some of Michigan’s finest barbecue. This award-winning spot has earned accolades for its “slow and low” cooking method, infusing meats with rich flavors through hours of careful smoking. If you’re exploring bad brad bbq, here are the essentials:
- Winning Awards: Consistently voted ‘Best Barbecue’ by Hour Magazine for five consecutive years.
- Slow and Low Cookery: Beef brisket and pork shoulder smoked up to 14 hours.
- Everything From Scratch: A labor of love with no shortcuts.
Located across several Michigan towns, Bad Brad’s BBQ promises mouthwatering dishes that reflect a deep commitment to quality and tradition.
My name is Arlo Harris, a grill review expert with a passion for uncovering BBQ gems like Bad Brad’s BBQ. With years of experience exploring BBQ techniques and flavors, I am here to guide you through what makes this place special.
Transition seamlessly to the philosophy behind Bad Brad’s BBQ and find why so many rave about its slow and low cooking technique.
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The Philosophy Behind Bad Brad’s BBQ
At Bad Brad’s BBQ, the philosophy is simple but powerful: “From our Smoker to your Plate.”
Slow and Low Cooking
The key to their delicious BBQ is the “slow and low” cooking method. This technique involves cooking meat at low temperatures for extended periods, allowing the flavors to develop fully. At Bad Brad’s, beef brisket and pork shoulder are smoked for up to 14 hours. This long smoking process makes the meat tender and flavorful.
Fruit Wood & Hickory Smoked
Bad Brad’s BBQ uses a blend of fruit wood and hickory to smoke their meats. This combination adds a unique, rich flavor that you can taste in every bite. The fruit wood imparts a sweet, mild flavor, while the hickory adds a strong, smoky taste. Together, they create a balanced and delicious BBQ experience.
Everything From Scratch
One of the standout features of Bad Brad’s BBQ is their commitment to making everything from scratch. This means no shortcuts are taken, and every dish is prepared with care and attention to detail.
- House-made sauces: You’ll find a variety of sauces at your table, each crafted in-house to complement the smoky flavors of the meat.
- Fresh ingredients: From the cornbread to the mac and cheese, every side dish is made using fresh ingredients.
- Labor of love: The kitchen team starts their day early, around 5 a.m., to ensure everything is ready for their customers.
Customer Testimonials
Customers frequently rave about the quality and flavor of the food at Bad Brad’s BBQ. One reviewer noted, “The brisket is amazing and so is the pulled pork. If meat is not your thing, no worries, you can make a meal of side dishes alone.”
Another customer shared, “The barbecue is delicious, the cornbread and mac and cheese are so good, and the staff is friendly and conversational.”
These testimonials highlight the consistent quality and dedication that goes into every meal at Bad Brad’s BBQ.
Transition seamlessly to the next section and explore the mouthwatering menu highlights that make Bad Brad’s BBQ a must-visit destination.
Menu Highlights
At Bad Brad’s BBQ, the menu is packed with mouthwatering options that showcase their commitment to quality and flavor. Here are some of the standout dishes you must try:
Louis Style Ribs
The Louis Style Ribs at Bad Brad’s are a fan favorite. These ribs are smoked to perfection, ensuring they are tender and full of flavor. The meat falls off the bone and has a perfect smoky taste that pairs wonderfully with any of their house-made sauces.
BBQ Chicken
If you’re a fan of poultry, the BBQ Chicken is a must-try. Smoked using their signature blend of fruit wood and hickory, the chicken is juicy and flavorful. It’s a great option for those who prefer a lighter BBQ dish but still want that rich, smoky flavor.
Black and Blue Burger
For burger enthusiasts, the Black and Blue Burger is a standout. This burger features a perfectly cooked beef patty topped with blue cheese and blackened seasoning. The combination of the tangy blue cheese and the spicy seasoning makes for a unique and delicious bite.
Crush Burger
The Crush Burger is another popular choice. It’s a hearty burger loaded with flavor, featuring a juicy beef patty, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and their special BBQ sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
Bad Brad’s BBQ Burger
The Bad Brad’s BBQ Burger is the star of the show. This burger comes with all the fixings you’d expect from a top-tier BBQ joint: a juicy patty, melted cheese, crispy onions, and a generous helping of their signature BBQ sauce. It’s a perfect representation of what Bad Brad’s BBQ is all about.
Campfire Appetizers
Start your meal off right with their Campfire Appetizers. These include a variety of tasty bites like BBQ chicken nachos and loaded fries. Each appetizer is designed to give you a taste of the delicious BBQ flavors that await you in the main course.
These menu highlights are just a glimpse of what Bad Brad’s BBQ has to offer. Whether you’re in the mood for ribs, chicken, or a hearty burger, you’ll find something to satisfy your BBQ cravings.
Next, let’s dive into the different locations and ambiance that make Bad Brad’s BBQ a great place to dine.
Locations and Ambiance
Bad Brad’s BBQ has several locations across Michigan, each offering a unique atmosphere while maintaining the same high-quality barbecue experience.
Clinton Township
Located at 36845 Groesbeck Highway, the Clinton Township spot is spacious and welcoming. The interior has a rustic charm with wood accents and BBQ-themed decor. Outside, there’s ample parking, making it convenient for families and groups.
New Baltimore
The New Baltimore location at 35611 Green St. is a favorite for locals. This spot offers a cozy, laid-back vibe. It’s perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family. The parking lot here is sizable, ensuring you won’t have trouble finding a spot.
Shelby Township
You’ll find the Shelby Township restaurant at 6525 23 Mile Road. This location is known for its friendly staff and fast service. The ambiance is casual and inviting, with plenty of seating both inside and out. Parking is easy, with a large lot right outside.
Orion Township
Orion Township’s Bad Brad’s BBQ is located at 3437 S. Baldwin Rd. This venue stands out with its vibrant atmosphere and outdoor seating options. It’s a great place to enjoy BBQ on a sunny day. The parking lot is convenient and spacious.
Livonia
The Livonia location at 20300 Farmington Rd. is ideal for a quick bite or a leisurely meal. The decor is modern yet cozy, and the staff is always ready to make your dining experience enjoyable. Like the other locations, it offers ample parking.
Each Bad Brad’s BBQ location provides a unique yet consistently excellent dining experience. Whether you’re in Clinton Township or Livonia, you’ll find the same dedication to quality BBQ and customer satisfaction.
Next, let’s explore why Bad Brad’s BBQ is a community favorite.
Bad Brad’s BBQ: A Community Favorite
Bad Brad’s BBQ has earned a stellar reputation within the community, and for good reason. With a 4.5-star rating on Google, it’s clear that customers love what they experience here. The glowing reviews reflect the restaurant’s commitment to quality and consistency.
Accolades and Recognition
One of the most notable achievements of Bad Brad’s BBQ is being voted the Best Barbecue by Hour Magazine for five consecutive years. This accolade is a testament to their dedication to producing top-notch BBQ. Winning this award repeatedly highlights their ability to maintain high standards and satisfy their customers year after year.
Customer Reviews
Customers frequently praise the food, service, and atmosphere at Bad Brad’s BBQ. Here are some highlights from recent reviews:
“Been there several times, always really good. Great place if you need gluten-free options. The ribs are amazing and great BBQ choices.” – Tripadvisor Review
“Cool place with good food. We were seated quickly, and the service was good. I wasn’t wowed but no complaints.” – Tripadvisor Review
Consistent Quality
The restaurant’s philosophy of “From our Smoker to your Plate” and their commitment to “Slow and Low” cooking methods have clearly paid off. By steeping beef brisket and pork shoulder in fruit wood and hickory smoke for up to 14 hours, they ensure that every meal is packed with flavor. Their everything-from-scratch kitchen further sets them apart, allowing diners to taste the difference that quality ingredients and careful preparation make.
Community Engagement
Beyond the food, Bad Brad’s BBQ is known for its community engagement. They offer catering services for events big and small, bringing the same level of care and quality to every occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering or a corporate event, their catering services have become a staple for many in the community.
In summary, the combination of outstanding food, excellent service, and a strong community presence makes Bad Brad’s BBQ a beloved favorite. Their numerous awards and high ratings are well-deserved, reflecting a commitment to excellence that keeps customers coming back.
Next, let’s dig into the catering services offered by Bad Brad’s BBQ.
Bad Brad’s BBQ Catering Services
When you think of event catering, you want a service that offers the same quality and care as dining in. Bad Brad’s BBQ does just that. Their catering services bring the best of their restaurant right to your event, no matter the size.
Event Catering
Bad Brad’s BBQ is prepared to cater for any event, from small family gatherings to large corporate functions. They ensure that every dish is made with the same “slow and low” cooking methods that their restaurant is famous for. Whether it’s a wedding, birthday party, or business meeting, their catering menu includes all of your favorites.
Same Recipes and Care
The commitment to quality doesn’t end at their restaurant doors. Bad Brad’s BBQ uses the same recipes and care for their catered events as they do for in-house dining. This means you get the same juicy beef brisket, tender pork shoulder, and delicious sides, all crafted from scratch.
“If you’re looking to ‘WOW’ your guests during your next event, look no further! We’re ready to cater your next event, no matter how big or small!” – Bad Brad’s BBQ
Big or Small Events
No event is too big or too small for Bad Brad’s BBQ. They have experience catering everything from intimate family dinners to large-scale events. Their flexibility and dedication to quality make them a go-to choice for many in the community.
“We’ve eaten here in the cooler months- we thought the food was decent. Came back on a warm day- it was so hot inside we were pouring sweat. Zero air movement- no fans, nothing. You can’t begin to enjoy food or beer in that type of heat.” – Tripadvisor Review
By choosing Bad Brad’s BBQ for your catering needs, you’re ensuring that your guests will enjoy top-notch BBQ, made with the same attention to detail and love that has earned them a 4.5-star rating on Google and the title of Best Barbecue by Hour Magazine for five consecutive years.
Next, let’s move on to some frequently asked questions about Bad Brad’s BBQ.
Frequently Asked Questions about Bad Brad’s BBQ
Who is the owner of Bad Brad’s BBQ?
Bad Brad’s BBQ is owned by Mike Pollard. You can find more about him on LinkedIn. Mike’s dedication to quality and passion for BBQ is evident in every aspect of the restaurant.
What makes Bad Brad’s BBQ unique?
Bad Brad’s BBQ stands out for several reasons:
- Slow and Low Cooking: They cook their beef brisket and pork shoulder “slow and low” for up to 14 hours. This method ensures the meat is tender and full of flavor.
- Fruit Wood & Hickory Smoked: The meats are steeped in fruit wood and hickory smoke, giving them a distinct, smoky taste that BBQ lovers crave.
- Everything from Scratch: Their kitchen is a labor of love, where everything is made from scratch. This commitment to quality means no shortcuts are taken, and you can taste the difference in every bite.
What are the operating hours for Bad Brad’s BBQ locations?
Bad Brad’s BBQ has specific hours for each location, and they may vary, especially during holidays. Here are the general operating hours:
- Sunday: 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday to Friday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 2:00 PM – 9:00 PM
For holiday hours or any changes, it’s best to check their website or call ahead. Each location may have slight variations, so it’s always a good idea to verify.
By understanding these key aspects, you can see why Bad Brad’s BBQ is a community favorite and a must-visit for BBQ enthusiasts.
Conclusion
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