Mike's Grill

What's it like?

Had dinner here the other night. It’s the same little stand that used to be Big Al’s BBQ. The last couple of times I’ve driven by I’ve seen the smoker & grill out in the little parking lot next to the stand.

An impressive tri-tip sandwich. A generous portion of warm, very moist, almond-wood-grilled beef, thinly sliced, wonderful balance of good smoke flavor but not too much to overpower the meat. Served on a toasted, herb-buttered hoagie roll with sesame seeds. Optional BBQ sauce (on the side) & jalapeños. Meat was so succulent that I ate the first half of my sandwich without any BBQ sauce.

BBQ sauce is a dark (almost-purple), thick, sweet sauce; not very spicy. If I had to guess (which I will) I’d guess it was pretty heavy on the molasses.

Homemade potato salad was thick (of the not-very-moist variety), chucks of potato, hard-boiled egg, black olive & chopped celery and/or pickle. Pretty standard stuff though its homemade flavor comes across clearly.

Limited menu (tri-tip or sausage sandwiches). Prices seemed reasonable: tri-tip sandwich with a side (chips or potato salad) & a drink for about 8 bucks (sausage sandwich a little bit less). I left with a full stomach. Michael (very friendly owner) said he’s like to add menu items as he gets settled in & more comfortable with the business: chili, a chicken sandwich, maybe a salad or some grilled fish, a take-home tri-tip meal perhaps.

This place has been open for less than two weeks. I hope Michael does well & if the good quality food I had tonight is any indication, he’s got a fightin’ chance.