Bludso’s Bar & Cue Opens on La Brea

The much anticipated Bludso’s Bar & Que took over the old Tarpit space on La Brea. Just south of Melrose, the BBQ joint is located next to the ever-popular Italian restaurant Cube. The previous space was very art deco and I was sad to see the beautiful decor gone. However, I appreciate the open kitchen, the still fantastic big bar which retained the Kold Draft ice machines (including the coveted pebble ice machine) and I do like the picnic style tables. And when it gets warmer, it’ll be nice to sit out on the patio and people watch.

I admit I’ve never had Bludso’s in Compton– though I did try once and got lost. I’ve heard many hilarious stories of urban adventures there and was glad this location is closer. Owned by the team at Golden State and helmed by former food blogger turned chef, Noel Galuten, this Bludso’s feels nice.

It’s is also booze-friendly. As mentioned, they have Kold Draft machines which I know a few bartenders around town thought about after Tarpit went kaput. I tried out the Mint Julep on tap which was poured over the lovely pebble ice.

 

For the three of us, we got the small tray ($65) which is meant to feed 3-4. Oh boy, it was A LOT of food. Plus, it came with ALL the sides. Oh man, I was in love. I love having everything! Only bummer was they ran out of hot links so they gave us more pulled pork. Fine with us– probably will encourage me to go back soon as I love sausage (sorry, more than bacon, yes…).

My favorite was surprisingly the chicken. It was so moist! Usually I’m a baby back ribs fan. And these were pretty good. There is a choice of mild or hot sauce. I think both are spicy but with different finishes.

 

Of the sides, my favorites were the housemade pickles and collard greens.

 

I was eating leftovers for days!  Can we say pulled pork sandwiches and BBQ chicken fried rice?

 

I did have a couple of nitpicks but I hope they’ll improve soon. I felt both the cornbread and red velvet cake were on the drier side.

I didn’t notice at first there wasn’t any butter and it seemed like a pain to try to get some — it was very busy– but butter would have helped the corn bread.

I’ll be back though for more bar and more ‘cue.

Bludso’s Bar & Que

609 N La Brea Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90036  —  (323) 931-2583

© The Minty  2013