Down ‘n Dirty Bar-B-Q
The Down 'n Dirty Bar-B-Q in Manchester, New Hampshire is one New England's most authentic barbecue spots. In fact, it may be a little TOO authentic for its own good.
Atmosphere(8)
It's no coincidence this place isn't open on Mother's Day. It's small, stocked with cheesy decorations and truck stop knickknacks. But then again, it works perfectly with the food.
Menu(8)
In addition to all the regulars, there's 12 side items and 4 sandwiches. Phantom recommends ordering family style.
Portions(9)
You can pig out... no pun intended... on any dish.
Appetizers(7)
Barbecue salad topped with chicken, beef, or pulled pork is certainly unique, but Phantom can't understand why anyone would order it. Check out the full pound smoked sausage sampler with pepper hot, sweet Italian, and an incredible garlic variety.
Food and Drink(8)
Incredibly tender 1/2 chicken served conveniently sliced for the lazy Phantom. The ribs roasted over a smoldering hardwood fire, with a nice crisp coating and a warm pink center. The pulled pork and sliced brisket were good but needed a little more flavor. All items are "sauce it yourself", with hot, mild, or straight BBQ.
Desserts(7)
Options include cookies, Devils food cake, and a sweet potato pie topped with pecans that's the best of the bunch.
Service(8)
Counter service, but they bring the food to your table. Extremely helpful staff serve as your barbecue guides, and they keep plenty of wetnaps stocked on the tables.
Cleanliness(7)
They don't call it the "Down 'n Dirty" for nothing.
Parking(7)
Right off Route 293 in Manchester, New Hampshire. Parking lot out front does the job.
Value(9)
Sandwiches run $4; Plates cost about $7. Full slab of ribs runs $14. An entire family dinner with absolutely everything goes for only $31. And us "Northerners" have no trouble paying that.
