Craving mouthwatering barbecue but not sure if King’s Custom Smoked Meats is worth the buzz? You’re not alone—many food lovers wonder how this restaurant measures up when it comes to flavor, service, and atmosphere.
Knowing what to expect can help you make the best dining choice for your next smoky, satisfying meal. This article dives into King’s Custom Smoked Meats, sharing honest insights, ordering tips, and what sets this spot apart. Let’s dig in!
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How King’s Custom Smoked Meats Restaurant Brings Barbecue to Oklahoma City
If you’re searching for authentic, expertly smoked barbecue in Oklahoma City, King’s Custom Smoked Meats Restaurant is a must-try destination. This locally owned eatery is known for its mouthwatering flavors, welcoming atmosphere, and dedication to classic Oklahoma barbecue traditions. In this article, you’ll discover how King’s Custom Smoked Meats operates, why their food stands out, and practical tips for getting the best experience. Whether you’re a barbecue connoisseur or a newcomer eager to explore the scene, you’ll find everything you need to know right here.
What Makes King’s Custom Smoked Meats Restaurant Special?
King’s Custom Smoked Meats stands out for several reasons:
- Authentic Slow-Smoking Methods: The restaurant expertly slow-smokes its meats using traditional wood-burning smokers. This technique imparts a smoky flavor and ensures tenderness in every bite.
- High-Quality Meats: Only premium cuts are selected for the menu, resulting in a taste and texture that’s hard to match.
- Family-Owned Roots: The passion and care of a family business shine through in every dish.
- Comfortable Setting: The atmosphere is warm and friendly, welcoming anyone from families to solo BBQ enthusiasts.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these points and how they create a unique dining experience.
The Art of BBQ: How King’s Custom Smoked Meats Does It
Great barbecue is both a science and an art. King’s Custom Smoked Meats takes pride in following time-honored methods, which include:
1. Meat Selection
- Careful selection of fresh, locally sourced meats.
- Choice cuts like brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and sausage.
- Ensuring each piece is well-marbled for flavor.
2. Custom Seasoning Blends
- Handcrafted rubs made in-house, combining spices and herbs for signature flavor profiles.
- Meats are seasoned generously and given time to absorb all that richness before smoking.
3. Low-and-Slow Smoking Process
- Use of real wood (often hickory or oak) to develop distinct smoky flavor.
- Meats are cooked low and slow—often over many hours—to break down connective tissue and develop tenderness.
- Regular checks by pitmasters to ensure even cooking and maximum juiciness.
4. Rest and Serve
- After smoking, meats are rested to seal in juices.
- Sliced or pulled just before serving to maintain freshness.
This careful attention to detail at every step is what creates King’s signature ‘custom smoked’ taste.
What’s on the Menu: A Journey Through Smoked Delights
While individual menu items may change, King’s Custom Smoked Meats typically offers a broad selection, satisfying both classic cravings and adventurous taste buds.
Popular Menu Offerings
- Brisket: Smoky, juicy, and tender, brisket is a star attraction. Offered sliced or chopped with a choice of house-made sauces.
- Ribs: Meaty pork ribs smoked until the meat pulls cleanly from the bone.
- Pulled Pork: Perfectly smoked pork shoulder, pulled to order and served with slaw and house pickles.
- Smoked Sausage: Spiced and smoked links that snap when you bite.
- Turkey and Chicken: Leaner options infused with the deep flavors of slow-smoking.
- Classic Sides:
- Baked beans
- Potato salad
- Coleslaw
- Mac and cheese
- Cornbread or Texas toast
Combination Platters
- Great for those wanting to sample a little of everything.
- Typically includes your choice of meats and sides.
Specialty Items
- Smoked meat sandwiches, BBQ nachos, loaded baked potatoes, and even salads with barbecued toppings appeal to a wide range of tastes.
Kids and Family Packs
- Affordable family combos and kid-friendly meals make it easy to feed groups big or small.
What Sets King’s Apart? Benefits of Dining Here
Choosing King’s Custom Smoked Meats Restaurant comes with several benefits:
- Consistent Quality: The meat is smoky, tender, and flavorful, visit after visit.
- Local Love: Being family-owned and locally operated, you experience genuine Oklahoma BBQ culture.
- Generous Portions: Plates are hearty—you won’t leave hungry.
- Custom Options: Special seasoning requests, combo platters, and takeout family packs ensure there’s something for everyone.
- Support for Local Communities: By sourcing from Oklahoma suppliers and being a neighborhood staple, the restaurant supports local farmers and businesses.
Challenges and Tips for Newcomers
Every popular restaurant faces challenges, and King’s Custom Smoked Meats is no exception. Here are a few aspects to consider, with tips to make your visit smooth:
Potential Challenges
- Busy Times: Peak meal periods (especially weekends or holidays) can mean longer wait times and sometimes sell-outs of popular meats.
- Limited Seating: As a cozy, local spot, seating may fill up fast during rush hours.
- Sold Out Items: Because meats are smoked in small batches for freshness, favorites like brisket or ribs can run out toward closing time.
Practical Tips
- Arrive Early: To get the best selection of meats, plan to visit closer to opening hours or during early lunch/dinner.
- Order Ahead: If possible, call ahead or place a pickup order, especially for larger groups or family packs.
- Check Daily Specials: The restaurant may offer rotating specials or limited-time items, so ask what’s fresh.
- Customize Your Order: If you have dietary preferences, let the staff know—they may accommodate requests like no sauce, extra sides, or leaner cuts.
- Join Local Events: Watch for community events, BBQ festivals, or catering specials that offer a chance to sample King’s food in new ways.
Cost and Value: Getting the Best for Your Dollar
Enjoying delicious barbecue doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s how King’s Custom Smoked Meats helps you save while savoring great food:
Value-Driven Menu
- Combo Deals: Save by ordering family packs or meal combos, especially when dining with a group.
- Kids’ Meals: Special, affordable options for children make it family-friendly.
- Generous Portions: Larger servings mean you often have enough for leftovers—think lunch the next day!
- Quality vs. Price: You pay for premium, slow-cooked meats—making the quality and flavor an excellent value for the price.
Cost Tips
- Ask About Specials: Some days feature discounted meals or add-ons.
- Consider Takeout or Catering: For parties or office events, catering platters provide economy of scale pricing.
- Skip Delivery Charges: Picking up your order saves on third-party delivery fees.
- Join Loyalty Programs: Many local BBQ joints offer a punch card or rewards for regular customers.
Experience Beyond the Plate: Atmosphere and Service
A meal at King’s Custom Smoked Meats is more than just food—it’s about hospitality and community spirit.
- Friendly Staff: Team members are passionate about barbecue and eager to offer suggestions.
- Neighborhood Feel: Frequent patrons are often greeted by name.
- Cleanliness: Tables and service areas are kept tidy, reflecting pride in their space.
- Family-Friendly: Both the menu and atmosphere cater to diners of all ages.
Whether you’re eating in or grabbing takeout, you can expect service with a smile and the feeling of being part of a community.
Environmental and Community Practices
King’s Custom Smoked Meats demonstrates its commitment to Oklahoma’s people and land by:
- Sourcing Locally: Supporting area ranchers and farmers.
- Waste Reduction: Smoking in small batches to minimize food waste.
- Community Sponsorships: Participating in local events and donating to neighborhood causes.
Supporting restaurants like King’s helps strengthen the local economy and food traditions.
Your First Visit: Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve never been to King’s Custom Smoked Meats, here’s how to get the most from your first visit:
- Plan Your Visit: Check opening hours and decide if you’ll dine in or take out.
- Arrive Early: Beat lunch or dinner rushes for the widest selection.
- Check the Menu: Choose your meats and sides, or ask about sampler platters.
- Order at the Counter: Friendly staff will walk you through your choices.
- Pick Your Sauce: Try different sauces—smoky, spicy, sweet, or tangy—to find your favorite.
- Enjoy Your Meal: Savor each bite, and don’t forget the sides!
- Take Home Leftovers: Bring a container, as portions tend to be generous.
- Share the Experience: Tell friends, or better yet, bring them along next time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What meats are available at King’s Custom Smoked Meats Restaurant?
King’s offers brisket, ribs, pulled pork, smoked sausage, chicken, turkey, and often other specials like burnt ends or rib tips. Availability can vary daily, so check with staff for today’s offerings.
2. Can I order food to go or for catering events?
Yes! King’s Custom Smoked Meats provides takeout and catering for groups, parties, or business meetings. It’s best to call ahead for large orders to ensure everything is freshly prepared.
3. Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options?
While the focus is on smoked meats, there are side dishes like coleslaw, potato salad, and beans that can suit some dietary needs. Notify staff of dietary restrictions—they can help suggest suitable options.
4. How much does a typical meal cost?
Most individual plates are priced fairly, considering the high quality of meats and generous portions. Family packs and combo meals offer additional savings. Expect a meal for one to range from moderate to slightly above average compared to fast food, reflecting the slow-smoked difference.
5. Is the restaurant family-friendly and accessible?
Absolutely! King’s offers a welcoming environment for families, with menu options for kids and attentive service. The space is accessible, but seating can fill up during busy times, so plan ahead.
Conclusion
King’s Custom Smoked Meats Restaurant is beloved in Oklahoma City for a reason—it delivers authentic, mouth-watering barbecue with a personal touch. From carefully selected meats and in-house rubs to that unforgettable smoky flavor, every meal is a testament to quality and passion. With practical tips to maximize your visit and answers to common questions, you’re now ready to enjoy one of Oklahoma’s best barbecue experiences. Bring your appetite and a sense of adventure—King’s Custom Smoked Meats is waiting to serve you a plate of perfection!