Back in Kansas, where I’m from, we take our barbeque (BBQ) very seriously. I can still remember eating ribs at KC Masterpiece, no BBQ sauce needed because I was raised that you only need the sauce if the meat isn’t what it could be. As I got older, a pulled pork sandwich from Oklahoma Joe’s, which was actually out of a gas station, was all a BBQ lover could ask for.
Now, like Dorothy, we’re not in Kansas anymore, but having lived in Idaho Springs, Colorado for almost 4 years, Smokin’ Yards has become the place that takes, at least our taste buds, back home.
To be completely honest, being a local in a touristy mountain town like Idaho Springs, we don’t “go out” to eat often, but Smokin’ Yards makes it easy to call in our order and pick it up at the window outside in less than 30 minutes. They are also great about double-checking you’re calling in your order to the right spot since they also have a Denver location (900 W. 1st Ave, Denver, CO 80223), which also serves some fantastic BBQ! But I am here to speak to the amazing Idaho Springs location we visit on an all-too-regular basis.
Now let’s get to “the meat of it,” shall we? From the Carolina Pulled Pork sandwich to the Burnt Ends, from the Sliced Beef Brisket to the Baby Rack Ribs, and from the Chicken Fried Steak to the Fried Catfish, each option easily meets the high standards of the Midwest.
One more thing worth mentioning, and if you’re a BBQ enthusiast, you’ll likely agree that the sides are just as important as the main course. Our go-to sides are the fried okra, smoked baked beans, country-style mac & cheese, and the southern-style green beans. And if you order the Chicken Fried Steak, you obviously want to go with the mashed potatoes and gravy.
My husband and I may not have tried EVERYTHING on the Idaho Springs Menu quite yet, which FYI can differ slightly from the Denver options, but between our almost weekly visits and all the times we’ve ordered it for out-of-town family, we really have tried almost all the items offered and have always had a great experience. Everything we’ve tried so far, we have loved every bite. Should your taste buds be calling out for some excellent BBQ and you happen to be headed up the mountain, you will not be disappointed.
Pros: The meat, the sides, and yes, even the staff are always fantastic, and it’s super affordable!
Cons: Honestly, my husband and I can’t think of any complaints! I’m sure the wait to sit inside can be a bit long since they’re always busy, but since we always call ahead we never have to worry about that.
Recommendations: As I’m sure you can tell if you’ve made it this far, everything is a good decision, but my weekly order normally goes something like this: Pulled Pork Sandwich with a side of fried okra and mac & cheese.
As we enter into ski season and you head up the hill, I highly recommend you either swing by or call ahead for a pickup order at Smokin’ Yards BBQ in Idaho Springs!
303-567-9273 | 2736 Colorado Blvd, Idaho Springs, CO 80452
Hours: Sun–Thur. 11:00am–8:00pm | Fri & Sat 11:00am–8:00pm