Good Eats !
Peace , Love , & BBQ
Most people think of the south when they hear the word “ barbecue ,” but there isn ’ t enough to be said about Mike Mills and his restaurant 17th Street . As a champion pit master , Mike has been smoking , turning , and burning out the best BBQ for as long as we can remember . 17th Street is legendary for serving up ribs , and these really are to die for . Technically speaking , his BBQ is located in the south – southern Illinois , that is . It is unexpected and
40 FoodTraveler l Winter 2016 devilishly delicious , therefore making 17th Street worth the trip alone .
In the loveable town of Murphysboro , 17th Street is open until 10 pm Monday through Saturday . For patrons ’ convenience , there is a second location open in Marion , IL . Bon Appétit named the restaurant ’ s ribs “ the best ribs in the U . S .” Also featured in Vogue , and 3-time “ Grand World Champion ” winners , these famous baby backs are moist and full of flavor .
“ Magic Dust ” – a rub coined by Mike – is sprinkled over the ribs and they are then slowly cooked in a combination of apple and cherry wood chips for about six hours in the pit . The menu claims that the light , “ rosy ” complexion of the meat is only achievable through the slow cooking method with wood . You be the judge !
Also plated at 17th Street are their signature loaded potatoes . Try the 17ST potato , a baked Idaho that is patted with butter and sour cream , and then stuffed with chopped BBQ pork . The potato gets topped off with cheddar jack cheese , green onions , and bacon for full effect . $ 7 was never more well spent .
Another entrée you can ’ t go wrong with is the Pork Steak . Hand cut right in the kitchen – a center-cut from the shoulder – the pork is smoked in the pit and given its final touches on the grill . Featured in Bon Appétit as well , it comes with two sides . You get to choose from a wide selection , including fresh collards , coleslaw , baked beans , fried okra ( a southern tradition and a must-try menu item ), beans and rice , mac and cheese , pork rinds , fries , hushpuppies , a cup of soup , or brisket-seasoned green beans .