I am so not a golfer. But I can definitely appreciate the charms of having a Memphis-style BBQ lunch outside, overlooking a nice green in the middle of Golden Gate Park. With an ice-cold Anchor Steam beer. Yeah, not too shabby.
The next time it's a sunny day and you're craving a little in-city escape, IRONWOOD BBQ is a fun little adventure--just pull off 47th Street into Golden Gate Park and soon enough you'll see it. Order inside, and then grab a table on the outdoor patio and watch the golfers whack away while you get messy with some ribs. It's a downright peaceful setting, with lots of fresh air.
The BBQ smoker they use here is pretty serious: there are only three John Willingham Wham Turbo BBQ Pits on the West Coast, and Bill Gates owns of 'em. (There's more about the pit on the site for you BBQ-phreeks.) At Ironwood, they dry rub pork roast, beef brisket, ribs, and chicken, then refrigerate the meat overnight so the seasoning can permeate, and then slow cook everything with pure oak wood the next day.
You can get baby back ribs (1/2 rack for $13/full rack for $22), or there are the house plates ($12), with your choice of a 1/2 pound of either pulled pork, chicken, or beef brisket with two sides, like scalloped potatoes, baked beans, or cole slaw. My friend and I particularly liked the tasty BBQ sauce they make with Anchor Steam beer. All the sides are made fresh daily, and while they weren't the best scalloped potatoes I've ever had, I appreciated the home-cooked touch. There are also some house-baked goods, like muffins and dessert for those of you with a sweet tooth.
Owner Bruce Olsen is a really friendly guy, in fact everyone here is. Bruce mentioned they will be enclosing the patio in the winter, so even on a chilly day, if the mood for some 'cue strikes, you'll be able to eat outside comfortably. And kudos to them for using biodegradable silverware and recycled plates. Get those napkins ready!
Ironwood BBQ
Golden Gate Park Golf Course
47th Ave.
Cross: Fulton St.
San Francisco, CA 94121
415-751-8987
website
Tue-Sun 11am-7pm
Sandwiches $5.50-$7.50
House plates $12
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