Note: The pics and write-up show the original Judge Bean's in Nashville. A while back they moved to Brentwood which is just south of Nashville.

Had this place pegged wrong. Figured with a name like Judge Bean's, and selling Texas style barbecued brisket in Nashville it had to be a slick, chain operation. Nope. Just a guy named Bean who knows all about smoking brisket and the proper red ring.

I went for a classic combo - smoked brisket and smoked sausage. The fries are home fried, the beans ok, but I should have ordered Cowboy Beans. There's some sauce on the table for those who need sauce. I didn't.

You order at the counter and then grab a table, either in the main dining room or the half built side dining room, open air for now, at least.

Out back are a few smokers going full blast. Loaded with briskets. Some chicken and ribs too, but not sure I'll ever get past the brisket and the sausage.

Jim Bean's declares "The best BBQ east of Texas." Ain't boasting when you're speaking the truth. And I'd wager, Bean's is better than you'll find in some Texas counties.

July 2005