D's Smokehouse — Review by Randy Santel

The Dishes

The Meat Eaters Barbecue Platter Challenge is an impressive showcase of D's Smokehouse's smoking capabilities. Randy's platter included sausage, a substantial portion of smoked ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and bologna, all totaling 4 pounds of meat. His sides consisted of a half pound each of baked beans, potato salad, and coleslaw, plus a half pound of white queso macaroni and cheese. Radim had a similar spread with sausage, ribs, brisket, and bologna, but chose two 1-pound sides: baked beans with apple pie filling and potato salad.

The brisket stood out as Randy's favorite meat, with him commenting that it remained phenomenal even when slightly cooled. The pulled pork earned special praise, described as non-lean but absolutely delicious, and Randy even created a loaded mac and cheese by adding pulled pork and sweet and savory barbecue sauce to it. The bologna, despite also being non-lean, was enjoyed by both competitors. The sausage received homage as well. All of the barbecue sauces were house-made, including a standout raspberry habanero variety that Randy tried on his final rib. The sides each brought something unique, particularly the creative combination of apple pie filling mixed into the baked beans, which Radim praised as tasting better with that addition. The homemade banana pudding served as dessert, with Randy noting he had enjoyed banana pudding ice cream the previous day but this version was still a delight.

The Experience

D's Smokehouse created an energetic and welcoming atmosphere for the challenge attempt, with a crowd of spectators present to cheer on the competitors. The restaurant is owned by Dakota and his wife Hannah, who have operated the place for about a year and a half. The challenge had never been won before this event, with 67 previous attempts all ending in failure. The 30-minute time limit created genuine tension and excitement. The staff was described as upstanding and professional, and the owners were gracious hosts. Interestingly, the restaurant is a smaller smokehouse that cooks a limited amount daily and sometimes sells out of items like fries and chicken wings.

Value and Pricing

The challenge carries a 60-dollar penalty if competitors fail to finish within 30 minutes, though the actual charge was 55 dollars based on pricing from when the challenge started. Winners receive their entire meals for free, branded T-shirts (to be made since no one had previously won), their names and photos on the Wall of Fame, and the first winner also receives an additional 55 dollars cash. Radim, finishing first, claimed this bonus prize. Both competitors beat the 30-minute deadline, making this a valuable experience both for bragging rights and the actual prize money.

Notable Moments

Nobody has actually won this. 67 people have tried and failed, and that is because all of this food must be finished within just 30 minutes.

He finished in 20 minutes and 38 seconds. Redeem is the very first winner, so he is going to get the 55 dollar cash prize for being the first winner.

I don't think I've ever had anybody mix apple pie filling into beans. It's a very unique and great idea.

A lighthearted moment occurred when Randy expressed disappointment that D's Smokehouse didn't sell boiled peanuts, joking he could have ordered D's nuts. There was also humor around Radim not ordering the white queso mac and cheese despite his known love of cheese, with Randy ordering it specifically to showcase it. The camaraderie between the two competitors was evident, with friendly mockery and competition throughout the eating process.

The Verdict

D's Smokehouse delivers authentic, high-quality barbecue that rightfully earned the title of undefeated challenge until these two competitors arrived. Every component of the meal impressed, from the tender, flavorful brisket to the creative side dishes like beans with apple pie filling. This restaurant is perfect for serious barbecue enthusiasts and those looking for a genuine challenge. The homemade sauces, quality meat preparation, and creative side combinations show that Dakota and Hannah have built something special in their year and a half of operation. Whether attempting the legendary challenge or simply enjoying a regular meal, D's Smokehouse offers excellent barbecue in a welcoming community environment.