The owners and crew at 4 Rivers have created a place where BBQ is king but this court is full of many different delights including a surprisingly impressive array of well-crafted desserts. 4R is on it’s way to becoming a south Tampa institution.

Your order is taken in a cafeteria-style line and served on metal trays lined with butcher paper. No frills, just good food. Rolls of paper towels are on the family style tables and you’re going to need them. The meat is the star with deep flavored long smoked Brisket, Pulled or Sliced Pork, Pulled Chicken, Smoked Turkey, Sausage and, of course, the prized Burnt Ends. They also serve up perfectly cooked Tri-Tip and Prime Rib. I highly recommend the sausage. It’s a juicy, leaner combination of beef and port – a real Texas-style link. All the meats are available as full dinners or as a stacked sandwich. Smoked Chicken and Ribs round out the menu.

Beyond the carving stations 4 Rivers offers 18 sides so you’ll have no trouble doubling down on your appetite. While the Collards were under seasoned, there is a large array of sauces to spice things up. I love the house Hot BBQ sauce that is a perfect blend of sweet and heat. The Baked Cheese Grits are a shout out to corn pudding cut into squares of luxurious cheesy goodness. If you are adventurous try the Smoked Jalapenos or Fried Pickles.

There are also 5 offerings “From the Garden” including a Smoked Portobello sandwich and a substantial list of  “Lil’Bites” meals for the little ones.

There are grab-n-go drinks available as well as fountain drinks but if beer is your handle this is not your place as there is only small selection of bottled beer. Convenient call-ahead take out is available and there is a large covered patio for outdoor seating. While 4 Rivers is casual enough to be relaxing it is also well appointed enough to make dining there a real pleasure. Huge portions of carefully crafted smoked meats and sides, house made desserts, dressings and sauces will make you feel right at home in this smoke house kingdom.

More info is available at 4RSMOKEHOUSE.COM