Cheap Eats: Battle’s BBQ offers hickory-smoked goodness on a bun

Cheap Eats: Battles BBQ offers hickory-smoked goodness on a bun

by Sheena SmitleyStaff Writer

After living in Indianola for over three years, other campus residents and myself are surely in need of some serious chow. That’s where the new Battles BBQ restaurant comes into play. Open Monday through Saturday 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., it’s easy on the nearly-empty bank accounts we all have and it’s more than friendly to our nearly “Pfeiffer-ed-out” taste buds.

Let me begin by telling you that the aroma in this place is incredible –in a good way- (at first). Not only does it reek of the scent of hickory smokehouse, but it will leave you smelling like a walking dog treat for hours. If you’re me, your somewhat lippy older sibling may tease you, reminding you that you smell like hot dogs…eight hours later.

But don’t let that keep you from enjoying all that this quaint little place has to offer. For lunch, my friend and I were more than stuffed with our barbeque pork and turkey sandwiches on wheat, complete with a bag of Ruffles potato chips, a dill pickle spear and our choice of hot or mild sauce. You’ll raise an eyebrow or two at the thought of an extra side of Texas toast for a mere 55 cents. But beware: this toast comes by the half loaf! Of course, other sides, such as potato salad, coleslaw and baked beans are available as well and you have the option for white, wheat or onion bread with your sandwich. Not to mention that regular and large sandwiches are available and for dinner, entrees include rib tips, a half chicken and pork chops.

Wondering about the sauce? If you’re like me, you’ll love the mild sauce that’s packed with a tangy punch. For those braver, the hot sauce will lure you in. It won’t leave you gasping for air but it will certainly satisfy your craving for something spicy. Dip as much or as little as you want, or simply pour all of it on top for a mouthwatering combination.

If that’s not enough to entice you, perhaps the old-fashioned country atmosphere will do the trick. Jazz music celebrates a rich, southern tradition while the rustic red walls and green-checked tablecloths will remind you of the good ole’ hometown cookin’ that we’re all so familiar with. Complete with tin plates and old fashioned mason jars for beverages, as well as a wonderfully pleasant lady taking orders in her every day clothes and an old school Pepsi menu, this place is sure to make you miss home.

So whether you’re out for a quick lunch or a dinner away from campus, Battles BBQ wins out. It will leave your taste buds screaming for more and it will leave your clothes in need of a wash. Either way, it’s a breath of fresh air compared to the other restaurants that Indianola has to offer.