Firehouse on the Run — Restaurant in Gleneagle

It's not always about the size of a place, or how new and pristine. But the heart and character. Now that matters.

Returning to Colorado Springs, Colorado; a 40 year absence from my first experience in 1985, I was in awe of the growth of the Springs. But as I familiarized myself to the territory, I revisited the quaint community of Black Forest. With that, and hunger pains looming, I pulled into a small establishment. A small Barbecue place called Firehouse on the Run.

The building doubles as a convenience store up front, and Barbecue in the back. Again, you wouldn't think, but without hesitation, I was about to experience something special.

I ordered a beef brisket sandwich/w sweet BBQ sauce and a generous portion of potato salad.

Seating is very limited on the inside, but there is a patio and picnic tables outside. When my food came, I didnt care where I was, as long as the food was where I was.

The brisket was delicious, especially with the sauce, but what I was raving about more was the potato salad. Let me explain. I am from the South, in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. If there was ever a food marriage made in heaven, on earth, it would be the creamy mustard based potato salad and WNC.

In other words, I was right at home in the front range of the Colorado Rockies. The cool freshness and overall taste of the potato salad was one for the ages. I didn't know if the potato salad complimented the brisket, or was it the other way?

But isnt that the way it supposed to work? One compliments the other?

While there, I had a wonderful conversation with an employee that took care of me. I also met the owner. A young man with a humbleness about him. The interaction with the staff made my visit that much more special.

Sure, many of the patrons to this place, grab and go. But due to my proximity and commute, I took in the scene with grace and thankfulness. But if you're in and around Colorado Springs, and you're hungry, I suggest you make you a run to Firehouse on the Run. And whatever type of cut you get, you gotta get the potato salad. This boy from the south knows what he's...

Restaurant Review: Firehouse BBQ on the Run

Rating: ★★★★★

Firehouse BBQ on the Run is nothing short of a culinary gem that elevates the barbecue experience to new heights. From the moment you walk in, you’re enveloped by the tantalizing aroma of expertly smoked meats, setting the stage for an unforgettable meal.

The smoked brisket is a standout—tender, juicy, and infused with a rich, smoky flavor that melts in your mouth. The bark on the outside adds a perfect textural contrast, making each bite a delight. The chicken is equally impressive, with a perfectly crispy skin that gives way to succulent, flavorful meat. And let’s not forget the ribs: fall-off-the-bone tender, they are glazed to perfection and embody the essence of authentic barbecue.

Now, let’s talk about the sauces. The “Bobenero” sauce is a revelation—sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of heat. It surpasses even the most renowned sauces from Kansas City, adding an extra layer of depth to the already exquisite meats. Each dip or drizzle enhances the flavors without overwhelming them.

The service at Firehouse BBQ is impeccable. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about the food they serve. They go above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience, making you feel like a valued guest.

The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between casual comfort and vibrant energy. With its rustic decor and lively vibe, it’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a relaxed meal with friends or family.

Management deserves commendation for maintaining such high standards across the board. Firehouse BBQ on the Run isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of barbecue culture that leaves you craving more. If you haven’t yet visited, make it your next destination—you won’t be...

If you’re looking to spend $40+ on some good quality bbq, try some place else. The poor lady running the spot was overwhelmed with not enough help for a small lunch run of 3-5 people. They didn’t have lids for containers that fit and just seemed to be running around like chickens with their heads cut off.

They have set pricing so if you want just a half rack of ribs and no sides, prepare to have them try to figure out how to price that (and fail) so be prepared to order exactly how their menu lists. Want 1/4 of brisket instead of 1/2? They can do some back door pricing to charge you for a sandwich and which is really only 3$ less than the 1/2 of just meat.

That honestly isn’t a big deal but the quality of the bbq is very low. The brisket was extremely over cooked and fatty (untrimmed) and while I asked for it sliced like traditional brisket, the slices pretty much mush and you could have told me it was chopped brisket and I would believe you. The ribs have good flavor but the sausage was cold so it’s clear a lot of this meat is reheated and not fresh.

The spot is in a gas station which usually leads to greatness in my experience but the quality of this bbq is very low for the price you pay. Get a drink from the bottles they have available since their fountain drinks dispenser is very obviously never cleaned and I’m sure the lines haven’t been cleaned in years. Lets not even check the ice machine!

Just get gas and move on to a better...