MISSION BBQ — Restaurant in Tulsa

My family and I had just wrapped up a long day driving back from Muskogee. We had already settled on another place for dinner while stopping for gas, but as we cruised down 71st Street, something caught our eye—a new tenant had taken over the spot where one of our favorite restaurants used to be. Mission BBQ. Well, now that was unexpected. Could we fall in love with this place too? Only one way to find out. Without hesitation, we made the most legal U-turn possible and pulled into the lot.

First impressions? Solid. Parking was a breeze, and as soon as we walked in, we felt the welcoming atmosphere. The employees were an absolute delight—they looked like they actually enjoyed being there, which is always a good sign. The manager, in particular, was exceptionally kind as we placed our orders.

I appreciated the no-nonsense menu. Pick a protein, pick a side, grab a drink—boom, done. I went straight for the brisket because, let’s be honest, if I’m going to fall in love with a BBQ joint, it’s going to be through brisket. A couple of my family members followed suit, while my two sons opted for burgers.

Food arrived in about five minutes—impressive. In that time, I did a quick restroom check (because, you know, due diligence). Slightly messy in the urinal area but nothing catastrophic. However, I have to ask: why does every BBQ place insist on hanging a Marilyn Monroe picture in the men’s room? Right at eye level. It’s almost a requirement at this point. El güey.

Back at the table, our food was ready. And oh my goodness. Did I fall in love? The brisket was a sight to behold—beautifully smoked, with that glorious bark and an aroma that could make a grown man emotional. One bite in, and I was hooked. So hooked, in fact, that my family helped themselves to a sample of my plate—which, frankly, merry-tated me a little. But hey, we do these things for family.

My sons devoured their burgers and gave them full approval. The brisket was so good that we ended up ordering another serving just to keep the happiness going.

By the time we finished, I knew: this place is a keeper. If I ever find myself in need of brisket—or just a fusion of happiness—I know exactly where to go. Mission accomplished, Mission BBQ. Until next time.

Oh, one more thing, what kind of barbecue place does not...

We were really excited about having a new BBQ place so close to the house. Boy were we disappointed. We spent almost $100.00 for 3 people to eat. For food we order at the counter and wait on ourselves. That is an exorbitant amount for fast food. Now to the food. I got a two meat combo with Ribs and (wet) brisket. The ribs barely had any meat on them and they were caked in "rub". Because they were small, the ribs were overcooked and tough. The wet brisket was basically all fat. It was not good texture wise. My favorite thing about my meal was the cornbread and the cheesy potatoes. I did not care for the beans. I'm just used to sweet baked beans. As for their sauces the house favorite was the sweet one. They all had too much vinegar. My partner had the three meat combo with ribs, sliced brisket, and jalapeño sausage. He had the same experience. The best part of his meal was the cornbread. After eating at this establishment we felt like the whole "soldier theme" was manipulative and pandering to the lowest common denominator. People are going to eat there simply because "Merica". The atmosphere was extremely loud and when our food was ready (to go) they didn't bother calling our name. Unsure why. After seeing multiple people get their food who arrived after us, I went to the counter and the lady said, "oh yeah , the cashier told me not to call your name yet". I asked why? She didn't know. So our food was room temperature when we got home to our house 1/2 a mile away. Needless to say, we won't be back. Clark Crew BBQ just opened up 1/4 mile up the street. I highly recommend going...

The food was good. The meat was nice and had a good smokie flavor. The sides were fine. The service I received was horrible! I went in for a carryout meal and as I approached the counter to order my food, there was a cashier on the first register. He was finishing up a transaction with a customer and after he finished, he proceeded to have a lengthy conversation with the customer, never acknowledging me. There was a register next to him and another worker would approach it off and on, stocking cups, or what have you. (At this point, I was beginning to feel a little out of place and embarrassed. Like maybe, they didn't care to have me there, or want my business. There wasn't a line and I was the only person standing there between the two registers) After the 2nd worker was about to walk away from that register for the second time, I stopped him and asked him if I was in the right spot to order my food? He said, "I can take your order." Usually, when I don't like the service I received, I just decide if I'm ever going there again, or not. I have never given a bad review on a restaurant but from the way I was blatantly ignored, I feel like this may be the norm for this. I was so excited about this place opening because it's close to where I live, and had been spreading the word of its opening to family and friends. But I won't be going back there and I'll also tell my family to not waste their time, because I have a feeling this is how they would probably be...