Big Tasty's — Restaurant in West Linn

I see a lot of 5 star reviews for this place. If you love it, that's awesome. If you're looking for amazing BBQ brisket, you might want to keep looking.

We've had brisket and BBQ at several places around the country. The brisket here is just okay, and I wouldn't come back unless things changed.

First thing to note: the brisket is sliced the wrong direction, giving you long chewy muscle fibers. It needs to be cut so you get short fibers which are easier to chew. And there was plenty of chewing since it's a little on the dry side. I'm really used to melt-in-your-mouth brisket, and this definitely did not melt.

Second: we really didn't taste much smoke flavor at all. All we could really taste was black pepper. We could not see any sort of smoke ring on the meat. It seems like it's being smoked for too short of time at too high of temperature, leading to drier meat and less smoke flavor. Also, the seasoning didn't really penetrate into the meat, leaving any flavor just on the outside edge/bark. And again, that only flavor is black pepper.

Third: due to the things noted above, the brisket just tasted like a pot roast, not BBQ brisket. Same texture as pot roast also (long muscle fibers) since it's sliced wrong. You can get the exact same thing out of your slow cooker at home, for a much better price.

Fourth: sides cost extra. Most places at least include a scoop or 2 of something to go along with the meat, which makes it a better value. All you get here is meat, bread, pickles, and onions.

Other notes: The BBQ sauce is pretty sweet, so if you like sweet sauces you'll like theirs. The pickles they provide are also sweet, so keep that in mind if you are particular about your pickles. The Mexican street corn was probably the best thing we had, but it's not your traditional Mexican street corn. The broccoli salad comes with sauce on the side, but it really needs to soak in that sauce for a while or something. The sauce didn't really stick to the broccoli.

One last thing to note: You don't need to drop so many F-bombs around your customers. It's a bit off putting when we're just trying to...

We visited a new food truck pod dangerously close to my office in Tigard. What a FANTASTIC lunch at this newly opened BBQ food truck called Cockmans kitchen. Maria is so fun & friendly not to mention has some pretty delicious food. Her and her husband Adam run the truck, smoke the meat and make all the sides. We tried the pork belly special, 1/2 lb juicy brisket, broccoli salad, baked beans and Mexican street corn. If you are craving BBQ this is the spot you need to check out. The Brisket was juicy and flavorful. The BBQ sauce was sweet with a hint of spice. The Broccoli salad was just like my family makes. The beans were tasty. I wasn't super excited about the Mexican street corn. It was different from the traditional creamy kind. I probably wouldn't get it again but that broccoli salad and beans are a definite go for me!! The pork belly was good but could use a toss in the grill after smoked to caramelize the BBQ sauce and give it another note. This is a brand new food truck small business so come and show them some love and try a few things. Give them your feedback because they want to make sure your experience is fantastic. Maria & Adam are doing it right! Keep up the great work with such a fun and loving spirit in the name of BBQ! See y'all...

Absolute BBQ perfection - 5 stars aren’t enough!

This place is everything a BBQ joint should be and more. The brisket alone is worth the trip - perfectly smoked with a beautiful bark, melt-in-your-mouth tender, and so flavorful you’ll be dreaming about it for days. DAYS! Every bite is clearly made with skill, patience, and genuine passion for the craft.

But what really sets this place apart is the incredible couple who run it. From the moment you walk up to their window, you’re treated like family. Their warmth and genuine kindness make the whole experience special - you can tell they truly care about every customer and take pride in what they serve. It’s the kind of hospitality that’s become rare these days.

The food is outstanding, but the heart and soul they put into this place is what makes it unforgettable. This is authentic BBQ done right by people who love what they do. Do yourself a favor and get here as...