Folks, I've been around the block more times than I care to admit, chewed on brisket from one end of this great nation to the other, but let me tell y'all something right now: there ain't nothing—I mean nothing—like the BBQ at Goebel's Country Store in Shady Cove, Oregon. Every word in this article is worth its weight in pork belly.
Sitting pretty in the quaint little town of Shady Cove, just a stone's throw from the picturesque Rogue River, and a hop, skip, and a jump from Medford in Southern Oregon, Goebel's isn't just a place you stumble upon. No sir, it's a destination—a pilgrimage, if you will, for any self-respecting BBQ aficionado. And let me tell you, the journey to get there? It's as beautiful as a sunset over the Rio Grande.
The Most Authentic Texas BBQ in Oregon
When we say AUTHENTIC, we mean it. Goebel's has BBQ roots that run deep; all the way back to Texas with wood shipped up from the Lone Star State itself—mesquite, pecan, post oak—and it shows in every bite. Laura, one of the masterminds behind this operation, hails from New Braunfels, Texas, and has brought a piece of that BBQ heaven to Oregon.
Laura and her talented husband, Pit Master Seth are the folks who rise with the roosters to start the magic that results in the tastiest BBQ meats and sides you've ever laid your taste buds on. We're talking brisket that melts in your mouth, smoked sausage with just the right snap, spare ribs you'll dream about, and smoked chicken that could make a grown man cry.
But folks, let's talk about the pork belly. This ain't just any old cut of meat; it's what can be affectionately called "meat candy." It's so good, it ought to be a sin. And the sides? Creamy coleslaw, cowboy beans, and country potato salad that round off the meal like a perfect chord in a country ballad. Just like in Texas, meat is never sauced. That's served on the side.
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There's a special place in my heart for the "Sloppy Jalopy" sandwich: Pulled pork, barbecue sauce, pickles, onions, and creamy coleslaw served on a sesame seed bun.
For lighter appetites, you can get any of Goebel's smoked meat in a smaller portion as a Taco. To feed a small army, there are Family Packs at reasonable prices.
Now, if your eyes can handle more beauty after feasting on that BBQ, Goebel's doubles as a treasure trove of locally produced art, jewelry, and even stuffed big game. It's like they've got a mini-mall of wonders in there, and it changes all the time, so you best not miss out.
I've got to give a special shoutout to the jalapeno poppers on a stick, bacon-wrapped and served up only on Fridays. Get there early, because they fly off the grill faster than a jackrabbit in a coyote chase. And if you're worried about the price, let me put it this way: you can't put a price on art, but Goebel's? It's a steal.
Folks on Google Reviews attest they've driven all the way from Yreka, CA to Shady Cove, just to get their hands on Goebels' pork belly burnt ends and smoked brisket sandwich. And let me tell you, it's worth every mile. Sitting outside at their picnic tables, sinking your teeth into ribs and brisket so tender and flavorful, you'd swear you've been transported to a BBQ paradise.
Y'all, if you're ever in Southern Oregon, or even if you aren't, make the trip to Goebel's Country Store and BBQ. It's not just a meal; it's an experience—a testament to what happens when passion meets pitmaster perfection. And if you see a tent pitched out front come Friday, well, that's just me making sure I get my jalapeno poppers before they run out.
Where is Goebel's Country Store Located?
Address: 22299 OR-62, Shady Cove, OR 97539
Phone: 541-878-3807
Hours: Wed-Sun, 11am-7pm. Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Social: facebook.com/sethmgoebel