Orlando Hotspots: 4 Rivers Smokehouse

So you're driving around Orlando, most likely stuck on I-4 or International Drive, and you start to notice several bumper stickers that look like this:

Eventually you get close enough to read the website, type it into your smartphone (because using your phone and driving is still not illegal in Florida) and come across this website. Congratulations, your barbecue pedigree will never be the same again. 

Unlike many restaurants in Orlando, 4 Rivers has the distinction of being locally-owned. It's a small chain (with 3 locations in the Orlando area, and 1 in progress in Jacksonville), and the line can often be found out the door. Trust me, it's worth it. 

Like Salt Life did with clothes, 4 Rivers created a culture here in the Orlando area. You'd be hard pressed to find a local who hasn't heard of them. Besides their amazing food (which I'll get to in a minute), 4 Rivers is just a good-hearted company. Check this out from their website:

We are committed to producing the highest level of quality products and providing superior service to our customers, which distinguishes the 4 Rivers brand in the marketplace. Equally important, is our dedication to supporting our local businesses, schools, and charity organizations. We recognize the value of contributing to the growth of our community in order for our business to prosper. To that end, 4Rivers is proud to support organizations that are dedicated to building a stronger, safer and kinder community while creating hope for a brighter future for our children.

Now, what you've all been waiting for, how's the food? 

Amazing.

Southern Pulled Pork Sandwich with Mac n Cheese and Sweet Potato Casserole

My favorites are the Southern Pulled Pork and the Sweet Potato Casserole. The pork is tender, cooked to perfection, and the smokiness accents the sweet barbecue sauce well. As far as the casserole, I honestly hate sweet potatoes in every form, but 4 Rivers makes them taste amazing. They're sweet, creamy and nutty. The only problem is that they're so filling. You can eat 4 Rivers and be full for the rest of the day. The price isn't bad, either. For about $10 you can get a drink, sandwich and 2 sides. 

4 Rivers also has a Sweet Shop and you MUST try at least one thing. Today, I got a Coconut Bomb, which, though it doesn't photograph well (hence the lack of photo), tastes delicious.

As a Concierge, it's difficult to send guests more than a 15 minute drive away from the hotel, but when I can, I try to convince them to grab a taste of the amazing 4 Rivers Smokehouse. Next time any of y'all are in Orlando, you should definitely try it!