Sid’s Smokehouse in Aptos is a neighborhood gathering place with a laid-back sports bar vibe that is also family-friendly.
Open every day except Tuesday from 11:30am-8pm, their food is barbecue-centric, and manager Brooke Lashlee describes the place as a fun little spot that is all about good times. She’s been there three years, and has a passion for hospitality and 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry. She spoke to GT recently about what makes Sid’s special and some standouts from their menu.
What sets Sid’s apart?
BROOKE LASHLEE: First of all, our chef is truly fantastic, and you’d be hard pressed to find anything that’s not delicious on our menu. His name is Luz Alvarez, and he has over 35 years of professional cooking experience in a wide variety of cuisines. Even though we are a barbecue place, we really have something for everyone. We also do wood-fired pizzas, burgers, excellent salads, and we have a great kid’s menu. All the meats are done in our in-house smoker, and we use white oak wood for a lighter smoky taste. We also have a great craft beer selection, some of which are local favorites. One crowd-pleasing beer on tap is the West Coast Green Flash Double IPA; it’s very full-bodied and really hits the spot after a long day. It’s been a real joy having guests back at the bar after the last year and being able to serve our community again.
What are some signature dishes?
I would definitely highlight our appetizer menu by mentioning our smoked bacon jalapeño poppers, stuffed with cream cheese and beer-soaked sausage and wrapped in bacon. They are phenomenal, and people really rave about them. Our customizable barbecue plates are a bestseller; guests can choose their favorite meats from our five offerings, which are pulled pork, beef brisket, smoked chicken, St. Louis pork ribs and Corralitos hot links. They are all delicious in their own way and come with two of over a dozen sides. I have a new favorite side every day; right now I’m obsessed with the Fuji apple slaw, which is lightly creamy and has a little cilantro. And I also really love our collard greens with bacon. Our signature dessert is our house-made banana bread pudding finished with caramel and candied pecans. It’s fantastic and is truly the best bread pudding I’ve ever had.
10110 Soquel Drive, Aptos. 831-662-2227, sidssmokehouse.com.
sports bar vibe? with what, six flippin tv’s, that place is misguided
as someone who has zero interest in being BOMBARDED by flashing tv nonsense, the barely average que does not make much a draw for this foodie