Mission BBQ - @@@

This is actually my second visit to Mission BBQ which is a good sign. I would put it definitely at the high end of the 3 scale as I thought it was better than Buz and Teds. They also get lots of love on the reviews for a heavily patriotic theme inside.

On to the food. This time I got the ribs, original sausage, and brisket. I really wanted the brisket and the ribs and sausage were bonus. The 2 ribs I had were good, not needing sauce and pretty tender for spare ribs. I actually prefer a bit more resistance for spare ribs but it shows they must cook them for a while. Surprisingly moist so I wouldn't doubt if they covered them or roasted them as well. Still had smoke flavor though. I did get my snap from the sausage which I thought was really good. Well spiced, meaty, crunchy skin was all good. The best was the brisket though. Moist cut was flavorful, tender, and not needing sauce. I did try the sauce though and my 2 favorites were Memphis Belle and Tupelo Honey Heat. Notice both are somewhat sweet and savory so I think I have picked up a theme. Didn't care too much for the sides today - I had baked cheesy potatoes and green beans. Similar to last time they "messed up" and gave me an extra side...not sure if that's a move but was not turned down. They sadly did not stand out for me though, the potatoes had some celery in it which I didn't love and the beans were cooked for a while and almost mushy. They were alright overall. The cornbread was pretty good although I didn't finish both pieces if that says anything.

I would, and did, come back. I thought the brisket is the way to go and while not the best ever it is still pretty good - and would be a winner back home. Prices are pretty good, essentially I got 3 meats and sides for ~$25, which could be 2 meals. Service is also really good here - helpful and prompt both times I was here and you get your food quickly.

5432 Glenside Dr
Richmond, VA 23228

Paschals - @@@

Wholly satisfying airport layover dinner at Paschals tonight. The classic after-golf hunger was upon me and I remembered this place in concourse B always looked decent as I flew to work. Since I limit eating fried chicken while at work due to messiness factors, I happily ordered it on the way home from a golf weekend in Tampa.

It's in the center food court so it is a cafeteria style line. They have options like fried steak, wings, tenders, and some baked fish. Clearly the choice was going to go with the fried chicken but the fried steak looked good as well. It looked similar to smothered steak in gravy and not that fried...I could be wrong though. Got the fried chicken and mashed potatoes and collard greens as sides. The bread was not ready so sadly no cornbread. The other side options included fried okra, beans, rice/gravy, mac and cheese, and a few others.

The fried chicken was good - hot and crispy which is somewhat surprising for being in the airport but I did go during a main dinner time. Great fried color to the chicken and the skin did not come off all at once when you took a bite. One thing that I prefer is when the skin is seasoned with pepper and spices. This you could tell was a good flour crisp but wish it had more flavoring. I think this is somewhat against traditional fried chicken and for that my bad. I did use hot sauce but would still prefer more spice. The chicken I did think overall was quite tasty even as is. The sides were prepared well, I really liked the gravy and wish that there was more. The greens tasted very similar to other southern places but I have to remember that I just don't love the taste of collards. Each time I have them reminds me that they are not the greatest and that I should order a different side. Oh well.

I would come back here for a non-work transit meal and get the chicken again. Allegedly saw an award for best fried chicken in Atlanta for 2015 but don't know the other contestants. It was quite good. Seating is pretty good even though they are so busy in ATL since they have helpers to clean and take care of tables...good touch!

Concourse B, ATL airport