Restaurant review: Bono’s BBQ in Stuart is now Sweet Smoke Southern Kitchen

There’s no shortage of objects on the walls to keep diners intrigued.
There’s no shortage of objects on the walls to keep diners intrigued.

While driving south on Route 1 in Stuart, we noticed Bono's BBQ had a new sign. The owner of the business had rebranded the restaurant, that is now known as Sweet Smoke Southern Kitchen, so we decided to check it out.

A host and several patrons at the lively bar greeted us as we walked through the door. We were seated at a large booth right near the salad bar, something one doesn't encounter too much these days, but plenty of folks were enjoying it.

A congenial young man approached our table for drink orders and highlighted some of the items from the vast menu. Our table was adorned with several flavors of barbecue sauces and other condiments which he explained as well.

The walls are covered with old time photographs and memorabilia, so much so as it prompted me to take a walk around to admire it all.

An appetizer of sweet corn nuggets had a crunchy coating followed by a velvety inside.
An appetizer of sweet corn nuggets had a crunchy coating followed by a velvety inside.

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Upon my return, we decided to start with an order of sweet corn nuggets ($8.99). The generous portion arrived piping hot straight from the fryer. Seriously crunchy on the outside and filled with sweet, creamy corn. A dusting of powdered sugar and honey for dipping left us vying for who got the last one.

Feeling the need for some protein to balance me out, I decided on the Two Meat Combo ($21.99). There were several choices including chicken, brisket, baby back ribs, spare ribs, smoked turkey, and shrimp.

The Pick 2 combo offered a choice of two proteins and two sides.
The Pick 2 combo offered a choice of two proteins and two sides.

Served with garlic toast on a parchment-lined steel tray, I chose sliced brisket, which was tasty, and smoked turkey, which was disappointing, as the texture was unappealing. With over 20 sides to choose from, I decided to forgo the greenery, and splurge with sweet potato fries and mac and cheese which were both very good.

My husband went for something from the Creative Cuts portion of the menu.

The sweet smoked pie was an indulgent blend of flavor and texture.
The sweet smoked pie was an indulgent blend of flavor and texture.

Dubbed Sweet Smoke Pie ($19.99), this flavor explosion consisted of a blend of smoked meats, carrots, corn, onions, and peas with mashed potatoes, melted cheddar cheese, and brown gravy, along with garlic toast. The presentation and flavor profile were quite impressive and I can honestly say when I visit again, I will be ordering this dish.

After clearing our table, our waiter appeared with a dessert tray of house-made treats.

The homemade chocolate peanut butter pie was one of the best I’ve tasted.
The homemade chocolate peanut butter pie was one of the best I’ve tasted.

He had me at chocolate peanut butter pie ($5.49). Since it is our favorite dessert, we couldn't pass it up. The plentiful rich filling was dense and delicious, perfectly paired with a chocolate crumb crust. I was informed that the desserts change frequently, so you can call to see what they're offering any given day.

I was impressed with the drive-thru service that offers the full menu. It really makes it easy and convenient to take out quality food.

Sweet Smoke Southern Kitchen

Cuisine: Southern\BBQ

Address: 2290 SE Federal Hwy, Stuart

Phone: 772-283-0078

Hours: 7 a.m.-9 p.m. daily

Alcohol: Full bar

Online: www.sweetsmokestuart.com

Susan Dennis dines anonymously at the expense of TCPalm and #WhatToDoin772. Contact her at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Find brisket, smoked turkey and more at Sweet Smoke Southern Kitchen