Barbecue has had an almost sacredness, not only with its preparation, but also regarding when and how it’s eaten. A communal dining experience, barbecue is typically enjoyed with family and friends. Think about it, you never see anyone eating BBQ alone, well maybe Pennywise the clown, but that’s about it.
In the South, barbecue is a religion of sorts; given that it is infused in just about every facet of life. Strangely, although it’s at the most southern tip of the United States, South Florida doesn’t carry the deep south’s cultural and barbecue traditions as close to the belt as places like Memphis, Kansas City and Charleston.
Troy’s BBQ in Boynton Beach is an exception. It embodies the nostalgia, flavor, and heartiness found in southern backyards, take-out windows, farmers’ markets, and of course church parking lots. A 30-year-old family business, Troy’s patriarch, Mr. Troy Davis, created this business from vast experience grilling (since 1980). One of the oldest and most respected pit masters in Florida, Troy grills his ribs on high heat rather than a slow smoking method. Troy isn’t alone in this method. Renowned African-American pit master Ed Mitchell of North Carolina is one of the best and agrees with this high heat method; having delicious ribs to you in less than an hour.
Papa Troy’s sons operate this beautifully decorated and spacious restaurant with experience, professionalism, and inviting leadership as seen through the smiling faces of employees who greet you with a Cold Stone’s level of happiness! General Manager and son, Anthony Barber was responsible for the amazing design of the restaurant, even importing wood, metals and other fixtures form Kentucky in giving the space classic BBQ decor. Vintage photos of Troy’s through the decades adorn the walls of this neighborhood staple.
The vast menu made it difficult to settle on just one thing so, of course, we ordered pretty much everything! I started with a Rib Dinner ($13.00) with every side available. When the wind is blowing just right, you can smell Troy’s amazing aroma almost a mile away from the new storefront. The fragrance of black-iron smokers blowing behind the crowded Boynton street may even convert vegans to try this insanely delicious barbecue, (don’t come for me vegans! Just keep reading and we good. No pressure. I heard they coming out with something for y’all too besides the side items, so calm down. I got you in a couple weeks).
Before I get into the ribs, let’s talk about these damn collard greens. Chef Trevor Davis, another son of Papa Troy throws down in the kitchen like his name is Mother Lula-Mae Thompson. I was lost for words after tasting his greens. These greens tasted like collards served at the first Juneteenth Celebration in 1870. I was so impressed I ordered a cup to go.
The other sides were just as delicious, but I would stick with the greens, potato salad, yams, beans and the mac and cheese. Wait, that’s pretty much all the sides, Damn. In my experience, it is rare for BBQ spots to have sides just as good as the proteins. As I write this, I am literally reminiscing on the smells, atmosphere, and family vibe this eatery provided. It was just an awesome experience.
Back to the ribs! These ribs are no joke. Papa Troy has spent a lifetime perfecting the taste and flavor of these babies! Tenderness and extra meaty is what stood out about the texture of the ribs along with a softer outer crust. The taste was extremely flavorful with a hint of vinegar, which gave it a tang welcoming their homemade barbecue sauce.
I’ve eaten at a couple BBQ spots in Boynton, but Troy’s seems to be top dawg in this town. You honestly won’t find their flavor in all of Palm Beach County. It was unique, delicious and provides you with a window into authentic Carolina style BBQ right here in South Florida.
Next was the BBQ Chicken. It rivaled my love for the ribs honestly. I generally like chicken more than any other protein, (please don’t go there with the black people chicken jokes, I have very soft skin and would probably cry) so I may be a bit partial. The chicken was tender and grilled to perfection with a poultry seasoning flavor that is created in-house. I also tasted hints of coriander, salt and other spices. I found it refreshing Troy’s doesn’t use the same seasoning on all their meat. The chicken tastes profoundly different from the ribs, as it should.
This spot has an assortment of desserts ranging from sweet potato pie to red velvet cake – all locally sourced from a baker in Boynton as well. One last thing! What would BBQ be without beer? Troy’s has just about every local craft beer, along with both domestic and international beers for your choosing.
Troy’s is an icon and is one of the best BBQ destinations in the state of Florida. The restaurant is beautiful, has comfortable seating, delicious sides, great service and INCREDIBLE BBQ! I can honestly state that it is the best I’ve had in Boynton. Period. The staff was friendly and showed true southern hospitality. I look forward to visiting this amazing family soon and getting some more killer BBQ. Troy’s BBQ is definitely Hungry Black Man Approved! Visit them at 1920 S Federal Hwy, Boynton Beach, FL 33435 or call (561) 740-1125.
So are the ribs better than Off The Bone, cause I believe you said they had the best ones?
They are in two different cities. They have different styles and taste. Each was great. The titles reflect my opinion. Thanks for the comment!