Hidden Gems Of Connecticut

ELLINGTON, CT — This week's Hidden Gem is tucked into a little spot in Ellington at the convergence of two state roads, near a school and parked amid a collection of cars waiting for some care and recreational and nautical vehicles waiting to be launched for the season. Crystal Lake, a major recreation spot in the region, is nearby.

OK ... OK ... it's there when the culinary crew is not on the road visiting various local events.

Welcome to Backwoods Smokin' BBQ at 291 Sandy Beach Road in Ellington.

It specializes in those barbecue staples — chicken, ribs, pulled pork and brisket. The brisket is particularly renowned in the state.

When the smoker and trailer are not parked at the Ellington Location at 291 Sandy Beach Road, it can be encountered at various events in the area.

Oh yes ... there is a catering service too.

Here are some reviews :

• "Not only is the food consistently fantastic but the couple who run this food truck are awesome! I would recommend to anyone looking for exceptional and authentic BBQ. Not to mention the sides. YUM! The Mac and cheese, potato salad and the baked beans are not to be missed."
• "We just had Backroads Smokin' BBQ cater a surprise b-day party at our home. The food was absolutely amazing and the owners are such great people. Everyone was talking about how delicious all the food was. We had someone here that was born and raised in Louisiana and even she said the food was fantastic! I appreciated how easy they made the planning process and how they went out of their way to accommodate us and make sure everything went smoothly. I can’t recommend them enough. If you are looking for delicious BBQ-owned by great people-this is the place!!"
• "Amazing little BBQ stand, super quick service and delicious creations. Bring your appetite!"
• "Food is amazing and portions are bigger than advertised."
• "I had come back to Ellington to help my father pack up his house for a move and noticed this place. Had great reviews so decided to try it. Let’s just say, where was this place before I moved years ago! Great food, great people, great location! Highly suggest you try because it’ll become your local go to for BBQ!!!"

Patrons should check the Facebook page for the hours ahead if time because they can fluctuate with demand for events.

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The Hidden Gems series features out-of-the-way mom and pop restaurants, small specialty stores you may have never heard of, little-known historical markers or beautiful nature spots that may be a bit off the beaten path, all located within Connecticut. Other columns in this series for 2021 include:

• The Ranch House
• Connecticut State Police Museum
• Berlin Historic District
• Connecticut Parachutists Skydiving Club
• Tail Winds Ice Cream Shop
• The MLK Mural
• The Hilltop Restaurant and Bar
• Fork & Fire
• Lena's Italian Kitchen
• The Benedict Arnold Trail
• Swank Pearce
• Vernon Depot Historic Park
• Farr's Sporting Goods
• Robs Drivin Diner

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