We left the city heading to Sherman CT for the weekend with a car filled with groceries, planning to cook dinner when we arrived. But as we approached the state we began looking for a place to eat as we were hungry and didn’t want to wait. The first place had an hour wait. We 
kept driving when the driver recalled the amazing BBQ they had recently, not too far from where we were.
The aroma from Big W’s Roadside Bar B Que on route 22 was enticing, as were the smiles on those eating outside on picnic benches. We happily indulged in their combination plate for one, which was more than enough for the three of us, including one teenage boy! That combo included 1/4 rack of ribs, 1/4 chicken, brisket slices, sweet corn pudding and cole slaw ($27.50).
The beef brisket had just the right amount of smoke and was oh, so succulent; the chicken was tender, too; and the meaty pork rib flesh practically fell off the bone. Although we were served a vinegary BBQ sauce, the meat didn’t need it. I had to chat with the chef/owner to know more about him and his phenomenal offerings.
Warren Norstein, the “W” in Big W, started his culinary career — after many odd jobs and completing culinary school — in the kitchen at Bouley in Tribeca, NYC.
This rotund man’s eyes sparkled as he shared his story of working with and for many of NYC’s chef royalty, with workdays well over 12 hours. He gave up the security of a pay check and the long hours to spend more time with his wife and four kids.
Today this happy Brooklyn boy spends his days smoking his meats and enjoying his customers. Each day, he plays a real estate logistic game with the space on his smoker — only 3 hours time for chicken wings but 17 hours for brisket with varying times for the other meats.
His sides — cole slaw, baked beans, corn pudding etc — are nothing special but you don’t come back to Big W’s for the them.
Don’t miss this fabulous BBQ! If you’re in the tri-state area and driving upstate NY, I’d suggest a detour to Wingdale, NY on Route 22 for his BBQ. But don’t get there too late, he may be sold out.
– bonnie
Big W’s Roadside Bar B Que
Hudson Valley
1475 Route 22,
Wingdale, NY 12594
(845) 832-6200
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