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Many bikers ride through Cicero because of the scenic ride out historic 8th Street from Anderson, or for the view of Morse Lake. But now there’s another good reason to ride or drive to Cicero: Big Dog’s Smokehouse BBQ, located at 29 East Jackson Street, just east of IN 19. The historic building was recently a Motorcycle repair shop, before being turned into an eatery in late 2011. The building retains historic brick walls, now covered with Coke memorabilia and other antique signs. But the fun atmosphere is not the best part. The energetic and fun staff is glad to suggest different menu combinations. You can go all-you-can-eat, or just single portion menu items. The half rack of ribs was $12.99 including two homemade sides. I had potato Salad and creamy cole slaw, both very tasty and fresh. The ribs had a pronounced smokey flavor, which I found very good. I chose ‘Original’ from their range of sauces (Simply Sweet, Outrageous Original, Mustard Tiger, Smokin Hot, Flamethrower, and Lincoln’s Ghost) and enjoyed the just right seasoning in a tomato sauce- it was some of the best BBQ I have ever tasted. I also was able to wrestle some brisket away from my wife, and it was extremely tender and had outstanding flavor. We were not so lucky when we took ½ of my generous portion of ribs home with a few bones in a doggy bag for our big dog, Lili, an 84 lb. Lab-Sheppard mix- she not only got the bones from the doggy bag, but snarfed down my few leftover ribs before we could we could wrestle it away from her! (No joke!) We will definitely have to return to try their smoked sausage, pulled pork, and BBQ chicken. The smoked BBQ, fun atmosphere and staff make Big Dog’s a destination for your ride (or drive!)
