{18 July 2000}:
Just when you find a really great place, somebody else comes along who thinks
they can do better and buys out the one you like. We stopped at Red River
about a week ago not even looking at the sign over the door (since everything
was so similar). It wasn't until we sat down and began looking over the
new menu that we began to suspect something. When asked about some of our
favorites that were no longer there, we discovered Red River had been bought
out by Famous Dave's. We were assured, however, they were just as good. Well,
based upon what we did order from the Famous Dave's menu, I would have to
disagree. Admittedly, we did not order ribs (ordered the Texas Brisket
Sandwich and salad), but the item we did order was sort of run-of-the-mill. When
doused with the barbeque sauces on the table, it was clear we had lost a very
good restaurant in Red River. The sauces were not the typical sickly sweet
sauces one usually finds, but they certainly were not the full flavored sauces
with a kick that Red River provided. We may give Famous Dave's another try,
but I'm not holding out a lot of hope.
On top of that, the decor has changed to more of a mid-west mixture that is
less interesting and somewhat tacky including deer antler chandaliers, stuffed
deer over the fireplace and rather loud obnoxious music was played making it
difficult to hold a conversation. This may be the acknowledged new trend in
restaurants that caters to the younger crowd [the loud music], but it does not sit well with
everyone...especially the older group which is often likely to be the best
and most loyal customers. The loud music alone is one factor likely to make
us rethink going back there again. We're already considering trying out other
nearby restaurants instead.
So long Red River. You will be missed.
{07 September 1999}:
Needless to say, we've stopped here often on our frequent excursions West.
The latest trip we tried a few new items including the chili, fresca
chicken sandwich and brisket enchilada grande. All were very good. The chili
had a few more onions than necessary, both in the chili and spread on top as
a garnish, but the flavor was very good...and it left a nice light burn as
well. The enchilada was made with the slow-cooked brisket and served with
melted cheese topping and salsa fresca and sour cream (rice and bean mixture
on the side). The enchilada was great; the rice and beans had a good flavor
but were a bit on the dry side. However, all-in-all, the whole meal was up
to par with all the others. Red River is a winner with us.
Personal Review :
Thanks to an accident on I70 and heavy rain, we ended up wandering around
through Frederick and eventually ended up on Patrick (Rte 40) on the west
side of town where we bailed out for something to eat one afternoon on our
way out west. We stopped at the Red River Barbeque & Grille for what turned
out to be one of the best selections of well cooked barbeque and sauces we
have been able to find in Maryland. The 'hot' barbeque sauce was excellent
and can be bought in pints and quarts if you'd like to take some home. The
meal was excellent and the service very good. Noise level was a little high
but acceptable. Our three entrees included the baby back ribs, wild west
cheddar burger and the pulled pork bbq dinners (the 1st two doused
with the 'regular' sauce; the latter with the 'hot' sauce). There are seven
different sauces one can try; all but the 'hot' are on the table. The
Daredevil has got to have some habanero peppers in it. It was wicked!, but
good. Don't even think of trying that one unless you're into very hot
sauces. If you do, you should have one of Red River's excellent Riveritas
at the ready. The Riverita is their own brand of Margarita and was among the
best we've had. Needless to say, we've already been back for more.
Red River has several locations in Maryland including Frederick, Annapolis, Columbia and Waldorf. Give one a try. You won't regret it.