Located just south of Placerville along Historic Highway 49, the little town of El Dorado is a quaint community that’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. Like many small towns, dining options aren’t exactly abundant – however, don’t write off El Dorado just yet. This historic town is home to Poor Red’s, a delicious dining spot that was made for meat-eaters. This small-town BBQ spot is the place to go when you’ve got a hankering for some mouthwatering barbecue, burgers, and beer. Take a look:
Known for its world-famous barbecue and array of iconic cocktails, you simply must stop at Poor Red's BBQ when you find yourself in El Dorado, California. It may be hiding in a small town, but the flavors you'll find here are larger-than-life!
The historic restaurant is located on Pleasant Valley Road. The building was originally constructed as a Wells Fargo weigh station before operating as Kelly's Bar from 1927 to 1945. The restaurant was turned over to a man nicknamed "Poor Red" in the '40s after he won it in a game of dice.
The beloved eatery most recently underwent a major renovation in 2016. At this time, three locals took it upon themselves to inject some new life into the restaurant, and they definitely succeeded! Today, Poor Red's is a lively destination where folks can indulge in a hearty meal with friends and family.
Famous for their steak, chicken, and ribs, Poor Red's is a meat-eater's paradise. Poor Red's Ribs are one of the menu's most popular options. You can order them in a half-rack or full-rack portion, all rubbed up with spices and served up slathered in sauce.
The burgers and sandwiches are just as drool-worthy! The burgers consist of a generous portion of ground beef and are loaded with the most epic assortment of toppings. Be sure to have a pile of napkins on hand because things are definitely about to get messy.
Additionally, the beverages at Poor Red's do NOT take a backseat. The restaurant is famous for their over-the-top Bloody Marys, but the Golden Cadillac is the cocktail that's downright legendary in El Dorado. It was created in 1952 when an engaged couple asked the bartender to create a special cocktail to match their brand new, gold-colored Cadillac. And a legend was born...
Poor Red's is proving that sometimes it's the small towns that do it best. The next time you find yourself traveling along Highway 49, be sure to stop by for a bite and a drink. Learn more about Poor Red's and view the full menu on their website.
