The Bent Page

Many people on the Aruba Message Boards talk about Smokey Joe’s, a restaurant along a promenade that faces the high-rise hotels. I had never been there, until the other night that is. I heard so much about the ribs that I had to go try them. First, here’s a look at the place.

My wife and I went early as I like to avoid crowds as much as possible. We were seated immediately and our waiter did a good job. We both ordered the “original” ribs with the regular sides. Here’s a look at the plate that came to our table.

Sorry about the lousy photo. I think the blue table affected the camera’s systems. Anway, those ribs were rather meaty. The original style is more smoke than barbecue. Flavor was fair on my scale of ribs. (Of course the all time best ribs I’ve ever had were at the Feed Store Barbecue near Dallas, Texas, USA. Nothing has ever come close but that’s a VERY high standard.) Back to Aruba and Smokey Joe’s.

Well, we mowed down these racks to great effect. I was tremendously full, almost so much that the obligatory post-dinner Coca-Cola was nearly canceled. NEVER! I just waited an extra hour before downing the beloved elixir. As for the ribs, like I said, they were fair, but nothing amazing, nothing to change the current ranking of artery-plugging rib joints on my tally.

The atmosphere here, as you can tell from the photos, is casual and comfortable. I like the roll of paper towels on the table to stay clean and the giant coffee can for bones is also quite handy. This place is not a must stop by any stretch but if you need to fill a hunger hole, it will do the job.