Capelo’s Barbeque, perched along Middlefield Road, offers a wide selection of flavorful, high-quality meat for their customers. The outdoor seating and lively atmosphere make for a pleasant dining experience, providing a space where people can come together for a casual, family friendly meal. The restaurant is a popular gathering place to watch sports games and occasionally listen to live music performances.
Pork Ribs ($13): 7/10
These ribs might appear unremarkable, but beneath their bland exterior lies a rich flavor profile. Served on a silver tray lined with parchment paper—an unmistakable BBQ-joint hallmark—the dish feels authentically crafted. The lean meat is simultaneously moist and tender. The outside is slathered in a sweet barbeque sauce, adding a nice contrast to the smokey, salty flavor of the pork. The dish only comes with three ribs though, so while it might not be enough for a full meal, this definitely makes for a solid appetizer.
Brisket Tacos ($15): 4/10
The presentation and taste of the brisket tacos are very similar: plain and boring. Slices of dry brisket cuts with minimal fat and moist brisket cubes are served on a house-made flour tortilla. The tacos are garnished with pickles, onions, and your choice of either sweet or spicy barbeque sauce. The brisket, while having a pleasant, smokey taste, lacks any unique flavor, leaving the dish a bit underwhelming.
Pulled Pork Sandwich ($14): 10/10
While the price of this sandwich might be a little steep, it is well worth it. The pork sandwich comes on a brioche bun, crispy on the outside with a soft, pillowy interior. The sandwich is filled with sesame coleslaw, which consists of crunchy shredded carrots and cabbage. The refreshing dressing and crunchy vegetables contrast with the rich, flavorful pork, which comes glazed in a sweet mustard-based sauce. Each component works in harmony, guaranteeing that every bite is perfectly balanced.
2 Meat Plate ($23): 8/10
The two-meat plate includes your choice of brisket, various kinds of chicken, pork, and sausage. The plate pictured features grilled chicken, brisket, and a side of creamy coleslaw. The tender grilled chicken, coated in a spicy rub, is flavorful without being overpowering. The texture of the chicken is very soft, not tough or fatty in the slightest. The brisket comes with a mix of dry and moist meat, adding some variation in texture to the dish. It’s smokey, tender, and pairs well with a spicy barbecue sauce. The creamy coleslaw, coated in mayonnaise-based dressing, is light, fresh, and subtly sweet, nicely contrasting the saltiness of the meat. Additionally, the generous portion size makes the meal both hearty and satisfying.
