About two weeks ago, 4 Rivers Smokehouse, a Florida-based barbecue chain, opened the doors of its eighth restaurant at 14330 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa.
Led by chef John Rivers, the smokehouse has additional locations in cities like Gainesville, Jacksonville and Winter Park.
4 Rivers' 6,000-square-foot space in Tampa's Carrollwood area is the former home of Arigato Japanese Steak House. With communal seating, the eatery showcases a walk-up counter (similar to other fast-casual spots like Chipotle), where diners choose from cut-to-order meats and sides such as baked cheese grits, cornbread salad and fried pickles.
More than 10 styles of barbecue are highlighted, and the offerings range from a signature Texas-style brisket to St. Louis ribs. There are sandwiches, dinner plates and more. And if eaters like what they taste, sauces and rubs are available for purchase.
Southern-inspired treats, including dessert bars, cookies and cakes, are also featured at the restaurant's in-house Sweet Shop.
