Gregory S.
Yelp
Interestingly all wrong, if that makes sense. I get the previous reviews on how long the establishment has existed, the idea of good down home BBQ among the big 3 chains, and the mystique behind a dimly lit place tourist wouldn't think twice about choosing to eat. Not a good first impression. I say this with the utmost respect for my fellow Yelpers, even those who provided good reviews for this place.
Décor: As you drive by, it is undoubtedly dimly- lit and looks closed. Okay. When you enter, it IS dimly-lit. However, when you peek on the other half of the place, they must've got new bulbs because it's pretty bright. I'm not sure why, but I think most reviewers wouldn't accept a dimly-lit joint at any other restaurant, but for some reason, it's okay here. Just keeping it 100.
Food: I respect a restaurant that's been around for decades, but prompting accountability, consistency for good food, service, and atmosphere is why I personally think Yelp is such a great tool for consumers. Miss Myra's, we have some work to do!
Ribs: Smoked scent and flavor, decent, edible, gristle pops out into your mouth in chunks like it's been overcooked, but I'm not afraid of a little gristle...just have your napkin ready to collect a few on the side your plate.
Pulled Pork: Dry, shredded okay, and screaming to be bathed in their decent sauce...I wasn't disgusted by it, but seriously, you know good and well there is room for improvement. If the other Big 3 can serve moist pulled pork, so can you. Especially since you have the opportunity to provide a more personal touch to each batch. Please improve this for me as a first time customer AND loyal customers afraid to be honest.
Potato salad: Don't do it to yourself...I try not to think really good food needs too much seasoning after it's served, but their potato salad is nothing to write home about...no paprika, relish, mustard, small or medium chunks of potato?? Bland mush resembling a scoop of ice cream.
Greens and Baked Beans: Categorized together because they were served as such: canned and overcooked, c'mon Miss Myra!! I'm originally from the 'burgh, but my mom used to get Kale and Collards from the Strip District, cookem' for hours and the seasoning, texture, a few shakes of hot sauce would make you wanna pause! Mushy greens (spinach-like) and smashed baked beans (like sweet potato casserole) are an insult to good-paying customers...respectfully, please cook them appropriately.
Service: I've been to a few places with a slight sting in the service. You know, the type of place with no smiles, advice for the 1st time customer, no thank you at the counter or come again when leaving. However, don't overdo it. It doesn't take much to not: look bothered when customers order, bark that you don't have mac & cheese...have the nerve to place a tip section on the receipt, and yell the order for customers to pick up their own food (I'm no stranger to getting my own food, but really!?). Why are so many reviewers accepting of this type of service at Miss Myra's, but not other places...hmmm? Like I said earlier, accountability and consistency.
Recommendations:
-don't overcook the baked beans
-don't use canned greens
-find a new recipe for potato salad
-slightly better service for a tip or to be welcoming, or just because you want return customers
-new lighting, dim lighting hints at an establishment hiding something or serves as a distraction
-downsize the pig collection, we get it...it's becoming too much