by Ronny Green
So, what’s a guy to do when one of his favorite restaurants with some of his favorite go-to dishes that he can only get from said favorite restaurant adds some new potential go-to dishes to the menu? He’s got to go and see for himself; what’s the word on these new menu items? The restaurant I’m talking about it The Broken Wheel Brewery, located in Marksville at the corner of fine dining and down-home Avoyelles Parish southern hospitality.
As soon as the door opens at the Broken Wheel, you’re greeted by familiar faces, some holding ice cold pints of freshly brewed Pachafa Pale Ale or Spring Bayou Blonde Ale, others waving one hand in the air while the free hand scoops a helping of spinach and artichoke dip. As I take a seat at the bar in my customary spot, right in front of the TV, one of the new menu items is waiting for. The Mediterranean hummus dip is like a loaded hummus the Rougarou himself would gladly come out of the backwoods to feast on. This hummus is staked with kalamata olives, red onion, capers, artichokes, sun dried tomatoes, and pesto … by far the best hummus I have ever tasted. Since we’re in the Lenten season, a good grilled salmon salad is always a welcome menu option. The grilled salmon rests on a bed of fresh baby spinach and is topped with pickled red onion, pecans, goat cheese, avocado, bacon, and dressed with perfect amount of herb vinaigrette.
If my earlier description of Broken Wheel’s twist on hummus tickled your fancy, then these boudin tamales made with local homemade boudin and topped with a combination of bacon cream gravy and cane syrup will certainly have your taste buds dancing. After I downed pints, the smoked brisket sandwich made its way from the kitchen topped with American cheese, mayo, mustard, bbq sauce, and onion jam. This is a “roll your sleeves up and keep some napkins close by” kind of sandwich.
Chris, Jonathan, and Trent are always making a conscience effort to keep things fresh around the brewery. Whether it be securing the freshest local produce or switching up the menu to make room for some new fan favorites. As much as things change, they stay the same. And you can always count on the Broken Wheel Brewery to deliver top quality food and beverages in an atmosphere like none other. There is always a seat at the bar, in the dining room, or outside in the beer garden.
