Modern Twists on Traditional Food Signature of Black Oak Grill

There’s a new place to dine at the Branson Landing, adding to the variety of options available at the outdoor shopping complex located along Lake Taneycomo.  Black Oak Grill, the new restaurant on the block, is giving visitors a unique dining option among its competitors, with modern twists on traditional fare a signature of the restaurant.  In fact, Black Oak Grill describes its food as “comfort food with an upscale, fusion twist.” 

The twist can be seen in dishes like Mom’s Meatloaf, a certified Angus Beef dish served with root vegetables; Baby Back ribs with a root beer barbeque sauce served with apple jicama slaw; and Grilled Flat Iron Steak in a peppercorn brandy sauce.  I dined during lunch, so I ordered the Bald Knobber Pulled Pork Sandwich.  Described as a sandwich served on bolillo bread, with pork in a root beer barbeque sauce, and accented by pickled jalapenos, spiced vegetables and cilantro, the sandwich was exactly that when it arrived.  The sweet (and yes, root beer) flavor of the barbeque sauce complimented the tang of the jalapenos well, and the pork was tender, creating a sandwich I really enjoyed. 

It was served with root crisps, an item I was honestly not sure of what to expect.  It turns out root crisps are made from finely sliced root vegetables, such as potatoes, parsnips and celery root, and are tossed in sea salt.  Resembling a lightly fried potato chip, root crisps are a decidedly different approach to the usual French fries.  They aren’t for everyone, as my companion was not a fan, but I thought they were an interesting and daring item to serve with the dish. 

Save room for the Bacon Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwich.  Yes, it’s as decadent as it sounds, and yes, bacon and chocolate are delicious together.  It’s a must try at the Black Oak Grill in Branson, Missouri.