I am a huge fan of quality barbecue, especially a great pulled pork sandwich. But, then again, I know most of you are. When done right, it’s hard to turn down a heaping portion of meat that just fell off the bone. With this love of barbecue, I was ecstatic to find out that I had an amazing barbecue joint just five minutes from my house.
In the heart of Morton resides my new favorite barbecue spot, Engine 23. Engine 23 is a relatively new restaurant located on route 420 across the street from the Morton Station. The small storefront does not project a grand presence, and its humble entryway doesn’t do it justice. The grey fence to the right of the facade is even more inconspicuous. But, just beyond that fence is Engine 23’s massive smoker, which pumps out some of the best barbecue in Delaware County.
When you walk into Engine 23 you can easily pick up on the friendly and inviting vibe of the staff and patrons. The wall to your left is lined with a handful of wooden booths. The wall to your right is lined with coolers full of beer, delicious-looking desserts and food to go; next to that is a full service bar.
The middle of the restaurant has a few tables that can be pushed together to accommodate larger parties if necessary. Behind the bar is a decent array of liquors right below the flat screen television that is typically playing ESPN. Engine 23 has a few beer taps that usually pour local favorites as well as seasonal craft beer. The bartenders, just like the rest of the staff, are very friendly and are always accommodating.
The last time I visited I ordered the beef brisket platter accompanied by a Yard’s Brawler. After leaving our table to put in the order, the server quickly returned to let me know that they were at the end of their beef brisket supply for the night. Though it seemed like a real bummer at the time, the server then offered to include something else on my platter like pulled pork or ribs. I told him an order of pulled pork would be great, and I really couldn’t complain about getting my two favorite dishes on the same platter. Adding pulled pork to the last remaining beef brisket would have easily made up for any disappointment.
But, the staff went well beyond that and exceeded my wildest expectations. Not only was the beef brisket serving the same size as some stingier restaurants, but it was flanked by a massive pile of pulled pork as well as a half rack of baby back ribs. The pride the staff takes in their restaurant and food is always present at Engine 23.
The menu at Engine 23 features not only their top-notch barbecue, but also has an array of traditional bar food, Italian dishes and delicious comfort food. My favorites are their pulled pork, beef brisket and baby back ribs. When it comes to sides to accompany my meal I typically go with the macaroni and cheese and five-bean baked beans, although the maple butter makes the cornbread a great option as well. All the barbecue is meticulously prepared and smoked until the meat is falling off the bone. This juicy, smoked, tender meat is also served with your choice of their homemade barbecue sauces. If you go for a barbecue platter you better bring a huge appetite because their platters come with a heaping pile of meat, two sides and their cornbread topped with the maple butter. You will most assuredly get your money’s worth with this option. They have a delicious dessert array, though I always end up going with their jumbo homemade cannolis.
I have to admit I was a little skeptical when my friend talked me into visiting Engine 23 for the first time, but I quickly became a believer. I implore you to give them a shot next time you are cruising down route 420 or riding the Media Elwyn Regional Rail Line through Morton. If you make the trip, I bet you will become a loyal fan like I am.
To find out more about Engine 23, visit their website or follow them on Facebook or Twitter. Find Engine 23 at 23 Woodland Avenue in Morton; phone: (484) 472-6439.
Smoker and barbecue-on-grill photos: Engine 23; other photo credits: Ryan Lancello.
