Holy Cow BBQ, (264 26th St., Santa Monica, CA 90402; 310.883.6269) is a new earthy, upscale cafeteria-looking spot for slow-smoked meats and beer from the guy behind Messhall Kitchen. It opens Saturday on the border of Brentwood and Santa Monica.
This roadhouse is decorated with wooden tables, milk-bottle chandeliers, white brick walls, wooden slats, and milking stools out on the patio. As for food, where to start? Vegetarians, look away (ok, they do have a vegan chili). They are serving up heavy meat here with baby backs; house brisket; tri-tip; The Cow made from ground beef with slow onions, b&b’s, Vermont cheddar, 1000 Island on a Brioche bun; The Hog (pulled pork); grilled salmon; Chicken Fried made from buttermilk battered, honey-ale mustard, smoked ham, Gruyere, b&b’s on a sesame Brioche bun; roasted turkey with smoked bacon, Poblano chili, Muenster, spicy aiolo on Texas toast; The Mule made from a burger, brisket, belly, aged Cheddar, crisp onions, pickles on Texas toast; El Jefé made from slow smoked pork, Tavern ham, stout mustard, dill chips, Gruyere on crusty bread; and The Praire Dog made from the Louisiana hot link, ale mustard, pickles and slow onions.
They do have some salads along with roasted corn chowder and vegan Brentwood chili. Sides include fries, potato salad, mac & cheese, cole slaw, sweet potato. pickled beets, collard greens, creamed greens, onion rings, kettle beans, quinoa, and fried cornbread.
As for wine and beer, they have mostly local wine by the glass and bottle and California drafts. Don’t forget dessert! Order up frozen custard, berry crumb, s’mores, cow pie (apple pie), banana cream pie and trail bars (oatmeal, coconut, raisins or apricots and walnuts).
