BY DON NAPIER
Crossville Life Magazine

A few weeks ago, I was in Cookeville on business and went to Stroud’s BBQ on East Spring Street for some of their “cue.” Again, the drive-thru was busy, so I went inside and when I did, the smell of fresh cornbread was unmistakenly “wafting” in the air. I asked the girl behind the counter, “do you serve cornbread?” She said “we sure do,” and a love affair began right then and there.

Cornbread is nearly sacred in my book! I think we have established that in past issues. The attraction of fresh cornbread makes me go to Edgewood Restaurant at least twice a week for lunch. Pat and her crew can crank out those cornbread muffins.

But back to Stroud’s BBQ. The first time I got cornbread with my pulled BBQ, it was just one piece and eating it as I drove down the road, I started to kick myself. “Why didn’t I ask for two pieces?” You non-cornbread addicts out there might think I am joking, but this was that good! Since then, I have been back, this time going out of my way to be close to their location. I ask immediately, could I have one less side and two pieces of cornbread? They said no need to forfeit a side, they would gladly give me two pieces of cornbread.  I have ordered a new jewel for their crown!

Oh, their barbecue is pretty good too.