It is truly a gift from God that a simple smell or taste can instantly transport us back in time to simpler days. My paternal grandparents lived on a farm in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas. Some of my favorite memories centre around the table at Grandma's house. She cooked very simple foods which make up great country cooking. Grandma's table always seemed to have pinto beans and cornbread and iced tea. On hot summer days we often sat under the big shade trees and ate bologna sandwiches with Frito Corn Chips on the side and a cold Pepsi (her favorite). After lunch my brother and I would skip down to the Binum Hole for a swim in the cool creek. Today, at lunch, I was transported back to the days when my family was in the United States visiting my grandparents' farm.
For lunch Jonathan (my employer) and I stopped at an unassuming place called Excel Grocery and Bar-B-Q. It is one of those little places in the country that busy people pass by without a second glance. In doing so they miss out on some of the best pulled pork sandwiches in the Gateway area. Servers are warm and hospitable. They give you a smile and ask about your day as they pile on the smoky meat and fixin's. Not only are their sandwiches good, but they also have a variety of homemade pies. Unfortunately for Jonathan and me, you have to get there early to get the pie. I was sorely disappointed we missed the little slices of heaven.
Taking advantage of the hot day, good food, and nearby McAdoo Creek, we had the best lunch-break that I can remember picnicking, swimming, and enjoying the simple foods of Excel Grocery and Bar-B-Q. I guess the only thing that would have made this a little more country would have been a Moon Pie and RC Cola!
If you are in the area of Clarksville and Old Ashland City Road, don't rush past the store. Step back in time to a simple place, simple food, and a simple pace of life.
Excel Grocery and Bar-B-Q
3102 Ashland City Rd
Clarksville, TN 37043
(931) 358-3638 (Phone)
