Today, nothing sounded better than a hot bowl of soup. The logical choice was Applegate’s Deli … 10 soup varieties and a block from the SLM office. But alas, on this cloudy, blustery, downright nasty 28 degree day, a rarity … several of Applegate’s soup wells had run dry.
As I clinked down the last soup lid and looked up to register a little “what’s-up-with-this?” consternation, the only eyes that met mine were those of Toney Goucher, the founder of Fat Toney’s BBQ, smiling from behind a counter. I’d seen (and smelled) the smoker in the parking lot but hadn’t realized someone had actually set up shop inside Applegate’s. (Apparently he’s been open for several weeks; a beer & wine license is pending.)
As it all sunk in, I thought soup, schmoop and told him I’d love a pulled pork sandwich. Then I realized I had no wallet, no ATM card, no legal tender. “No worries … next time,” said the big man without hesitation. “I believe in paying it forward.”
So do I, Toney.
Ribs, pork, brisket, chicken and sides … at Applegate’s, 7 days a week. Tell Toney the walletless dining editor sent you. – George Mahe
