The Grub Shack - That's Where It's At

On the east-east side of East Nashville lies a few tight spots to grub at. When I heard about a few of them, and was given directions from someone about their locations, I was sure the guy was incorrect. As it turns out, there was a huge area of the neighborhood that I didn't even know existed. It smacks of "the True South" - and no spot more represents that ideal than Dee's Q.

Dee's is a BBQ shack which features delectable meats and sides - I have enjoyed several BBQ pork shoulder sandwiches, rib tip plates, and pulled chicken platters. But the faithful general tout Dee's for the hot wings. I put off that experience long enough, and on this day decided to begin the journey.

This is where the meat is smoked:

Just some trailer in the back... that is where the magic happens.

Dee's is across the blinking-red-light intersection from a Piggly Wiggly and a raggedly liquor store...

And is bordered in the back by train tracks, which gives it a "Stand by Me" vibe as well...

The wing selections come in about 12 varieties, some a little too unconventional for my liking (Hawaiian? I don't think so, braah. We're talking about wings here.). I went proper - "Hot", straight-up. The 7- and 10-wing platter come with fries - unfortunately NOT the 2-side offering that often goes with the other combos; this had me second-guessing my selection, as the fried okra and collard greens have now become as essential to me as the meats themselves. Nevertheless, you do what you got to do when it's wing-time.

Another hiccup in the moment was the unavailablity in substitution for Ranch dressing. I have nothing against Ranch, but when dealing with hot wings and me there can only be one acceptable third partner in the menage-a-trois: Blue Cheese dressing. Oh, I'm not about to turn the Ranch down, nor am I going to bail on the order. It looks like it'll be a few minutes on the wings, as the order-taker is also the cook, bless her heart. I've got some time to spare: a lightbulb goes off in my brain, and suddenly my legs are jogging me across the street:

Did you know Piggly Wiggly does not have their own brand of Blue Cheese dressing? Me either! Wishbone will get the job done.

The wings lived up to the hype. Juicy, flavorful, and plentiful in size. The Hot was just right, though I may take a shot at the next level up in heat next time. It's possible there will be a sizable distance between this jam sesh and my next Dee's wingding - I've got some hot fish to check out...