BBQ Keeps on Cookin' in Bean Town With The Bearded Pig and Soulfire

The Bearded Pig opened July 30, 2012 in Somerville. 

By Naomi Kooker

Boston is becoming the BBQ bastion of the Northeast. The Bearded Pig, a new southern-style barbecue joint in Somerville, opened earlier this week, while Soulfire, the popular Allston BBQ hang, opened a second location in Mission Hill.

The Bearded Pig is a 40-seat Southern-style cafeteria joint you’d find in Texas, but it's conveniently in Somerville. Pick your passion from the counter - oak-smoked ribs, pulled pork, brisket and more - pay and grab a seat. The casual dining room with off-white walls and red accents is easy on the eyes. Owner and pit master Michael Schmidt said he is awaiting a beer and wine license, which could be dispensed in a few months. The Bearded Pig opened July 30, and it's open Tuesday through Sunday 11:30 AM-3 PM for lunch; 5-9 PM Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday for dinner; and 5-10 PM Friday and Saturday. It's closed Monday.

445 Somerville Ave., Somerville. 617-996-9080

Soulfire’s second location, which opened July 9, is in the Mission Hill section of Boston. The 22-seater with steel tables and red walls fits in with the down-home style of food (737 Huntington Ave.; 617-232-8000). Soulfire’s original location is at 182 Harvard Ave., Allston (617-787-3003).