Jeff and Laura Budnechky
Photos by j. gomeZ And Jeff Budnechky
Whether it’s the smoky boldness found in Texas, the peppery-vinegar bite in North Carolina or the tangy mustard in South Carolina, fans of barbecue are fiercely loyal to their preferred style. So, when Miami-based husband-and-wife duo Jeff and Laura Budnechky first opened Apocalypse BBQ at the height of the pandemic serving what they called “Miami-style” barbecue from their backyard, meat lovers took notice. In the five years since, it has evolved from a passion project to a compact brick-and-mortar eatery to the 190-seat location that recently opened in the heart of Miami’s southwest suburb of Kendall.
Smokafried Wings
Apocalypse BBQ’s no-reservation policy has been in place from the beginning. And while the new space — now located in a retrofitted diner — offers more room than the former 43-seat spot, fans may still find themselves waiting for a table. But anyone familiar with the legendary food knows it’s time well spent.
The dishes that put South Florida on the barbecue map remain unchanged. Start with Brisket Croquetas (Smoked Brisket, Tallow Caramelized Onions, Mushrooms, Yellow Peppers and Truffle Oil) — a nod to the city’s Latin flavors — along with Empanadas (the fillings rotate, but ask for the brisket and cheese) and one of the restaurant’s most iconic offerings: the Smokafried Wings.
Seasoned with a Cafecito Rub, then smoked, fried and tossed in Oro Negro Sauce, a bold, sweet sauce inspired by the strong colada coffee that’s ritual in Miami. The result is a wing that is juicy inside, crispy on the outside and seemingly impossible to stop eating.
Skull-Shaped Corn Bread
Must-have Cafecito Ribs await, along with ½-lb. Brisket, Pulled Pork Sandwich and a smashed burger called The Jefe (5-oz. patty, American cheese, Jefe Sauce, Grilled Onion and House Pickle) that lives up to its name as The Boss. Indulgent sides include Loaded Mac — mac and cheese topped with Brisket Bacon (a smoked pork belly seasoned like brisket and fried like bacon) — Street Corn/Elote and Corn Bread, a signature skull-shaped treat drizzled with honey. As a further nod to Miami, Smoked Maduros (fried plantains) are a welcome addition.
While the requisite cold beer is available (and free if you come on a Wednesday), those looking to elevate their drink game will be pleased to find a full cocktail menu with spins on classics like the Smoked Embers Old Fashioned, a drink with woody, sweet and smoky notes that pairs perfectly with slow-cooked brisket, ribs and sausages. For those craving a refreshing drink, The Flamed Guava (Mezcal Union Uno, Aperol, Guava, Fresh Lemon Juice, Spicy Agave and Mint) and Doomsday Sangria (Woodbridge Pinot Grigio, Peach Schnapps, Blueberry Puree, Mint, Orange Wedge and Prosecco) are standouts.
Wrap things up with the chocolate chip cookie. Served warm straight from the oven, it embodies the unmistakable feeling that defines the entire meal — being loved and cared for with the ultimate comfort food, from start to finish.
Apocalypse BBQ is located at 8695 S.W. 124th Ave., Miami. For more information, visit apocalypsebbq.com.
