14 Loudoun is dead, long live Schmidt’s Barbecue. The couple that owned the downtown Leesburg night life destination have remade the building with a meaty new concept. On Friday, September 18, Nils and Olivia Schnibbe will debut Schmidt’s Barbecue, which focuses on smoked meat and cocktails.
The barbecue offerings go beyond the ordinary, though classicists will be able to dine on pulled pork, racks of ribs, brisket and smoked chicken. More adventurous smoked food enthusiasts can look for smoked salmon; a smoked veggie blend of zucchini, mushroom, onion and tomato; and short rib grilled cheese. Most meats are available as either part of a platter or on brioche for a smoky sandwich. A burger menu will help satisfy those a little more shy about smoke.
Following the current trend, Alabama white sauce is among the homemade dips. There’s also Carolina-style mustard-based sauce, Jack Daniel’s glaze and a spicy basic barbecue sauce. But a barbecue restaurant can be defined by great sides. At Schmidt’s those include baked beans with two kinds of pork, homemade cheddar mac-and-cheese and German potato salad.
But the Schnibbes are known as much for providing appealing drinks as they are for hearty food. This is a barbecue spot with a full bar and plenty of cocktails, designed to pair with barbecue. The house sangria features pinot noir, rosé, pineapple, orange, peach and rhubarb. The Sweet Tea Spritz is appropriately Texan with Tito’s Handmade Vodka, sweet tea, lemon and Topo Chico mineral water. The Jungle Gin combines Aviation American Gin, pineapple, lime, Campari and cinnamon. There are also beers on tap and in cans and a concise selection of wines. Schmidt’s will be open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday. //14 Loudoun St. SE, Leesburg
For more foodie news, subscribe to our Food newsletter.
