Nestled amidst the picturesque landscape of Missouri Valley, Iowa, The Buck Snort Restaurant emerged as a culinary beacon, defying the odds during the peak of the COVID pandemic. Since its opening on August 9th, 2020, this remarkable eatery captivated the local community with its commitment to culinary excellence and unwavering dedication to the art of gastronomy. In an exclusive interview, Casey Ulmer, the manager of The Buck Snort, shared insights into the restaurant’s history, its signature dishes, unique burger combinations, and their strong bond with the community.
The Buck Snort’s Adventurous Journey
The genesis of The Buck Snort was a bold endeavor, as Ulmer revealed, “It was a risky scenario, but we wanted to bring our love of good food and service to the community.” In the face of adversities posed by the pandemic, they remained resolute in their vision of crafting exceptional culinary experiences.
Signature Dishes: Unveiling ‘The Swamp Donkey’
At the heart of The Buck Snort’s gastronomic magic lies ‘The Swamp Donkey,’ a signature burger that epitomizes indulgence and creativity. Ulmer enthusiastically described it as “a cheeseburger topped with brisket, onion rings, and BBQ sauce.” This captivating combination has rapidly become the talk of the town, igniting taste buds and elevating burger appreciation to new heights.
The “Swamp Donkey” at Buck Snort has left customers singing its praises with enthusiasm. One review raves, “Absolutely DELICIOUS!!!!” Another ecstatic customer exclaims, “The best thing ever!” A satisfied patron declares, “They best burger ever!” Not just a one-time wonder, a regular visitor shares, “I visit my 1st cousin in a nursing home every couple of months and take him a swamp donkey burger as that is his favorite and I’ll second it.” Another reviewer sums it up perfectly, saying, “Amazing burger! It’s huge. Everything is delicious! I’ve had this a dozen times and it never disappoints!” With such glowing feedback, the Swamp Donkey is undeniably a hit at Buck Snort.
Innovative Burgers: A Symphony of Flavors
The Buck Snort’s menu boasts an array of innovative burger combinations, each celebrating a unique facet of culinary artistry. The restaurant’s offerings include mouthwatering delights such as ‘Non Typical,’ ‘Grunt Snort Wheeze,’ and the heartwarming tribute, ‘Chunkanator,’ named after a loyal fan. Ulmer conveyed the inspiration behind these names, stating, “Many of the names we use for the burgers have been given names that relate to the franchise or hunting phrases.”
Homemade Sauces: A Revelation in Taste
What sets The Buck Snort apart is its dedication to crafting homemade sauces that transform each dish into an extraordinary culinary symphony. Ulmer took pride in the distinct sauces they create, remarking, “We’ve got ‘Moose sauce,’ ‘Bucksnort sauce,’ ‘Boom Boom sauce’ (spicy mayo), and our spicy BBQ.” These meticulously crafted condiments are a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to delivering nothing short of perfection on every plate.
Community and Culinary Harmony
Beyond its culinary excellence, The Buck Snort radiates a profound connection with the community it serves. Ulmer shared, “We love our surrounding community and continue to do our best for everyone!” This commitment to community support is reflected in the restaurant’s active involvement in various school functions, golf tournaments, sporting events, and fundraisers.
An Ambitious Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, The Buck Snort aspires to expand its horizons, transforming into a hub of culinary experiences and entertainment. Ulmer expressed their vision, saying, “We hope to continue supporting our community, offering a wide array of staples, new ideas, and entertainment like DJs and live music in the future!”
Our Opinion
Armed with an appetite for adventure and a discerning palate, we sampled an assortment of dishes that left a lasting impression. From succulent sandwiches to delightful sides, here’s our honest review, reflecting both the highlights and the charm of this eatery.
Deluxe Chicken Cordon Bleu Sandwich: A Culinary Masterpiece
The Deluxe Chicken Cordon Bleu sandwich emerged as an instant favorite, setting the bar high for other restaurants in the area. The addition of a perfectly cooked egg added a delightful texture and a burst of flavor that elevated the dish to a whole new level. With each bite, we savored the harmonious interplay of tender chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese. We’re delighted to award this creation a well-deserved five-star rating.
8oz Pork Tenderloin Sandwich: A Midwest Twist
As a connoisseur of southern cuisine, the 8oz Pork Tenderloin sandwich left us with mixed impressions. While the meat was tender and the bun was impeccable, we craved a more seasoned and crispy exterior. Nevertheless, the sandwich delivered a homely, comforting taste that catered to traditional palates. For those seeking a touch of nostalgia, this sandwich remains a satisfying choice.
Cole Slaw: A Midwest Classic with Poppy Seed Zing
The cole slaw presented a true taste of the Midwest, exuding a rich cabbage flavor with a unique poppy seed twist. However, those fond of a vinegar-centric slaw might find this rendition less to their liking. Creamy and possessing an inviting texture, the cole slaw served as a complementary side that added a refreshing contrast to the main course.
Baked Beans: Homemade with a Tangy Twist
Homemade and expertly prepared, the baked beans struck a perfect balance between sweetness and spice. The thin yet flavorful sauce beautifully coated each bean, ensuring a satisfying taste with every spoonful. Though distinct from the canned variety, these beans proved to be a crowd-pleaser, guaranteeing a repeat order in our future visits.
BBQ Pork Rib Tips: A Sizzling Sensation
Stepping into the realm of barbecue delights, the BBQ Pork Rib Tips demonstrated The Buck Snort’s prowess in this culinary art form. The top-notch fare featured succulent meat smothered in a tantalizing sauce, achieving a mesmerizing blend of flavors. The juicy, tender meat and the ideal crunch left us thoroughly impressed. Without a doubt, this dish ranks high among barbecue enthusiasts and is a definite must-try.
Tater Tots and Cheese Sauce: A Comforting Combo
The tater tots delivered a satisfying experience, precisely as expected from this classic treat. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, they served as a delightful accompaniment to the main dishes. The homemade cheese sauce stood as a testament to The Buck Snort’s dedication to craftsmanship, boasting a smooth, buttery flavor that paired beautifully with the Deluxe Chicken Cordon Bleu sandwich.
Our gastronomic journey at The Buck Snort Restaurant proved to be a memorable experience, offering an array of dishes that catered to diverse tastes. The culinary delights, accompanied by attentive service and value for money, solidify The Buck Snort as a notable destination in Missouri Valley’s dining scene. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply seeking a delightful meal, The Buck Snort promises a flavorful feast that will linger in your taste buds and beckon you back for more.
If you live in Blair, you should contact the good folks at Buck Snort Restaurant and ask when they will open a location in Blair. Their food is exactly the kind of “sit down” or “family restaurant” Blair residents talk about all the time. If you want good, family-style, home-cooked meals, the Buck Snort Restaurant would be the perfect fit for Blair.
Casey you run a tight ship with great food and great staff!!!
Thanks for the comment!