WINDHAM — Not only did Buck’s Naked BBQ in Freeport need a second location, but Windham really needed something like Buck’s.

Since I have barbecue on the brain this spring — and who can blame me with this crazy weather – I jumped at the chance to investigate Buck’s second location.

Manager Elizabeth McKenzie answered all of my questions, letting me know that Alex and Wendy Caisse, owners of both locations, take pride in the art of barbecue and the restaurant business as a whole. While treating their employees and customers with respect, they truly want this to be a fun place for everyone to enjoy.

Located in the old Maine Bean Bakehouse building, Buck’s has gloriously taken over all three floors. In the loft, there are 12 tables, mostly for large group seating. The main floor houses the bar, with 15 seats and some booths, along with a large deck, where the Caisses expect to add tables and live music by summer.

The downstairs setup is the reason I grabbed the family to join me – there are six tables, tons of books, a mini-kitchen and a Crooked House, so the kids can be entertained while parents enjoy food and a brew.

The party next to us tempted me by ordering the fried pickle chips, but I opted for the BBQ Buffalo smoked chicken wings for $7.99. Next we moved on to the rib-filled quesadilla and salad ($12.99), and I soon found myself eating homemade mac and cheese because Buck’s puts seasoning from Rub with Love on it.

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Fried chicken is next on my long list of things to try and, of course, the ribs, pulled pork and brisket at Buck’s are slow-smoked to perfection, with choices of sides like fresh cut fries, cole slaw and corn bread. The smoked sampler is $16.99, and I don’t think you’ll be hungry for a while after you tackle that plate. Buck’s also features a wide variety of steaks, sandwiches and salads.

With 14 beers on tap and a full bar, Buck’s is kicking off its new location with a special that offers $1 off all microbrews from 2 to 5 p.m. The new spot also carries wine and a long list of specialty drinks (I recommend the margaritas).

Once the opening kinks have been worked out, Buck’s will be adding promotions, late-night menus, live entertainment and lunch specials galore.

 Amber Olesen is a freelance writer who lives in Westbrook.

 


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