Alabama Dreaming
If I didn't know better I'd say that the city of Tuscaloosa was bracing for the storm of the century. . .
Legions of people are carting food, supplies and tents on every street around the imposing edifice that is Bryant-Denny Stadium. A drive that took us only 5 minutes yesterday today requires at least an hour. The University Police Department patrols the streets with an eerily calm efficiency -- they've been here before, they know what to expect.
I dare not call this 'the calm' before the storm -- there is nothing calm about the passion that drives the Auburn/ Alabama rivalry... this is a 365 day a year hatred... this is for all the pride... this is for all the glory...
Frankly speaking, it is all kind of exhausting--
So... your Mission Crew set out for some genuine Alabama nourishment.
and what could be more Alabama... what could be more Tuscaloosa... than the original Dreamland Barbeque.
The understated outside opened up into a dimly-lit and crowded room -- the slightly wobbly tables complemented the walls crowded with posters, paraphenalia and 'stuff' accumulated from the legions that have passed through these doors. This is the look and feel that is imitated by every chain 'bar & grill' in America-- but here it is real, every artifact has a story.
Between hollers of 'Roll Tide Roll' from the waiters, we dined on some of the most tender and perfectly prepared BBQ ribs that I've ever tasted... the legendary sauce is served warm and had a consistency and texture that made it feel more like a gourmet soup.
But the clientele was certainly not limited to Tide fans -- Mike and Linda came inside wearing their Auburn gear and were greeted with more than a few 'War Eagles'. They tell me that when the Iron Bowl takes them Tuscaloosa - that a visit to Dreamland is a MUST.
According to Janette, the proprietor and daughter of Dreamland's founder -- 'There is no rivalry inside these doors, in here it's all about Barbeque and having a good time... but once you get out there, it's a different story.'
There is a lot of talk this week about rivalries -- about the supposed hatreds that drive and define a people... Dreamland BBQ is everything that is good and right about college football... after all is said and done-- it is all about getting together with people, eating the food, drinking the beer, watching the game and sharing the experience... Although I think it is safe to say that 'most' of the patrons of Dreamland will be dreaming for the sweet taste of Alabama victory.
