4 Rivers Smokehouse joins the plant-based movement, adding Beyond Burnt Ends at all locations

WINTER PARK, Fla. — Florida barbecue staple 4 Rivers Smokehouse announced Monday that after feedback from vegetarians, vegans and carnivores, the restaurant now offers a new plant-based dish at all 14 of its locations in Florida and Georgia.

"The 4 Rivers culinary team spent months perfecting the Beyond Burnt Ends and we're very proud that we've created a plant-based barbecue dish that has been so well received by our guests," said John Rivers, Founder/CEO of 4R Restaurant Group. "As a brand, we're constantly evolving and listening to consumers, and right now there is definitely a demand for plant-based barbecue."

The Beyond Burnt Ends made its debut at the Central Florida locations last month to help celebrate the restaurant's 10 anniversary, where it received rave review, according to the release.

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Beyond Burnt Ends are double hickory-smoked and slow roasted in order for the sauce to caramelize, similar to the meat version of the dish, however, it is all plant-based, including a vegan 4R sauce and vegan-friendly brioche bun.

Patrons will be able to enjoy the Beyond Burnt Ends as a sandwich, by the half pound or pound and as a complete dinner with three sides.

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"A lot of people are surprised when learning that my wife, Monica, is a vegan," added Rivers.  "I joke that this is God's way of balancing out the universe. But the reality is that through her I learned to appreciate the power of offering plant-based barbecue options and the importance of making sure this product meets the high standards of the 4 Rivers brand."

According to the release from the restaurant, the Beyond Burnt Ends are the first product released from the forthcoming 4 Rivers Beyond BBQ vegan line.

Cox Media Group