Gold Rush BBQ at 661 S. Tamiami Trail on the Island of Venice is celebrating 25 years in business. Founded by Robert Overholser, Patrick Caudill and Susan Caudill, the family-owned restaurant has built its reputation on dry-rubbed, hickory-smoked barbecue served in hearty portions, all inside a dining room decked out with Old West décor and gold-mining memorabilia.
The menu covers the classics: baby back ribs, St. Louis-style ribs, pulled pork, chicken and brisket. Weekly dine-in specials rotate through all-you-can-eat ribs, catfish and BBQ chicken, and the restaurant also offers takeout and catering for anyone feeding a crowd.
Reaching a quarter century is a rare milestone in a competitive, fast-changing dining market. For longtime Suncoast residents, Gold Rush BBQ is a familiar touchstone. For newer residents and visitors, it’s a taste of a genuine Venice institution. Have you been to Gold Rush BBQ, and what’s your go-to order?
