John Rivers

Blueberry BBQ Sauce is arguably one of the more conventional recipes featured at 4 Rivers Smokehouse, a barbecue concept with locations across Florida. After all, its menu has boasted Mountain Dew- and Doritos-flavored cupcakes. “I’m no stranger to experimenting with unique flavor combinations; I find the trial-and-error process exciting,” says John Rivers, Founder, Owner and CEO of parent company 4R Restaurant Group. “Although most of the items on our menu are rooted in a traditional style of barbecue, we still find ways to play with the norm and mix it up. Our guests are used to us sharing unique specials and are generally open to trying new things.”

The recipe is simple: The restaurant’s signature barbecue sauce serves as the base; a housemade blueberry concentrate provides the twist. “It’s a perfect balance of savory sauce and a fresh blueberry flavor, without it becoming too sweet or syrupy,” says Rivers. Its subtle sweetness makes it a particularly ideal pairing with the brand’s Pulled Pork and St. Louis-Style Ribs. “It’s nice to have an additional sauce option alongside a monthly special.”