Bogeys

Bogeys is a sprawling bar and grill in Bangor that does smoked meat and playful entertainment equally well. Walk in past a prominent bar, grab a seat near the games and axe-throwing lanes, and you're already in the mix. The kitchen turns out generous platters of brisket, burnt ends, and Nashville hot chicken alongside solid sides. It's the kind of place where dinner comes with a show.

• Smoked ribs with meat that slips off the bone
• Fast service and generous portions you'll take home
• Axe throwing, arcade games, and live music included
• Bold sauces and dry rubs on familiar comfort food

Start with the wings if you want a standout appetizer, or go straight to the burnt ends dinner, which pairs smoke and sweetness. The Music City tacos, one pork, one brisket, give you range on the same plate. The Nashville hot honey chicken sandwich works if the hot honey is applied generously. Ribs are the safe bet for a main. Order the dry rub fries and slaw on the side, then try both Memphis and Texas sauces to find your preference.

Bright and playful, with arcade games and axe-throwing lanes feeding the energy. Saturday evenings around 6 p.m. get loud and crowded, especially when live music is playing. The big bar anchors the front, and screens throughout let you catch games.

Order the smoked meats if you're here for the main event: brisket, burnt ends, and ribs cooked with a careful hand. The Memphis and Texas sauces on the menu let you dial in flavor. Fries dusted with dry rub are a solid side, though opinions split on salt levels. Tacos and the Nashville hot chicken round out the menu. This isn't fine dining, it's honest bar food executed with care, best enjoyed when you're in a mood for noise and games as much as the plate in front of you.