As the snowbanks of Vermont melt away and the green hills begin to stir awake, you’re met with the unmistakable scent of spring – that sweet, smoky aroma of barbecue drifting on a warm breeze. There’s a place just off the highway in the quiet town of Putney where this seasonal ritual takes an unforgettable twist. Picture a vintage school bus, its windows flung open, releasing waves of hickory-kissed smoke that call to every hungry traveler. At Curtis’ All American BBQ, you’re not just biting into ribs – you’re tasting decades of tradition, soul, and roadside Americana served with a smile. Step up and dig in – this is no ordinary BBQ stop.
A School Bus Turned BBQ Shrine
Driving through scenic southern Vermont, it’s hard to miss the blue school bus parked confidently along the roadside in Putney. But this isn’t a forgotten vehicle abandoned to rust – it’s a beacon for barbecue lovers near and far. Curtis’ All American BBQ has transformed that beat-up bus into a beloved smokehouse, dishing out rib-sticking goodness from its open windows.
This roadside treasure sits just off Route 91, making it the perfect detour when you’re hungry for something real. For decades, Curtis has drawn a loyal following – not with gimmicks, but with the kind of food that speaks for itself. And come spring, from April through November, the bus awakens, sending the unmistakable scent of slow-cooked meat wafting through the Vermont air.
As you approach, the smoky perfume of charred ribs and saucy chicken floats on the breeze, practically pulling you toward the order window. One glance at the sizzling grill, and you’ll know – this is roadside dining at its most delicious.
Feast Under Open Skies
There’s something special about eating outdoors in Vermont’s warm season – and at Curtis’, that charm is ever-present. Rows of picnic tables await under open skies, inviting you to roll up your sleeves and dig in with the sunshine on your face. Whether you’re traveling solo, wrangling kids, or on a relaxed date, the casual vibe wraps around you like a favorite flannel shirt.
From Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. until dusk, the air fills with chatter, laughter, and the crackle of the grill. There’s a community feel here – an unspoken understanding among fellow diners that this kind of authenticity doesn’t come around often.
Simply Done, Irresistibly Good
The beauty of Curtis’ menu lies in its simplicity. There’s no long list of obscure options – just ribs and chicken, slow-cooked with smoky care and trust in time-honored methods. Each bite is tender, flavorful, and unpretentious, the kind of meal that gets better the messier it becomes.
Come hungry, because this isn’t a nibble-and-go spot. Slabs of meat arrive steaming and sticky, paired with downhome sides that round out the feast just right – think creamy slaw, baked beans with a kick, and perhaps a buttery roll to catch every last drop of sauce. It’s comfort food in its purest form, served with no fuss and every bit of heart.
The Soul Behind the Smoke
Every savory bite at Curtis’ All American BBQ carries more than just flavor – it carries a story. Curtis Tuff, the man behind the grill, was raised in Georgia and worked his way north as a fruit picker before planting roots in Vermont over 50 years ago. What started as a seasonal journey grew into a beloved institution, all sparked by his love for Southern flavors and community connection.
With sleeves rolled up and an ever-watchful eye on the grill, Curtis has become a local legend. His charisma, dedication, and authenticity are as unmistakable as the smoky aroma that floats from his converted school bus each spring. Each order he hands out is more than just a meal – it’s a piece of his journey, seasoned with soul and smoke.
Where to Find the Flavor
You’ll find this one-of-a-kind BBQ haven parked at 7 Putney Landing Rd. in Putney, Vermont – a simple address for an exceptional roadside gem. As the warm months roll in, it’s more than worth the scenic ride. Whether it’s your first stop or a cherished seasonal tradition, Curtis’ blue bus promises a meal that sticks with you long after the last bite.
And if you’ve caught the bug for quirky bus-turned-kitchens, you’re in luck – Curtis isn’t the only Vermonter mastering meals on wheels. There’s something special about food that starts on four wheels and ends in your happy belly.
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