Came with a party of ten. Surprised at the poor awareness of hostess to keep us updated on options to be seated. When we recommended squeezing into a table of 9, we were told "if we wanted a job hostessing, we should apply at the front." Way to turn off a customer. The food is very good but hospitality at front was lacking. Management was missing but server did her best to offset the poor start.
(2)
D G.
I love going their. I been going for about 4 years now. Nice inside. Bathroom and clean. Lots of old knick·knacks all over the place. Full service. Food is always good. Anything cooked on real wood is. Prices are ok also. Gets over packed on the weekends. Not a lot of room to wait inside on the weekends. Parking is not anywhere enough. If it is a weekend good luck finding a spot. You just keep driving around and stalk people getting out for a while till you find a spot without getting in other peoples way. I'd rate 5 stars but the parking needs to be fixed and over crowding every weekend in all these years. Maybe expand?
(4)
Jenn M.
Best barbecue I've ever had! Great ambiance inside, prices reasonable and great customer service!
(5)
Sal O.
We have been coming here for years and I just realized I haven't reviewed it. We ate here midweek for our sons birthday. Had a party of 8. We were seated right away. Our waitress was awesome very attentive to our needs. We order ribs and chicken and weren't disappointed. Order came out quick like always. They have a great BBQ ribs. Atmosphere is nice. We definitely continue to go back.
(5)
Meylon J.
After leaving an appointment, my family and I drove past this restaurant and had to turn around after smelling the smokey aroma coming from this place. The service was good, but the show stopper was the tasty dishes. I had the chicken kabobs which were seasoned perfectly. My daughter had the rib tips which were sooooo tender I couldn't keep my fork out of her plate. The whole meal was great and the portions were large at a reasonable price. This restaurant is hidden gem and we will definitely return.
(5)
Ben V.
First visit the waitress was friendly and attentive. Got the pit platter as it was a nice mix of their food. The food was moist and fell off the bones and was a good portion. Biggest complaints were that it came out on paper plates and baskets and the decor was dusty and the floor had junk on it that wasn't swept up. They did clear tables quickly and the food was tasty. I would consider trying them again in the future but likely more on a to go basis.
(3)
Ramsey B.
Had dinner earlier today at this popular southwest side restaurant. I ordered their chili as an appetizer and the half slab of ribs. First the Chili: Great testing chili, perhaps one of the best I've tasted. I failed to ask for sour cream. However, the absence of sour cream allowed me to taste the flavor of the ground beef which gives this chili an amazing taste. Second, the ribs: OMGoodness, OMGoodness! Perhaps the best ribs on the southwest side. They're not thick ribs, but they are deliciously tender and lean. The BBQ sauce gives the ribs most of its' flavor. The Pit Rib House makes their own BBQ sauce. This sauce will satisfy every BBQ sauce aficionado. The sauce is so good, it over powers the smokiness of the rib, if it even has a smokiness flavor. The restaurant motto is "It's so good cooked with wood." Due to the tasty BBQ sauce, the smokiness seems to be absent. Simply put, I couldn't detect that it was cooked in wood. Most high end specialty rib shacks or high end rib restaurants will serve the ribs without any BBQ sauce, in-spite of having their own original recipe BBQ sauce. And they leave it up to the customer to add the BBQ sauce. This allows the customer to enjoy the flavorful texture of the rib before adding the BBQ sauce. My suggestion is for the Rib Pit to serve the ribs without the BBQ sauce. There's a bottle of their original recipe BBQ sauce at every table. The customer can add the BBQ sauce if needed. Next time, I'm going to order the ribs without the BBQ sauce so that I can first experience the smokiness of the wood in the rib. Lastly, the sides of coleslaw and pasta were great compliments. The coleslaw is prepared the way I like it...not creamy and not too dry. Just perfect!
(4)
Erin D.
Went here with family to celebrate my brothers birthday. We are all meat eaters. All of us ordered ribs except my husband who got the chicken and rib tip combo (which was very good too). I really enjoyed the ribs, fall off the bone, tender and delicious, The Texas toast was buttery and yummy (definitely worth committing carbicide for). The only thing I'm not a fan of is the coleslaw. (Ick- mayo based coleslaw). When you compare to other nearby rib places I think it holds it own. I was pretty surprised about the multiple reviews about bad service. Our waitress was very attentive, and did a great job.
(4)
Jolee G.
Have been to this place twice after my boyfriend's suggestion. The food and service was amazing. Never a disappointment and meat is fall off the bone. Will gladly return
(5)
Chloe U.
Went here with my boyfriend to grab some lunch. Have to say those were the best 14" ribs I have ever tried! Coming back more often!!!
(5)
Diana G.
Came for lunch and only a few tables were occupied. We decided on the pit platter which came with ribs, chicken and pulled pork. We chose cole slaw and fries. Everything was meh except the chicken. That was good. Waitress was a bit standoffish and she never came to check up on us.
(2)
Joe S.
Well, I'm not really sure if this place knows what it wants to be. I mean, really - have you ever seen Greek-style chiken pita or Greek salad with feta cheese on the menu at a BBQ shack?? That should have tipped me off that this was not going to be on the A-list for BBQ joints. So, we ordered the pulled chicken sandwich and slab ribs. Pulled chicken sandwich flat-out sucked. I mean they literally chopped up a cooked chicken breast and dumped some sauce on it. Terrible. Ribs were pretty good, not fantastic but good. I would buy the ribs for a quick BBQ fix on the way home from work if I had to. The short - this is not a destination or weekend BBQ joint that is going to blow your mind. It is a confused BBQ joint with a bunch of Greek-inspired items on the menu.
(2)
Van L.
Baked potato was old, baked beans had a strange taste, rib sauce has first ingredient as high fructose corn syrup and second water. Ribs were 3 stars per my daughter. Waitress was super nice and attentive and the decor is nice:)
(2)
Michelangelo V.
Honest review: not that good the only thing i liked was the shish kabobs i had the platter with the chicken the ribs n the pulled pork the ribs were horrible they were supper dry lacking flavor the chicken was moist but needed salt personally everything needed salt the service is good for me the best barbeque place is hog wild not this place
(1)
MoonUnit Z.
My husband and I went to the Pit Rib house on Tuesday, December 30, 2014, around 6:30 pm. We received gift cards for Christmas to this restaurant. The restaurant was not at capacity nor was there a line to be seated. The host asked us how many and we replied, "Two." He then looked at a spiral notebook several times and wrote something in it before he seated us. We sat in a corner table and waited about ten minutes before the waitress greeted us. While we were waiting, the patrons at the next table were commenting how they asked the waitress for the check, but she did not bring it. They finally go up and walked to the register. When our waitress finally came over, we asked her about a menu item. I do not believe she knew the answer as it just didn't seem to answer the question we were asking. My husband then said something to the fact that when she comes back with our soft drinks, we would be ready to order. She returned in about five minutes with our two Pepsis and left immediately without taking our order or even asking if we were ready to order. We waited over ten minutes and she never returned. At that time, my husband decided that he had enough and our money was good anywhere, so we got and walked towards the register to ask how much we owe for the two soft drinks and that we were leaving because of the service. A young man at the register rang up the two soft drink and it came to $5.16. I cannot believe that they would charge us for the two soft drinks that we hardly drank. You would have thought that when we said we were leaving because of the service, they would not have charged us, but they did. We paid the tab and left. I would suggest that others try two other BBQ restaurants in the area ... try The Patio (several locations in the Chicago area) or Hog Wild in Midlothian. Better food and better service!
(1)
Adam J.
I started coming to The Pit with my parents when it opened 20 years ago. The food was great then and it is now. The ribs and the baked beans are really, really freaking good But I do have a negative issue in one regard. I hate eating chicken with bones. Most people love it, but for me it's the worst. If I eat chicken it's usually a boneless chicken breast. It's one of my hang ups that I'll never get over that I associate with slight OCD. They have "The Pit Platter". Some ribs, chicken and pork or beef. The last two times I went I've wanted that platter, but have asked to sub out the chicken for extra pork. Then they proceed to look at me like I'm nuts and tell me they can't do that. I understand that there should be a surcharge and I wait for them to tell me a price, but they won't accommodate the request. I refuse to call for the manager because at the end of the day, it's not worth the hassle. But just because it's not on the menu it doesn't mean it can't be done. Servers should never say that it can't be done because it isn't explicitly listed on the menu. There's a price for everything at every restaurant. The BBQ is as good as it gets in the SW burbs. I just wish they'd give me what I want
(4)
Ted B.
Yum! tied for first in my all time favorite best ribs joints the other prestigious spot belongs to Steer Hogs in Midlothian. very good portion of ribs about 20 percent more overall meatiness. The sauce was just right in overall flavor not too sugary tasting that is so common in so many places. I will go back no doubt.
(5)
Jocelyne G.
Amazing burgers, friendly staff and place has so much character. Highly recommend it!
(5)
Jenn G.
Best barbecue I've had in my life, great service, great atmosphere, great prices. All around best restaurant I've ever been to.
(5)
Jason S.
Went here with my wife after a friend told me to. We were in the area so we decided to try it. Nice place nicely decorated. Smelled good when we walked in. That's the only good thing I could say. I ordered the ribs after all this is a rib place right? They were TERRIBLE I mean I wouldn't feed them to my dog. They were rubbery and tough and were lacking any type of smoke flavor or flavor profile in general. Sides were decent but tasted like they were pre made. My wife had a Greek salad which for a run place thought it was weird but hey what do I know. Surprisingly she said it was ok. I tried it and it was not bad. Overall disappointed and will not return. I wish them the best.
(1)
Richard B.
Love there food here. .. the pork is amazing
(5)
Judy B.
I decide to take my husband and father to this place for Fathers Day. Since I have heard great stuff about the place, I said why not! So the wait time there was long, do to the Father's Day celebration everywhere would be busy. The hostess was NOT friendly at all, I can see that she was overwhelmed by how busy they had been. I personally did not like their buffalo chicken wings, they were not spicy and the meat was different from other wings I have tried. I do have to say that the BBQ ribs were great!! The chicken was huge for my liking. I will go back and just order to a full slab of ribs.
(3)
Grant P.
I like the Pit enough to keep them as a stored contact in my phone. They're great for takeout bbq and close enough to my house to zip over on many a hungry Sunday night. But I don't LOVE the Pit and here's why. It doesn't taste like real bbq to me. I don't know the ins and outs of slow smoking vs grilling. I've never been in the Pit's kitchen so I truly don't know what their procedure is, but I know there's a distinct flavor and look when bbq is prepared the traditional slow-cooked way, and it just doesn't have it here. Through other reviews, I've read that they boil their ribs prior to grilling them and that's fine. It tastes really good that way. But the flavor is very different than places like Uncle Bubs, Q, and a myriad other places in the not-so-distant area. To me, this is a greek diner masquerading as a barbecue joint. But enough about that. I like what I get here, and my best friend and his family snub their noses when I take them for more authentic barbecue, so there's that. The ribs are very moist, meaty and fall-off-the-boney. The helpings are huge for the price. The sauce is decent, but unremarkable. Here's a tip: get the Pit Platter. For under $20 you get a healthy serving of pulled pork, a quarter of a chicken and depending on how generous they're feeling, a quarter to a half slab of ribs. Plus two sides. You will get full. It's probably enough to share, but you won't want to. All in all, I'm very satisfied with all my experiences at the Pit. The food is good. The service is decent and I'm a frequent flyer. Cons: Aside from the faux-Q I previously mentioned. They get busy. REALLY busy, and it's difficult to find parking. The tables are a bit cramped as well. That's it. Nothing to really make them risk losing a star in my opinion.
(4)
Dan L.
Amazing ribs and burgers. If you're ever in the south suburbs you should check them out. Be sure to go on an empty stomach, because you'll walk out completely stuffed.
(5)
Paul I.
Pretty good. Portions are huge. Ordered chicken and rib tips. Friend ordered the tex chicken sandwich. Good as well. Will come back. The best thing are the prices. Good food at a reasonable price. Will be back
(4)
Rob S.
My favorite restaurant of all time. Food is always out of this world and the service is excellent.
(5)
Morris N.
Parking lot is small so expect to deal with that challenge if it's busy. Atmosphere is casual. They have dine-in and carryout. Prices are reasonable. Cream of chicken rice soup seem homemade and was really good. Ribs were great and comes with two sides and some toast. Service was decent, not great. Starting with the hostess whom got the job done but wasn't too friendly and didn't seem like she was happy to be at work. The server was nice but we only saw her to take the order, drop off the order, and deliver the check. Busboys were hustling though and doing a great job. If the service was better, I would give it 4 stars. Try this place if you want good food, but know that service is hit or miss.
(3)
Roseanne S.
I've been going to the Pit Rib house for quite some time and it remains one of my favorite places for ribs. The decor is pretty neat. They have a ton of old memorabilia including newspapers from major events, old baseball cards, old advertisements, etc. It's really cool to look at it all while you wait for your meal. I typically order a full slab of ribs which comes with two sides. The fries are great. They're pretty big, though you don't get as much as you used to. I'd also recommend getting the baked beans. The meat slides right off the bone. I also like the BBQ sauce because it isn't spicy or tangy. It is (in my mind) the perfect BBQ sauce. If it's your birthday, you'll even get a bottle of the house sauce to take home! My mom typically orders the Mediterano burger which she is a big fan of. It comes with feta cheese, grilled onions, and roasted red peppers. At the end of your meal, it seems that they are doing this new thing where you get a couple of small brownies after your meal for free. Hey, I'll take it! The only thing that is preventing me from giving the Pit Rib 5 stars is that the service can be fickle. Some days they can be really attentive and sometimes they seem like they don't care. I guess it depends who is working. Still, the Pit Rib is my go-to BBQ and I hope they continue to keep up the quality of their food for years to come.
(4)
Andres D.
Their motto "It's So Good Cooked with Wood" and "We Cook um Slow we Serve um Fast". Yes, I would have to agree for more reasons than one. I ordered the BBQ Rib Tips which I knew judging by the $12.95 price tag they were going to be more than I can handle. With that in mind I ordered a Cream of Chicken Rice soup as a starter. Their cup of soups are more like bowls. The soup was hot and homemade delicious however I was half full after finishing it. Now, out comes the rib tips, 5/16" skin on fries, texas toast garlic bread and coleslaw. OMG! The collaboration of smells was like a foodie perfume. So basically I did what any good bbq consumer would do. I attacked viciously as if I was in the wild. The bbq sauce is addiciting no arguement there. Rib Tips were not chewy, rather tears apart easilly and holds the tangy sauce well. Kudos for the coleslaw not tasting like a sugar cube. Some places just like to add so much sugar in their slaw. My server Filiz appeared to be a seasoned veteran. She brought out a to go container knowing the rib tips would be the winner at the end of my lunch throwdown. I didn't even have to ask. In a nutshell the portions are HUGE! They serve Coca~Cola. The parking lot may not be user-friendly during a busy dinner hour (kinda tight).
(4)
Betty B.
Best place my boyfriend took me to for dinner. There bbq sauce is to die for & there ribs let's me tell you the best in town my new fave place to eat at, great food, and great prices! A must try
(5)
N E.
They have some of the best and quickest service around. Before you can blink they will have a fresh hot bbq chicken dinner sitting right in front of you. But that is not why I'm reviewing them. They have the best Reuben sandwich I've ever had. Every time I've had one, its really been magical. Use the thousand island dressing to dip your fries in! The after dinner brownie they bring you is off the charts great. And a really nice touch. Thank you.
(4)
Rita B.
A few years back I would have given this place five stars but since then many new BBQ businesses have opened up and have more flavorful foods. The ribs were tasty but not spectacular. Sides were just ok. The atmosphere was nice. My friend had the same meal I did and no rave reviews from him either. I wouldn't turn this place away in the future but I also wouldn't go out of my way to get there.
(3)
Carol M.
Yum! Excellent BBQ (rib tips MY favorite). Beans are awesome - Atmosphere great as well. Parking is the only negative
(4)
Patty S.
Good food for a good price! I had the pulled pork bbq and had enough left over for two more meals. The fries that came on the side were crispy with just the right amount of salt. My friend ordered the cobb salad and it look yummy as well! We didn't see our waitress much, but the decor was a lot of fun and we enjoyed our meal.
(4)
Scott K.
We went to The Pit on a recommendation of a friend. I had the Pit Platter with chicken, ribs and chopped pork. My companion had the rib tips. Neither of us was impressed. Just the opposite of what others have posted, the service was better than the food. Their idea of BBQ is smothering sauce on mundane food. No smoke flavor, the chicken was dry and the rib tips were bland. Sorry, but we won't be back.
(2)
Michael P.
I live like 30 miles away from here but I have to make the trip out to Hickory Hills a few times a year because the Bbq is out of this world! I've never been disappointed while dine here....the pulled pork platter is to die for
(5)
April P.
I have been wanting to go to this place for a long time, and by the luck of God, and great travel arrangements, I was able to do just that. A couple of my buddies said they would drive out here on random nights, and the drive for them is about 40 minute drive. The effort that they need for this place peaked my interest. Onto the food. Yes we are starving, so we ordered a few appetizers to comfort our stomachs before the main plates right. Legit appetizers in the jalapeno poppers and mozzarella sticks. Perfectly crisp and oozing goodness. Each of us ordered the half chicken and half slab of ribs combo. Plenty of food for a meal the next day. Chicken was perfectly moist, and wonderfully cartelized from the barbecue sauce on the outside. $20 for the plates, and it comes with Texas garlic toast, and your choice of fries, baked potato, or baked beans. Big parking lot and pretty easy to get to from 294 expressway.
(5)
Wade L.
They used to be pretty good, but lately they have fallen off a bit. The ribs are pretty good, nice smokey flavor, but there is hardly any meat on them and the do not pull off the bone that easy. Another turn off is the paper plates, for the prices they charge a real plate should be the norm. The waitresses are not that friendly or service oriented, they serve you take your paper place and rush you out the door. I don't think I will be going back again. Sad to say famous Daves is better and that is not saying much.
(1)
Maria G.
Another of my boyfriend's faves but this time he got it right! They have, hands down, the best BBQ Chicken that I've had. Very tender and juicy with a slight smoky flavor to it. Service is very quick and waitresses are pleasant. This is a friendly family joint and I see myself fvisiting this establishment frequently! Try the rib tips too while you're at it. Very tasty!
(4)
Christina S.
To get seated was fast and easy. I ordered the turkey panini and had a piece of the pulled pork sandwich. It was all so good. There was a chipotle sauce in the turkey sandwich and it made a great spice to the sandwich. Pro: fast food service. Prompt service. The parking lot had salt so that customers would not slip. Con: I got the deluxe and it gives you fries and a cole slaw. It was a very small portion of fries and Cole slaw. They could have put more on the plate with the pulled pork sandwich. The hockey game was on so I made sure we had a good view for that. but there was no sound. Overall fast service good food.
(5)
Mike S.
Just came back from the Pit. I swear I died and went to heaven. The 1/2 ribs dinner was out of this world. Let me break it down. The Baby Back Ribs? Mm-mm! Fall of the bone, super delicious, slightly smoked, and a large portion in just a 1/2 rib dinner to boot. And BBQ sauce was not overly sweet like some places. In addition, you have a choice of sides. We had corn on the cob and baked potato. I loved the potato and the Texas toast. Some BBQ houses just throw cole slaw, fries, and garlic bread at you. Not the Pit. If you love Baby back ribs done by the Pros, and you are within a reasonable driving distance of the Pit, you MUST go to the Pit. Forgot the Ambiance. Excellent, with all kind of interesting knick-knacks on the walls. And the waitresses were tops for us. The place was packed tonight, but we didn't have to wait to be seated.
(5)
Dan D.
Came here a little while back and was absolutely disgusted. The waitress was clearly under the influence of something. She was shaking and a mess and couldn't manage the only 2 occupied tables in her section. My girlfriend and I both ordered the signature pork sandwich and I can promise that the pork was not smoked, aged or sauced at all. The fries were quite soggy and my request for additional sauce went somewhere but I don't know where because the waitress never brought it for some unknown reason. The same went for my iced tea I asked for a refill and never received it. I would never come back her ever in my life! This place shames the meaning of the word barbecue.
(1)
Julie A.
First the good news. Great friendly staff, attentive, clean & a fun decor. Portions were big. the onion rings were good. The chili tasted like what I make at home. Nothing extraordinary but good. Then we got our food. Maybe I am a food snob or we were just there on a bad bbq day. The ribs tasted like my moms...that is not a good thing. They tasted like they were boiled and then quickly bbq'd. I said tasted like.. not that they were. The chicken had no flavor except when we put sauce on it. The skin didn't even taste good. The smoke flavor all comes from the sauce. Did you know the main ingredient in their sauce is Corn syrup..ughhh. The corn tasted was over boiled and I can only assume it was frozen. I'm sorry but this time of year, there is no excuse for a bbq place not to get fresh corn. We wont be back. LaGrange is closer and has better options.
(2)
Sandra M.
We came here after hanging out all day at the Oak Lawn Pavilion for my son's basketball games. Everyone was really hungry afterwards, so I used my trusted Yelp app and found this great place to eat. There were 6 adults and 5 kids and didn't need a reservation for an early Saturday evening. Service was great, they had really good pulled pork and great ribs. Both the adults and kids really enjoyed their meals.
(5)
William B.
This place has awesome food and a really cool atmosphere. The waitresses are always a pleasure to deal with. My mouth waters when I think of their real wood smoked souvlaki with their delicious barbecue sauce. Again, awesome!
(5)
Sam K.
You know that you've gotten bad barbecue when the highlight of your meal is your corn on the cob - and mediocre corn on the cob, no less, flatted out and lacking in plumpness, like it's from KFC. The ribs here aren't smoked, but boiled and then haphazardly throw on the grill, and then slathered with a standard sugary barbecue sauce with no depth or flavor. Whatever flavor there was came from the caramelized bits of fat on the ribs. Adding insult to injury, there are no small orders at this place - if you buy just ribs or rib tips, you have to buy at least a pound. Otherwise you have to buy a dinner with two sides, none of which seem particularly interesting. It takes a lot for me to waste food I've spent good money on, especially if I'm hungry, but this made the cut. I didn't want it in my mouth. The food is one or two stars, but I gotta bump it up for the service and the staff, who are really friendly, courteous, and efficient. The place seems to be running smoothly, and everything is quick.
(3)
David N.
Dinner tonight was freaking amazing. The service was outstanding, price was right, and the food...best BBQ I've had in a long time. Ribs fell off the bone, the BBQ pork sandwich was packed with tender meat, and the BBQ sauce was mouthwatering. Throw in some excellent cole slaw, french fries, and pasta salad, and you've got one hell of a BBQ dinner. I definitely can't wait to go back!
(5)
John R.
I was starting my BBQ list and realized I have never reviewed The Pit. Kind of a shame as it's one of my favorites. Last time I was there, was about three weeks ago, time to revisit. :) Love the ribs and beans. What more do you need? Ribs and beans.
(4)
John S.
Verry good pulled pork sandwich. Great value with fries and a side. Big enough for two meals A bit disappointed in sauce but I'm spoiled from being in KC. Worth a try if your in area.
(4)
Michael M.
Best ribs ever! Everyone I take here agrees. I would recommend going here for a birthday as well. I met people here for my birthday with no reservation and the waitstaff refrigerated our cake and took a picture of all of us with their camera and printed it out for us while we ate dinner. Oh man they know how to take care of people here! They are the best!!! I buy their sauce to take home every time I go.
(5)
Chris L.
I've been to The Pit a bunch of times, and every time I tell myself I'm going to try something else on their menu, but I'm stuck on the Corned Beef Sandwich... I know it weird, stuck on Corned Beef at a BBQ place known for their ribs...but its really good. The portion size is huge, and the price is right. Good to get it to go, or eat in house. They also have good soups and burgers.
(4)
Noula A.
Love the souvlakia! That's my favorite! Love the decor, it's a great place for my family to gather and relax!
(5)
Tatiana B.
Awesome food!! The fact that everything is BBQed on wood is awesome. This place is the go to place for BBQ!!!
(5)
Sarah C.
The service was so horrible skinny blonde with bad makeup mad fun of me and my guest behind our backs very very bad service but the food is good fire the staff add new ones
(1)
Chris H.
My favorite BBQ place on the southwest side. Everything is cooked over wood and you smell/taste it. I've had everything ranging from the ribs (great) to the chicken sandwiches (although great). And although simple, I lvoe Texas Toast. Reasonable prices and portions. Parking is terrible during dinner. Not a huge beer selection.
(5)
Irene G.
Omg the burgers here are fricken deeelicious! I don't know why it took so long for me to come here. I've only tried the Tex-Mex burger but I'm sure the others are just as good. It had the right amount of juicy-ness that I love in a burger. Not to mention it will more than fill you up. We also ordered a half slab of their ribs because let's face it, who goes to the Pit Rib House and not try their famous ribs. They were perfect! The meat was so tender and slid off the bone so easily - the way ribs should All deluxe meals comes with side choices of pasta salad or corn on the cob and texan toast.
(4)
Terra L.
Seriously! If you haven't eaten the ribs here, then you my friend, have not eaten ribs yet! This place will not disappoint! The parking can be a pain, but it is worth it. They have their own brand BBQ sauce that you can purchase and use at home.
(5)
Tony M.
5 stars period!! Been here a number of times and each and every time they get it right! Probably the best BBQ in the southwest side! Had the Pit Platter (combo of ribs, chicken and beef) - it was amazing. The only draw back is the server could have check on us more often. I will be here again - great food
(5)
Deborah S.
My husband and I love this place. I love the Tex-Mex Burger and the Tex-Mex Chicken sandwich. The burger is so tasty and seasoned just right. I have tried to create the same at home but no luck. I just love it here. We always have enough to take home every time. The best bar-b-q on this side of town.
(5)
Scott M.
The smell hits you first. Get close to the place, and you smell meat cooking over a wood fire-This is usually enough to send a foodie over the edge. It does me. It's one of the sine qua nons of any BBQ joint worthy of consideration-A blind man should be able to find it. I was expecting to find Stevie Wonder chowing down at this place. I'll get the few negatives out of the way-If you go during peak times, parking is going to suck. Some of the reviewers carped about "canned vegetables". Well...duh! With the exception of 'Taters, Onion Rings, Slaw and Jalapeños, you don't go to a BBQ for Veggies. Or shouldn't at least. (Although the Pit does mount a credible Greek salad). I don't even go for the spuds, 'cos they take up valuable gastric real estate that could be housing meat. But--every theory has a corollary, and thought the baked beans were very very tasty. So is the sour slaw-a perfect foil for the meat. Ah, the meat. The star of the show here, for me is the Souvlaki (pork shish kabob). Done in the ubiquitous Lemon-olive oil-garlic-oregano marinade and fired over the wood flame, it is, in a word, fabulous. Then again, they could prolly skewer styrofoam packing peanuts soaked in that marinade and they'd taste good. The management here will not do a Rib/Souvlaki combo, but a little Menu harvesting allows you to get an appetizer of Souvlaki (5-6 skewers) along with a half slab of Ribs. And 'bout those Ribs. I like mine "naked" with the sauce on the side, and they came open-flame pit charred, leanish Baby Backs with a nice Porky flavor.The sauce came warmed on the side, and as such is better than the room temperature bottle they put on the table. The flavor profile is less "smoky" and more "flame". And that is okay by me Wife had a Chicken Sandwich which was fine. Fire grilled and juicy. Everything comes with Texas Toast, and everything SHOULD come with Texas Toast, if it's done like this. They give you a little Chocolate Brownie gratis with the check-and yes, it tastes like it's straight out of the Sara Lee canon, but hell, it's FREE!!!! and just enough sweet to close out the meal in balance. I also have to say a word about the beverages. The Diet Cola didn't quite taste like Coke or Pepsi. Usually these imposters have a cloying flavor that I tolerate, at best. Here, however, the "throw" (mixture) was such that the drink was satisfying and not bad at all. Like an Idiot, I ordered coffee to go with the little brownie--I feel the same way about coffee at a BBQ joint the same way I do about mixed vegetables at a BBQ joint-it's bad chemistry! But I was surprised to get a damned good cup. Perhaps this is due to the Greek heritage of the place. Greeks love their coffee. I give the Pit 4 stars. A fine BBQ feed at, as they say "Popular prices" .
(4)
Lauren K.
I went on a Sunday.. right off the bat we had a bad feeling when the server walked up still chewing food and never introduced herself with a name. Our appetizer (jalapenos poppers) came out cold. . and she (our server) never came back to check on us so we had to get up and find someone to send our app back. . . the food was just okay. . I'm not saying I would NEVER return.. but I will not be voting to go here anytime soon.
(2)
Amelie and Dan B.
This place is just OK. We were here on a couple of occasions with friends; they recommended this restaurant and they seem to like this place. We ordered the ribs; we tried the chili, and hamburgers. The service is hit or miss. We probably won't be back, though.
(3)
Ashley P.
Tough parking situation on the weekends, but incredible food. Go as a couple and order the combo plate to share with a side of onion rings. Quite possibly the best pulled pork I've had this side of the Mississippi and the chicken is always moist. But the ribs get ALL the glory!
(4)
Teri D.
omg omg omg is it ever good!! The homemade sauce is so good I could rub it in my hair and is positively ADDICTIVE. The sausage they make here is TO DIE FOR!! I am going to be eating here EVERY TIME I come to the Chicago area. The pulled pork was truly a masterpiece and the kabobs of grilled pork were heavenly. Even the salad is delicious. When I have 6 months to live, I'm having my bed moved here!!
(5)
Vanessa F.
Came here with my husband and two kids expecting some good food... unfortunately there wasn't any. I guess I'm just a food snob, but you be the judge. For a $60 meal we received horrible service. Waited for about 15 minutes for a waitress to greet us and take order. We placed our order and were interrupted by the waitress and told us to wait and she would come back to get the rest of our order. She did comee back about15 minutes later. We waited for our food hoping that it would be better than the service we were receiving and I was wrong. We got frozen unseasoned fries, onion rings seemed to come from a bag out of the freezer, chicken was dry, ribs were dry, burger was overcooked and our rib tips that were ordered never came! Apparently the waitress forgot to put the order in, but were anxiously waiting for them. The bbq can't say much...pretty mediocre. Also, the side options were very limited an there was NO CORN BREAD. Who does that??? Skip this place if you are looking for good bbq!
(1)
Alison B.
Can't think of a bad thing to say except the one time I took someone here after raving, the food wasn't as good on that day. Great sauce, great variety on the menu. Beef, chicken sandwiches/entrees are all good. Great salads. Great sides. I just love coming here. When I don't feel like trashing my diet, I'll order a grilled chicken sandwich with healthier sides (still get that great BBQ taste without too much guilt).
(4)
Courtney K.
Do NOT darken their doorstep, unless you like roaches joining you for lunch. Yes, a fairly large roach crawled across the table. The manager was notified, and the lunch was free, but NEVER again will we go there. Utterly horrifying.
(1)
Lambros P.
What to say......I always order the chicken shishkabobs..the rest of my family order anywhere from the ribs, souvlaki, pit platter is"awesome" your choice of three items!!
(5)
Elizabeth T.
Richard S. and I must've had the same waitress. 4 of us came here for dinner on a Saturday night. We were also sat on the very back. We had to flag another waitress to ask where our waitress was because we have been sitting at our table for a while an no one came to take our order. Food was blah. I had higher expectations for the barbeque chicken & ribs but it felt like the chicken was just grilled and sauce was put on top of it. Ribs were ok. Mediocre food Very poor service The comment of one previous yelpers about a roach in their food basket? Will definitely not be coming back.
(1)
Eddie P.
Definitely one of my favorite BBQ restaurants anywhere. I started going here when they first opened with a dining room that sat probably 30 people. Although I have dabbled with many items on the menu, I always find myself returning to the BBQ Pork sandwich or the ribs. Both are perfectly tender and smoky. No matter where I go, I always find myself comparing ribs and BBQ pork to the Pit's. Very few have come close, for example Brand in Logan Square makes some good pulled pork. As for the ambiance, the place is always filled with locals. Vintage memorabilia covers the walls. There's a couple wood burning fire places that I have only seen burning in the winter which is nice. The service is usually pretty good. Food comes out pretty quick most days. I think people get used to this and expect the service to be that quick all of the time, but the place gets pretty full on the weekends. They offer take-out which is awesome and quick and they will always give you an extra cup of warm BBQ sauce for free if you ask. Definitely request it for the BBQ pork sandwich as they only put probably a small ladle on top. All in all, if you have never been, you must go. Easily the best restaurant in Hickory Hills/Palos Hills area.
(5)
John C.
I've been here several times before giving it a review. On one visit the bbq ribs slab was juicy and tender. The next visit it was just o.k., and the other night they were dry and the meat was tough. Rib tips were ok.The pulled pork sandwich wasn't any better, it was dry and room temperature. I've ate their food when it was great, and when it was bad. I have been going there at least twice a year for the last 3 years. It's just to inconsistent, I will not be back.
(2)
Liz C.
Haven't been here since maybe 2008. It was awesome! Got me hooked on ribs! Service was good! Food was great! My husband and I hope to go back soon! (I know it's been a while lol)
(4)
John C.
My first review was removed, I'll simple this review up, my stomach was upset for hours after eating these,," fall of the bone" ribs. That is ribs that are way over done, I should of had a pulled pork samitch. Done.... not coming back
(2)
Walter L.
A masterpiece of BBQ taste and consistency. I've never had a bad slab of ribs at this suburban treasure.
(5)
Michele C.
We ate there 4/15 the food was good.I had a beef brisket sandwhich with fries. My husband had a hamburger. It was fresh and hot. Our server was ok .I had ordered Texas toast she never brought it. I reminded her and she never put it in.no refills on drinks never offered..maybe she was too busy too many tables Don't know.
(3)
Ken K.
Great food at good prices. Excellent BBQ and very big portions. Fast, attentive service which is good for me because we have kids. Sandwiches are large as well. I went on St. Patrick's Day and ordered a Reuben, yes a Reuben sandwich in a BBQ place and it was huge. The only thing holding me back from giving this place 5 stars is their french fries. For some reason I don't like them that much. The ribs are excellent. They are just as good or better than the Patio.
(4)
Michael W.
Some of the best BBQ ribs and pulled meats you'll find. Prices are reasonable with service that's fast and friendly. They could expand the menu to maybe add some homemade appetizers. The frozen appetizers are just blah and nothing special.
(4)
Linh L.
I prefer billy boys bbq food. their food here taste like fast food. Meh, I wouldn't go back.
(2)
Steve O.
I love the Pit's Sauce. It goes with just about everything. I give them many kudos for their recipe. This place is good. At times it is even very good. I have never had a "bad" experience here. But...... it is greek bbq. It doesnt have the same feel as marinating a slab of ribs for four hours and then smoking them for another four hours. BUT I do give them credit for cooking over actual wood which does impart a flavor that you can never replicate. I will go here again, no doubt., but not for authentic BBQ. They seem to have carved a bit of a niche they can call their own and I enjoy it. I have had the chicken and the ribs. All have been good and more. If you have never eaten here I would suggest it. But if you are a true BBQ aficiando then you can definitely do better somehwere else.
(4)
Yvonne O.
Still a fan of this place - but still a bigger fan of the Patio. And, since we are even further away from here now, we do not come here more than once a year. Husband is still getting the pork platter with baked potato and beans and still wishing for more bread. I opted for some soup this time and a fish sandwich (hey, it's on the menu, someone has to try it!). The cream of chicken rice was out of a can, which is fine. The fish sandwich was one of those pre-made frozen deals, which was disappointing. The fries are crinkle-cut and good as ever, though. The service was not up to their usual speed or frequency of checks and it took us about 40 minutes instead of 25 to get in and out. (We brought our perishables (from our return from MI) in the place with us and were glad to have done so because the meat would have spoiled) I'll still come back for the yearly trip, but next time I may have to break down and order the "normal" stuff!
(3)
Stef F.
I can't believe all of the high reviews for this place. We've been forced to go here 2 separate times with friends and IT'S GROSS! And yet they love it. I don't get it... First of all, atmosphere sucks. I like casual and all, but this place borders on overboard with paper plates and such. Every time we've been here, service has sucked. We wait forever and the waitress seems like she could care less. You wait an eternity for drinks or maybe even get the wrong drink, which is always super cool. Last time I was here I ordered the pulled pork and it was soooo fatty I about gagged. It was that gross. Practically inedible. It just sat there on my plate. I stared at it. Hoping for something to eat. But no. Maybe I've been spoiled because I LOVE MEMPHIS. Best bbq in the world! But I sadly even think Famous Daves is better around here than this place.
(2)
Lizeth M.
Best rib tips ever!!!! :-)
(5)
Wes D.
GREAT baby back ribs! Probably the best around. Delicious bbq sauce!
(4)
Paul D.
Ah, The Pit. From the time they opened the smell of their wood burning stove (that you can see when you walk in the door, it sits just behind the front of house) and the bar-b-cue they offer has made my mouth water for their tastiness. Situated not far from the homestead, I used too hit the Pit at least once a month for their take-out for the rib tips alone, but it's just not ribs, they have an extensive menu to enjoy from everything flamed grilled to Vegetarian. The moment we pull into their parking lot I get stoked. I haven't been here in while and I sometimes just drive by so I can smell what they're cooking, then telling myself that I have to get back there. When they first opened they were mostly a take-out place with a small causal eat-in dinning room, but as their reputation grew for great B-B-Q (you can still see the autographed pictures of movie, TV, and sports stars on the wall) they've expanded to a now a mostly eat-in type of place. But you can still get anything on the menu to go. My one main concern, however, as I make my way through the door is that while they've expanded and updated I only wish that they included their decor. Walking into the Pit is like walking back into a 1990s TGIF with enough junk and shit on their walls to choke a garage sale. But the food meanwhile was still on par for what I come too expect when I eat there. And while it is bar-b-que, the Pit is far from cheap. While not fine dinning expensive be prepared to pay at least $80-$100 for a family of four unless you are just hitting the burgers, which are large and juicy I might add, but if it's the ribs and stuff from their full bar then it adds up. So if you have a taste for something that's actually made on a grill and flame broiled and not just said it is then hit the Pit. You won't be disappointed.
(4)
K G.
I have been here about three times, and although the food is not bad, not great, and on the south side that's saying something, they lost me as a customer for two reasons: 1) I don't want to eat off of paper plates when I go out to eat. 2) The last time I was there, I ordered a baked potato. They actually gave me a cardboard container of artificial sour cream. That's exactly what the label said. WTH? I cannot eat junk like that. So bye, bye.
(2)
Romeo C.
If you are looking for BBQ this place will disappoint your expectations. Go to Uncle Bubs in Westmont or Smoque in the city. Or get a plane ticket to Texas. The Pit is the pits. It is definitely a Greek diner trying to market itself as a BBQ place. I ordered the BBQ beef, and I had thought I had misordered when I received appeared to be Italian Beef slopped on a Chinette paper plate. When I asked the waitress to clarify what it was she confirmed that it was not brisket, but could not tell me how it was prepared. She had to call the manager. The manager tried to tell us that it was smoked over wood for 12 hours, and to add sauce and salt and pepper on it - "people like it that way". I was polite about it and nodded my head, but there is no way the meat was smoked. There were no smokers inside, or outside the restaurant, nor was there any smell of hardwood smoke anywhere around the restaurant. BBQ should not require sauce, salt and pepper, or anything on top of it to enhance the flavor. It is either BBQ or it is not. The meat was grey, dry and bland, with no hint of any smoke or pink ring at all. Do not waste your time or a meal at this place. I'll say it again - go to Uncle Bubs in Westmont or Smoque in the city.
(1)
Alex F.
This is the best barbecue place I know of in Chicagoland. I used to work across the street so I've enjoyed its deliciousness on many occasions. The Pit is certifiably the Real Thing. The evidence: - Exhibit A: Wood stacked up outside the restaurant - Exhibit B: The smell of barbecue permeating the air in a 1-block radius - Exhibit C: Never dry, great sauce, and great non-BBQ menu items - Exhibit D: Gigantic portions
(5)
Garret B.
Service was marginal at best. Chicken was unbelievably dry. They forgot the thousand island dressing on my Reuben sandwich. Reuben was also dripping with grease. Waitress did bare minimum. Took drink order, brought drinks 20 minutes later, took order, brought food 30 minutes later, then asked if we needed refills when she dropped off the check. Our drinks were empty when she brought the food, but she disappeared so fast, I didn't have time to request them. I complained to the hostess about the lack of service (in the middle of our meal) and it didn't help. The service got no better by any means whatsoever. When she finally brought refills (after dropping off the check), she brought the wrong drinks, but after the god awful dry chicken, I would have been happy with a cup of urine just to rehydrate my mouth! Flavor-wise, everything was fine. They have great BBQ sauce, but I can't say anything else positive.
(1)
Jason D.
What a great find. Randomly found this place in between meetings and I couldn't have been more satisfied. The pulled pork was amazing and the servings were enormous! If you are within 20 miles of this place, make a point to stop.
(5)
David P.
I went here with my sister on Christmas Eve. This is basically the kind of place that makes the south side the south side (or, in this case, the south 'burbs). And in a weird way, makes me proud to be a south sider (I mean, before I moved to the north side. Um...) Massive meat portions. I wasn't in a ribs mood, so I had the Italian beef and "SAH-sidj" combo sandwich. Very delicious. As the menu warns, you have to ask for red sauce if you want it, and, oh yes, I did. It came with both red sauce and au jus, a nice surprise. And their coleslaw ranks into the high end of the best I've ever had. We went to the Pit Rib House because it was one of the few places open around there on Christmas Eve. But I would gladly return on any given day when their competition is also open for business. This is the kind of place that has celebrity photo endorsements lining the front entrance. What can I say, I now have something in common with Jay Leno.
(4)
Anna G.
This has been my go to BBQ place for quite a while. We have tried many BBQ places and keep coming back to this one. Their sauce is my absolute favorite and their service is fantastic. The prices are also very reasonable. Their pulled pork is fantastic in addition to their ribs and chicken. I am a HUGE fan of their Texas toast. I always get an extra piece with my meal. During warm months they have outdoor seating which is really nice as well.
(5)
Richard S.
We just moved into the area and have heard about the Pit so we thought we would give it a try. I was a bit shocked at how much junk was on the walls of pictures,old toys,and just ....stuff. That was a bit distracting but we were led to the back of one of the rooms and left there. About 10 minutes later the waitress (the woman who sat us) asked if we wanted a drink and we placed our orders at the same time. Another 10 minutes she finally brought out drinks. The food was good the sauce was great. At no time did she come to refill drinks,ask how we were doing or ANYTHING! She brought out the bill and then proceeded to help all the tables around us. She would walk all over the room but never come to our table to pick up the bill. It took over 15 minutes for her to acknowledge us and finally get us our receipt! So all in all...good food but service is really bad....dont be in a hurry to eat here.
(2)
Big P.
One of the best barbecue restaurants in the suburbs. Great ribs and not expensive. You can order the pit platter which comes with some ribs, pulled pork and barbecue chicken. I prefer the full slab with fries and beans. It is worth visiting just to see the antiwue memorabilia covering the walls. Parking is hell though!
(5)
I. J.
Been here atleast 10times and every time I've gone it's been tasty with good service. Never waited too long to be seated or for the food to come out (even though it's full with customers). Pull Pork is my personal favorite and I love that it comes out on paper plates (that just shows it's all about the food not about the frills!) I'll be back again soon & reccommend this place to anyone that is a serious meat-eatter! Don't expect ambiance while you dine here-it's bbq people not some fru fru sushi house...just sayin' what do you expect?
(5)
Maria M.
The best BBQ I've ever had :) !!! YUMMY FOR THE TUMMIES - just go there & eat the food. That's all I have to say...
(5)
Dave J.
The name of this place says it all," ItsThe Pits" Ate there before and always had a decent, not outstanding meal. This time was way different. I ordered the combo plate which arrived on a paper plate, really a paper plate. I ordered with the sauce on the side. The meat was dry and over cooked. I can see why they slather their meat in sauce to hide the dry tasteless meat. My wife ordered fried perch which looked like giant frozen fish sticks. There was so much fried breading on the fish it was almost not edible. The service went right along with the food. Our server never told us about the specials that night, we saw them on a chalk board when we were leaving and we would probably have ordered one of those. We had to track him down and ask twice for our Texas Toast (which was the best part of the meal) Apparently the other reviewers have never had good bbq before if they think this place is the best.
(1)
Baron M.
Went for the first time a few days ago. There was a small wait for a table, but was seated within 10 minutes. Service was very prompt and I ordered the pit sampler platter. Food arrived very quickly and the platter consisted of 1/4 slab of ribs, 1/4 chicken and the chopped beef. Sides were a baked potato and cole slaw along with 2 pieces of Texas toast. Quantity of food was very generous-the beef was on the bottom of the plate with the ribs and chicken on top. Everything was sauced very heavily, and the sauce used is very sweet and tangy. Would have been nice if there was a selection of sauces in house to compliment the meat, but there was just a single bottle of the same on the table, and it was definitely not needed. Ribs and chicken were excellent, the beef was not brisket and had kind of a stringy texture. In summary, nice place for a quick meal, the beer is ice cold and prices reasonable. Easy on the sauce!
(3)
Marlon L.
Love the Pit! Great food served very fast. There's nothing fancy about this place (food served on paper plates). My favorite are the ribs, but every other dish I've had there is delicious!
(4)
Nicole L.
I'm not a big fan of BBQ but this place is well worth it. I even bought a bottle of their BBQ sauce - it's that good! I always get the quarter chicken and it's always delicious. I like the atmosphere too. I no longer live nearby so I haven't had my fix in awhile. :(
(5)
Erin B.
Yum Yum Yum! I absolutely love the ribs from The Pit! They rock! Everything the comes with your order, potato, veggies and such are freshly made, and piping hot. The BBQ sauce is laced with crack; I'm sure of it! One of the reasons I really like this place too is that you can tell it's a family business. It feels super homey, and the service has always been top notch.
(5)
Abby T.
As Larry David would say, "pretty, pretty, prettygood." All the entrees come with delicious Texas Toast. The chicken taco appetizer is a MUST ORDER item!! The ribs are above average, although I would like to see more bbq sauce on them upon arrival.......since bbq is always better cooked on, as opposed to poured on. Service is exceptional. We got checked on a few times. The atmosphere is that of one you should expect bbq goods to be served. Think lots of paper plates, wet naps, wood and gingham! I never regret coming to The Pit.....plus, it always makes me think of the scene from Father of the Bride, when Steve Martin suggests the reception be at The Pit, and the son responds, "I don't think you want the word 'pit' on a wedding invitation, George."
(4)
Sherri S.
Great bbq for a good price. Cute little interior decorated with Americana antiques.
(4)
Christina A.
I have been here twice now after visiting my grandmother on the south side and I was thoroughly disappointed both times. The first time I went I followed tradition and went for the barbecue and had the pulled pork. It just seems so smoky. Don't get me wrong, I'm from Texas and I LOVE bbq but it was fatty too. This second time I was in the mood for their fish fry and my husband got the bbq platter. Again, total disappointment. In my life I have NEVER sent anything back but after a while the server (who was sweet as could be) must have seen my face and said she'd bring it to the kitchen. By the way, the corn was a frozen cob and looked wilted from sitting in a steam tray. I offered to pay for it because I felt so guilty for sending it back, but they said it was indeed fishy. I was starving so I ordered a burger with blue cheese and my husband said it must not be my day because it was awful. It was obviously a frozen patty and the blue cheese was brought out in a plastic cup and it was just cheap blue cheese dressing. I must say that our serving was very kind and the place is nostalgic and cute and my husband said the ribs were great, but not worth another trip.
(2)
Jason K.
It's okay and totally serviceable. But why go here when Chuck's Barbecue on 79th and Ridgeland-ish is 8 minutes away?
(2)
Hank G.
Good place for BBQ, been there numerous times and they are consistent. Had the pulled pork sandwich and all was good. Also had hot wings as an appetizer and they were a little spicer than last time and tasted a little more like Tabasco Sauce but were ok. Definetly will be going back.
(4)
Laura S.
Good ribs and a good bbq sauce. Atmosphere so-so.
(3)
misiaczekm f.
Very good BBQ restaurant, delicious "half slab"!!! I never been a fan of bbq food and ribs, but when I tried their famous ribs.....uhmm it was fantastic!!!! Meat is very soft, tender and have a great taste!!!! I don't know about different food in that place.....but i highly recommend "full or half slab".
(5)
Martha Z.
I like my ribs smoky and meaty, and that's exactly how the pit serves them. Nothing from the appetizers really grabbed me. I think the best thing to do is keep your eye on the meat. The only downer of the meal was that they couldn't get our drinks right. We ordered root beer and for some reason ended up with a pitcher of iced tea mixed with root beer. Regardless our friend summed it up the best "The pit was a hit".
(4)
Ray S.
A friend told me about The Pit and how it's "THE" BBQ place to eat at on the south side. Being a North sider, I am always cautious taking advice from South siders about where I should have my next meal. Not that South siders don't know good food, it's just that every time a friend who happens to be a South sider tells me about a place that is so "great" it usually isn't and The Pit falls into my "Not so Great" category. It wasn't good at all. I think the place has an identity crisis. It's either a BBQ place or a Greek diner. Yes, I do realize they like to throw some variety in there, but the influence of Greek food just doesn't mesh well with the whole BBQ theme. The reason I was told about this place is because I was raving about Chuck's Southern Comforts to a pal (Chuck's is a BBQ place in Burbank) and he said and I quote "The Pit blows away Chucks". Now I have no loyalty to Chuck other than the food at Chucks is so damn good. I don't know Chuck, I don't want to hang out with Chuck. All I know is that Chuck's is WAY better than The Pit. Even if Chuck doesn't have a pic of Jay Leno on the wall, he still beats The Pit by a landslide. If anything, Jay Leno's picture at The Pit had points knocked off simply because I don't like Jay Leno. Avoid The Pit. The Pit is the pits.
(2)
April W.
This is the best BBQ around and the sauce is so good. The ribs just fall off the bone, and the chicken is tender and juicy. The baked beans with bbq sauce and little bit of pork in them are my favorite side. The pit also has the worst service around. Expect to get your huge drink and your food fast but never see your waitress again. Midway through the meal my mother and I were waiting for our waitress to make her rounds but 10 min. later she was still talking to the other waitresses. Finally I got up from the table to go ask our waitress for a refill. Forget about the check, we were just gonna go up and ask for that too but our waitress finally got to our table. This is one of my bbq places so I would suggest getting it to go.
(3)
Patrick W.
This may be the best pulled pork I've ever had. The meat is slow cooked with real wood smoke, giving it a great smoky flavor and generously served with some really great homemade barbecue sauce that's really tangy and a good blend of flavors. I didn't expect a whole lot upon seeing the place, but was definitely impressed. This is the type of place I'd go out of my way to get to- which I'll probably have to unless I'm in the area for business like I was yesterday.
(5)
cher b.
I liked the decor. If you like BBQ it's great. I personally hate BBQ - there is very few non-BBQ choices. The shorty corn on the cob's were bland, like straight out of the freezer.
(3)
Jennifer A.
Love their side dishes: cole slaw, pasta salad, fries, etc. The pulled pork sandwich is delicious!
(4)
Michelle H.
I love this place. The food is delicious, the portions generous, the service very attentive, and prices more than reasonable. Their menu includes ribs, rib tips, chicken, pulled pork or chicken, all this smothered in a tangy, mildly spicy signature BBQ sauce (if you like it as much as I do- be sure to buy a bottle to take home with you). Their side dishes are phenomenal as well; tasty pasta salad, baked beans, baked potatoes, corn on the cob, just to name a few. And all dinner entrees are served with garlic Texas toast. They also have great sandwiches and salads. Also they have just added some pannini sandwiches to the menu. They have a small selection of beers to accompany any meal, as well as some tasty fresh brewed iced tea. Not only is the food great, the ambiance is perfect. The walls are decked out with old pictures and various antiques, and they are always playing oldies in the backdrop. So if you ever find yourself in the area, be sure to make this place a "pit" stop!!!
(5)
mike f.
this place is ok, ive lived around here for almost 9 years now and never have once gone here, i figured eh wut the hell so i went it was alot diff inside then what i thought it was going to be i thought is was going to b a lil fancy place but it wasnt but it was decent food good place to get together w the guys and talk sports i suppose
(3)
Brian M.
This is some good BBQ. Good sauce, good food, good times. The wait staff always seems to be off-the-boat Irish. That's kind of weird, but I'm not complaining. Having BBQ served to you by a cute irish girl with a thick brogue is just part of the Chicago experience, I guess. Or something. Try this place out, does not disappoint.
(4)
Theresa C.
tasty and very crowded on a saturday night
(4)
Heidi S.
I am a barbecue afficionado...I have traveled all over the U.S. in search of great barbecue...And The Pit Rib House, which is about literally eight minutes from my house, is absolutely so phenomenal that its sinful!!! First off, you can smell the wood-smoke barbecue from two blocks away!!! When you pull into their parking lot the wood-smoke odor is like Heaven, absolutely intoxicating!!! Their ribs are sinful!!! The meat is high quality, and it literally falls off of the bone its so tender!!! And the sauce is also phenomenal...Its sweet but a little tangy...It its the perfect blend of sweet with a little kick! They give you a delicious side of nicely buttered/seasoned Texas toast...I could eat and eat the delicious Texas toast...I always order two extra orders of this Texas toast, that's how good it is!!! Their other sides are equally as good. Try a baked potato with your ribs...The potato is huge, and they will give you as much butter & sour cream as you want. The baked beans are good as well. And the portions are HUMONGOUS!!! Two normal size adults could easily split a full slab. And if you decide to dine in, the decor in the restaurant is so cute...It's "vintagey," with old-fashioned tin "Coca Cola" signs, different vintage ads, pics of Elvis, Beatles, etc...The decor is too cute!!! And a majority of the female servers are from Ireland or Poland...They have such cute accents, & are very accomadating!!! Finally, they are so reasonably priced...$20.00 for a humongous rib dinner..That's what I'm talking about!!! The owner is Greek...A Greek cooking ribs, you ask? TRY IT...YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!!!!
(5)
Kate L.
This was a regular stop for our family but after visiting on Father's Day we will NOT be back! For as many times as we have been thee the staff is NEVER very friendly! No matter who you get! They get you your meals but they don't pass you a smile until they pass you the check! THEY HAVE NO FREE REFILLS which would set a place back... what? FIVE CENTS! They use paper plates. I guess to save on the dishwashers but the real problem is that this is a 50/50 place! 50 percent of the time it's good and 50 percent of the time the ribs and the chicken are dry and or reheated! This particular day-- Father's Day, the place was crowded and I didn't think I had to ask for a FRESH CHICKEN (which I was in the habit of doing so I didn't get a reheated one). The chicken came REHEATED and DRY the ribs were DRY and they forgot our side of cole slaw. We had a new waitress running around like crazy and I decided not to ask her to take it back because I didn't want to make a scene in front of a crowd. So I called the place and asked to talk to a manager. The girl told me he was not in he was celebrating Father's Day with his family! I said, Really, I just saw him ten minutes ago when we were there. She asked what I was calling for and I told her that I wanted to let him know about the reheated meats and the ribs being dried out. She said there's nothing we can do about it now you're not here and neither is the food. We have had so many friends that stopped going for the same reason we just kept thinking we couldn't find another good barbecue place. They never called back to clear up the problem and we decided this was our very last time we were going to pay for a lousy meal and support a place that won't even stand behind their product. Someone told us about BON A PIT on 122200 S. Harlem and it's like A STROKE OF LUCK!!!!! It's everything The Pit is NOT! Very lovely atmosphere, the food is PHENOMENAL and the sauce is a bit better than The Pit! Great Appetizers and a much better selection on the menu. You WILL BE SO THRILLED YOU SWITCHED GIVE IT A TRY!
(1)
Paul A.
Look around folks. Every other BBQ review from the South Side references The Pit.
(5)
David C.
Great BBQ ribs and beef sandwiches. Good atmosphere. I really need to get back down to the South Side to get some food from The Pit.
(4)
Dave S.
I do not give the five star rating very often but this place deserves it. I eat here every other week if not more and I have NEVER been dissappointed. The service is the fastest and the friendliest and the most consistant of the places that I like to go. I have never had a problem with their food and be sure to get a bottle of their famous sauce to take home with you. They have a decent selection of non-BBQ items to choose from too. The walls are covered with old nostalgic pictures, posters, signs and other retro decor. It is somewhat of a picnic atmosphere as they use paper plates. Somehow a combination of all of the above make it into a great experience!
(5)
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Address :9430 S Roberts Rd
Hickory Hills, IL, 60457
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : No Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Tina M.
Came with a party of ten. Surprised at the poor awareness of hostess to keep us updated on options to be seated. When we recommended squeezing into a table of 9, we were told "if we wanted a job hostessing, we should apply at the front." Way to turn off a customer. The food is very good but hospitality at front was lacking. Management was missing but server did her best to offset the poor start.
(2)D G.
I love going their. I been going for about 4 years now. Nice inside. Bathroom and clean. Lots of old knick·knacks all over the place. Full service. Food is always good. Anything cooked on real wood is. Prices are ok also. Gets over packed on the weekends. Not a lot of room to wait inside on the weekends. Parking is not anywhere enough. If it is a weekend good luck finding a spot. You just keep driving around and stalk people getting out for a while till you find a spot without getting in other peoples way. I'd rate 5 stars but the parking needs to be fixed and over crowding every weekend in all these years. Maybe expand?
(4)Jenn M.
Best barbecue I've ever had! Great ambiance inside, prices reasonable and great customer service!
(5)Sal O.
We have been coming here for years and I just realized I haven't reviewed it. We ate here midweek for our sons birthday. Had a party of 8. We were seated right away. Our waitress was awesome very attentive to our needs. We order ribs and chicken and weren't disappointed. Order came out quick like always. They have a great BBQ ribs. Atmosphere is nice. We definitely continue to go back.
(5)Meylon J.
After leaving an appointment, my family and I drove past this restaurant and had to turn around after smelling the smokey aroma coming from this place. The service was good, but the show stopper was the tasty dishes. I had the chicken kabobs which were seasoned perfectly. My daughter had the rib tips which were sooooo tender I couldn't keep my fork out of her plate. The whole meal was great and the portions were large at a reasonable price. This restaurant is hidden gem and we will definitely return.
(5)Ben V.
First visit the waitress was friendly and attentive. Got the pit platter as it was a nice mix of their food. The food was moist and fell off the bones and was a good portion. Biggest complaints were that it came out on paper plates and baskets and the decor was dusty and the floor had junk on it that wasn't swept up. They did clear tables quickly and the food was tasty. I would consider trying them again in the future but likely more on a to go basis.
(3)Ramsey B.
Had dinner earlier today at this popular southwest side restaurant. I ordered their chili as an appetizer and the half slab of ribs. First the Chili: Great testing chili, perhaps one of the best I've tasted. I failed to ask for sour cream. However, the absence of sour cream allowed me to taste the flavor of the ground beef which gives this chili an amazing taste. Second, the ribs: OMGoodness, OMGoodness! Perhaps the best ribs on the southwest side. They're not thick ribs, but they are deliciously tender and lean. The BBQ sauce gives the ribs most of its' flavor. The Pit Rib House makes their own BBQ sauce. This sauce will satisfy every BBQ sauce aficionado. The sauce is so good, it over powers the smokiness of the rib, if it even has a smokiness flavor. The restaurant motto is "It's so good cooked with wood." Due to the tasty BBQ sauce, the smokiness seems to be absent. Simply put, I couldn't detect that it was cooked in wood. Most high end specialty rib shacks or high end rib restaurants will serve the ribs without any BBQ sauce, in-spite of having their own original recipe BBQ sauce. And they leave it up to the customer to add the BBQ sauce. This allows the customer to enjoy the flavorful texture of the rib before adding the BBQ sauce. My suggestion is for the Rib Pit to serve the ribs without the BBQ sauce. There's a bottle of their original recipe BBQ sauce at every table. The customer can add the BBQ sauce if needed. Next time, I'm going to order the ribs without the BBQ sauce so that I can first experience the smokiness of the wood in the rib. Lastly, the sides of coleslaw and pasta were great compliments. The coleslaw is prepared the way I like it...not creamy and not too dry. Just perfect!
(4)Erin D.
Went here with family to celebrate my brothers birthday. We are all meat eaters. All of us ordered ribs except my husband who got the chicken and rib tip combo (which was very good too). I really enjoyed the ribs, fall off the bone, tender and delicious, The Texas toast was buttery and yummy (definitely worth committing carbicide for). The only thing I'm not a fan of is the coleslaw. (Ick- mayo based coleslaw). When you compare to other nearby rib places I think it holds it own. I was pretty surprised about the multiple reviews about bad service. Our waitress was very attentive, and did a great job.
(4)Jolee G.
Have been to this place twice after my boyfriend's suggestion. The food and service was amazing. Never a disappointment and meat is fall off the bone. Will gladly return
(5)Chloe U.
Went here with my boyfriend to grab some lunch. Have to say those were the best 14" ribs I have ever tried! Coming back more often!!!
(5)Diana G.
Came for lunch and only a few tables were occupied. We decided on the pit platter which came with ribs, chicken and pulled pork. We chose cole slaw and fries. Everything was meh except the chicken. That was good. Waitress was a bit standoffish and she never came to check up on us.
(2)Joe S.
Well, I'm not really sure if this place knows what it wants to be. I mean, really - have you ever seen Greek-style chiken pita or Greek salad with feta cheese on the menu at a BBQ shack?? That should have tipped me off that this was not going to be on the A-list for BBQ joints. So, we ordered the pulled chicken sandwich and slab ribs. Pulled chicken sandwich flat-out sucked. I mean they literally chopped up a cooked chicken breast and dumped some sauce on it. Terrible. Ribs were pretty good, not fantastic but good. I would buy the ribs for a quick BBQ fix on the way home from work if I had to. The short - this is not a destination or weekend BBQ joint that is going to blow your mind. It is a confused BBQ joint with a bunch of Greek-inspired items on the menu.
(2)Van L.
Baked potato was old, baked beans had a strange taste, rib sauce has first ingredient as high fructose corn syrup and second water. Ribs were 3 stars per my daughter. Waitress was super nice and attentive and the decor is nice:)
(2)Michelangelo V.
Honest review: not that good the only thing i liked was the shish kabobs i had the platter with the chicken the ribs n the pulled pork the ribs were horrible they were supper dry lacking flavor the chicken was moist but needed salt personally everything needed salt the service is good for me the best barbeque place is hog wild not this place
(1)MoonUnit Z.
My husband and I went to the Pit Rib house on Tuesday, December 30, 2014, around 6:30 pm. We received gift cards for Christmas to this restaurant. The restaurant was not at capacity nor was there a line to be seated. The host asked us how many and we replied, "Two." He then looked at a spiral notebook several times and wrote something in it before he seated us. We sat in a corner table and waited about ten minutes before the waitress greeted us. While we were waiting, the patrons at the next table were commenting how they asked the waitress for the check, but she did not bring it. They finally go up and walked to the register. When our waitress finally came over, we asked her about a menu item. I do not believe she knew the answer as it just didn't seem to answer the question we were asking. My husband then said something to the fact that when she comes back with our soft drinks, we would be ready to order. She returned in about five minutes with our two Pepsis and left immediately without taking our order or even asking if we were ready to order. We waited over ten minutes and she never returned. At that time, my husband decided that he had enough and our money was good anywhere, so we got and walked towards the register to ask how much we owe for the two soft drinks and that we were leaving because of the service. A young man at the register rang up the two soft drink and it came to $5.16. I cannot believe that they would charge us for the two soft drinks that we hardly drank. You would have thought that when we said we were leaving because of the service, they would not have charged us, but they did. We paid the tab and left. I would suggest that others try two other BBQ restaurants in the area ... try The Patio (several locations in the Chicago area) or Hog Wild in Midlothian. Better food and better service!
(1)Adam J.
I started coming to The Pit with my parents when it opened 20 years ago. The food was great then and it is now. The ribs and the baked beans are really, really freaking good But I do have a negative issue in one regard. I hate eating chicken with bones. Most people love it, but for me it's the worst. If I eat chicken it's usually a boneless chicken breast. It's one of my hang ups that I'll never get over that I associate with slight OCD. They have "The Pit Platter". Some ribs, chicken and pork or beef. The last two times I went I've wanted that platter, but have asked to sub out the chicken for extra pork. Then they proceed to look at me like I'm nuts and tell me they can't do that. I understand that there should be a surcharge and I wait for them to tell me a price, but they won't accommodate the request. I refuse to call for the manager because at the end of the day, it's not worth the hassle. But just because it's not on the menu it doesn't mean it can't be done. Servers should never say that it can't be done because it isn't explicitly listed on the menu. There's a price for everything at every restaurant. The BBQ is as good as it gets in the SW burbs. I just wish they'd give me what I want
(4)Ted B.
Yum! tied for first in my all time favorite best ribs joints the other prestigious spot belongs to Steer Hogs in Midlothian. very good portion of ribs about 20 percent more overall meatiness. The sauce was just right in overall flavor not too sugary tasting that is so common in so many places. I will go back no doubt.
(5)Jocelyne G.
Amazing burgers, friendly staff and place has so much character. Highly recommend it!
(5)Jenn G.
Best barbecue I've had in my life, great service, great atmosphere, great prices. All around best restaurant I've ever been to.
(5)Jason S.
Went here with my wife after a friend told me to. We were in the area so we decided to try it. Nice place nicely decorated. Smelled good when we walked in. That's the only good thing I could say. I ordered the ribs after all this is a rib place right? They were TERRIBLE I mean I wouldn't feed them to my dog. They were rubbery and tough and were lacking any type of smoke flavor or flavor profile in general. Sides were decent but tasted like they were pre made. My wife had a Greek salad which for a run place thought it was weird but hey what do I know. Surprisingly she said it was ok. I tried it and it was not bad. Overall disappointed and will not return. I wish them the best.
(1)Richard B.
Love there food here. .. the pork is amazing
(5)Judy B.
I decide to take my husband and father to this place for Fathers Day. Since I have heard great stuff about the place, I said why not! So the wait time there was long, do to the Father's Day celebration everywhere would be busy. The hostess was NOT friendly at all, I can see that she was overwhelmed by how busy they had been. I personally did not like their buffalo chicken wings, they were not spicy and the meat was different from other wings I have tried. I do have to say that the BBQ ribs were great!! The chicken was huge for my liking. I will go back and just order to a full slab of ribs.
(3)Grant P.
I like the Pit enough to keep them as a stored contact in my phone. They're great for takeout bbq and close enough to my house to zip over on many a hungry Sunday night. But I don't LOVE the Pit and here's why. It doesn't taste like real bbq to me. I don't know the ins and outs of slow smoking vs grilling. I've never been in the Pit's kitchen so I truly don't know what their procedure is, but I know there's a distinct flavor and look when bbq is prepared the traditional slow-cooked way, and it just doesn't have it here. Through other reviews, I've read that they boil their ribs prior to grilling them and that's fine. It tastes really good that way. But the flavor is very different than places like Uncle Bubs, Q, and a myriad other places in the not-so-distant area. To me, this is a greek diner masquerading as a barbecue joint. But enough about that. I like what I get here, and my best friend and his family snub their noses when I take them for more authentic barbecue, so there's that. The ribs are very moist, meaty and fall-off-the-boney. The helpings are huge for the price. The sauce is decent, but unremarkable. Here's a tip: get the Pit Platter. For under $20 you get a healthy serving of pulled pork, a quarter of a chicken and depending on how generous they're feeling, a quarter to a half slab of ribs. Plus two sides. You will get full. It's probably enough to share, but you won't want to. All in all, I'm very satisfied with all my experiences at the Pit. The food is good. The service is decent and I'm a frequent flyer. Cons: Aside from the faux-Q I previously mentioned. They get busy. REALLY busy, and it's difficult to find parking. The tables are a bit cramped as well. That's it. Nothing to really make them risk losing a star in my opinion.
(4)Dan L.
Amazing ribs and burgers. If you're ever in the south suburbs you should check them out. Be sure to go on an empty stomach, because you'll walk out completely stuffed.
(5)Paul I.
Pretty good. Portions are huge. Ordered chicken and rib tips. Friend ordered the tex chicken sandwich. Good as well. Will come back. The best thing are the prices. Good food at a reasonable price. Will be back
(4)Rob S.
My favorite restaurant of all time. Food is always out of this world and the service is excellent.
(5)Morris N.
Parking lot is small so expect to deal with that challenge if it's busy. Atmosphere is casual. They have dine-in and carryout. Prices are reasonable. Cream of chicken rice soup seem homemade and was really good. Ribs were great and comes with two sides and some toast. Service was decent, not great. Starting with the hostess whom got the job done but wasn't too friendly and didn't seem like she was happy to be at work. The server was nice but we only saw her to take the order, drop off the order, and deliver the check. Busboys were hustling though and doing a great job. If the service was better, I would give it 4 stars. Try this place if you want good food, but know that service is hit or miss.
(3)Roseanne S.
I've been going to the Pit Rib house for quite some time and it remains one of my favorite places for ribs. The decor is pretty neat. They have a ton of old memorabilia including newspapers from major events, old baseball cards, old advertisements, etc. It's really cool to look at it all while you wait for your meal. I typically order a full slab of ribs which comes with two sides. The fries are great. They're pretty big, though you don't get as much as you used to. I'd also recommend getting the baked beans. The meat slides right off the bone. I also like the BBQ sauce because it isn't spicy or tangy. It is (in my mind) the perfect BBQ sauce. If it's your birthday, you'll even get a bottle of the house sauce to take home! My mom typically orders the Mediterano burger which she is a big fan of. It comes with feta cheese, grilled onions, and roasted red peppers. At the end of your meal, it seems that they are doing this new thing where you get a couple of small brownies after your meal for free. Hey, I'll take it! The only thing that is preventing me from giving the Pit Rib 5 stars is that the service can be fickle. Some days they can be really attentive and sometimes they seem like they don't care. I guess it depends who is working. Still, the Pit Rib is my go-to BBQ and I hope they continue to keep up the quality of their food for years to come.
(4)Andres D.
Their motto "It's So Good Cooked with Wood" and "We Cook um Slow we Serve um Fast". Yes, I would have to agree for more reasons than one. I ordered the BBQ Rib Tips which I knew judging by the $12.95 price tag they were going to be more than I can handle. With that in mind I ordered a Cream of Chicken Rice soup as a starter. Their cup of soups are more like bowls. The soup was hot and homemade delicious however I was half full after finishing it. Now, out comes the rib tips, 5/16" skin on fries, texas toast garlic bread and coleslaw. OMG! The collaboration of smells was like a foodie perfume. So basically I did what any good bbq consumer would do. I attacked viciously as if I was in the wild. The bbq sauce is addiciting no arguement there. Rib Tips were not chewy, rather tears apart easilly and holds the tangy sauce well. Kudos for the coleslaw not tasting like a sugar cube. Some places just like to add so much sugar in their slaw. My server Filiz appeared to be a seasoned veteran. She brought out a to go container knowing the rib tips would be the winner at the end of my lunch throwdown. I didn't even have to ask. In a nutshell the portions are HUGE! They serve Coca~Cola. The parking lot may not be user-friendly during a busy dinner hour (kinda tight).
(4)Betty B.
Best place my boyfriend took me to for dinner. There bbq sauce is to die for & there ribs let's me tell you the best in town my new fave place to eat at, great food, and great prices! A must try
(5)N E.
They have some of the best and quickest service around. Before you can blink they will have a fresh hot bbq chicken dinner sitting right in front of you. But that is not why I'm reviewing them. They have the best Reuben sandwich I've ever had. Every time I've had one, its really been magical. Use the thousand island dressing to dip your fries in! The after dinner brownie they bring you is off the charts great. And a really nice touch. Thank you.
(4)Rita B.
A few years back I would have given this place five stars but since then many new BBQ businesses have opened up and have more flavorful foods. The ribs were tasty but not spectacular. Sides were just ok. The atmosphere was nice. My friend had the same meal I did and no rave reviews from him either. I wouldn't turn this place away in the future but I also wouldn't go out of my way to get there.
(3)Carol M.
Yum! Excellent BBQ (rib tips MY favorite). Beans are awesome - Atmosphere great as well. Parking is the only negative
(4)Patty S.
Good food for a good price! I had the pulled pork bbq and had enough left over for two more meals. The fries that came on the side were crispy with just the right amount of salt. My friend ordered the cobb salad and it look yummy as well! We didn't see our waitress much, but the decor was a lot of fun and we enjoyed our meal.
(4)Scott K.
We went to The Pit on a recommendation of a friend. I had the Pit Platter with chicken, ribs and chopped pork. My companion had the rib tips. Neither of us was impressed. Just the opposite of what others have posted, the service was better than the food. Their idea of BBQ is smothering sauce on mundane food. No smoke flavor, the chicken was dry and the rib tips were bland. Sorry, but we won't be back.
(2)Michael P.
I live like 30 miles away from here but I have to make the trip out to Hickory Hills a few times a year because the Bbq is out of this world! I've never been disappointed while dine here....the pulled pork platter is to die for
(5)April P.
I have been wanting to go to this place for a long time, and by the luck of God, and great travel arrangements, I was able to do just that. A couple of my buddies said they would drive out here on random nights, and the drive for them is about 40 minute drive. The effort that they need for this place peaked my interest. Onto the food. Yes we are starving, so we ordered a few appetizers to comfort our stomachs before the main plates right. Legit appetizers in the jalapeno poppers and mozzarella sticks. Perfectly crisp and oozing goodness. Each of us ordered the half chicken and half slab of ribs combo. Plenty of food for a meal the next day. Chicken was perfectly moist, and wonderfully cartelized from the barbecue sauce on the outside. $20 for the plates, and it comes with Texas garlic toast, and your choice of fries, baked potato, or baked beans. Big parking lot and pretty easy to get to from 294 expressway.
(5)Wade L.
They used to be pretty good, but lately they have fallen off a bit. The ribs are pretty good, nice smokey flavor, but there is hardly any meat on them and the do not pull off the bone that easy. Another turn off is the paper plates, for the prices they charge a real plate should be the norm. The waitresses are not that friendly or service oriented, they serve you take your paper place and rush you out the door. I don't think I will be going back again. Sad to say famous Daves is better and that is not saying much.
(1)Maria G.
Another of my boyfriend's faves but this time he got it right! They have, hands down, the best BBQ Chicken that I've had. Very tender and juicy with a slight smoky flavor to it. Service is very quick and waitresses are pleasant. This is a friendly family joint and I see myself fvisiting this establishment frequently! Try the rib tips too while you're at it. Very tasty!
(4)Christina S.
To get seated was fast and easy. I ordered the turkey panini and had a piece of the pulled pork sandwich. It was all so good. There was a chipotle sauce in the turkey sandwich and it made a great spice to the sandwich. Pro: fast food service. Prompt service. The parking lot had salt so that customers would not slip. Con: I got the deluxe and it gives you fries and a cole slaw. It was a very small portion of fries and Cole slaw. They could have put more on the plate with the pulled pork sandwich. The hockey game was on so I made sure we had a good view for that. but there was no sound. Overall fast service good food.
(5)Mike S.
Just came back from the Pit. I swear I died and went to heaven. The 1/2 ribs dinner was out of this world. Let me break it down. The Baby Back Ribs? Mm-mm! Fall of the bone, super delicious, slightly smoked, and a large portion in just a 1/2 rib dinner to boot. And BBQ sauce was not overly sweet like some places. In addition, you have a choice of sides. We had corn on the cob and baked potato. I loved the potato and the Texas toast. Some BBQ houses just throw cole slaw, fries, and garlic bread at you. Not the Pit. If you love Baby back ribs done by the Pros, and you are within a reasonable driving distance of the Pit, you MUST go to the Pit. Forgot the Ambiance. Excellent, with all kind of interesting knick-knacks on the walls. And the waitresses were tops for us. The place was packed tonight, but we didn't have to wait to be seated.
(5)Dan D.
Came here a little while back and was absolutely disgusted. The waitress was clearly under the influence of something. She was shaking and a mess and couldn't manage the only 2 occupied tables in her section. My girlfriend and I both ordered the signature pork sandwich and I can promise that the pork was not smoked, aged or sauced at all. The fries were quite soggy and my request for additional sauce went somewhere but I don't know where because the waitress never brought it for some unknown reason. The same went for my iced tea I asked for a refill and never received it. I would never come back her ever in my life! This place shames the meaning of the word barbecue.
(1)Julie A.
First the good news. Great friendly staff, attentive, clean & a fun decor. Portions were big. the onion rings were good. The chili tasted like what I make at home. Nothing extraordinary but good. Then we got our food. Maybe I am a food snob or we were just there on a bad bbq day. The ribs tasted like my moms...that is not a good thing. They tasted like they were boiled and then quickly bbq'd. I said tasted like.. not that they were. The chicken had no flavor except when we put sauce on it. The skin didn't even taste good. The smoke flavor all comes from the sauce. Did you know the main ingredient in their sauce is Corn syrup..ughhh. The corn tasted was over boiled and I can only assume it was frozen. I'm sorry but this time of year, there is no excuse for a bbq place not to get fresh corn. We wont be back. LaGrange is closer and has better options.
(2)Sandra M.
We came here after hanging out all day at the Oak Lawn Pavilion for my son's basketball games. Everyone was really hungry afterwards, so I used my trusted Yelp app and found this great place to eat. There were 6 adults and 5 kids and didn't need a reservation for an early Saturday evening. Service was great, they had really good pulled pork and great ribs. Both the adults and kids really enjoyed their meals.
(5)William B.
This place has awesome food and a really cool atmosphere. The waitresses are always a pleasure to deal with. My mouth waters when I think of their real wood smoked souvlaki with their delicious barbecue sauce. Again, awesome!
(5)Sam K.
You know that you've gotten bad barbecue when the highlight of your meal is your corn on the cob - and mediocre corn on the cob, no less, flatted out and lacking in plumpness, like it's from KFC. The ribs here aren't smoked, but boiled and then haphazardly throw on the grill, and then slathered with a standard sugary barbecue sauce with no depth or flavor. Whatever flavor there was came from the caramelized bits of fat on the ribs. Adding insult to injury, there are no small orders at this place - if you buy just ribs or rib tips, you have to buy at least a pound. Otherwise you have to buy a dinner with two sides, none of which seem particularly interesting. It takes a lot for me to waste food I've spent good money on, especially if I'm hungry, but this made the cut. I didn't want it in my mouth. The food is one or two stars, but I gotta bump it up for the service and the staff, who are really friendly, courteous, and efficient. The place seems to be running smoothly, and everything is quick.
(3)David N.
Dinner tonight was freaking amazing. The service was outstanding, price was right, and the food...best BBQ I've had in a long time. Ribs fell off the bone, the BBQ pork sandwich was packed with tender meat, and the BBQ sauce was mouthwatering. Throw in some excellent cole slaw, french fries, and pasta salad, and you've got one hell of a BBQ dinner. I definitely can't wait to go back!
(5)John R.
I was starting my BBQ list and realized I have never reviewed The Pit. Kind of a shame as it's one of my favorites. Last time I was there, was about three weeks ago, time to revisit. :) Love the ribs and beans. What more do you need? Ribs and beans.
(4)John S.
Verry good pulled pork sandwich. Great value with fries and a side. Big enough for two meals A bit disappointed in sauce but I'm spoiled from being in KC. Worth a try if your in area.
(4)Michael M.
Best ribs ever! Everyone I take here agrees. I would recommend going here for a birthday as well. I met people here for my birthday with no reservation and the waitstaff refrigerated our cake and took a picture of all of us with their camera and printed it out for us while we ate dinner. Oh man they know how to take care of people here! They are the best!!! I buy their sauce to take home every time I go.
(5)Chris L.
I've been to The Pit a bunch of times, and every time I tell myself I'm going to try something else on their menu, but I'm stuck on the Corned Beef Sandwich... I know it weird, stuck on Corned Beef at a BBQ place known for their ribs...but its really good. The portion size is huge, and the price is right. Good to get it to go, or eat in house. They also have good soups and burgers.
(4)Noula A.
Love the souvlakia! That's my favorite! Love the decor, it's a great place for my family to gather and relax!
(5)Tatiana B.
Awesome food!! The fact that everything is BBQed on wood is awesome. This place is the go to place for BBQ!!!
(5)Sarah C.
The service was so horrible skinny blonde with bad makeup mad fun of me and my guest behind our backs very very bad service but the food is good fire the staff add new ones
(1)Chris H.
My favorite BBQ place on the southwest side. Everything is cooked over wood and you smell/taste it. I've had everything ranging from the ribs (great) to the chicken sandwiches (although great). And although simple, I lvoe Texas Toast. Reasonable prices and portions. Parking is terrible during dinner. Not a huge beer selection.
(5)Irene G.
Omg the burgers here are fricken deeelicious! I don't know why it took so long for me to come here. I've only tried the Tex-Mex burger but I'm sure the others are just as good. It had the right amount of juicy-ness that I love in a burger. Not to mention it will more than fill you up. We also ordered a half slab of their ribs because let's face it, who goes to the Pit Rib House and not try their famous ribs. They were perfect! The meat was so tender and slid off the bone so easily - the way ribs should All deluxe meals comes with side choices of pasta salad or corn on the cob and texan toast.
(4)Terra L.
Seriously! If you haven't eaten the ribs here, then you my friend, have not eaten ribs yet! This place will not disappoint! The parking can be a pain, but it is worth it. They have their own brand BBQ sauce that you can purchase and use at home.
(5)Tony M.
5 stars period!! Been here a number of times and each and every time they get it right! Probably the best BBQ in the southwest side! Had the Pit Platter (combo of ribs, chicken and beef) - it was amazing. The only draw back is the server could have check on us more often. I will be here again - great food
(5)Deborah S.
My husband and I love this place. I love the Tex-Mex Burger and the Tex-Mex Chicken sandwich. The burger is so tasty and seasoned just right. I have tried to create the same at home but no luck. I just love it here. We always have enough to take home every time. The best bar-b-q on this side of town.
(5)Scott M.
The smell hits you first. Get close to the place, and you smell meat cooking over a wood fire-This is usually enough to send a foodie over the edge. It does me. It's one of the sine qua nons of any BBQ joint worthy of consideration-A blind man should be able to find it. I was expecting to find Stevie Wonder chowing down at this place. I'll get the few negatives out of the way-If you go during peak times, parking is going to suck. Some of the reviewers carped about "canned vegetables". Well...duh! With the exception of 'Taters, Onion Rings, Slaw and Jalapeños, you don't go to a BBQ for Veggies. Or shouldn't at least. (Although the Pit does mount a credible Greek salad). I don't even go for the spuds, 'cos they take up valuable gastric real estate that could be housing meat. But--every theory has a corollary, and thought the baked beans were very very tasty. So is the sour slaw-a perfect foil for the meat. Ah, the meat. The star of the show here, for me is the Souvlaki (pork shish kabob). Done in the ubiquitous Lemon-olive oil-garlic-oregano marinade and fired over the wood flame, it is, in a word, fabulous. Then again, they could prolly skewer styrofoam packing peanuts soaked in that marinade and they'd taste good. The management here will not do a Rib/Souvlaki combo, but a little Menu harvesting allows you to get an appetizer of Souvlaki (5-6 skewers) along with a half slab of Ribs. And 'bout those Ribs. I like mine "naked" with the sauce on the side, and they came open-flame pit charred, leanish Baby Backs with a nice Porky flavor.The sauce came warmed on the side, and as such is better than the room temperature bottle they put on the table. The flavor profile is less "smoky" and more "flame". And that is okay by me Wife had a Chicken Sandwich which was fine. Fire grilled and juicy. Everything comes with Texas Toast, and everything SHOULD come with Texas Toast, if it's done like this. They give you a little Chocolate Brownie gratis with the check-and yes, it tastes like it's straight out of the Sara Lee canon, but hell, it's FREE!!!! and just enough sweet to close out the meal in balance. I also have to say a word about the beverages. The Diet Cola didn't quite taste like Coke or Pepsi. Usually these imposters have a cloying flavor that I tolerate, at best. Here, however, the "throw" (mixture) was such that the drink was satisfying and not bad at all. Like an Idiot, I ordered coffee to go with the little brownie--I feel the same way about coffee at a BBQ joint the same way I do about mixed vegetables at a BBQ joint-it's bad chemistry! But I was surprised to get a damned good cup. Perhaps this is due to the Greek heritage of the place. Greeks love their coffee. I give the Pit 4 stars. A fine BBQ feed at, as they say "Popular prices" .
(4)Lauren K.
I went on a Sunday.. right off the bat we had a bad feeling when the server walked up still chewing food and never introduced herself with a name. Our appetizer (jalapenos poppers) came out cold. . and she (our server) never came back to check on us so we had to get up and find someone to send our app back. . . the food was just okay. . I'm not saying I would NEVER return.. but I will not be voting to go here anytime soon.
(2)Amelie and Dan B.
This place is just OK. We were here on a couple of occasions with friends; they recommended this restaurant and they seem to like this place. We ordered the ribs; we tried the chili, and hamburgers. The service is hit or miss. We probably won't be back, though.
(3)Ashley P.
Tough parking situation on the weekends, but incredible food. Go as a couple and order the combo plate to share with a side of onion rings. Quite possibly the best pulled pork I've had this side of the Mississippi and the chicken is always moist. But the ribs get ALL the glory!
(4)Teri D.
omg omg omg is it ever good!! The homemade sauce is so good I could rub it in my hair and is positively ADDICTIVE. The sausage they make here is TO DIE FOR!! I am going to be eating here EVERY TIME I come to the Chicago area. The pulled pork was truly a masterpiece and the kabobs of grilled pork were heavenly. Even the salad is delicious. When I have 6 months to live, I'm having my bed moved here!!
(5)Vanessa F.
Came here with my husband and two kids expecting some good food... unfortunately there wasn't any. I guess I'm just a food snob, but you be the judge. For a $60 meal we received horrible service. Waited for about 15 minutes for a waitress to greet us and take order. We placed our order and were interrupted by the waitress and told us to wait and she would come back to get the rest of our order. She did comee back about15 minutes later. We waited for our food hoping that it would be better than the service we were receiving and I was wrong. We got frozen unseasoned fries, onion rings seemed to come from a bag out of the freezer, chicken was dry, ribs were dry, burger was overcooked and our rib tips that were ordered never came! Apparently the waitress forgot to put the order in, but were anxiously waiting for them. The bbq can't say much...pretty mediocre. Also, the side options were very limited an there was NO CORN BREAD. Who does that??? Skip this place if you are looking for good bbq!
(1)Alison B.
Can't think of a bad thing to say except the one time I took someone here after raving, the food wasn't as good on that day. Great sauce, great variety on the menu. Beef, chicken sandwiches/entrees are all good. Great salads. Great sides. I just love coming here. When I don't feel like trashing my diet, I'll order a grilled chicken sandwich with healthier sides (still get that great BBQ taste without too much guilt).
(4)Courtney K.
Do NOT darken their doorstep, unless you like roaches joining you for lunch. Yes, a fairly large roach crawled across the table. The manager was notified, and the lunch was free, but NEVER again will we go there. Utterly horrifying.
(1)Lambros P.
What to say......I always order the chicken shishkabobs..the rest of my family order anywhere from the ribs, souvlaki, pit platter is"awesome" your choice of three items!!
(5)Elizabeth T.
Richard S. and I must've had the same waitress. 4 of us came here for dinner on a Saturday night. We were also sat on the very back. We had to flag another waitress to ask where our waitress was because we have been sitting at our table for a while an no one came to take our order. Food was blah. I had higher expectations for the barbeque chicken & ribs but it felt like the chicken was just grilled and sauce was put on top of it. Ribs were ok. Mediocre food Very poor service The comment of one previous yelpers about a roach in their food basket? Will definitely not be coming back.
(1)Eddie P.
Definitely one of my favorite BBQ restaurants anywhere. I started going here when they first opened with a dining room that sat probably 30 people. Although I have dabbled with many items on the menu, I always find myself returning to the BBQ Pork sandwich or the ribs. Both are perfectly tender and smoky. No matter where I go, I always find myself comparing ribs and BBQ pork to the Pit's. Very few have come close, for example Brand in Logan Square makes some good pulled pork. As for the ambiance, the place is always filled with locals. Vintage memorabilia covers the walls. There's a couple wood burning fire places that I have only seen burning in the winter which is nice. The service is usually pretty good. Food comes out pretty quick most days. I think people get used to this and expect the service to be that quick all of the time, but the place gets pretty full on the weekends. They offer take-out which is awesome and quick and they will always give you an extra cup of warm BBQ sauce for free if you ask. Definitely request it for the BBQ pork sandwich as they only put probably a small ladle on top. All in all, if you have never been, you must go. Easily the best restaurant in Hickory Hills/Palos Hills area.
(5)John C.
I've been here several times before giving it a review. On one visit the bbq ribs slab was juicy and tender. The next visit it was just o.k., and the other night they were dry and the meat was tough. Rib tips were ok.The pulled pork sandwich wasn't any better, it was dry and room temperature. I've ate their food when it was great, and when it was bad. I have been going there at least twice a year for the last 3 years. It's just to inconsistent, I will not be back.
(2)Liz C.
Haven't been here since maybe 2008. It was awesome! Got me hooked on ribs! Service was good! Food was great! My husband and I hope to go back soon! (I know it's been a while lol)
(4)John C.
My first review was removed, I'll simple this review up, my stomach was upset for hours after eating these,," fall of the bone" ribs. That is ribs that are way over done, I should of had a pulled pork samitch. Done.... not coming back
(2)Walter L.
A masterpiece of BBQ taste and consistency. I've never had a bad slab of ribs at this suburban treasure.
(5)Michele C.
We ate there 4/15 the food was good.I had a beef brisket sandwhich with fries. My husband had a hamburger. It was fresh and hot. Our server was ok .I had ordered Texas toast she never brought it. I reminded her and she never put it in.no refills on drinks never offered..maybe she was too busy too many tables Don't know.
(3)Ken K.
Great food at good prices. Excellent BBQ and very big portions. Fast, attentive service which is good for me because we have kids. Sandwiches are large as well. I went on St. Patrick's Day and ordered a Reuben, yes a Reuben sandwich in a BBQ place and it was huge. The only thing holding me back from giving this place 5 stars is their french fries. For some reason I don't like them that much. The ribs are excellent. They are just as good or better than the Patio.
(4)Michael W.
Some of the best BBQ ribs and pulled meats you'll find. Prices are reasonable with service that's fast and friendly. They could expand the menu to maybe add some homemade appetizers. The frozen appetizers are just blah and nothing special.
(4)Linh L.
I prefer billy boys bbq food. their food here taste like fast food. Meh, I wouldn't go back.
(2)Steve O.
I love the Pit's Sauce. It goes with just about everything. I give them many kudos for their recipe. This place is good. At times it is even very good. I have never had a "bad" experience here. But...... it is greek bbq. It doesnt have the same feel as marinating a slab of ribs for four hours and then smoking them for another four hours. BUT I do give them credit for cooking over actual wood which does impart a flavor that you can never replicate. I will go here again, no doubt., but not for authentic BBQ. They seem to have carved a bit of a niche they can call their own and I enjoy it. I have had the chicken and the ribs. All have been good and more. If you have never eaten here I would suggest it. But if you are a true BBQ aficiando then you can definitely do better somehwere else.
(4)Yvonne O.
Still a fan of this place - but still a bigger fan of the Patio. And, since we are even further away from here now, we do not come here more than once a year. Husband is still getting the pork platter with baked potato and beans and still wishing for more bread. I opted for some soup this time and a fish sandwich (hey, it's on the menu, someone has to try it!). The cream of chicken rice was out of a can, which is fine. The fish sandwich was one of those pre-made frozen deals, which was disappointing. The fries are crinkle-cut and good as ever, though. The service was not up to their usual speed or frequency of checks and it took us about 40 minutes instead of 25 to get in and out. (We brought our perishables (from our return from MI) in the place with us and were glad to have done so because the meat would have spoiled) I'll still come back for the yearly trip, but next time I may have to break down and order the "normal" stuff!
(3)Stef F.
I can't believe all of the high reviews for this place. We've been forced to go here 2 separate times with friends and IT'S GROSS! And yet they love it. I don't get it... First of all, atmosphere sucks. I like casual and all, but this place borders on overboard with paper plates and such. Every time we've been here, service has sucked. We wait forever and the waitress seems like she could care less. You wait an eternity for drinks or maybe even get the wrong drink, which is always super cool. Last time I was here I ordered the pulled pork and it was soooo fatty I about gagged. It was that gross. Practically inedible. It just sat there on my plate. I stared at it. Hoping for something to eat. But no. Maybe I've been spoiled because I LOVE MEMPHIS. Best bbq in the world! But I sadly even think Famous Daves is better around here than this place.
(2)Lizeth M.
Best rib tips ever!!!! :-)
(5)Wes D.
GREAT baby back ribs! Probably the best around. Delicious bbq sauce!
(4)Paul D.
Ah, The Pit. From the time they opened the smell of their wood burning stove (that you can see when you walk in the door, it sits just behind the front of house) and the bar-b-cue they offer has made my mouth water for their tastiness. Situated not far from the homestead, I used too hit the Pit at least once a month for their take-out for the rib tips alone, but it's just not ribs, they have an extensive menu to enjoy from everything flamed grilled to Vegetarian. The moment we pull into their parking lot I get stoked. I haven't been here in while and I sometimes just drive by so I can smell what they're cooking, then telling myself that I have to get back there. When they first opened they were mostly a take-out place with a small causal eat-in dinning room, but as their reputation grew for great B-B-Q (you can still see the autographed pictures of movie, TV, and sports stars on the wall) they've expanded to a now a mostly eat-in type of place. But you can still get anything on the menu to go. My one main concern, however, as I make my way through the door is that while they've expanded and updated I only wish that they included their decor. Walking into the Pit is like walking back into a 1990s TGIF with enough junk and shit on their walls to choke a garage sale. But the food meanwhile was still on par for what I come too expect when I eat there. And while it is bar-b-que, the Pit is far from cheap. While not fine dinning expensive be prepared to pay at least $80-$100 for a family of four unless you are just hitting the burgers, which are large and juicy I might add, but if it's the ribs and stuff from their full bar then it adds up. So if you have a taste for something that's actually made on a grill and flame broiled and not just said it is then hit the Pit. You won't be disappointed.
(4)K G.
I have been here about three times, and although the food is not bad, not great, and on the south side that's saying something, they lost me as a customer for two reasons: 1) I don't want to eat off of paper plates when I go out to eat. 2) The last time I was there, I ordered a baked potato. They actually gave me a cardboard container of artificial sour cream. That's exactly what the label said. WTH? I cannot eat junk like that. So bye, bye.
(2)Romeo C.
If you are looking for BBQ this place will disappoint your expectations. Go to Uncle Bubs in Westmont or Smoque in the city. Or get a plane ticket to Texas. The Pit is the pits. It is definitely a Greek diner trying to market itself as a BBQ place. I ordered the BBQ beef, and I had thought I had misordered when I received appeared to be Italian Beef slopped on a Chinette paper plate. When I asked the waitress to clarify what it was she confirmed that it was not brisket, but could not tell me how it was prepared. She had to call the manager. The manager tried to tell us that it was smoked over wood for 12 hours, and to add sauce and salt and pepper on it - "people like it that way". I was polite about it and nodded my head, but there is no way the meat was smoked. There were no smokers inside, or outside the restaurant, nor was there any smell of hardwood smoke anywhere around the restaurant. BBQ should not require sauce, salt and pepper, or anything on top of it to enhance the flavor. It is either BBQ or it is not. The meat was grey, dry and bland, with no hint of any smoke or pink ring at all. Do not waste your time or a meal at this place. I'll say it again - go to Uncle Bubs in Westmont or Smoque in the city.
(1)Alex F.
This is the best barbecue place I know of in Chicagoland. I used to work across the street so I've enjoyed its deliciousness on many occasions. The Pit is certifiably the Real Thing. The evidence: - Exhibit A: Wood stacked up outside the restaurant - Exhibit B: The smell of barbecue permeating the air in a 1-block radius - Exhibit C: Never dry, great sauce, and great non-BBQ menu items - Exhibit D: Gigantic portions
(5)Garret B.
Service was marginal at best. Chicken was unbelievably dry. They forgot the thousand island dressing on my Reuben sandwich. Reuben was also dripping with grease. Waitress did bare minimum. Took drink order, brought drinks 20 minutes later, took order, brought food 30 minutes later, then asked if we needed refills when she dropped off the check. Our drinks were empty when she brought the food, but she disappeared so fast, I didn't have time to request them. I complained to the hostess about the lack of service (in the middle of our meal) and it didn't help. The service got no better by any means whatsoever. When she finally brought refills (after dropping off the check), she brought the wrong drinks, but after the god awful dry chicken, I would have been happy with a cup of urine just to rehydrate my mouth! Flavor-wise, everything was fine. They have great BBQ sauce, but I can't say anything else positive.
(1)Jason D.
What a great find. Randomly found this place in between meetings and I couldn't have been more satisfied. The pulled pork was amazing and the servings were enormous! If you are within 20 miles of this place, make a point to stop.
(5)David P.
I went here with my sister on Christmas Eve. This is basically the kind of place that makes the south side the south side (or, in this case, the south 'burbs). And in a weird way, makes me proud to be a south sider (I mean, before I moved to the north side. Um...) Massive meat portions. I wasn't in a ribs mood, so I had the Italian beef and "SAH-sidj" combo sandwich. Very delicious. As the menu warns, you have to ask for red sauce if you want it, and, oh yes, I did. It came with both red sauce and au jus, a nice surprise. And their coleslaw ranks into the high end of the best I've ever had. We went to the Pit Rib House because it was one of the few places open around there on Christmas Eve. But I would gladly return on any given day when their competition is also open for business. This is the kind of place that has celebrity photo endorsements lining the front entrance. What can I say, I now have something in common with Jay Leno.
(4)Anna G.
This has been my go to BBQ place for quite a while. We have tried many BBQ places and keep coming back to this one. Their sauce is my absolute favorite and their service is fantastic. The prices are also very reasonable. Their pulled pork is fantastic in addition to their ribs and chicken. I am a HUGE fan of their Texas toast. I always get an extra piece with my meal. During warm months they have outdoor seating which is really nice as well.
(5)Richard S.
We just moved into the area and have heard about the Pit so we thought we would give it a try. I was a bit shocked at how much junk was on the walls of pictures,old toys,and just ....stuff. That was a bit distracting but we were led to the back of one of the rooms and left there. About 10 minutes later the waitress (the woman who sat us) asked if we wanted a drink and we placed our orders at the same time. Another 10 minutes she finally brought out drinks. The food was good the sauce was great. At no time did she come to refill drinks,ask how we were doing or ANYTHING! She brought out the bill and then proceeded to help all the tables around us. She would walk all over the room but never come to our table to pick up the bill. It took over 15 minutes for her to acknowledge us and finally get us our receipt! So all in all...good food but service is really bad....dont be in a hurry to eat here.
(2)Big P.
One of the best barbecue restaurants in the suburbs. Great ribs and not expensive. You can order the pit platter which comes with some ribs, pulled pork and barbecue chicken. I prefer the full slab with fries and beans. It is worth visiting just to see the antiwue memorabilia covering the walls. Parking is hell though!
(5)I. J.
Been here atleast 10times and every time I've gone it's been tasty with good service. Never waited too long to be seated or for the food to come out (even though it's full with customers). Pull Pork is my personal favorite and I love that it comes out on paper plates (that just shows it's all about the food not about the frills!) I'll be back again soon & reccommend this place to anyone that is a serious meat-eatter! Don't expect ambiance while you dine here-it's bbq people not some fru fru sushi house...just sayin' what do you expect?
(5)Maria M.
The best BBQ I've ever had :) !!! YUMMY FOR THE TUMMIES - just go there & eat the food. That's all I have to say...
(5)Dave J.
The name of this place says it all," ItsThe Pits" Ate there before and always had a decent, not outstanding meal. This time was way different. I ordered the combo plate which arrived on a paper plate, really a paper plate. I ordered with the sauce on the side. The meat was dry and over cooked. I can see why they slather their meat in sauce to hide the dry tasteless meat. My wife ordered fried perch which looked like giant frozen fish sticks. There was so much fried breading on the fish it was almost not edible. The service went right along with the food. Our server never told us about the specials that night, we saw them on a chalk board when we were leaving and we would probably have ordered one of those. We had to track him down and ask twice for our Texas Toast (which was the best part of the meal) Apparently the other reviewers have never had good bbq before if they think this place is the best.
(1)Baron M.
Went for the first time a few days ago. There was a small wait for a table, but was seated within 10 minutes. Service was very prompt and I ordered the pit sampler platter. Food arrived very quickly and the platter consisted of 1/4 slab of ribs, 1/4 chicken and the chopped beef. Sides were a baked potato and cole slaw along with 2 pieces of Texas toast. Quantity of food was very generous-the beef was on the bottom of the plate with the ribs and chicken on top. Everything was sauced very heavily, and the sauce used is very sweet and tangy. Would have been nice if there was a selection of sauces in house to compliment the meat, but there was just a single bottle of the same on the table, and it was definitely not needed. Ribs and chicken were excellent, the beef was not brisket and had kind of a stringy texture. In summary, nice place for a quick meal, the beer is ice cold and prices reasonable. Easy on the sauce!
(3)Marlon L.
Love the Pit! Great food served very fast. There's nothing fancy about this place (food served on paper plates). My favorite are the ribs, but every other dish I've had there is delicious!
(4)Nicole L.
I'm not a big fan of BBQ but this place is well worth it. I even bought a bottle of their BBQ sauce - it's that good! I always get the quarter chicken and it's always delicious. I like the atmosphere too. I no longer live nearby so I haven't had my fix in awhile. :(
(5)Erin B.
Yum Yum Yum! I absolutely love the ribs from The Pit! They rock! Everything the comes with your order, potato, veggies and such are freshly made, and piping hot. The BBQ sauce is laced with crack; I'm sure of it! One of the reasons I really like this place too is that you can tell it's a family business. It feels super homey, and the service has always been top notch.
(5)Abby T.
As Larry David would say, "pretty, pretty, prettygood." All the entrees come with delicious Texas Toast. The chicken taco appetizer is a MUST ORDER item!! The ribs are above average, although I would like to see more bbq sauce on them upon arrival.......since bbq is always better cooked on, as opposed to poured on. Service is exceptional. We got checked on a few times. The atmosphere is that of one you should expect bbq goods to be served. Think lots of paper plates, wet naps, wood and gingham! I never regret coming to The Pit.....plus, it always makes me think of the scene from Father of the Bride, when Steve Martin suggests the reception be at The Pit, and the son responds, "I don't think you want the word 'pit' on a wedding invitation, George."
(4)Sherri S.
Great bbq for a good price. Cute little interior decorated with Americana antiques.
(4)Christina A.
I have been here twice now after visiting my grandmother on the south side and I was thoroughly disappointed both times. The first time I went I followed tradition and went for the barbecue and had the pulled pork. It just seems so smoky. Don't get me wrong, I'm from Texas and I LOVE bbq but it was fatty too. This second time I was in the mood for their fish fry and my husband got the bbq platter. Again, total disappointment. In my life I have NEVER sent anything back but after a while the server (who was sweet as could be) must have seen my face and said she'd bring it to the kitchen. By the way, the corn was a frozen cob and looked wilted from sitting in a steam tray. I offered to pay for it because I felt so guilty for sending it back, but they said it was indeed fishy. I was starving so I ordered a burger with blue cheese and my husband said it must not be my day because it was awful. It was obviously a frozen patty and the blue cheese was brought out in a plastic cup and it was just cheap blue cheese dressing. I must say that our serving was very kind and the place is nostalgic and cute and my husband said the ribs were great, but not worth another trip.
(2)Jason K.
It's okay and totally serviceable. But why go here when Chuck's Barbecue on 79th and Ridgeland-ish is 8 minutes away?
(2)Hank G.
Good place for BBQ, been there numerous times and they are consistent. Had the pulled pork sandwich and all was good. Also had hot wings as an appetizer and they were a little spicer than last time and tasted a little more like Tabasco Sauce but were ok. Definetly will be going back.
(4)Laura S.
Good ribs and a good bbq sauce. Atmosphere so-so.
(3)misiaczekm f.
Very good BBQ restaurant, delicious "half slab"!!! I never been a fan of bbq food and ribs, but when I tried their famous ribs.....uhmm it was fantastic!!!! Meat is very soft, tender and have a great taste!!!! I don't know about different food in that place.....but i highly recommend "full or half slab".
(5)Martha Z.
I like my ribs smoky and meaty, and that's exactly how the pit serves them. Nothing from the appetizers really grabbed me. I think the best thing to do is keep your eye on the meat. The only downer of the meal was that they couldn't get our drinks right. We ordered root beer and for some reason ended up with a pitcher of iced tea mixed with root beer. Regardless our friend summed it up the best "The pit was a hit".
(4)Ray S.
A friend told me about The Pit and how it's "THE" BBQ place to eat at on the south side. Being a North sider, I am always cautious taking advice from South siders about where I should have my next meal. Not that South siders don't know good food, it's just that every time a friend who happens to be a South sider tells me about a place that is so "great" it usually isn't and The Pit falls into my "Not so Great" category. It wasn't good at all. I think the place has an identity crisis. It's either a BBQ place or a Greek diner. Yes, I do realize they like to throw some variety in there, but the influence of Greek food just doesn't mesh well with the whole BBQ theme. The reason I was told about this place is because I was raving about Chuck's Southern Comforts to a pal (Chuck's is a BBQ place in Burbank) and he said and I quote "The Pit blows away Chucks". Now I have no loyalty to Chuck other than the food at Chucks is so damn good. I don't know Chuck, I don't want to hang out with Chuck. All I know is that Chuck's is WAY better than The Pit. Even if Chuck doesn't have a pic of Jay Leno on the wall, he still beats The Pit by a landslide. If anything, Jay Leno's picture at The Pit had points knocked off simply because I don't like Jay Leno. Avoid The Pit. The Pit is the pits.
(2)April W.
This is the best BBQ around and the sauce is so good. The ribs just fall off the bone, and the chicken is tender and juicy. The baked beans with bbq sauce and little bit of pork in them are my favorite side. The pit also has the worst service around. Expect to get your huge drink and your food fast but never see your waitress again. Midway through the meal my mother and I were waiting for our waitress to make her rounds but 10 min. later she was still talking to the other waitresses. Finally I got up from the table to go ask our waitress for a refill. Forget about the check, we were just gonna go up and ask for that too but our waitress finally got to our table. This is one of my bbq places so I would suggest getting it to go.
(3)Patrick W.
This may be the best pulled pork I've ever had. The meat is slow cooked with real wood smoke, giving it a great smoky flavor and generously served with some really great homemade barbecue sauce that's really tangy and a good blend of flavors. I didn't expect a whole lot upon seeing the place, but was definitely impressed. This is the type of place I'd go out of my way to get to- which I'll probably have to unless I'm in the area for business like I was yesterday.
(5)cher b.
I liked the decor. If you like BBQ it's great. I personally hate BBQ - there is very few non-BBQ choices. The shorty corn on the cob's were bland, like straight out of the freezer.
(3)Jennifer A.
Love their side dishes: cole slaw, pasta salad, fries, etc. The pulled pork sandwich is delicious!
(4)Michelle H.
I love this place. The food is delicious, the portions generous, the service very attentive, and prices more than reasonable. Their menu includes ribs, rib tips, chicken, pulled pork or chicken, all this smothered in a tangy, mildly spicy signature BBQ sauce (if you like it as much as I do- be sure to buy a bottle to take home with you). Their side dishes are phenomenal as well; tasty pasta salad, baked beans, baked potatoes, corn on the cob, just to name a few. And all dinner entrees are served with garlic Texas toast. They also have great sandwiches and salads. Also they have just added some pannini sandwiches to the menu. They have a small selection of beers to accompany any meal, as well as some tasty fresh brewed iced tea. Not only is the food great, the ambiance is perfect. The walls are decked out with old pictures and various antiques, and they are always playing oldies in the backdrop. So if you ever find yourself in the area, be sure to make this place a "pit" stop!!!
(5)mike f.
this place is ok, ive lived around here for almost 9 years now and never have once gone here, i figured eh wut the hell so i went it was alot diff inside then what i thought it was going to be i thought is was going to b a lil fancy place but it wasnt but it was decent food good place to get together w the guys and talk sports i suppose
(3)Brian M.
This is some good BBQ. Good sauce, good food, good times. The wait staff always seems to be off-the-boat Irish. That's kind of weird, but I'm not complaining. Having BBQ served to you by a cute irish girl with a thick brogue is just part of the Chicago experience, I guess. Or something. Try this place out, does not disappoint.
(4)Theresa C.
tasty and very crowded on a saturday night
(4)Heidi S.
I am a barbecue afficionado...I have traveled all over the U.S. in search of great barbecue...And The Pit Rib House, which is about literally eight minutes from my house, is absolutely so phenomenal that its sinful!!! First off, you can smell the wood-smoke barbecue from two blocks away!!! When you pull into their parking lot the wood-smoke odor is like Heaven, absolutely intoxicating!!! Their ribs are sinful!!! The meat is high quality, and it literally falls off of the bone its so tender!!! And the sauce is also phenomenal...Its sweet but a little tangy...It its the perfect blend of sweet with a little kick! They give you a delicious side of nicely buttered/seasoned Texas toast...I could eat and eat the delicious Texas toast...I always order two extra orders of this Texas toast, that's how good it is!!! Their other sides are equally as good. Try a baked potato with your ribs...The potato is huge, and they will give you as much butter & sour cream as you want. The baked beans are good as well. And the portions are HUMONGOUS!!! Two normal size adults could easily split a full slab. And if you decide to dine in, the decor in the restaurant is so cute...It's "vintagey," with old-fashioned tin "Coca Cola" signs, different vintage ads, pics of Elvis, Beatles, etc...The decor is too cute!!! And a majority of the female servers are from Ireland or Poland...They have such cute accents, & are very accomadating!!! Finally, they are so reasonably priced...$20.00 for a humongous rib dinner..That's what I'm talking about!!! The owner is Greek...A Greek cooking ribs, you ask? TRY IT...YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!!!!
(5)Kate L.
This was a regular stop for our family but after visiting on Father's Day we will NOT be back! For as many times as we have been thee the staff is NEVER very friendly! No matter who you get! They get you your meals but they don't pass you a smile until they pass you the check! THEY HAVE NO FREE REFILLS which would set a place back... what? FIVE CENTS! They use paper plates. I guess to save on the dishwashers but the real problem is that this is a 50/50 place! 50 percent of the time it's good and 50 percent of the time the ribs and the chicken are dry and or reheated! This particular day-- Father's Day, the place was crowded and I didn't think I had to ask for a FRESH CHICKEN (which I was in the habit of doing so I didn't get a reheated one). The chicken came REHEATED and DRY the ribs were DRY and they forgot our side of cole slaw. We had a new waitress running around like crazy and I decided not to ask her to take it back because I didn't want to make a scene in front of a crowd. So I called the place and asked to talk to a manager. The girl told me he was not in he was celebrating Father's Day with his family! I said, Really, I just saw him ten minutes ago when we were there. She asked what I was calling for and I told her that I wanted to let him know about the reheated meats and the ribs being dried out. She said there's nothing we can do about it now you're not here and neither is the food. We have had so many friends that stopped going for the same reason we just kept thinking we couldn't find another good barbecue place. They never called back to clear up the problem and we decided this was our very last time we were going to pay for a lousy meal and support a place that won't even stand behind their product. Someone told us about BON A PIT on 122200 S. Harlem and it's like A STROKE OF LUCK!!!!! It's everything The Pit is NOT! Very lovely atmosphere, the food is PHENOMENAL and the sauce is a bit better than The Pit! Great Appetizers and a much better selection on the menu. You WILL BE SO THRILLED YOU SWITCHED GIVE IT A TRY!
(1)Paul A.
Look around folks. Every other BBQ review from the South Side references The Pit.
(5)David C.
Great BBQ ribs and beef sandwiches. Good atmosphere. I really need to get back down to the South Side to get some food from The Pit.
(4)Dave S.
I do not give the five star rating very often but this place deserves it. I eat here every other week if not more and I have NEVER been dissappointed. The service is the fastest and the friendliest and the most consistant of the places that I like to go. I have never had a problem with their food and be sure to get a bottle of their famous sauce to take home with you. They have a decent selection of non-BBQ items to choose from too. The walls are covered with old nostalgic pictures, posters, signs and other retro decor. It is somewhat of a picnic atmosphere as they use paper plates. Somehow a combination of all of the above make it into a great experience!
(5)