Z’s Smokin Bonez
16362 County Rd 30, Maple Grove, MN, 55311
Z’s Smokin Bonez Menu
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Address :
16362 County Rd 30
Maple Grove, MN, 55311 - Phone (763) 400-7979
- Website https://www.zsmokinbonez.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 2:00pm
- Mon : 11:00 am - 2:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : Yes
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : No
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Quiet
Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : Yes
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
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Kirk O.
2 years later and they still haven't figured it out. They sold me Burnt Ends - what they gave me was sliced from the point, not real Burnt Ends. To make it worse, it was not cooked long enough as the fat had not rendered in the brisket. The pulled pork was shredded and dry. And finally, the corn bread was heated in the microwave before being served to me This is what Southerner's think we serve as BBQ.
(1)Graham D.
If you like blah BBQ with no flavor this is the place for you! Signature brisket had no flavor! Rack Shack BBQ in Burnsville has hands down the best BBQ in the state it's worth the extra 45 minute drive!
(1)Brian F.
I'd seen this place off of 494 many times n But never stopped. Today on my drive by I had committed to stopping. I'm glad I did. Solid bbq, unique stuff. I ordered the whole hog it is brisket, pulled pork Mac n cheese topped with onions and crunchy slaw. I'm going to come back here for sure. Great smell, good flavor, unique sauces and very unique soda selections. Check this place out.
(4)Amy B.
I was reluctant in writing a review because I honestly have nothing good to say. After reading other reviews and hearing people say the same thing over and over it became frustrating. How does this family expect to have a thriving business when they don't listen to their customers?? My family walked in (all first time customers) and awkwardly walked up to the counter. The owner and his son just sat there looking annoyed. When my husband said "hi, we are first time customers!" The owner didn't say a word. We were the only people there and it was 6p on a Saturday night. It was obvious all the workers were family, they kept yelling at each other. Bathrooms werent cleaned, food was bad. Burnt ends were so fatty I couldn't eat 3/4 of them. I left regretting spending a dime there, it just put me in a bad mood. Everyone seemed unhappy and stressed and couldn't even offer a smile or decent customer service. I'm not surprised of these reviews, because I was treated the exact same way. I won't be going back. -- To add icing on the cake the owner sent me a nasty reply telling me to "go eat at McDonald's" and doesn't even use proper English in his insults. McDonald's would have been a better choice, you are right about that.
(1)Alison J.
OMG if you love BBQ and great people. You have found it hear. Small town conjeneality with big town taste. I ordered ribs and when the women said their big I said I was hungry, I could only eat 2. The smoked pickled egg and loaded backed beans to die for. You' ve gotta check this local biz out its worth the trip!
(5)Linh T.
My husband, brother, brother's girlfriend, and I came later in the night, closer to closing time. The owner was very nice and informative. We know our meats and we like it tender. Unfortunately, with the timing, they were out of rib tips and beef brisket. The owner informed us that the burnt ends are fattier but because of this are really juicy. So we got ribs, burnt ends, pulled pork. All was really good and well seasoned. We were really impressed with the burnt ends. It's like the ribeye but of the pork origin. The sides were just ok. It did compliment the meats without taking away from it. All in all we would come back at an earlier hour so we can try more things.
(4)Michael K.
For BBQ, it was good for being in the middle of minnesota. The pitas terms uses a pellet smoker, so it doesn't have that same pit character, but the consistency can be better managed. So how was it? I had the brisket. A light chew, mild smoke flavor, and moist. Good selection of sauces, NC mustard, AL white, KY smokey, TX pep. This isn't a signature or competition BBQ place, but more of a middle of the pack Q, and better brisket than the average joe, and sauce it how you like it. A little on the salty side, but that may just be me as we don't salt at home. I also had the ribs, but they were more roasted pork flavors than smoke or 'cue. They were meaty, and came off the bone with a little tug, but not tough. You will need to sauce these ribs, they have just a salt and pepper rub. Ribs are by the pound, and they're not all bone, so 4 large end ribs, 2 sides, and the brisket lunch special ($9) came to $30. In closing, pass on the ribs and pay the extra $1 for the brisket. Next visit I plan to give the burnt ends and the pulled pork a try. The sides were the usual fare, several choices (creamy or vinegar slaws) but no standouts. The beans do have pulled pork "debris" as we call it (I grow up in New Orleans), and it gives it good smoky and meaty umami goodness. Lastly, I think this place tries to offer a 'tour' of BBQ styles and flavors, but only really through the sauces. Notably missing is Memphis dry rub style, but that has to be cooked in. I gave it 4 stars for the try, and the rarity of BBQ in this part of the country, but it's really a solid 3 stars. If you're looking for something resembling your part of the country's BBQ, you could to worse, so it might be worth a try. The owner, as others have noted, is not much of a people person. That doesn't mean he's not passionate about what he does with the 'pit' he has. He opened up and relaxed a bit when I didn't take a BBQ snob approach or expecting it to be a competition-caliber BBQ like you see on TV, and talked to him like you would the guy running the church BBQ on a summer weekend. Brisket & beans if you're stuck and can't decide.
(4)Adam B.
Had lunch at Z's the other day and loved it. The sides are as good as the meat. I had the ribs and the brisket and would highly recommend both. If I had to pick a favorite it's likely the brisket. The Gouda Mac & Cheese and Bacon Potato Salad were ridiculous and the sauces were amazing. I bought a pint of the wasabi BBQ sauce to-go. The service was outstanding and the recommendation from the kid behind the counter was right on par. Competition quality BBQ is tough to pull off in a restaurant setting. These guys to a damn good job. I immediately texted a buddy of mine that lives in Maple Grove and told him to give it a shot. If I lived out in the Grove, this place would be a problem for me.
(5)Nicole L.
This is a hidden gem! Best BBQ around. Super fast and much different than other places around. They also cater and hope to use them in the future.
(5)Joe S.
Haters! Minnesota is severely lacking in good barbecue places, so I stopped in to Z's on my way to St. Cloud in hopes it would be a better alternative to Dickeys...and it is!! I had Brisket, Sausage, blue cheese bacon Mac and brisket chili w/jalapeño cornbread. Brisket is usually disappointing, either tough dry or flavorless--not here. It was tender with just the right amount of tug, had a great bark, and real smokey flavor. The sausage was solid (I had it with sweet peppers), and the sides were not forgettable place fillers, I recommend both! Don't leave without cornbread. There is a huge sauce selection, I really enjoyed the New Mexico variety. The only reason I couldn't give five stars was service. The kids working there were working hard and were pleasant, but calling the owner gruff is an understatement. Dave-when you're out of something (pastrami in my case) apologize and don't wait for me to ask what alternative you'd suggest. Also, welcoming customers to your store and smiling goes a long way. The food here is great, and many more people love the place but don't comment on Yelp. Don't mind the trolls and enjoy great BBQ in the 'burbs.
(4)Donna S.
I purchased a coupon from Living Social, and quite honestly, after reading the reviews, found myself regretting it. However we went there last weekend and were not only pleasantly surprised, but totally confused as to whether we are talking about the same place! We bought a rack of ribs and a couple of sides, and loved it all! The meat fell off the bone - juicy and tender. We likened it to some of the more known "hole in the wall" bbq places downtown that we like too. This isn't your chain bbq, which is exactly the type of place we prefer. There are plenty of choices of sauce, but we like the dry rub, so you can taste the meat. The beans were great, as was the mac and cheese. So, I guess my advice is try it, and take the reviews with a grain of salt. To each his own, but we will be back!!
(5)Richard R.
Rock solid barbecue. The specialty plates are creative. Meat was spot on. Smoked, tender, but not over smoked. Good slaw. Good beans. Good cornbread. Generous portion sizes that match the price. Drive past that big chain and go here. Good BBQ is hard enough to find in MN. Add to that a creative menu that would compete in the middle of BBQ country, and we've got a winner. On top of that, surprisingly nice ambience in a small place. And also, read about regional barbecue and enjoy local art hanging on the walls. Try the Smoke House Bowl.
(5)Nicholas S.
I work nearby and have had Z's on a few occasions. I usually get the Rib-tips or the pulled pork sandwich. The pulled pork is dry but it isn't covered in a BBQ sauce you get to decide what kind of sauce you want on it from a large variety of sauces. I have also had the mac & cheese, chili and a few pasta salads and have to say they all are pretty delicious. The staff at Z's are fairly friendly I know their have been a few times I felt like I should have just gone somewhere else from the body language they presented. I also have noticed that they don't have their business hours posted on the door and they seem to change them every couple months so I have showed up to find out they are closed.
(2)Pui A.
First timer, it was the 10% off check-in special on yelp that brought us to this place. The layout is a bit odd but not a big deal. The kids work there seem a bit cool but did offer help while we were observing the menu. I had the smoked pulled pork and hubby ordered 1lb ribs. Good portion and taste pretty decent. The kid explains where to grab their homemade sauces, etc. The bathroom is clean. We had a good experience and will return for sure.
(5)Rachel S.
The chocolate cupcake has bacon in it, lots of tough, chewy bacon that doesn't add anything pleasant to the overall taste. And, it's not refrigerated - yikes!
(3)Anthony E.
Horrible BBQ. No flavor and very little seasonings. You may like this if you stay in a nursing home. Prices are high. If you request BBQ sauce they pour it in their hands are feel the meat up literally. What happened to BBQ brushes? It was way under cooked and it tasted more of raw pork than BBQ. Never again for me. Please learn how to BBQ and start with a smoker and let the meat cook. PLEASE!!!
(1)Troy O.
Yuck... dirty... poor layout... staff who no nothing about customer service. They dug all of our food out warmers. The top layer had oil they managed to scoop up with my food. Poor taste. Famous Dave's or Dickies do it better.
(1)Heather K.
Zs Smokin Bonez just made my taste buds happy! Best BBQ I've had in the longest time! If you have a craving, I must suggest Sliced Brisket and the Ribs. You won't be disappointed.
(5)Nathan S.
As others have said the service is pretty weak. The sauces are ok but nothing special and the hogie buns are not robust enough to hold up to the sauce and Q. The mac and cheese was passible but forgetable. All that said the reason I still gave 4 stars was the quality of the brisket. Tender but not failing apart, juicy, and the smoke penatrated every bit if it. Hand sliced after I ordered. Fantastic! The pulled pork is also very good but not in the same league as the brisket. Mildly smoky, and not dried out.
(4)Glenn S.
First of all, i don't ever give 5 stars, i can always find some way to improve on recipes. This was my second visit to this restaurant, both times for take- out pulled pork. Both times I have been impressed. I don't want pork that is overpowered by smoke flavor, it should compliment the flavor of the meat and the proper sauce. I ask the staff which of their sauces are best with the pork and always get samples to put on the sandwiches. I heat the meat slowly on stovetop and the juices are released when heated. I like the fact that there is a nice combo of crispy outside meat and tender " inside". That makes for a nice texture difference as well as adding flavor. True " barbecue" Always has a unique taste based on the type of wood and meat. For my tastes, this place hits the mark. I haven't tried the sides as I prefer to make my own family favorites but don't have 14-16 hours to wait for the meat. I appreciate a place like this to help me make great meals. Side note: the pulled pork makes great burrito bowls with the addition of some Mexican herbs and spices. I will come back as long as they keep the quality and friendly service at its current levels. Give them a try and decide for yourself.
(4)Andrew H.
I have wrestled over posting this review for some time now only because it encompasses two things very near and dear to my heart: Barbecue and the local community. Nevertheless, my experiences with Z's smokin' bonez have clawed at me long enough and the truth must be written. If you're like me, you'll consider yourself an avid barbecue enthusiast rather than a barbecue snob. Simply put, there is absolutely no room for snobbishness in the world of barbecue. It is - as Z's smokin' bonez announces: "Americas Original Cuisine". Good Barbecue is true soul and comes from the heart. Unfortunately, the fare served at this establishment can in no way shape or form be considered "Barbecue". It is my understanding that the Zapf family opened this restaurant to feature Dave's hobby of smoking meats - If this is the case, a new hobby is certainly in order. I decided to let the initial "now open" rush subside in the hopes that all of the kinks would be worked out, and stopped in to pick up dinner for my family a few months after the doors opened. I ordered four meats and nearly every side item offered so we would be able to establish our individual and distinct preferences when dining in the future. To our dismay, I cannot recall a time when we've been so dissatisfied with the quality of "Barbecue" we were served. The ribs were slightly rubbery and lacked flavor, which was unexpected because I saw a distinct smoke ring but tasted no smoke. I'm honestly not sure how that's even possible? If you're going to brand your business Z's smokin bonez, one would expect smoke flavor present in the final product! The chicken was bland, the pulled pork was feeble, and the brisket was not only terrible, but actually chopped (?!?!) it was virtually as exciting as a loose meat sandwich from a high school cafeteria. The side dishes spoke volumes about the Zapf's "barbecue" aptitude (or lack thereof) and were as dull as the attitudes of the staff that boxed my meal to go. On a more peculiar note - what kind of barbecue joint serves two versions of coleslaw, two versions of potato salad (all weak), but offers no collard greens, no fried okra, no hush puppies, and no pickles with their 'cue? . . . Z's smokin' bonez. . . . that's who. Though difficult to criticize a local business, I've never had a remotely positive experience (product or personality) with this group and will not likely visit the establishment again.
(1)Robyn I.
We decided to grab a quick dinner here on our way up North for the weekend. Very friendly and helpful folks behind the counter. Unfortunately, that's where the good review ends. I had the one meat meal with brisket at the recommendation of the staff. If they smoke the brisket, you can't tell. No bark, no smoke ring. Just thick slices of dry brisket. I chose baked beans and mac n cheese as my sides. The baked beans tasted canned with some chopped meat added. Nothing special. The mac n cheese consisted of soggy noodles with a chalky, processed cheese sauce. The jalapeño cornbread was the ultimate disappointment. Dry, dry, dry. Even the honey butter slathered on top couldn't save it, and I really wanted it to. Husband had the pulled pork sandwich and it seriously lacked flavor. He did like the house potato salad. I hope these nice folks make some changes and start slingin' some better BBQ.
(2)Pui A.
First timer, it was the 10% off check-in special on yelp that brought us to this place. The layout is a bit odd but not a big deal. The kids work there seem a bit cool but did offer help while we were observing the menu. I had the smoked pulled pork and hubby ordered 1lb ribs. Good portion and taste pretty decent. The kid explains where to grab their homemade sauces, etc. The bathroom is clean. We had a good experience and will return for sure.
(5)Rachel S.
The chocolate cupcake has bacon in it, lots of tough, chewy bacon that doesn't add anything pleasant to the overall taste. And, it's not refrigerated - yikes!
(3)Kirk O.
2 years later and they still haven't figured it out. They sold me Burnt Ends - what they gave me was sliced from the point, not real Burnt Ends. To make it worse, it was not cooked long enough as the fat had not rendered in the brisket. The pulled pork was shredded and dry. And finally, the corn bread was heated in the microwave before being served to me This is what Southerner's think we serve as BBQ.
(1)Graham D.
If you like blah BBQ with no flavor this is the place for you! Signature brisket had no flavor! Rack Shack BBQ in Burnsville has hands down the best BBQ in the state it's worth the extra 45 minute drive!
(1)Brian F.
I'd seen this place off of 494 many times n But never stopped. Today on my drive by I had committed to stopping. I'm glad I did. Solid bbq, unique stuff. I ordered the whole hog it is brisket, pulled pork Mac n cheese topped with onions and crunchy slaw. I'm going to come back here for sure. Great smell, good flavor, unique sauces and very unique soda selections. Check this place out.
(4)Kendall A.
Awesome food, and sauce you have to try there bacon bbq sauce. The service was fast and friendly.
(5)Amy B.
I was reluctant in writing a review because I honestly have nothing good to say. After reading other reviews and hearing people say the same thing over and over it became frustrating. How does this family expect to have a thriving business when they don't listen to their customers?? My family walked in (all first time customers) and awkwardly walked up to the counter. The owner and his son just sat there looking annoyed. When my husband said "hi, we are first time customers!" The owner didn't say a word. We were the only people there and it was 6p on a Saturday night. It was obvious all the workers were family, they kept yelling at each other. Bathrooms werent cleaned, food was bad. Burnt ends were so fatty I couldn't eat 3/4 of them. I left regretting spending a dime there, it just put me in a bad mood. Everyone seemed unhappy and stressed and couldn't even offer a smile or decent customer service. I'm not surprised of these reviews, because I was treated the exact same way. I won't be going back. -- To add icing on the cake the owner sent me a nasty reply telling me to "go eat at McDonald's" and doesn't even use proper English in his insults. McDonald's would have been a better choice, you are right about that.
(1)Alison J.
OMG if you love BBQ and great people. You have found it hear. Small town conjeneality with big town taste. I ordered ribs and when the women said their big I said I was hungry, I could only eat 2. The smoked pickled egg and loaded backed beans to die for. You' ve gotta check this local biz out its worth the trip!
(5)Linh T.
My husband, brother, brother's girlfriend, and I came later in the night, closer to closing time. The owner was very nice and informative. We know our meats and we like it tender. Unfortunately, with the timing, they were out of rib tips and beef brisket. The owner informed us that the burnt ends are fattier but because of this are really juicy. So we got ribs, burnt ends, pulled pork. All was really good and well seasoned. We were really impressed with the burnt ends. It's like the ribeye but of the pork origin. The sides were just ok. It did compliment the meats without taking away from it. All in all we would come back at an earlier hour so we can try more things.
(4)Anthony E.
Horrible BBQ. No flavor and very little seasonings. You may like this if you stay in a nursing home. Prices are high. If you request BBQ sauce they pour it in their hands are feel the meat up literally. What happened to BBQ brushes? It was way under cooked and it tasted more of raw pork than BBQ. Never again for me. Please learn how to BBQ and start with a smoker and let the meat cook. PLEASE!!!
(1)Troy O.
Yuck... dirty... poor layout... staff who no nothing about customer service. They dug all of our food out warmers. The top layer had oil they managed to scoop up with my food. Poor taste. Famous Dave's or Dickies do it better.
(1)Heather K.
Zs Smokin Bonez just made my taste buds happy! Best BBQ I've had in the longest time! If you have a craving, I must suggest Sliced Brisket and the Ribs. You won't be disappointed.
(5)Nathan S.
As others have said the service is pretty weak. The sauces are ok but nothing special and the hogie buns are not robust enough to hold up to the sauce and Q. The mac and cheese was passible but forgetable. All that said the reason I still gave 4 stars was the quality of the brisket. Tender but not failing apart, juicy, and the smoke penatrated every bit if it. Hand sliced after I ordered. Fantastic! The pulled pork is also very good but not in the same league as the brisket. Mildly smoky, and not dried out.
(4)Matthew H.
I had a pulled pork , mac & cheese, brisket, onion, pickel sandwich. It was not good. The mac and cheese was overly processed, the meat was cold (and flavorless), and the bun mad up the majority of the meal. I really don't have anything positive to say about this place except that it was over priced with bad lighting....maybe that isn't positive? "I could really go for some flavorless cold brisket and pulled pork, and I want to spend over $10." - no one ever
(1)Michael K.
For BBQ, it was good for being in the middle of minnesota. The pitas terms uses a pellet smoker, so it doesn't have that same pit character, but the consistency can be better managed. So how was it? I had the brisket. A light chew, mild smoke flavor, and moist. Good selection of sauces, NC mustard, AL white, KY smokey, TX pep. This isn't a signature or competition BBQ place, but more of a middle of the pack Q, and better brisket than the average joe, and sauce it how you like it. A little on the salty side, but that may just be me as we don't salt at home. I also had the ribs, but they were more roasted pork flavors than smoke or 'cue. They were meaty, and came off the bone with a little tug, but not tough. You will need to sauce these ribs, they have just a salt and pepper rub. Ribs are by the pound, and they're not all bone, so 4 large end ribs, 2 sides, and the brisket lunch special ($9) came to $30. In closing, pass on the ribs and pay the extra $1 for the brisket. Next visit I plan to give the burnt ends and the pulled pork a try. The sides were the usual fare, several choices (creamy or vinegar slaws) but no standouts. The beans do have pulled pork "debris" as we call it (I grow up in New Orleans), and it gives it good smoky and meaty umami goodness. Lastly, I think this place tries to offer a 'tour' of BBQ styles and flavors, but only really through the sauces. Notably missing is Memphis dry rub style, but that has to be cooked in. I gave it 4 stars for the try, and the rarity of BBQ in this part of the country, but it's really a solid 3 stars. If you're looking for something resembling your part of the country's BBQ, you could to worse, so it might be worth a try. The owner, as others have noted, is not much of a people person. That doesn't mean he's not passionate about what he does with the 'pit' he has. He opened up and relaxed a bit when I didn't take a BBQ snob approach or expecting it to be a competition-caliber BBQ like you see on TV, and talked to him like you would the guy running the church BBQ on a summer weekend. Brisket & beans if you're stuck and can't decide.
(4)Adam B.
Had lunch at Z's the other day and loved it. The sides are as good as the meat. I had the ribs and the brisket and would highly recommend both. If I had to pick a favorite it's likely the brisket. The Gouda Mac & Cheese and Bacon Potato Salad were ridiculous and the sauces were amazing. I bought a pint of the wasabi BBQ sauce to-go. The service was outstanding and the recommendation from the kid behind the counter was right on par. Competition quality BBQ is tough to pull off in a restaurant setting. These guys to a damn good job. I immediately texted a buddy of mine that lives in Maple Grove and told him to give it a shot. If I lived out in the Grove, this place would be a problem for me.
(5)Nicole L.
This is a hidden gem! Best BBQ around. Super fast and much different than other places around. They also cater and hope to use them in the future.
(5)Joe S.
Haters! Minnesota is severely lacking in good barbecue places, so I stopped in to Z's on my way to St. Cloud in hopes it would be a better alternative to Dickeys...and it is!! I had Brisket, Sausage, blue cheese bacon Mac and brisket chili w/jalapeño cornbread. Brisket is usually disappointing, either tough dry or flavorless--not here. It was tender with just the right amount of tug, had a great bark, and real smokey flavor. The sausage was solid (I had it with sweet peppers), and the sides were not forgettable place fillers, I recommend both! Don't leave without cornbread. There is a huge sauce selection, I really enjoyed the New Mexico variety. The only reason I couldn't give five stars was service. The kids working there were working hard and were pleasant, but calling the owner gruff is an understatement. Dave-when you're out of something (pastrami in my case) apologize and don't wait for me to ask what alternative you'd suggest. Also, welcoming customers to your store and smiling goes a long way. The food here is great, and many more people love the place but don't comment on Yelp. Don't mind the trolls and enjoy great BBQ in the 'burbs.
(4)Donna S.
I purchased a coupon from Living Social, and quite honestly, after reading the reviews, found myself regretting it. However we went there last weekend and were not only pleasantly surprised, but totally confused as to whether we are talking about the same place! We bought a rack of ribs and a couple of sides, and loved it all! The meat fell off the bone - juicy and tender. We likened it to some of the more known "hole in the wall" bbq places downtown that we like too. This isn't your chain bbq, which is exactly the type of place we prefer. There are plenty of choices of sauce, but we like the dry rub, so you can taste the meat. The beans were great, as was the mac and cheese. So, I guess my advice is try it, and take the reviews with a grain of salt. To each his own, but we will be back!!
(5)Richard R.
Rock solid barbecue. The specialty plates are creative. Meat was spot on. Smoked, tender, but not over smoked. Good slaw. Good beans. Good cornbread. Generous portion sizes that match the price. Drive past that big chain and go here. Good BBQ is hard enough to find in MN. Add to that a creative menu that would compete in the middle of BBQ country, and we've got a winner. On top of that, surprisingly nice ambience in a small place. And also, read about regional barbecue and enjoy local art hanging on the walls. Try the Smoke House Bowl.
(5)Nicholas S.
I work nearby and have had Z's on a few occasions. I usually get the Rib-tips or the pulled pork sandwich. The pulled pork is dry but it isn't covered in a BBQ sauce you get to decide what kind of sauce you want on it from a large variety of sauces. I have also had the mac & cheese, chili and a few pasta salads and have to say they all are pretty delicious. The staff at Z's are fairly friendly I know their have been a few times I felt like I should have just gone somewhere else from the body language they presented. I also have noticed that they don't have their business hours posted on the door and they seem to change them every couple months so I have showed up to find out they are closed.
(2)CM B.
Ok. Third time a charm? Not according to my wife. I went to fill up gas at SAMs club nearby and decided to burn an online certificate at Z's. I figure I will only go back if I have a deal. As my previous posts, I'm a rib guy. I bought a couple pounds, brought them home for dinner. My wife actually said, "why do you go back? I'd rather eat vegetarian than eat these ribs". (Direct quote). This is what inspired me update this review again. These ribs are pronounced with cracked pepper. There's absolutely no other seasoning I have tasted in the rub - ever! YUCK! Also, there is soooo much fat in-between the meat layers on top of the rib bone. You know why? Not slow cooked/smoked long enough or not cooked long enough at the correct temperature. The fat should melt to a gravy - not be a main part of the substance on the final product. Z's has me buying my own ribs more, rubbing, smoking... I just can't go back. It's simply not good and not worth the price. Sorry. I say avoid this hobby restaurant, because it's NOT just an off night while I've ever been here - it's consistently awful.
(1)Paul T.
Simply the best Que around. Had the roll, brisket chili and drink for 8 bucks.. Had the brisket for the meat. This has to be some of the best smoke flavor I have tasted.. I have been to a lot of restaurants, hole in walls, and anywhere else that serves BBQ, lots of them offered great food and flavor, I can easily say this is simply one of the best places around.. I find it really hard to believe the negative food reviews from here... Rest assured, this place won't disappoint... Well done Smokin Bonez.. Well done. Can't wait till the next time I'm here.. will be hard to decide what to try next.
(5)Johanna M.
First I want to say the food was good. However, the next day two out of the three of us had issues with our stomachs. My real issue is with the customer service. I will have to say for a local family restaurant, I would have expected better customer service. I, in error (which was made clear from the manager), purchased several Restaurant.com coupons for the restaurant. I was told that they receive no money for them. Why did I need to know that? They are basically designed to get people in the door. Ok...so I am in the door. Can you be nicer? My sister and I felt very uncomfortable, but tried to just go along in hopes to get better service. I even ordered above and beyond what was necessary so as not to get dirty looks because ***gasp*** I actually used a coupon. Unfortunately, I have several more and I had told the manager such. He quickly told me I could only use one a month. I think I will probably let them go to waste. There are too many other establishments in Maple Grove for me to patronize where I won't feel like the management is doing me a favor by being there.
(2)Mitch P.
Good food, basically Famous Dave's served Subway style.
(4)Andrew H.
I have wrestled over posting this review for some time now only because it encompasses two things very near and dear to my heart: Barbecue and the local community. Nevertheless, my experiences with Z's smokin' bonez have clawed at me long enough and the truth must be written. If you're like me, you'll consider yourself an avid barbecue enthusiast rather than a barbecue snob. Simply put, there is absolutely no room for snobbishness in the world of barbecue. It is - as Z's smokin' bonez announces: "Americas Original Cuisine". Good Barbecue is true soul and comes from the heart. Unfortunately, the fare served at this establishment can in no way shape or form be considered "Barbecue". It is my understanding that the Zapf family opened this restaurant to feature Dave's hobby of smoking meats - If this is the case, a new hobby is certainly in order. I decided to let the initial "now open" rush subside in the hopes that all of the kinks would be worked out, and stopped in to pick up dinner for my family a few months after the doors opened. I ordered four meats and nearly every side item offered so we would be able to establish our individual and distinct preferences when dining in the future. To our dismay, I cannot recall a time when we've been so dissatisfied with the quality of "Barbecue" we were served. The ribs were slightly rubbery and lacked flavor, which was unexpected because I saw a distinct smoke ring but tasted no smoke. I'm honestly not sure how that's even possible? If you're going to brand your business Z's smokin bonez, one would expect smoke flavor present in the final product! The chicken was bland, the pulled pork was feeble, and the brisket was not only terrible, but actually chopped (?!?!) it was virtually as exciting as a loose meat sandwich from a high school cafeteria. The side dishes spoke volumes about the Zapf's "barbecue" aptitude (or lack thereof) and were as dull as the attitudes of the staff that boxed my meal to go. On a more peculiar note - what kind of barbecue joint serves two versions of coleslaw, two versions of potato salad (all weak), but offers no collard greens, no fried okra, no hush puppies, and no pickles with their 'cue? . . . Z's smokin' bonez. . . . that's who. Though difficult to criticize a local business, I've never had a remotely positive experience (product or personality) with this group and will not likely visit the establishment again.
(1)Robyn I.
We decided to grab a quick dinner here on our way up North for the weekend. Very friendly and helpful folks behind the counter. Unfortunately, that's where the good review ends. I had the one meat meal with brisket at the recommendation of the staff. If they smoke the brisket, you can't tell. No bark, no smoke ring. Just thick slices of dry brisket. I chose baked beans and mac n cheese as my sides. The baked beans tasted canned with some chopped meat added. Nothing special. The mac n cheese consisted of soggy noodles with a chalky, processed cheese sauce. The jalapeño cornbread was the ultimate disappointment. Dry, dry, dry. Even the honey butter slathered on top couldn't save it, and I really wanted it to. Husband had the pulled pork sandwich and it seriously lacked flavor. He did like the house potato salad. I hope these nice folks make some changes and start slingin' some better BBQ.
(2)Glenn S.
First of all, i don't ever give 5 stars, i can always find some way to improve on recipes. This was my second visit to this restaurant, both times for take- out pulled pork. Both times I have been impressed. I don't want pork that is overpowered by smoke flavor, it should compliment the flavor of the meat and the proper sauce. I ask the staff which of their sauces are best with the pork and always get samples to put on the sandwiches. I heat the meat slowly on stovetop and the juices are released when heated. I like the fact that there is a nice combo of crispy outside meat and tender " inside". That makes for a nice texture difference as well as adding flavor. True " barbecue" Always has a unique taste based on the type of wood and meat. For my tastes, this place hits the mark. I haven't tried the sides as I prefer to make my own family favorites but don't have 14-16 hours to wait for the meat. I appreciate a place like this to help me make great meals. Side note: the pulled pork makes great burrito bowls with the addition of some Mexican herbs and spices. I will come back as long as they keep the quality and friendly service at its current levels. Give them a try and decide for yourself.
(4)