Wabash Barbecue
646 S Kansas City Ave, Excelsior Springs, MO, 64024
Wabash Barbecue Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Excelsior Springs for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Excelsior Springs for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Excelsior Springs for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
646 S Kansas City Ave
Excelsior Springs, MO, 64024 - Phone (816) 630-7700
- Website https://www.wabashbbq.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 9:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : No
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes
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Brian B.
Enjoyed Wabash BBQ a lot. We went down in winter, so it was a bit cold and with no music or anything happening, but on the other hand there was no one there and we got pretty much VIP service. My buddy and I split a sampler plate of ribs, smoked turkey, smoked ham, brisket, and pork. The turkey was pretty awesome, while the ham and pork were pretty standard. The brisket was cold, dry, and a little flavourless...which was a bummer because I was really looking forward to it. It had a solid smoke ring in it, though...so there's a bonus for it. The ribs were pretty good, but the half rack rib plate that the people we were with ordered looked bomb. I think if I go back there, I'll have to go for that instead. The BBQ beans were awesome, while the fries could have been a little crispier. Overall, the BBQ sauce made everything taste amazing anyways...so the meat's lack of flavour made little difference (I think that they rely on the sauce to do the heavy lifting, and just go for solidly good meat rather than the most amazing thing you've ever tasted...). Anyway, Jeremy helped us out during our visit and was extremely nice and accommodating. Major props to him for highly exceptional service. If I'm ever back near KC, I'll be likely to check out Wabash again. Recommended.
(4)Ali J.
If you are wanting to go to a restaurant, and get in and out in under an hour.. Think again. Today, we went with a group of 6 and a baby. When we arrived I asked for a high chair and she said she would grab me one. 15 minutes went by and still no high chair, so we went and asked again and finally they directed us where to find one. Another 10 minutes went by and we finally were greeted by a waitress who then took our order of drinks, appetizer, and food. The app took 15 minutes to come out and the food took 40 minutes. This is no exaggeration. For a BBQ place it is so hard to understand why the kitchen would be backed up when everything is already prepared and the fryer was broken so it's not like we were waiting on fries or something that took longer. When I finally started to eat my food, the bun was so extremely soggy so it was clear that it had been sitting there ready for a while. My side salad was purely lettuce out of the bag. No cheese or croutons on it like it says on the menu. I was disappointed. My expectations weren't super high because I know it's a small town BBQ place, but, come on... To top all this off, we wanted to try and grab something to-go. We asked how long it would take to get this ready and it took about 5 minutes. So it kind of clarified that it was the service and not the kitchen that was slow.
(2)Jessica C.
I agree with another reviewer - this is not a fancy place. I consider it to be run down and somewhat of a "hole in the wall" joint, but it should also be known that this place is in an "historic passenger waiting room of the old train depot" so of course it is not going to be something fancy! Sometimes older joints end up having the best food. I have been here twice and was not disappointed either time. I have gone when we were the only ones in there and I have gone when it was packed full on a Friday evening. Both waitresses were friendly and provided us with great service. They have great fried pickle spears to dip in delicious buttermilk ranch dressing. I love their 'signature' sauces - both the regular and hot BBQ have good flavor. I have only had the Fireman's Favorite (burnt ends) and thought it was delicious! The burnt ends were tender and also had good flavor. Give this spot a shot if you love trying different BBQ joints in the KC area.
(4)Michael G.
At the recommendation of several friends my wife and I drove to Excelsior Springs to have lunch at Wabash. We were not disappointed! My wife had their daily special, sliced smoked pork while I settled on a pulled pork sandwich. Both were excellent! Other than the remnants of sides there was nothing left of the meat and the portions were very ample. We both liked their BBQ sauce a lot and will be looking for it in the grocery if they carry it. If not it'll mean a return trip for more good eats and some creative begging to score a bottle of sauce. Yum Yum Yum!
(5)Jon B.
Recently had a chance to try the baby back ribs. I prefer my meat not to fall off the bone, but it is better than fighting it. The meat was very tender and came off in sections bigger than a bite. which is not my preference. on the other hand they had great texture and a real smokey flavor. I don't eat a lot of ribs (because of not liking to be messy ) but I would do this again if I DID want ribs.
(3)Tricia C.
Hands down the best bbq we have ever had. We went there twice. The ribs are so smokey and fall off the bone. We have eaten ribs in Memphis, Mississippi (where we live), Texas (Houston/Dallas), Louisiana(baton Rouge) and these ribs are by far the best yet! We also tried the combination smoked meat plate -huge, plenty to share. We got the "traincar"( smoked pork tenderloin, so tender), fried mushrooms( Wow!). If you get a chance to go, this place is worth the visit.
(5)Nancy B.
Our friends invited to go to Wabash BBQ one sat evening for BBQ and to listen to a band play outside. There was a little wait, but it was so worth it because the food was great and the band "The Bel-airs" were fantastic. We have since gone back 3 times since our first trip there. We highly recommend this to anyone who wants to try a different BBQ place. My favorite was the short end ribs (TOTALLY MEATY) and the fried zuchinni and sweet potato fries.
(5)Scott H.
The best ribs, hands down, in KC. They're not super greasy and the meat just glides right off the rib. I usually either get the ribs or the burnt ends. The onion rings are also awesome, just a big gob of fried goodness. I no longer live in KC, but anytime I'm home for the holidays we have to make a run to the Wabash. Gates and Smokehouse all have their claim to fame (I think all are a little overrated), but this place truly is a diamond in the rough. They also have live bands during the summer. It's a great place to kick back and ignore the hustle and bustle of city life.
(5)Randy W.
I am an expediter and travel the US delivering freight. I have eaten bbq in some of the most famous bbq restaurants in the US. (Blacks, Big Bob Gibsons, Dream Land, ) to name a few. The Wabash is now in my top three. I ordered the sampler and was not disappointed with the quality or the flavor of my food. My two sides were coleslaw and baked bean. I will come back even for just a side of the beans they were fabulous. The proportions were big enough for the next day . The staff was very helpful and attentive. The ambience of the train depot was an added feature. I WILL BE BACK
(5)Wes T.
I love Wabash and make every effort to get here when I am in town. The building is a nice old train depot converted over with signs and memorabilia on the walls and just enough "dive" charm to make it worth seeking out. Don't expect 4 star seating and fancy plates, this is a real BBQ joint. The food here is wonderful. I like the burnt-ends the best and I think they are some of the finest I have ever had. The sampler meal is always a good choice and is priced appropriately. You get a sample of the primary meats, sans burnt-ends. The "signals" or sides are always tasty and make sure you try the corn nuggets with ranch as an appetizer. Seating can be a little difficult, and frankly packed at night. Often at dinner time you can find locals picking up take-away orders in huge bags. Ribs and other popular items are often marked "out" during dinner hour, so plan accordingly. (The staff is still cooking them in the outside smoke house and might have some later.) My only concern is mixed experience with the wait staff here. Some have been fabulous, while others seem to be preoccupied. Having two dining rooms seems to be hard for them to manage as it duplicates effort and it appears they have a hard time turning tables. Other than that the food is great. Wish I could be around for one of the music nights to sit, listen and enjoy some good food and company. Pro tip: Sides may seem small and served in little cups, but there is a lot in there. Order different sides as a group so everyone can get a taste. Pro tip II: Take some bottled sauce home. I know you can get it at some markets in KC/Excelsior and I think you can buy it right at the restaurant too.
(4)Danielle T.
Good quality Kansas City style BBQ. I have been many times and have never been disappointed in my food. Love the pulled pork, brisket, ribs, burnt ends, baked beans, friend pickle spears, corn nuggets, fried onion strings, and fried mushrooms. The restaurant is located in an old train depot which makes for an interesting and historical place to grab a bite to eat. I'm giving it 4/5 stars because the place could use a good scrubbing and possibly a replacement of the floor and bathrooms to be redone. Also some of the waitresses are lazy and don't do much. However some of the girls are really nice and attentive so it is hit or miss with who serves you. I always get better service at the front of the building (not the side with the bar).
(4)Gabriel W.
By far some of the best ribs and BBQ that I've had. We went there not knowing what we were getting into. Jenn was pretty sad they were out of the chicken but ended up with some amazing ribs. The hickory smoke was emanating from the smoke house a building over and I think we both fell in love... I would recommend it to anyone staying in the area!
(5)Dominic S.
What does Al Capone, president Truman, BBQ and a train station have in common with my lunch, Wabash BBQ! The pulled pork, the brisket (lean), and the fried catfish with corn nuggets were amazing, smoke-ringed, tender, and substantial in size! Oh yea and its walking distance (2 minutes) from the Elms hotel where we stayed. Its local, unique, and full of that home town charm that visitors and locals alike desire! Definitely worth the 5$, and I'd say at least 3-4times more than that i n historical and gastric value
(5)Laura W.
Stopped in for dinner with my husband and teenaged boys and had a great meal. It was a week night and they weren't too busy. LOVED the burnt ends, sidecar chicken and baby back ribs. BEST BBQ in KC! Also hooked on the appetizers....spinach dip and corn nuggets are our favorite, but onion rings and fried mushrooms are also amazing! Highly recommend for a hearty, delicious meal!
(5)Matt M.
Week 6 in "The Kansas City BBQ Tour" landed us at Wabash! The pulled pork sandwich came with the sauce on the meat, making the bun a bit soggy. However the sauce was the perfect blend of sweet and spicy and the smoke flavor of the meat really came through. The fries lacked crispness, which was a huge downfall but over all the taste was good. It's note worthy the service was good and friendly. This is the place to be for great meat. The fries brought the score down to an 81%.
(4)L B.
Pros: great BBQ, friendly staff, great outdoor entertainment, yummy fried mushrooms, great prices, tasty brisket Cons: took awhile to get food, cold inside
(4)Wm.'Bill' L.
Wabash...definitely interesting, it's hard for me to explain, but it is a good interesting. Had the burnt ends and brisket and to be fair I have never been a huge fan of burnt ends but I was happy with these. Also had the brisket and I am picky and it was a lot better than any place I have had it in kansas city. The service could use to be a little better, but I have to take in account that it was mothers day, but a bbq restaurant should not run out of beans
(4)Charlotte Y.
Stopped in last week and had an awesome pulled pork sandwich. This is one of the best bbq places around.
(5)Darcey R.
This is the kind of BBQ place that I like. Simple and unpretentuous. The meat was smoky and tender (I got a sandwich that had both pulled pork and brisket on it--it was so bit I just skipped the bread and ate the meat) and the sauces enhance the flavor of the meat without overpowering it. My entire life I have hated mushrooms. But I LOVED their friend mushrooms. They were sliced really thin and the batter was crispy. I ate a half a basket by myself. We ate on the restaraunt side so I can't comment on the bar, but the place was pretty busy when I was there at about 3pm on a Sunday afternoon. They seem to have a great outdoor entertainment venue as well. I'm rarely in Excelsior (or even rarely passing through), but I think that from now on I am going to have to stop here every time.
(5)Derek H.
This is Excelsior's pride and joy. It has been for nearly 2 decades. The sauce is amazing, the food is good. The atmosphere is deplorable. It had been years since I've ate here and was hoping for a nostalgic trip down memory lane as I sat in the "used-to-be" smoking section. I had to pry my foot off the floor with each step and the freezer full of the food they cook and feed to their patrons is inconveniently located in the dining room. Each time the door opened, we were hit with the most foul stench typically reserved for garbage dumpsters on a hot summer day. This was coming from the freezer. If you have to use the bathroom, you're better off soiling yourself. You'll come out cleaner. We still order take out, but won't plan on dining there until they spend a few bucks cleaning the place up.
(2)Scott T.
The best thing about Excelsior Springs, MO is not just the water at the springs or The Elms, although both are fine. No, it's the barbecue at Wabash. Blasphemy you say! Only Kansas City has great Q in the region. I beg to differ. If Wabash picked up and plunked itself down in Kansas City, MO it'd instantly be one of the top three barbecue joints in town. But they need not, because this place is happening. I can think of no one that can do a whole BBQ chicken better. You can show up any day, any time, any year--I have--and the BBQ is world class. Most BBQ Chicken bores me silly in Kansas City, but Wabash it's smoked and cooked to perfection and you can actually eat the bones they're tended so long and slow. The beef and brisket are mouth wateringly perfect. their sauce a perfect blend of sweet, salty, savory and smoky. Great beans, great fries, particularly the sweet potato version. Ditto: ribs. Tip: if you're staying at The Elms, make this your dinner or lunch destination. You won't regret it. Truly one of the greatest BBQ destinations in the region and a place I dream about when we visit and spend the night at the big hotel next door.
(5)Carla H.
Well, this is not a fancy place. I'm assuming they are only known for the food and not the dining experience. Our food was fine, but nothing to write home about. I guess what was the biggest turn off for me was the amount of flies flying around in the place. That was a big turn off for me!! I hate flies near my food!!! We were staying at The Elms and we were trying to keep costs down by not eating at restaurant there. I wish we would have splurged and eaten there or tried Willow Spring Mercantile instead.
(3)Michael P.
Wabash is my all-time, hands down, number one, top-notch, BBQ in the Kansas City area. KC knows BBQ and whether your passion is Gates, Bryants, Jack Stack, or another favorite, Wabash handily puts these other great joints to shame. I was introduced to Wabash over 10 years ago by a family friend. Since then, I make it a point to venture waaaaaay up north to visit at least a couple times a year. Though all of their BBQ tastes great and is smoked in house, their ribs are the pièce de résistance. It's sickening how good they are. Like, "damn, that's good." Don't bother with other menu items. It's ribs or bust. Like others have mentioned, the interior of this joint is a bit "divey." This is an old train station depot that has been converted over the years. Accommodations are small so it doesn't hurt to get here early or late. The dinner rush can be a bit slow at times and it's seat yourself so everyone is always vying for a seat. It's also a hangout for local Excelsiorians. Don't be surprised if you get the "you're not from around here look" from the locals when you walk in. Love it or hate it, they know good BBQ as much as you do. Those who really want to party can hang out here during the summer, catch a live band on the outside stage, stay for some beer and BBQ, and then walk to the nearby Elms Hotel to Crash. I'm surprised the Elms hasn't set up a package to the same effect. Do yourself a favor and get here quick. This BBQ is too good to pass up and it's worth the drive to Excelsior Springs to enjoy the mouth watering, finger licking goodness.
(5)Francis D.
Though this place does not have the hype of other KC BBQ joints, it actually is practically as good as the best of them! I gave them a 5/5 stars because if you put this restaurant in downtown KC, it would be just as popular as the others. Because it's in Excelsior Springs, it's less well known. All the meats here are super tasty, but I would get the baby back ribs for what they're probably best at. Their sides are super good as well, especially their beans, and get extra sauce! It's delicious. I usually dip my fries in it. All the locals in this area claim to have the best bbq restaurant in KC...which actually may be true! I would highly recommend coming here if you are anywhere near Excelsior Springs, MO.
(5)Ray M.
Great fried pickles and ribs!!! Burnt ends aren't the best. Sausage was better than most. I'd eat here every time I'm back in town.
(4)Pam C.
Went to Wabash BBQ this evening and what a disaster. We waited 5 minutes to be seated which I thought was positive but then the computers went down and we sat at our table for 15 minutes until we got an iced tea. Then we ordered our food and they misplaced the fried mushrooms which ended up at our table finally after 30 minutes had gone by then our food arrived which the ribs were quite tasty but I was so disappointed with the service and other food items we will not go out of our way to this restaurant. Plus, do not expect to eat there if you need to leave in two hours...too slow for my taste.
(2)Andrew M.
No trip to Excelsior Springs would have been complete without some good barbecue and since I was staying at the Elms just down the street I would have been a fool not to stop by here for lunch! The interior was pretty roomy and fairly divey, as any good barbecue joint should be. My wife ordered a 1/4 brisket sandwich -- you can order just about any kind of meat for your sandwich and go between 1/4 and a full pound of it, depending on how hungry you are. I knew I had to try a 1/2 slab of the baby back ribs. The baked beans were nothing to write home about but the ribs were excellent! They fell off the bones as you picked them up and had a slightly more smoky flavor than the average rib. I didn't even put barbecue sauce on them because the rub was plenty delicious. Too bad they are nearly an hour away from home -- I'd love to come back here soon!
(5)Craig J.
Good food , great sauce. Ask for the hot BBQ sauce, I don't like hot stuff but was told about the secret sauce they only bring out for those who ask and I was glad I did as the flavor was much more rich with a little more spice. This wasn't the best BBQ I have ever had but I am picky. I like longer cooked slow roast BBQ in Georgia better , but with that being said this place was very good and reasonably priced. I liked the converted train depot atmosphere as well. This place is worth the stop and every penny.
(4)Jacquelyn B.
Wabash is potentially one of my new favorite barbecue joints. The sauce and beans are the best I've had anywhere. We showed up about lunch on a Sunday, and the place was already packed. Even though it was busy, we found a table, and were greeted promptly. I think there were only one or two servers for the whole place which seemed a little understaffed, but our food was served quickly, and the waitress was friendly, if not quite as attentive as we would have hoped. We ended up having to go find forks ourselves. The waitress said she was bringing some, but no one wants to sit over food that delicious and have to wait. And the food was just as good as it looked. I can't even tell you how tasty it was. If you're a barbecue fanatic, like most people seem to be around here, you've probably already been to Wabash and know how good it is. If you haven't yet....GO! You're truly missing out on a taste bud celebration.
(5)Kimberly E.
Nom Nom Nom! Great BBQ! I got the burnt ends and hubby some sandwich. Was surprised that they came out without sauce, but after thinking about it, I think that's perfect. Everyone can choose how saucy they like it! Might have to come back this summer, as some of my friends have mentioned the great music!
(5)Reid E.
Largest sandwich (12 oz of brisket and pulled pork) I've ever had and for $7.99. Great food and interesting venue.
(5)Ryan A.
I don't generally like writing reviews based on one visit, but I don't know when I'll next visit the fine burg of Excelsior Springs, so I figure I might as well throw in my $0.02 on Wabash Barbecue. And my $0.02 amounts to OMG DELICIOUS! I got the burnt ends, which were sadly not nearly as burnt as I'd like (more a meal of cubed brisket than what I'd call burnt ends) but holy sweet mother of barbecue were they tender and juicy. And smoky. And just pure barbecue greatness. If it had simply been called "cubed brisket" rather than burnt ends, it would have exceeded every expectation. Brisket that good is a rare and special thing. Even the fat was delicious. If you can make yucky beef brisket fat succulent and awesome, you are a damn barbecue wizard. Just, please don't call it burnt ends if it ain't burnt. It makes me sad. Fries perfectly serviceable, if not amazing. Beans way above average. Sauce ungodly sweet mess of KC Masterpiece-style gloop, but the spicy sauce was a vast improvement. Still not really to my taste. Not bad, not great. But this KC lifer isn't a sauce guy anyway, unless it's Bryant's. To hell with sauce. If the meat's that good, why taint it with sauce? Knowing I probably wouldn't be back any time soon, I gorged on appetizers, too. Spicy corn "nuggets" (I'd have called them cornballs) were amazing. Sweet corn and some kind of spicy (chipotle?) filling, deep fried to golden brown crispy perfection. Unable to leave well enough alone, I did the fried mushrooms, too. Not the frozen-from-a-bag kind of mediocrity, rather a homemade product, surprisingly sliced thin and battered in a damn-near-tempura before being fried up and served with a truly unholy ranch. The ranch was so good I barely resisted putting the nipple from the squeeze bottle in my mouth and drinking it like mother's milk. The spot has a super funky vibe, very divey. And oddly tiny, split into two separate diminutive dining rooms with a kitchen in the middle. Or what passes for a kitchen. It's so small I can't fathom how they actually cook anything in there. And for the most part, I think, they don't--the massive brick smokehouse adjacent to some kind of party porch out back seems to be where most of the magic happens. And magical it is.
(4)Jim M.
By far the best BBQ I have ever had. The regular sauce is on the sweeter side and goes great on beef. Ask for the spicy sauce - it's really good on the pulled pork. Barbecue beans are fantastic - nice subtle smoke flavor. Service is always OUTSTANDING! Very helpful and attentive, but not obnoxious. (They don't ask you questions when your mouth is full - I hate that). Soft drinks are refilled quickly without you barely noticing
(5)Jill B.
Being from L.A. My opinion of BBQ is skewed. I ordered their award winning ribs and was not disappointed. The meat fell off the bone and was juicy and flavorful. The restaurant is in an old train depot and the history added to the fun.
(4)Jerry C.
Outstanding from mushrooms to the meats: ribs, pulled pork and burnt ends are great. Rebecca was super hostess.
(5)Sue D.
I drug my entire family to Excelsior Springs on Sunday of Labor Day weekend to see the Hall of Waters, but we were hungry first and went looking for a good place. This had good reviews, so we went on in. I've eaten at every famous BBQ place in KC plus a few in other cities, so I know what to expect and I was expecting a hole in the wall. It looks charming from outside but less so as you walk in and if I had been with my husband only, I would have backed out immediately, but my old parents were hungry. They directed us to a table by the restroom, even though there were 4 other tables that would hold our party of 5, I chose not to sit where they told us. The floor was sticky and there was a pickle and something else on the floor next to our table. It was right out in the open, the server could see it and she couldn't be bothered. Their onion strings are amazing and I was hopeful for my burnt ends, but they tasted overburned and I just gave up. Everyone else ate every bite, which included a brisket sandwich, a tenderloin, and some pulled pork. While I was waiting for everyone else to eat their edible food, I was treated to watching our server scoop up pitchers of water from the floor for some reason and then some people next to us started smoking. I don't know if that was against the law or not, but I try not to eat at restaurants that allow smoking so that was enough for me. This place is a filthy hole and since it is tiled, I would advise that they do a big clean up with a fire hose, renovate things that need to be fixed (the pitchers full of water?) and reopen, since they do know how to cook most things.
(1)M S.
Oh my, this place certainly lives up to the hype! After finding them on yelp we had to try out some good bbq. I had chicken and ribs, YUM! We liked it so much we had it twice during our stay. Definitely get some of the sweet corn bites, delicious!
(5)Shelli B.
I have had BBQ all over this fine country and the BBQ joints in KC have always ranked at the top of the list. Tonight my daughter brought me home Wabash BBQ and I have to say it is the BEST BBQ I have ever had (other than my own). It's a long drive but I will be going back to Excelsior Springs and Wabash. Keep the pit fires burning my new friends!!!
(5)Dan L.
Oklahoma Joe's, Gate's, Smoke House do not compare. Excellent quality, ample portions, rustic setting, great service and very reasonable prices make our first visit last evening leave us wanting to return.
(5)Kayla W.
Fantastic BBQ at reasonable prices, and within walking distance from the Elms hotel! Probably the best BBQ I've had! Loved the friendly casual atmosphere.
(5)Raffy K.
What is the big deal w this place. Plain brisket and pulled pork sub par in flavor and is not even close to Arthur Bryant's, Gates and or Oklahoma Joes BBQ down in the city. Plus this place was just about empty and it took forever for the kitchen to prepare my sandwich as mentioned by other reviewers. I'll pass from this time on.
(1)Courtney C.
The award-winning barbecue here is fantastic. The baby back ribs are delicious and cooked so they just melt off the bone. The smell is fantastic. I suggest that you sit in the front for the best service (less smokey from nicotine as well!). The restaurant is set up in an old train depot, which my parents owned while I was growing up and ran a printing business out of it. I used to have a gokart track that went through the parking lot, up around the ice house, and back down through what is now the blues garden during the summer months of the restaurant. The place has some great history and is a fun place to eat while visiting our historic and beautiful town that I love!
(5)Curtis D.
Popular place. I had the tenderloin and it was OK. They have the thick chunky style tenderloins, not my fav. Everyone raves about the bbq though so I'll go with that next time. Service is OK too.
(3)Glenn M.
Good bbq - great fried pickles (spears not chips). Blackened ends BBQ are to die for. The service is great...I am a fan
(4)David P.
Very good BBQ. Seating is cramped. I don't mind as long as I can raise my arms to eat this food. Don't go during odd hours or slow time quality suffers.
(4)Erin W.
We had a large birthday party here and it definitely did not disappoint. I had the Iron Horse sandwich with turkey and the bbq beans. Prices are low, food is great. Two things I love about a food place! Granted, I live an hour away so we won't be able to eat here a lot, but I look forward to the next time!
(4)Phillip J.
I have been here several times and each time they reaffirm how I feel about the place. This is in my experience the best bbq in the KC area. Most of the other bbq restaurants in KC are not as good as many people think. A full slab is no joke as evidenced by my photo. Go hungry and leave happy!
(5)Elizabeth M.
Fantastic onion strings! My family liked the corn fritters but they were a bit too sweet for me. Despite other raves, I didn't think the Burnt Ends were all that, but they may be an acquired taste. But I did think the full rack of baby back ribs was amazing and delicious. The meat just fell off the bone and was so succulent. I found the extensive menu hard to negotiate but the waitstaff was patient.
(4)Brian W.
We flew into Kansas City and were headed to points Northeast. A quick Yelp search suggested Wabash Barbecue was the place to stop for lunch. And boy were they right. We started with the fried pickles and the sweet corn nuggets. The pickles were just alright but those fried corn nuggets were AMAZING. A must have app. I got the baby back ribs which were fall off the bone tender with a phenomenal KC-style bbq sauce. My colleagues raved about their dishes as well. We all agreed that the bbq baked beans were among the best we'd ever had. Service was top notch, and the prices were very reasonable. If you're ever passing by Excelsior Springs, I highly recommend a trip to Wabash Barbecue.
(5)Daegil L.
I can never forget my first time I took the family here. The entrances are not clearly marked. We went in and ended up sitting in the older depot side fairly close to the bar. I did not know at the time that the other side was a little more of a dining room but more cramped. Anyway, we ordered, and as we were eating a few men came to an area off to the side and began a conversation, they used some terrible language and my wife and kids heard it. I asked our server if I could talk to the manager about those fellows and their bad language. He said, "Those are the managers." Needless to say we don't eat here if at all possible. Honestly the BBQ about average. They do play some good blues down there in the Summer outdoors in a beer garden. That is five stars!
(2)Scott M.
I love this place! It's well worth the drive. Located back at the edge of the woods right off downtown Excelsior Springs (a stunningly beautiful area in itself), the building is a converted railway station that sets the mood for the BBQ experience perfectly. Wabash is is one of my personal top BBQ places. The ribs are flavorful, meaty, and fall off the bone. The burnt ends are among the best I've had. The sauce is very good too, one of the top sauces in my book. The restaurant is divided in half, with a nonsmoking family dining area on one side of the kitchen and a smoking bar area on the other side of the kitchen. Unless you have kids with you the bar area is the way to go (if you're ok with the smoking), it's quieter and has a little more character. I've also tried to go to their other location in Chillicothe but unfortunately didn't realize it wasn't open yet -- it was still under construction. :( That was long enough ago that it ought to be open by now. In keeping with the theme, that location is also in a converted railroad station.
(5)Kip L.
Interesting setting, quite away out of Kansas City, in an old railroad train station. Pork spareribs here are served with tips on and usually always tender and very flavorful. Baked beans I have found inconsistent in the flavoring. They have specials during the week. You may want to call to see what day is to you liking. For us it is always the barbecue ribs. Smoky, meaty and better than most. Worth the drive.
(4)Tessa B.
Best BBQ in the Kansas city area!
(5)Brent G.
Based on the service I got on a catering order, I'd give it a zero. First, he didn't have time to talk to me and insisted that I call him back later (instead of him calling me). When I did call him back, his attitude was terrible. I used to really like this place. One bad experience for me ruined it - I'll be doing my catering orders somewhere else now. I even gave the guy a second chance - I said call me back if you want my business. I never heard from him. Maybe it was a one-time thing, but this person really gave a bad example of customer service
(1)Lauren H.
Awesome! It's really 4.5 stars for me. Burnt ends are the best I've had I think. Love the charm of this place and it's history. Fried zucchini was like a healthy mozzarella stick. They are fat and the inside gets creamy when the outside gets crunchy. Fried pickles are battered spears; no greasy chips. Lost half a star because the sides weren't that great. I'm not of fan of tomatoey beans.
(4)Dan D.
Nestled in the downtown of sleepy Excelsior Springs this BBQ spot is small but very familiar to anyone that has eaten at a small mom and pop establishment. The decor is basic and pleasant. The smell of BBQ and smoke hits you the second you get to the door. I wasn't happy at the fact that they allow smoking in the dining area but it is bearable. When I visited I was with a large wedding party that was staying nearby at The Elms resort and spa. The service was attentive and speedy for the number of people in the group. I don't think they get many large groups in for dinner because honestly we had to wait a good while for all the food to make it out. Once the food made it out everyone was in hog heaven. The ribs were juicy and smoky with just the right amount of seasoning as to not overpower the taste. Overall this place is great but not the best I have ever had, though I would make sure to go back again the next time I am in Excelsior Springs.
(4)Brett R.
One of the best in KC area! Love their sandwiches and onion straws. Not much to say that hasn't been said. Bathroom could be nicer.
(5)Dave O.
As good of bbq as you will find anywhere for any price most of the time. The absolute best bbg you will ever find sometimes. Good, but just average bbq sometimes as well. I guess Wabash is like most bbq joints in that some days are just better than others. I have frequented Wabash since the first week it opened, and can not even begin to count how many times I have been there, more than 100 for sure. MOST - 80% of the time the food was great. 15% of the time, it was probably the best meals I have ever had. 5% of the time, it was just good. But, I have never had a bad meal there. I am as tough a judge as you will find especially when it comes to bbq. Wabash all around, ranks with the best of KC bbq. Be prepared to wait a while, especially on Saturday nights. Be there by 5, or you may wait an hour for a table. Best ribs in KC, narrowly beating Gates and OK Joe's. Tie for best sausage with Woodyard's. They really could use a better bean recipe though. Their beans are a notch below all the other items on the menu.
(5)My L.
WOW ! I love how it is located in railroad depot! 5 stars!! Ribs were awesome.. gee... KC bbq -- so hard to pick out the best one.. Try the Fried Pickles and Fried Corn! Soooo ggoooooood
(5)Scott F.
These are the ribs I will judge all others against for the rest of my life. Drove to this place from about 45 minutes away on business once in 2008 (on the recomendation of a local co-worker) and haven't found anything close since (sorry, other, lazier peers... the Author Bryants in the Ameristar hotel is not good enough to fool me into thinking I've had real KC bbq!). I live in California so you just can't get 'em like this near me! I'm finally yelping this place after all this time because I'm finally on yelp! I was trying a new rib place today and it just made me wish I was back at Wabash again. Come to think of it the ribs here might be good enough to finally tempt me into making that cross country motorcycle ride I'm always talking about...
(5)Connie B.
I was there for a quick late lunch this week. I was the only customer while I was there and it was a totally disappointing trip. The ham was dried out and somewhat tasteless on the stale bun. But worse of all, the cook came out to the dining area to sit with the server. Knowing this guy cooked my food was enough to tell me not to finish the meal. He was absolutely dirty! He was wearing a heavy shirt that looked like it hadn't been washed in weeks and his hair and beard were stringy and unkempt. Living in the KC area, I have always considered this place quite rather run down with only average BBQ. KC has so many better choices. But the dirty cook and dry meat were the last straw for me.
(2)Sean M.
This is hands down the best there is! I have had BBQ from KC to STL and none can touch the Wabash. From being in the food-service industry for 20 years, people always ask me "Where is the best BBQ that you have had?" and this is where I recommend. Friendly environment, outstanding waitstaff, and the price is super affordable. I highly recommend to anyone.
(5)John V.
I don't care what you say Wabash is the best BBQ in the Kansas City area! Oklahoma Joe's, Gates, Smokehouse, and Jack Stack don't even come close. Arthur Bryant's probably gets the closest to Wabash but still not as good. I always get full slab baby back ribs. You can effortlessly pull the bones out, and the meat is NOT tough at all. I always say a bbq place is only as good as it's ribs and these guys are testament to that. Be sure to grab a jar of BBQ sauce on your way out too! You'll regret it if you don't!
(5)Molly P.
Wow. If for some reason you end up in Excelsior Springs this is the place to go. Let me just say, fried pickles. And they are the whole spear. wow. They also have fried corn nibblets and other fried goodness. The ranch dipping sauce is unique and better then most. I ordered the sausage but they were out (they make their own) and ended up getting the pulled pork. This ended well as it was amazingly tender and juicy. I am not much of a bbq person if its not NC bbq but this place is one I would go to again and again.
(4)Jimmy H.
Kansas City BBQ doesn't get better than this! Excelsior Springs is a interesting little town and it is a bit out of the way, but the drive is worth it. The Ribs, the fried pickles and mushrooms, the perfect sauce!!!! My mouth is watering just thinking about it. Located in an old train station this place has atmosphere as well! Just watch out for the sampler meal! I expected a small portion of every meat on the menu; I ended up with two pounds of meat! That one meal could feed a whole family and it was only 17.99!!!! Roll up your sleeves and get ready to make a mess and enjoy every savory second of it!
(5)Jessie L.
Wasn't that great. I went on the recommendation of a friend & was sadly disappointed! The BBQ was sub par & unsatisfactory. The Restraunt is small & not well kept...wobbly chairs & tables. The bathroom had about a half inch of water covering the floor & coming out into the dining area. Our waitress smelt like she had just smoked a bowl. The reason I gave it two stars instead of one is I tried a piece of their coconut cream pie, which was quite yummy. This food didn't agree with any one in my party's tummies either...if u get my drift. ;)
(2)Buck B.
Every restaurant in Kansas City has a banner that says they were voted best BBQ in KC. THEY LIE!!! We ate at the recommended restaurants, Smokehouse, Fiorella's, Arthur Bryant's ect. flaunting the best BBQ and they were all tied with Applebee's on their best day. I had lost all faith in ever finding real BBQ, the kind people brag about, falling off the bone with a real smoke ring not sprayed on liquid smoke. I haven't found it in Texas or Memphis or any other town that is known for BBQ. We almost gave up. I had one more place on my list but it was a drive. the Wabash. Thank god for Tom Tom or we wouldn't have found it. We knew we were at the right place when we saw a pile of wood out back as big as a house. We were starved and hadn't eaten all day. Sat in the bar and I asked what was good. Waitress was very nice and said RIBS! Sweet, with low expectations I ordered a full rack of baby backs. My wife ordered the sample platter. It took 2 minutes to get our meal. I have never had food put in front of me so fast, ever! They need to add a warning label to the menu that says "these are real ribs not that crap you have been eating in KC and when we say full rack we mean from a real full grown pig". The ribs hung off either side of a large platter by 6 inches. They were the size of a full rack of beef ribs. I can't describe how good the ribs were because I have nothing to compare it to but I can say this is what I have always expected good BBQ to taste like but have never found. The sauces on the side were off the chart. My wife's sampler would have fed a whole table and the brisket was juicy with a half inch deep smoke ring. I ate till I wanted to die and then ate some more. I still had plenty left over and for about $25. The worst part of the meal was realizing I wouldn't have the chance to eat here again for a long time. Great job Wabash! You are now on my top ten list of greatest places I have ever eaten and I have eaten all over the world.
(5)Lorie N.
Ok bbq, but come on, their ribs don't hold a candle to the ribs at Gates. Wabash always have alot of fat on them, you get what you pay for. Now for brisket it's Arthur Bryant's got them beat hands down. They do have good fried mushrooms and beans. I live in Richmond and it's the only close place for fast bbq, mines better:)
(3)Diane N.
Love this place! Great BBQ and nice atmosphere. It is located in a beautifully wooded area in Excelsior Springs. In the summer there are live bands playing in the outdoor area. The meat is smoked in a small smoke house right next door. I enjoy the short ribs and corn nuggets. There are 2 dining areas, one for smokers and one nonsmoking. There is also a bar area. There's also a small room for a private dinner. The sauce is good and the ribs are highly respected among BBQ freaks here in KC. If you are heading to Wabash and feel like a nice, scenic drive...go through Liberty and head out towards Excelsior Springs on County Road H. This runs out of Liberty at William Jewel College. Beautiful drive through the country.
(4)Joe K.
The Wabash is in my top 5 of BBQ places in the Kansas City Area. I think the Wabash BBQ serves the best ribs around. Make sure that you try the fried onion strings and fried mushrooms, they are awesome. I have eaten there dozens of times over the years and only had one bad experience. I made another trip to Wabash last night (8-8-09) and once again my meal was AWESOME. They were very busy last night, as they were celebrating their 12th Anniversary.
(4)P J.
BBQ was fantastic. I was staying at the Elms for work and ate here almost every night of my trip.
(4)Jim D.
Excellent BBQ, great location, ok atmosphere, indifferent service. But, go for the BBQ. The ribs and brisket were flavorful and tender, the baked beans were excellent and perfectly cooked and seasoned.Wabash BBQ has some of the best sauce, too. Sweet, but not overly so. A perfect glaze for their smoky meats. The dining room is cramped and the wait staff doesn't really give a damn if you're there or not, but this place is definitely worth going to.
(4)Mark W.
Quickly becoming one of the top BBQ joints around the KC area. A lot of folks are traveling outside the city a bit for some of the best BBQ I've tasted. Prices are quite reasonable, and the atmosphere is lacking. They could do a lot with the old train depot if they'd inject a little more charm from the bygone days when Excelsior Springs was bustling. I keep hoping they'll expand the dining rooms. Favorite dish is the "Sidecar Chicken". I've never tasted chicken as perfectly smoked and BBQ'ed as this entree. The burnt ends are typically good, and the smoked stacks of BBQ meat are always good. For appetizers, I'd strongly recommend the onion strings. They'll melt in your mouth. The side cups of beans rival the best KC has to offer. Saturday nights draw a large crowd coming to enjoy the sounds of local Blues and Jazz bands on their outdoor stage and beer garden.
(4)Anush J.
We went to the Excelsior Springs location. It was ok. The "award winning" ribs were good...fall of the bone. The bbq sauce was very good, as were the cole slaw and baked beans. Brisket, Pork, Potato salad, fries...whatever. Location is a suprise - you drive through winding roads and seem a bit off the path until you reach a dead end, but beautiful scenery - green and lush. The place itself is cute and has personality. I was not impressed with the our reception. I found one person bordering on rude. Friendly would not be the word I use. Appetizers could not be ordered because a fryer was down. (The appetizer choices looked yummy) However, I found it interesting that a larger party was able to order one appetizer all around. Hmm. I guess those 2 things sorta turned me off. And the food did not compensate for it, in my book.
(3)