Eli’s BBQ
3313 Riverside Dr, Cincinnati, OH, 45226
Eli’s BBQ Menu
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Diabetics at Jason's Deli
Diabetics must not get carried away at Jason's Deli as there are several tempting items on their menu to easily spike your blood sugar. You can try the salads at Jason Deli's or start your meal with hot soup to ensure that you don't stuff too much while at Jason's Deli. You can also pick the right kind of sandwiches to complete your meal.
Foods to Avoid at Jason's Deli for Diabetics:
You must skip all kinds of sandwiches, wraps, and paninis at Jason's Deli for their high sodium content. Even among the salads, avoid the regular ones such as Chicken Club Salad, The Big Chef, Mesa Chicken Salad and go for the lighter versions. In addition, it is also recommended to avoid desserts totally while dining at Jason's Deli.
Food Suggestions for Diabetics at Jason's Deli:
Breakfast Sammy
Nutritional Facts: 250 calories, 12g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 3g), 370mg sodium, 23g carbs, 3g sugar, 0g fiber, 12g Protein
Chicken Club Salad (Lighter)
Nutritional Facts: 540 calories, 44g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 8g), 900mg sodium, 11g carbs, 3g sugar, 3g fiber, 24g Protein
Mesa Chicken Salad (Lighter)
Nutritional Facts: 460 calories, 30g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 5g), 850mg sodium, 26g carbs, 4g sugar, 7g fiber, 22g Protein
Spinach Veggie Wrap
Nutritional Facts: 350 calories, 14g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 4g), 830mg sodium, 51g carbs, 5g sugar, 12g fiber, 16g Protein
Fresh-Brewed Black Currant Tea
Nutritional Facts: 0calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Hot Organic Green Tea
Nutritional Facts: 0calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Hot Tea
Nutritional Facts: 0calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Fresh-Brewed Unsweetened Tea
Nutritional Facts: 0calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Visit below restaurant in Cincinnati for healthy meals suggestion.
High Blood Pressure at Jason's Deli
Blood pressure patients mustn't indulge in sandwiches offered on Jason Deli's menu. Most sandwiches, whether Muffalettas or Po'boys, are high in sodium and could easily spike your blood pressure. Be careful while you order at Jason's Deli and opt for healthy food options such as salads, soups, or soups to ease your cravings.
Foods to Avoid at Jason's Deli for High Blood Pressure
Sandwiches must be avoided at all costs at Jason's Deli as they are loaded with sodium. You must also skip the paninis and wraps if possible and stick to healthy salads and soups while dining at Jason's Deli. Skip adding any kinds of salad dressing, extra cheese, croutons, etc. in your order to limit your sodium intake for the day.
Food Suggestions for High Blood Pressure at Jason's Deli
Banana Nut Muffin
Nutritional Facts: 220 calories, 10g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 1g), 170mg sodium, 25g carbs, 14g sugar, 1g fiber, 5g Protein
A bowl of Fresh Fruits
Nutritional Facts: 390 calories, 8g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 6g), 45mg sodium, 23g carbs, 62g sugar, 9g fiber, 6g Protein
Pollo Mexicano (Lighter)
Nutritional Facts: 800 calories, 22g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 12g), 550mg sodium, 121g carbs, 14g sugar, 11g fiber, 30g Protein
Gluten Free Snickerdoodle Cookie
Nutritional Facts: 210 calories, 8g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 4g), 150mg sodium, 34g carbs, 17g sugar, 0g fiber, 1g Protein
Wild Berry Hibiscus Tea with Pure Cane Sugar
Nutritional Facts: 100 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 26g carbs, 26g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Fresh-Brewed Black Currant Tea.
Nutritional Facts: 0calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Hot Organic Green Tea.
Nutritional Facts: 0calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Hot Tea
Nutritional Facts: 0calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Fresh-Brewed Unsweetened Tea.
Nutritional Facts: 0calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Visit below restaurant in Cincinnati for healthy meals suggestion.
High Cholesterol at Jason's Deli
If you are concerned about your cholesterol, then you got to be very cautious at Jason's Deli. Most sandwiches available on Jason's Deli's menu are high in cholesterol and sodium content. You must choose wisely and opt for salads or soups to please your appetite.
Foods to Avoid at Jason's Deli for High Cholesterol
Avoiding foods at Jason's Deli can be trickier if you are a foodie. It is recommended to skip the heavy sandwiches which are both high in cholesterol and sodium at Jason's Deli. You must also avoid paninis and wraps at Jason Deli's or order the lighter version to reduce your calorie intake.
Food Suggestions to Maintain Cholesterol Level at Jason's Deli
Blueberry Muffin
Nutritional Facts: 190 calories, 5g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 1g), 180mg sodium, 34g carbs, 19g sugar, 1g fiber, 3g Protein
Nutty Mixed Up Salad (Lighter)
Nutritional Facts: 430 calories, 21g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 4g), 810mg sodium, 41g carbs, 33g sugar, 3g fiber, 21g Protein
Texas Style Spud (Lighter)
Nutritional Facts: 830 calories, 22g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 11g), 740mg sodium, 139g carbs, 27g sugar, 14g fiber, 29g Protein
Jason's Deli Bottled Ginger Ale
Nutritional Facts: 140 calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 36g carbs, 36g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Fresh-Brewed Black Currant Tea.
Nutritional Facts: 0calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Hot Organic Green Tea.
Nutritional Facts: 0calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Hot Tea
Nutritional Facts: 0calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Fresh-Brewed Unsweetened Tea.
Nutritional Facts: 0calories, 0g (Tans. Fat 0g & Sat. Fat 0g), 0mg sodium, 0g carbs, 0g sugar, 0g fiber, 0g Protein
Visit below restaurant in Cincinnati for healthy meals suggestion.
Q & A on Jason's Deli
When did Jason's Deli open?
First Jason's Deli was started on 30th November 1976 at Beaumont, Texas, United States.
Where's the nearby Jason's Deli?
There are around 275 delis in 28 states of the United States. You can locate a nearby Jason's Deli by using our Restaurant Listings Directory.
When does Jason's Deli open and close?
Jason's Deli opens early in the morning daily at 6 AM and closes at 6 PM on weekdays and 3 PM on weekends.
Does Jason's Deli have a drive through?
Yes, Jason's Deli has a drive-through. Besides the drive-thru, Jason's Deli also set up Jason's Express especially for on-the-go families to make things faster. Drive-thru and take-out options help individuals and families to order and pick their meal quickly while on a busy schedule.
Does Jason's Deli serve gluten-free items on the menu?
Jason's Deli isn't entirely a gluten-free environment, but it does offer a gluten-sensitive menu. You can order food from the gluten-sensitive menu to ensure your food is gluten-free.
Does Jason's Deli serve vegan items on the menu?
Yes, they do. The vegan options are limited at Jason's Deli. You can try the organic vegetable soup, spinach veggie wraps w/o cheese, hummus, salsa, guacamole, and many other options from the salad menu.
Does Jason's Deli Cater?
Yes, it does. You can use Jason's Deli's catering service to serve hot and fresh foods to your guests. Whether you want to feed 5 or 5000, Jason's Deli's experienced team can handle your catering order and ensure timely delivery.
What's on Jason's Deli breakfast menu?
Jason's Deli serves a variety of different items on their breakfast menu. You can try the breakfast sandwiches or wraps prepared with fresh-cracked eggs. You can pick up breakfast as early as 6 AM at any Jason's Deli nearby.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
About Jason's Deli
Jason's Deli is a popular bakery restaurant in the United States. Jason's Deli started its operation in Beaumont, Texas on 30th November 1976. The bakery restaurant was started by four partners: Joe Tortorice Jr., Rusty Coco, Pete Verde, and Pat Broussard. Currently, the delicatessen restaurant chain operates in more than 268 locations across 26 states in the United States. Jason's Deli is one of the most successful restaurant chains with under 300 locations.
Deli Management Inc. owns Jason's Deli along with several other deli restaurants in the United States. Jason's Deli is famous for its standard deli style menu where the customers can order from traditional sandwiches to salads, baked potatoes, and pasta. After initiating a health drive in 2000, Jason's Deli successfully eliminated added trans-fat from its food in 2005, later got rid of high fructose syrup in 2008, and finally removed MSG from its food. Today, Jason's Deli offers a wide range of food items including vegan and gluten-free dishes.
Healthy Food Options at Jason's Deli
Jason's Deli offers a standard deli style menu which consists of traditional sandwiches, soups, pasta, baked potatoes, wraps, and salads. If you choose wisely and skip the extra sides or dressings as you order at Jason's Deli, you can find a good variety of healthy food options at Jason's Deli.
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Address :
3313 Riverside Dr
Cincinnati, OH, 45226 - Phone (513) 533-1957
- Website https://elisbarbeque.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 : No
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : Yes
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Sarah F.
If for no other reason, I asked my friends to go to Eli's BBQ for lunch because it's been the #1 restaurant under "Best of Yelp" for a really long time now. I like BBQ but can't honestly call myself a BBQ enthusiast because I don't eat pork. So ordering at a BBQ restaurant sometimes feels like ordering a pecan pie, hold the pecans. Anyway, I digress. Eli had a meat option for me--a delicious smoked turkey sandwich and lots of heavenly (pork-free) sides so I was a happy camper. On a recent Saturday afternoon, the line was very long to order, but moved quickly. I selected the smoked turkey sandwich with a side of coleslaw and jalapeno cheese grits (upon one friend's effusive recommendation for the grits). That's unfortunately when the wait really started. While tempting smells wafted around us, we stood outside and waited for our food to come up for a looooong time--guessing it was 25-30 minutes, but it sure felt like longer. And that was really my only complaint. You can sit inside or outside under a large tent or at picnic tables in open air. It was a pretty nice day so we snagged a picnic table. It's kind of a strange setting because you're sitting in what feels like a vacant lot in a slightly run-down neighborhood, but it all fades into a distant background once you start eating. The smoked turkey was delicious and I would certainly order it again. The coleslaw was tasty, but I actually learned after I ordered that they will give you a small cup to put on your sandwich gratis, so would just go for that next time instead of a separate side. But the jalepeno cheese grits--oh my stars! My friends gave me strange looks when I started to eat because I was letting out involuntary groans of pleasure. Yes, they are that good. So I hope they find a way to move things along a little more efficiently in the kitchen because I would love to make this place a regular destination. At the very least, plan to arrive before you're really hungry because you'll certainly be ready to eat once the food comes!
(4)Karen D.
This is the place to be in Cincinnati Eli's BBQ! I went for lunch with a networking contact and we sat outside under one of the big tents, $5 sandwiches and $2 sides, plus they have ice cold Ale 8 food is served within minutes of ordering. Great value for lunch under $10 per person. As noted in previous reviews CASH only so come prepared.
(4)KC K.
Love the vibe here. Had the ribs and a pulled pork sandwich. Ribs: A++ meat was tender with flavor that was so intense you didn't need sauce. If you are expecting fall off the bone meat here, think again. They don't pressure cook the crap out of it and hide the flaws with a metric ass ton of sauce. The dry rub on these puppies are as close to a religious experience as I have had with BBQ. Tried all of the sides which were all equally good but not great. The pulled pork was average. I really wanted to love it but my experience with world class Eastern NC BBQ wouldn't let me do it. (If you're in NC try Parker's or Pete Jones) Maybe adding some more skin in the pulled pork would up the flavor? Just my take. In conclusion, go for the ribs, skip the pulled pork.
(4)Crystal M.
I did take-out with Eli's bbq since we were in a rush. The drive back home was torturous since the food smelled so good! 1) There are large tents set up in the back along with long benches for you to eat on. Since we went in the winter, there was no one there and space wasn't an issue. The inside of the restaurant is pretty small. 2) Pulled pork sandwich with side of mac and cheese: Mac and cheese was super cheesy and very thick, but I'm someone who LOVES cheese, so that wasn't an issue. The sandwich itself was pretty tasty. I usually find that pulled pork is too dry in most restaurants, but I liked it here. It was pretty moist and tender, but I will say it was slightly dry. 3) Ribs: I love ribs and I HATE restaurants who serve dry ribs where the meat doesn't fall off the bone. Not an issue here! The meat is soft and tender. I'm sure it would've tasted even better if I hadn't done take-out and ate it right at the restaurant. The bbq sauce for the ribs and the pulled pork are the same. I really liked their sauce. It's sweet with a little kick, and not too overwhelming with the bbq flavor. 4) Jalapeno cornbread: Really enjoyed this! Your typical cornbread with a little twist. At first bite you don't get the jalapeno flavor, but wait a second or two and you feel the jalapeno spice. Just enough to remind you that this isn't your typical cornbread. Just remember that this place is CASH or check only! I split a 6 rib and pulled pork sandwich with 2 sides meal with someone else and it was pretty filling. Everything came out to less than $25 dollars, which is pretty good. Did I also mention that I'm from texas? Anyways, I 'll probably come back in the summer time.
(4)Shawn A.
Lives up to the hype. Staff also great. I accidentally made a mistake on my order, entirely my fault, staff redid it no questions asked.
(5)Rob S.
Great place for anyone to go including families. Bring a football or a frisbee and toss it around. Sit outside at the picnic tables and be sure to BYOB. The pulled pork sandwich was ordered by multiple people in our party and everyone loved it. We also had the rib tips and the ribs which were excellent. Be sure to try the jalapeño grits and baked beans as your sides. We did have to wait 50minutes for our food, but we were told before hand it would take this long. This gave us a chance to have a few drinks.
(5)Michele G.
I love BBQ and this is one of the best I have ever had. It is the best for Cincinnati. I always over eat when I am here. Everything is awesome. I don't even think I like grits but I like theirs. I of course took my foodie daughter and she loved the pulled pork sandwich and cole slaw. The fact that they smoke the pork you know it's going to be good!
(5)Celeste W.
Food is cheap and taste is absolutely awesome! I had their pulled pork sandwich and also their ribs, absolutely delicious and cooked to perfect! Definitely recommend this place!
(5)Whitney H.
This place delivers the best looking/tasting hot dog in the whole world! 2 hot dogs with BBQ sauce, crispy pork, and cole slaw? I died and went to heaven! I will always order these hot dogs. It's a small joint with great service and a cute little pig sign out front! I dream of the day when I can live in the same city as Eli's!
(5)Kyle B.
Eli's doesn't need another review - it is well established as the best BBQ joint in the area. If you are a local and haven't made the effort to try it by now, please just stay home - or go to Montgomery Inn - the lines are already long enough.
(5)Renee S.
Went here for dinner with a few friends and LOVED it! We all got the Pulled Pork sandwich with either baked beans or the Mac & cheese. The beans were spicy, but delicious. The Mac & cheese was very cheesy, so if you like cheesy, you will be in cheese heaven. It's obvious this is a favorite of the locals. The atmosphere creates a warm and interesting feel. Not a first date place, more like a "me and my best friend wanna feast our faces off" type of place. Limited menu, but great BBQ food. Cash or check only! Another plus is that it's BYOB! I would definitely recommend it to friends who are driving through Cincinnati.
(5)Michelle G.
Food was good, grits excellent, but aftwr a 30 minute wait in line to order, then they tell me 1 more hour until food BUT after 1.5 hour I still had NO FOOD. I asked and got read the riot act. Sorry. But the food was good, not great, and the attitude was Really poor.
(2)Jen B.
My favorite BBQ of all time! All of the sides are amazing as well! I don't even notice the wait because the environment is so fun! The pulled pork sandwich, baked beans and Mac and cheese are my favorite!
(5)Marie A.
FOOD ROCKS! They only take cash, so plan ahead. Great food, decor, and very quick during lunch. Love this place...Try them out at local festivals as well. They also are generous supports to local non profits like the YMCA. Class act! Thanks Eli's!
(5)Sarah B.
My husband and I are from Kansas City and definitely enjoy some good, cheap BBQ. You will get that with Eli's and more. If you don't like the outdoors you can stay in and listen to record on the record player or venture outside to listen to live music on select nights. There is always a crowd so call ahead to order if you can. Pulled pork with coleslaw is heaven with mac and cheese on the side.
(5)Jason H.
Great weekday lunch option if you want to avoid the crazy weekend crowds, especially in nice weather.
(4)Brittany S.
The food is great but they only take cash (and don't have an atm). Large portions don't allow you to try multiple sides (tip: share with friends).
(4)David M.
I can't imagine that I have much to add here after all the hype, but Eli's was just too good for me to not leave at least a short review. My friends and I got lucky and found parking right in front of this hole-in-the-wall but I can imagine that parking may be challenging. Absolutely loved the pulled pork sandwich, even though I come from a Carolina tradition of vinegar-based sauces (the cole slaw on top was on point thouhg). Also, if you get the mac and cheese, do not forget to get it "dirty" because that was also delicious. Other than that, don't forget to BYOB to really get the most out of the Eli's experience. Finally, don't let the outdoor seating- cold weather combo intimidate you. Eli's now has a tent set up outside over some of the picnic tables with heaters and it is perfectly warm in there. I will definitely be back to Eli's very soon!
(5)Marzina R.
I come here almost every Monday for their rib tip special. I love this place! Byob (no fee) and great outdoor seating. We sit across the back small road in the grass and my kids love to run around. You stand in a decent line Mondays (15 min) and then they call your name to pick the order up (another 15 min). I have seen other guests bring corn hole to play as well. Just a super cool vibe and delicious food. The Mac n cheese is very thick and cheesy. I love it. The pulled pork sandwich is my favorite. I love eveything about this little gem. Cash only! Don't forget to leave a tip after ordering!
(5)Julia C.
Eli's is great. The BBQ sandwiches are fantastic (I suggest getting the slaw on top). The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is because the seating isn't great. They are always busy, but there are only a few tables, so if those are full you're on your own - there were several people standing around holding food, waiting for tables to open up when I was there.
(4)James A.
Best bar-b-q in Clifton
(4)Brandon V.
Best BBQ in the Queen City, hands down. The pulled pork sandwich is the way to go, huge serving and it's only $5. Sides are delicious and cheap as well. Perhaps the best $10 I've ever spent in my life. I recommend this to anyone, the outside seating is great for kids too. If you are coming from out of town, skip Montgomery inn and go here, you won't regret it.
(5)Kim W.
Rude person on the phone would not let is ace an order to go for 15 people. Said they would only accommodate 10 of us with food?! Seriously!!!??! I called to place the order at 2pm. They cannot be too busy to fill the order this time of day. Am I to assume if the 15 of us went into the restaurant to order they would treat us the same way?! Clearly, they don't want our business. Looks like I will never be trying their food. I hate rude people working in customer service environments.
(1)Paul D.
Had the Pulled Pork sandwich with Jalapeño Cheddar Grits and Dirty Mac and Cheese. It was all pretty good. The sandwich was better than the sides. Service was fast and the environment was nice!
(4)Alison R.
This food is delicious! We moved away to Dayton and still have to make a trip to Cincinnati to get it every now and again. As of now, the place is still cash only (or check) so make sure to make an ATM pitstop before you attend.
(5)Ann L.
Love the photo of a pig, not the name, on the sign. Walked in and all the tables taken. They did have outdoor tent seating. Reminded me of a family or church get together. Wooden picnic tables. Ours was dirty. Food was reasonable. I love the small menu. Makes me feel like they'll have fresh food and that they know what they do well. Ordered the pulled pork, jalapeño cornbread, and mashed potatoes. The pulled pork was Mouth watering, tender, juicy, and delicious. Potatoes were good too. They laid them on a griddle for a moment. Loved that tasty layer. The only issue was way too many gnats. But hey, can you really blame the little buggers for wanting a bite of good food?!
(4)Michael S.
This place is easily the best BBQ place in Cincinnati and is comparable to any good BBQ place in the US. It's very reasonably priced and their jalapeno cornbread is pretty awesome. I don't have a lot to add to the previous reviews, but it can be a long wait and Eli's is cash-only. I would probably tack fifty cents onto everything and just go with the card, but what do I know. Parking can be a little bit tricky as well. My recommendation would be to go at off hours, maybe before a Reds game or something.
(4)Lynne S.
This is one of my favorite places. Everything is reasonably priced - and delicious. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the album collection eclectic. Just thinking about it probably means I'll go there tomorrow!
(5)B K.
Best BBQ in town. Everything on the menu is great. I really enjoy the hotdogs. You get two smoked, deep fried hotdogs with pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and slaw on them. The sauce is sweet and delicious. I could drink it. For sides I get the jalapeño cheese grits, dirty (the burnt ends of the pork on top), and the Mac and cheese, dirty. Bring cash and come early if you want ribs. BYOB, with seating inside and out.
(5)Laura V.
Heard about this place from an acquaintance, and almost got turned around looking for it. There's no sign that says "Eli's"; just keep an eye out for the simple, rustic sign above the door with the outline of a pig. Very generous portions of excellent pulled pork. Not too sweet, not too tangy, just enough of each to keep you coming back for more. The dining room is as simple as the menu; no big frills, just enough to make you feel like you're in someone's home, enjoying a delicious meal accompanied by the sounds from an equally solid selection of vinyl.
(5)David D.
They have excellent BBQ and an awesome atmosphere! The place is BYOB which is also a win. The only downside, or note, is that it is cash or check only. I definitely recommend the loaded dogs over any other BBQ, crazy I know! I also recommend the baked beans side if you like it spicy.
(4)C B.
Must have if you like BBQ!
(5)Doug S.
Eli's has become one of my favorite restaurants in Cincinnati now, if not #1. Just wanted to update that the smoked turkey sandwich is actually better than the pork sandwich! Super tender. Also, the ribs are ridiculously good. Tried the rib tips and while they were ok, they were just a bit too tough when compared to the actual ribs. Keep up the great work!!
(5)Sarah P.
Turkey sandwich was so good! Oh wait then there's the Mac n cheese and coleslaw which were also amazing!!!! Nom nom
(5)Karen C.
I really like the atmosphere of this place. Fun outdoor hang out. I went here with a large group and we had no problem finding seats together. There is quite a long wait for the food, but not so bad that i won't go back. I was disappointed by the ribs- not consistent- my first one was really tough, the next was more tender. I had better ribs at Wildflower Cafe in Mason. The mac n cheese and baked beans were delicious. I tried a bite of turkey sandwich and pulled pork sandwich which were both tasty. I look forward to going back and having a sandwich or hot dogs next time.
(4)J S.
Fun atmosphere, great pulled pork, baked beans and cornbread. Parking is a challenge.
(4)Brian B.
Eli's bbq is the best bbq in town - hands down. Flavor is fantastic, reasonably priced, and is really a "good people" type experience. It's BYOB so feel free to take advantage of that, but as mentioned below, is cash only. Tons of outdoor seating as well - obviously would recommend it to anyone.
(5)Charlie V.
Montgomery who? Wish I had more stars to give. Best ribs I've ever had. One of the very few restaurants in Cincinnati doing BBQ the right way. Eli's is extremely popular, so if you plan to go on a Friday or Saturday, you're best bet is to get there before 5:30 pm.
(5)Jonathan M.
Only had carryout but I really enjoyed the pulled pork and mac & cheese. Need to come back and sample some of the other menu offerings.
(4)Kyle W.
If you are looking for a nice place to relax and enjoy good food, this is the spot. The food is delicious and the atmosphere is very unique for the Cincinnati restaurant scene. Not only is the BBQ wonderful, it also is a BYOB establishment. You can swing by one of the local craft breweries before you head to Eli's and call it an evening. Go fill your growler and check this place out. You may want to bring a few extra during the weekend, as there may be a long line. However, it is definitely worth it.
(5)Hannah P.
I've been to Eli's once now and can't wait for my next taste! The restaurant is small inside and the menu is just the basics. I like that about this place; they do 10 items very well and don't mess around with hundreds of menu items. There were a couple large heated tents outside with tables but it was way too cold for that. I had the pulled pork sandwich, mac and cheese and jalapeno cornbread. It was all amazing!! Make sure to get your side "dirty" with the crispy pork toppings. The mac heated up great as leftovers. They don't sell alcohol but you can BYOB.
(5)Jamie B.
So good. Pretty busy, well worth the wait. Inside/Outside seating. Parking gets to be a hassle sometimes, but the food is just so good, it's worth the walk if you have to park down the street.
(4)Russell A.
This place is great but be prepared to walk a ways before you can eat. Very busy.
(5)Victoria S.
I grew up with Ikes Bbq in Evanston. And I mean old school Ikes before it closed down and opened again then closed and opened and closed. This doesn't taste like Ikes but its as good as Ikes. Ribs slow smoked and flavorful. Perfectly tender, but not in that boiled/baked first kind of way. Pulled pork has just the right balance of tender and crispy burntness. The sauce doesn't taste that phenomenal on its own but complements the meat perfectly. Amazing. Worth the visit and the wait. We has to wait 45 min this first time but as I said, definitely worth it.
(5)Sal R.
This place was way better than I expected. Casual. Cheap. Bring your own beer. Tons of outdoor seating. That makes it a perfect place for big groups. Grab a cooler of beer/wine. Order at the counter, then sit outside at a picnic table with your beer. Options are limited for a vegetarian, but that wasn't a surprise. The cornbread, though, was amazing.
(4)Megan B.
This place is AWESOME!! If you're new to or a native of Cincinnati and you think that other place by the river has good BBQ then you are crazy! Eli's is the real deal - their food is mouthwatering and well worth the wait that often comes with eating there. You can't go wrong with ribs or pulled pork. It's BYOB, cash only, and very hard to find with only a small swinging pig sign out front. It's also PACKED most of the time but again - totally worth it! I've lived in many states and have had BBQ all over the U.S. and I think that Eli's is maybe the best BBQ I've ever had. I think they also have a food truck on Fountain Square once the weather warms up - maybe on Thursday afternoons? Go get you some BBQ!
(5)Sophia B.
So delicious! I love their cheesy jalapeno grits!
(5)Liz C.
I have had dreams of this place! Succulent and flavorful barbeque , graced by a divine nectar of the gods sauce. Wonderful outside atmosphere and a friendly staff on top of everything. A must try in cincinnati.
(5)Alyssa R.
Eli's is a must-go in Cincinnati. Absolutely incredible barbecue. Just make sure you bring cash and a few beers!
(5)Pete L.
What a great find this was for me while I was in town for work. The mac and cheese was very cheesy and one of the top 10 I have ever had. The grits were easily the best grits I have ever had in my life, and I am a grit lover! The coleslaw had a great creamy taste, and I got it on the side instead of on the pork bbq sandwich. The pork was cooked to perfection, the sauce was the perfect level of sweet and bbq and the bun was warm and did not fall apart. You MUST go here!
(5)Grant S.
The only barbeque youll ever need in Cincinnati. BYOB!
(5)David B.
Food is AWESOME. It's very cheap and the atmosphere is great. A+. Love this place. Hot Dogs rock. BYOB.
(5)Jeff L.
This is a nice place to kick back, relax, and enjoy some tasty bbq. Between three of us, we ordered 3 bbq pork sandwiches, 6 ribs, and three sides (mac & cheese, jalapeno cheese grits, and jalapeno cornbread)... BBQ PORK SANDWICHES: Tasty, prefer cole slaw on the side. The bread is nothing special, and the meat itself was perhaps a little too salty. But it's filling and otherwise pretty good for $5 each. SIDES: The mac n' cheese was composed of chewy macaroni noodles and oozing, delicious liquid cheese. Jalapeno cheese grits were also good--reminded me of the grits version of a certain flavor of Combos (remember that snack?). Jalapeno cornbread was nothing to write home about, but there wasn't much to complain about. RIBS: This was the star of the show. They had an excellent dry rub + smoke-permeated flavor. No need for any additional sauce. About as good as it gets! This place seems to get pretty busy, so be prepared for time to park and wait in line.
(4)Katherine M.
MMMM!!!! I saw this opened on Yelp's new in Cincinnati page and had been stalking it, even though I live 8 hours away. On my day and a half in Cincinnati, this was my 'I need to try this' place. So I convinced my parents to come with me, and boy, were we all glad. First, the place is pretty cute and has off street parking - although it's gravel and kinda hard to get into - I appreciate anywhere with parking. It's a little off the path in Columbia Tusculum. There is an amazingly shaggy dog next door. The interior is decorated with a bunch of antiques and has a record player and a bunch of records so you can pick your songs. It's a small place, but has a nice homey feel. You go up to a counter and order where the menu is also on a big blackboard. I ordered the pulled pork sandwich (sans coleslaw) with the jalapeno cornbread and mac and cheese. Oh my gosh. The pork was well smoked, juicy, and perfectly made. The sauce was sweet with a good kick - one of the better sauces I have ever had. They toast and butter the buns - which is the best! But I did prefer eating my pork with the jalapeno cornbread and actually ate the pork with the cornbread - which was incredibly delicious. The mac and cheese was your typical BBQ place mac and cheese - it was good, but nothing to write home about. Overall, I was incredibly satisfied, as were my parents. My mom had the same meal as I did, and my dad had the 2 hot dogs, which he raved about because they put 'pulled pork crisps' on, which are like the little burnt pieces of the pork, and they put coleslaw and BBQ sauce on too. My dad LOVED it and said the combination of flavors was just great. They serve Coke in the bottles and diet Coke in the can, which is a downside for me. Couldn't tell if it was BYOB or they had beer, but people were drinking. I seriously just miss the Classy Pig, though, but this is a good enough replacement.
(4)Joni S.
Loved Eli's when it was a tent on Fountain Square and still love it today. Pulled pork and baked beans are simply delicious, add in the cole slaw and you just can't eat enough. Forever a fan & customer. Remember CASH only!
(5)shannon B.
After hearing much talk of this place, I finally tried it for myself. Parking is very challenging. There is no parking lot and parking is only allowed on one side of Riverside Drive. Upon arrival to the restaurant, the line to order food was out the door - always a good sign. We ordered the pulled pork sandwich plates. Unfortunately, our orders took over a half an hour to be called, one of the orders was wrong, and by the time my food arrived, my bottle of Coca-Cola (no cups, no ice) was warm. The music playing outside was deafening. We couldn't hear ourselves talking. The outdoor atmosphere is fun. It feels like a 1950s picnic grove but the use and location of the port-a-potties could be better thought-out. When there is a wind shift, you can smell it. Eli's doesn't offer ANY vegetable sides. I understand the BBQ theme, but they could at least offer green beans or corn on the cob which are as traditional with BBQ as mac and cheese. Carb overload. The pulled pork sandwich was delicious and overflowing but all in all, I would say they need to make some changes for it to be rated a 5 star experience.
(3)Amsul K.
Damn! This is some good bbq. I would give it 4 1/2 stars if I could for sure. I got the pulled pork sandwich plate and it was absolutely delicious. Got mac and cheese and jalapeno cornbread as the sides, both equally satisfying. I tried some of the wing tips that my friend had gotten and the piece I got was very juicy and very good. They know what they are doing with their bbq. The sauce was amazing as well (I was craving a lil bit of spice in my bbq sauce so maybe a spicy bbq sauce would be a great addition too). The cole slaw was creamy and went well with the sandwich. Cash only - so make sure you have that with you
(4)Nicholas T.
I felt like I was treated like George from Seinfeld's soup nazi episode- the cashier was rude and we left feeling embarrassed and angry. The food was awesome but we will not be back
(2)Lewis W.
Excellent barbecue and sides served up by a truly friendly crew. Ribs are dry-rubbed (sauce is available if you must). Mashed potatoes are nicely griddled for a change of pace, jalapeno-cheddar grits are tasty and just a bit spicy, baked beans are zesty and delicious (although the sauce could be a little thicker). Plates come with two sides and a little bit of creamy cole slaw. You can eat inside at a few tables or outside at picnic tables in a tent (mercifully heated in winter). No alcohol for sale, but you can bring your own. Otherwise, go for the Ale-8. Honestly, some of the best BBQ I've had outside of Texas. Can't wait to go back and try the pulled pork sandwich, which looked amazing.
(5)Lynnette H.
Absolutely delicious. Heard about this place on 700 WLW. My husband and I went down for lunch. 10 bones, between the two of us, Mac-and-cheese, baked beans, cheesy grits and coleslaw. The ribs were amazing, the cheesy grits-wow and yum, the baked beans-the best ever, coleslaw-fresh, spices and wonderful. The Mac-and-cheese was just ok. I can't wait to go back!! There's something about warm weather and BBQ. Love the fact you can eat inside or outside.
(5)Holly A.
LOVE Eli's BBQ! I generally go for the pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw and mac'n'cheese...tried the ribs last week and was anything but disappointed. The meat fell right off the bone and I didn't even need sauce the flavor was so good. I am also a huge fan of the BYOB aspect and outdoor picnic style dining. It is the perfect escape from my desk for a weekday lunch in the fresh air, just have to be sure I have the willpower to go back to work. *My French Bulldog Winston is also a lover of Eli's...just remember our 4 legged friends cannot go inside the building, but may enjoy the outdoor area. :)
(5)Shawn W.
Small menu (sadly, no beef brisket), but delicious. I ordered a couple of bones extra because I was afraid that a sandwich would not be enough. Wrong. The sandwich had to be a half-pound of pulled pork. The atmosphere screamed "Hipster" shabby-chic, but the people were extremely friendly and fast. Try it. Seriously!
(4)Javi M.
One of the best BBQ joints I've ever been to. Very home-y, no frills, very simple menu, cash only. Pulled pork sandwich was delicious. Not usually a fan of coleslaw, but theirs is seriously amazing. Get the sandwich with slaw on; the crunch it adds to the sandwich is worth the flavor risk. Place is BYOB, and has a spacious patio out back, sometimes invite some cool folk bands to play live. Jalapeño cornbread had great taste, but was a little dry. Mac&cheese was delicious, VERY cheesy. (I happen to like that, but it's not for everyone.) The restaurant is pretty popular right now, so be sure to time your visit right. Otherwise, be ready for a 30+ min line out the door (quite literally, the place is tiny).
(5)Brett B.
A group of us visited Eli's for the first time on Friday night. Very cool atmosphere, we even ran into Emilio Estevez which was a pretty cool experience. We arrived around 8 and were told it would be about an hour and 20 minute wait before our food would be ready. It ended up being about three hours. It was completely packed, but the fact that its BYOB and you can sit outside and hang out made it tolerable. My wife and I each had the pulled pork sandwich which was one of the best I've had. She had the mac & cheese as a side and really liked it. I had the coleslaw. It was ok. I'm just more into vinegar slaw than the creamy kind. We also tried a couple bones of ribs, which were not good at all. They were very chewy and not tender at all. I think we had a bad rack or something. The cost of dinner for us both was $23 which was pretty inexpensive. I'd definitely like to go back.
(4)Andy S.
First time at Eli's on Riverside. Great pulled pork sandwich, but the mac and cheese was way too creamy and rich. Please dial it back a bit! Noodles got lost. Overall, fun place to go.
(4)Adolfo N.
BBQ so good it's gonna make you slap your momma. Where have you been Eli...? catching them at Findlay is sometimes erratic, and I never tried them because there are always other yummy things calling my name. But we finally came here and boy was it worth it. The hot dogs were mind numbing good, the pulled pork is a game changer. The sides were simple, but hearty, add some bbq sauce to the mashed potatoes and mac and cheese. and BOOM. I'm a fan.
(5)Adam B.
This is now deemed as "Cincinnati Style" bbq. Everyone must try. Love the BBQ dogs and baked beans
(5)Eric W.
We just recently moved to Cincinnati and were told by many that we had to check out Eli's BBQ. We have now been there twice. The first time we made the mistake of ordering there... 2 hours later we had our food. I have never waited that long for food in my life, so I was thinking this better be delicious... And it was! The meat is clearly the selling point at this restaurant. It was the best turkey sandwich I've ever had, and the pulled pork was also very good! The sides were good, but not great. The macaroni and cheese has a good taste, but it is extremely thick. The jalapeño cornbread also is pretty good, but a little dry. They also have a cool picnic area to eat outside where you can bring your own drinks. Overall, I would definitely give this place a try, if not just for the meats. But remember to call ahead and place your order unless you are willing to wait a couple hours for your food.
(4)Jason O.
Get the smoked dogs, they are amazing. Everything at Elis is good but the dogs are where its at for me. The Cheesey Mac and the Jalapeño Grits are to die for! Do it! Cash only or Reds tickets if you have those lying around.
(5)B C.
Food is great, pulled pork and Jalapeno cornbread, yahtzee. will come back
(4)Cincinnati B.
There's no question that Eli's is among the best BBQ in Cincinnati. Unfortunately, they are so ragingly popular now that it's frequently very difficult to get BBQ inside of 45 minutes. Lines and wait times are long and seating is very limited. We're saddened by the fact that the crowds will discourage us from returning to Eli's for anything but take-out, and even that process is intimidating. But, it's nice to see a local business thriving.
(4)N. B.
We went early on a Saturday evening for the pulled pork sandwiches. The service left something to be desired...the cashiers seemed like you are somehow inconveniencing them by ordering (while placing my order, the cashier didn't even look at me). It's a tiny, busy place with almost no indoor seating. On the bright side, our food was good. I've had a lot of barbecue in my life, and I am not easily impressed, so you won't hear me ranting, but the meat was hot, tender, and moist, and the buns were very nicely toasted. The sauce is decent, and being able to bring your own beer is definitely a plus. Also, the sandwich is a good size: 1 filled me up, and satisfied my husband. Paid $2 for a coke, and $5 for a sandwich.
(3)Brad P.
Roll up your sleeves, bust out your cash, and get ready for a BBQ experience that meets all of your Hollywood-style road trip food fantasies. In a strange sense of BBQ irony, I've never experienced such a flawless example of casual BBQ in any established business in any state south of Ohio. You'd think Kentucky or Tennessee or Georgia would crush Eli's with their BBQ technique and this is just not so. The food is preposterously cheap. While many BBQ joints have turned themselves into upscale restaurants, Eli's sticks to the basics. If you can't fill yourself up for less than 10 dollars here, you are probably a monster. The sauces are good. The pulled pork sandwich is very good. The coleslaw is great. The ribs are cheap and great big. They have a record player and allow customers to select the music. I'm going to stop typing very soon, so just trust me when I say that if you're passing through Cincinatti, heading south, and you're looking for a great BBQ experience, stop here. The chances that you find something better as you continue on are very low.
(5)AJ D.
Some of the best BBQ in the city, and affordable to boot.
(4)Peter B.
My second favorite restaurant in Cincinnati. This is the best BBQ I've ever had and the prices are as good as the food! $5 for an amazingly tasty smoked turkey sandwich! With food this good for this price, I have a hard time convincing myself to try any other restaurants. There are two large tents setup year round outside. In the winter they attach canvas walls to the tent and put two large kerosene heaters inside each tent. So it's comfortable eating in the tent even in winter. Anytime family or friends visit from out of town, Eli's is always at the top of the list of things to do. Tip: Get the sandwich or hot dog Eli's way, that's with coleslaw on top of the meat. My wife is not a fan of coleslaw, but when combined with Eli's delicious meat, she loves it.
(5)April S.
There are so many reviews for Eli's, but since is was the only restaurant I had the chance to visit while in Cincinnati, I'll go ahead and add my two cents. I ordered the rib tips. I don't think many people would think to order tips, but I know better. Rib tips are the cheap, fatty "extra" usually removed and discarded. I adore rib tips... mostly because they are cheap and fatty! When tips are on the menu, I have a hard time ordering anything else, but I rarely see them offered. Eli's served up a generous portion of tips with slaw for 8 bucks! Charred on the outside and hot and juicy on the inside... yep, the tips hit the spot. The smoke infused flesh pared perfectly with the not-too-sweet, not-too-spicy dry rub seasoning. Highly recommended. Note: Parking is tricky. BYOB.
(4)C P.
Knock dead awesome! Had a pulled pork sandwich, ribs and rib tips plus sides (Mac and cheese was creamy delicious) which was more than enough for our table of three. All three were smokin' good. Second trip to Cincinnati. Last year, we went to Montgomery Inn (disaster food) for ribs - totally don't know how they stay in business with Eli's nearby. Love this place!!!
(5)Nick B.
DELICIOUS BBQ. This was the best BBQ I've had in Cincinnati. Their pulled pork was great, which is what I had, but everything else looked delicious too. I can't wait to be back!
(5)Michelle C.
This place is kind of perfect. Cheap, delicious barbecue in a super casual, very cute setting. The menu is scrawled in chalk and the walls are adorned with portraits of famous Southerns from yesteryear. A large collection of vinyl sits along one wall and patrons are welcome to play whatever they like on the record player. So. Freaking. Cute. The pulled pork sandwich ($5) and the ribs ($2.50 each) were both excellent. The sandwich came topped with really solid cole slaw and the barbecue sauce at the table was fantastic.My only regret is having eaten a bit before hand so I didn't have room to try any of their sides. If you are hungry in Cincinnati you have to go to Eli's. You have to. PROMISE ME. Oh also it's BYO and they have enclosed outdoor seating. SO CUTE.
(5)Zack R.
We went down to Cincinnati this past Saturday, on a sunny afternoon where we finally had a break from this insane winter. Thanks to Yelp for finding us one of the best BBQ joints we've ever been to. The food is all great: meaty nearly-fall-off-the-bone ribs, beans, jalepeno cornbread, beans, slaw. It's all great. The mac n cheese....well I'm sure the kids will like it. There was seating inside, which included a record player with tons of wax that you spin yourself. However, Saturday was was too nice a day to spend inside. We ate out on the picnic tables with tons of other locals who obviously know where the best food in town is. If you want to sauce up your food, there's one bottle, and it remains on a table near the entrance. Pretty funny. When we were leaving, we asked an employee if we could get a little sauce to go. He snuck a container out to us and told us that he's supposed to charge us, but to keep it quiet and run haha. He also said the one-bottle-o-sauce-remaining-on-the-table rule came about because everyone was stealing it. It's not hard to see why, it's damn tasty. So good, there's only one kind. I have to say, the ribs were so perfect, they didn't need any sauce. Though, go ahead and add a little just to set that stuff over the top. Insanely good!
(5)Tony S.
I am a big fan. Great food and sides. Corn bread is a must have. BYOB. Great hangout anytime. Get there early. There is always a line.
(5)Jason F.
Classic, classic place. Took the fam here after a long day at the game and the zoo. My little girl says: "Daddy, I need some BBQ...". "My response?? So do I sweetheart. To the van!" So, about 25 minutes later we arrived at the glorious tomb of all things swine and smoke. It was a great night out. Warm for December. The smokey goodness and smiles from the awesome staff encircled our hearts. And when they brought the pulled pork sandwiches to our table...the heavens parted. And lo the great Archangel Gabriel appeared and whispered into my ear where to find a Wonka Golden ticket. I put my arm around him and said..."make haste, sit and take part in the bounty"...he gladly accepted. OK, bottom line. Eli's blows everyone in Cincinnati out of the water. I won't make disparaging remarks about the other BBQ places in Cincinnati, but Eli's is doing it the way it should be. On top of that, I fed my whole family for $40...$40!!! Wow. I will invoke Stan Lee... 'nuff said.
(5)Tony D.
BBQ doesn't get any better than this in the Midwest! I'm totally unqualified to make that statement because of lack of experience, but I'll stand by it anyway because I can't imagine how Eli's can be beat. We got ribs and a pulled pork sandwich, and then promptly ordered another sandwich when we realized that it was too good to hold back on. Neither is anything fancy, but it is absolute bliss when sinking your teeth into either of the meats. Got a Mexican coke to go with all this and the meal was perfect. People were quite friendly as well, with one of the waitresses coming over to check on us while waiting for that second sandwich. Very classy atmosphere with all those old LPs playing in the background. I'd bet the outdoors seating would be awesome in the summer time as well.
(5)Bryan M.
This place was fantastic. Both my dad and I believe it's one of the best BBQ pork sandwiches we've ever had. The bun is crispy and buttery, the pork is well-cooked, and the price is just right. We came at 3 p.m. on a weekend and it was very busy even on that off-peak lunch time. Be ready to wait 20 to 30 minutes to receive your food. Two ways they could improve: 1) The mac & cheese wasn't that great. Maybe try a new recipe. 2) Cups of water are not offered: only bottled water is available. However, at $1 a bottle, the price is not unreasonable. Overall, this is a must-try in Cincinnati.
(5)Sara N.
I almost hate to post anything for the lines are long enough to wait in. But this was a great meal, went with my 3 kids (10,12, 14) for lunch and we all said it was the best we have had. My Husband is a chef so we get some good ribs, BBQ with out going out, this will be a new favorite place to bring in town guests and easy night out. My 2 cents to add on to menu in an easy way. Sweet Potato chips (like kettle chips) big basket for the table, Yumm. And something sweet just a nibble like garbage brownies (butterscotch, chocolate chip, coconut, on top of Scotty type brownie ) saran wrapped easy sell-(call me I'll be your Baker ;). Will be back probably way to often.
(5)Chris D.
Hands down - the BEST pulled pork in the area. You can smell the smoker before you arrive, and you can taste it after you leave. The pulled pork is moist, tender, and delicious. The side dishes are of equal quality - highly recommend the mac and cheese with the pork crispins! Indoor seating is limited and is sometimes loud due to music and close quarters, but not uncomfortable. Outdoors has plenty of picnic table space and is covered by tents on top of gravel. If the weather's nice, outside is the spot. Staff is always friendly and pricing is on point. No credit cards, though - so bring cash or check.
(5)Alex N.
The hype is real and the food is great but not legendary as everyone says. I have been here several times for lunch with coworkers and friends. The atmosphere is very fun and on a nice day you cannot beat the outdoor sitting area. I have heard great things about the place from many people and it did not disappoint . You can often find them at local festivals also. I had the brisket and corn bread, the portions were generous but the wait is usually long. I would recommend it to a friend.
(4)Susanna B.
For outstanding BBQ, scrumptious sides, and good summer fun in Cincy, look no farther than Eli's BBQ. I've been here several times and thought it was about time I wrote a quick review. Everything on the menu is delicious - if you're really hungry, go for a plate of the thick, juicy ribs. For a leaner but still satisfying BBQ experience, the turkey (yes, turkey!) BBQ sandwich is out of this world. And of course the chopped pork just melts in your mouth. As far as sides go, the baked beans are spicy and flavorful and the mac and cheese is the perfect, rich, creamy foil to the sweet vinegary BBQ sauce. Before you go, there are two important things to remember: (1) Eli's is cash only. One of these days I'll remember before going, but I always forget, then have to run to the ATM. (2) Eli's is BYOB, so when you run to the ATM at the gas station down the street on Columbia Parkway, grab an ice cold 6-pack, get your BBQ and sides and camp out for the afternoon on one of the picnic tables outside, soak in the sunshine and live music on the weekends!
(5)Kristan H.
Eli's has always had good BBQ, but what impresses me most is the improvements they've made since my first visit over a year ago. (See previous review.) I've been several times now, and am more inclined to keep coming. Key changes: - Additional seating. Yes, it's outdoors, but it's tented, and there are heat lamps in the colder months. - Better mac and cheese, and new (or maybe just improved?) mashed potatoes with sort of a torched/crispy top layer. So, same great pulled pork, plus good prices, plus "funky homegrown ambiance," plus these little tweaks, equals a happy me. Tip: It's still hard to spot if you don't know it's there (just a pig sign hanging out from the building) and the parking is still limited to whatever's available out front or on the streets behind it. There can be a loooooong wait in nice weather, so I recommend going at off times/days, or just bringing a chatty friend or a good book. Oh, and it's cash-only!
(4)Kate S.
The best place to go on summer evenings. Love getting a big group together, bringing some beers, and setting up in the outdoor area. On some nights they have a band playing outside. The inside is just as charming, with an old general store vibe. I'm not sure if they still let you do this, but they used to have a bunch of records to choose from stacked on a bench that you could put on the turntable. Regardless, the turntable is still there, and is a nice touch. As for the food, it's all about the pulled pork sandwich, jalapeno grits, and mac and cheese. Their barbeque sauce is smokey and delicious, and you'll definitely need wet naps to clean up after yourself (the opposite of an issue at a good BBQ place). The only criticism I have is that I wish they would try their hand at making collard greens as a side, but the other side selections they have are enough to make up for that. By far one of the best restaurants in the city.
(5)Mark M.
Great BBQ! Try the smoked turkey and the rib tips. Cash only. Love the record collection. Nice place to sit outside when the weather is decent.
(5)Heidi F.
I love Eli's BBQ. Their pulled pork sandwich is delicious, they even top it with cole slaw (you can also ask for it to be left off). I've had most all of their sides and really enjoyed those too. My usual sides are the jalapeño cornbread and mac n cheese. A few friends swear by their baked beans, which are also really good, and definitely different from other baked beans. I've enjoyed their outdoor seating many times. Great for groups, and it's pretty affordable since you can BYOB. Some nights if it's nice out, the Dojo Gelato truck is parked by the picnic tables too... if you saved room for dessert! I recently just tried their Carry Out. I called ahead, placed my order of the phone and was told to pick it up in 15 minutes. By the time I got there (I was running a little late...) 20 minutes later, my food was ready and waiting. I got to skip the line, pay for my food and I was out the door in less than 5 minutes! (That's a new record for me at Eli's!)
(5)China F.
Amazing affordable BBQ in Cincinnati! The smoked turkey sandwich was delicious. The turkey was so moist and the slaw on top added that crunch factor to this sloppy sandwich. The baked beans were a perfect side to my meal. My boyfriend got the pulled pork sandwich with mac and cheese. He was in heaven. This definitely is a place you need to go to when in the Cincinnati area! Next time we will remember to BYOB!!!
(5)Vanessa K.
Wow. I ate here last week and have been dreaming of the bbq pork and mashed potatoes since. Great prices and outstanding service make this amazing food a perfect experience.
(5)Chris F.
Man, this place is great. Great atmosphere, customer service and EXCELLENT Turkey! I have went here a few times, each time opting for the Turkey, Mac and cole slaw. Their sauce is excellent, just the right sweetness and sour makes it perfect. If I was to own a small deli/restaurant, I would mimic, Eli's! The employees are so friendly. There was a guy walking away clearing trays and asking how everyone was doing(we were sitting outside). He said they use to have BBQ sauce on each table, but customers kept stealing it! Buy it folks, don't steal it. So they keep one bottle on a "community" table where you can go up and lather your grub. They said during the summer they go through 40 gallons a week! That's a lot of sauce. You can also, BYOB here. Great place to hang out on a lazy Sunday sitting out back with a 6 pack. Or, sit in side and chose from hundreds of vinyl's to play on their record player, this place is to cool! Place is always packed, and the location is perfect for it. You know they are doing something right when if you blink, you will miss them, but they generally have a packed house!
(5)Nick L.
If you live in Cincinnati and want the very best BBQ (pulled pork and spare ribs) this is the place. Absolute perfection. Gotta also try the Jalapeño cornbread and baked beans.
(5)Sherrie K.
FINALLY got to try Eli's at the Cincinnati Magazine Grilling and BBQ event last night. The pulled pork was our favorite out of about 15 vendors...tender, smokey and lean...delicious!! Looking forward to visiting their restaurant to sample more items.
(5)Carolyn B.
BEST. BBQ. EVER!! Both daughter and hubby had been there before and I have been dying to try it after seeing it so highly rated on Yelp. Well, yesterday was the day! Love the fact that an outline of a pig is their sign on the street and once you enter, you can tell that it is going to be a unique experience. At first glance, you think "hole in the wall", but as you look around, it becomes so much more than that. Could it be the real turntable with old albums that you can choose yourself and play? Man, that really brings me back to my heyday! Or the tin lunchbox, the truly antique corolla typewriter or the fact that when they tell you how long the wait is - you truly don't mind! Not much seating indoors, but there is lots more outside on wooden picnic tables surrounded by a tent and heaters on since it was a little chilly when we went. I could just imagine how packed this place must be in great weather! Hubby & son got a half slab of ribs each and my daughter & I went for the pulled pork sandwiches. Our sandwiches had such generous portions that you literally had to eat some of the meat from the center before you could lift it up for eating! Oh my gosh - this pork was tender, delicious and the very best that Cincinnati has to offer! The funny part of the evening was that I ordered jalapeno cheese grits as my side and daughter ordered mashed potatoes as hers. To tell the truth I was woefully disappointed in my side until my daughter said that she knew that she didn't order the grits but it was so delicious that she wanted to eat it anyway! So, that's where my grits went - luckily there was enough left for me to savor. I had gotten her mashed potatoes - they were only meh, especially when you are expecting them to be aforementioned grits. I'm from the south and I'm here to tell you that these were the best grits ever - right up there with shrimp n' grits from Charleston and this is north of the Mason-Dixon line! It's unbelievable how much flavor they have! Their mac n' cheese was comfort food done right with two different cheeses. What a value at $5/sandwich and for $3 extra you could get two sides! Be forewarned about two things - BYOB and no credit cards! As one of their workers was clearing our empty plates away, he asked if this was our first time. He implored us next time to "resist the temptation" to always go for the pork, then went on to describe other foods to try. First, their turkey sandwich is made from a young turkey breast marinated for over a day before they get smoked & grilled. Top it with their coleslaw & BBQ sauce - his description was making me drool. Apparently, their all-beef hot dogs are not to be missed as they, too, are smoked then served with coleslaw, sauce and pork crispins! Now, I'll be thinking about those two divine temptations until I can try them. Even though they only have one bathroom for everyone to use, when you enter it's like going back in time with the walls plastered in old newspapers, magazine articles and ads. Not neatly framed pieces - literally just plastered on the walls, but that just adds to the unique factor of this place. Gordon Ramsay is fond of saying to only do a few things, but do them extremely well. Eli's has taken this advice to heart much to their diner's delight!
(5)Roseann H.
GREAT barbecue! The sauce is amazing!!! I would plan for a long wait, come at off hours, or order ahead. With a little pre-knowledge/ planning it is sooooooooooooo worth it!
(4)Jason H.
Fantastic BBQ and a great feel inside and out. When you walk in you'll notice how small the inside is. Low ceilings and all. As you look back, you can see down through the kitchen where the magic happens. Eli's is a flurry of activity. From the servers flying in and out of the back to the flashes of the kitchen staff back and forth putting together the orders, these people never seem to slow down. The dining room is quite small but you can eat inside or out. In the dining room they have an older record player with a pretty sweet selection of music. When a record ends, get up and either flip it over or put another one on. Respect the records! Outside is a large tent and rows of picnic tables. You can sit under the tent which, I believe, is heated in the winter. Otherwise they usually have a few picnic tables out in the open. They have a small stage where live music occasionally plays. The Food: Wow! That just about covers it. I am more of a "sauce" ribs kind of guy. Eli's has one of the best "rubs" that I have ever tasted. The rub with their sauce creates a flavor that, from what I've heard, may possibly be illegal in some states. I am glad we're not in one of those states. The smoked turkey is also fantastic. Baked beans, slaw and corn bread on the side really round your plate off quite nicely. The beverages are bottles and cans of pop and you can BYOB as well. Keep in mind though, this food is made to order. I don't mean you have to wait hours and hours, but they are cranking out food like you wouldn't believe out of that little place. The downside is that sometimes you might have to wait 20 to 30 minutes for your food. I've waited longer for worse. The only complaint that someone who knows Eli's BBQ would have about that is that they have to wait a little longer than they'd like for the goods that they know they're about to receive. Always worth the wait. Would I go back? Yes. I would and I have and I will continue to do so. I drive about 45 minutes to get to Eli's. It has yet to disappoint. There is a lot of BBQ in Cincy. Eli's is more than worth checking out. Just remember how to get there. You will return.
(5)Barry L.
My son Thomas and I love going to Eli's Big Barby Que on Saturday afternoons and getting the pulled meat sandwiches and bread and the hot dogs are TO DIE FOR if you ask Thomas ha ha! I would go here every day if I could afford it, but it's not expensive at all for the amount of GRUB you get! I just can't afford to go eating at public eateries every night ha ha! I have a kid for gosh sake! 4/5 stars and a sunglasses man too if you want to be fun! 8) ,
(4)Amanda B.
Eli's is an absolute favorite of mine and I find myself craving it all of the time! The toasted bun with smoked pulled pork, topped with slaw is amazing! I play softball at Schmidt Fields and would frequent Eli's either before or after our game. I hear they might be moving, I can understand why. This location is pretty small and doesn't offer much room for seating. But maybe they're just opening a second location in OTR instead of just their Findlay Market booth. Wishful thinking? I do agree with another poster about their sides. Unfortunately none are to die for and I wish they would offer up a simple side salad or veggy option. The sizes of the sides are pretty small and the mac and cheese is pretty bland and generic. I do really like the jalepeno grits and jalepeno cornbread, but still just wish they would offer side salad or something healthier. All this aside, the sandwiches alone speak for Eli's bbq and they mastered the perfectly slow cooked, smoked, pork sandwich! Now I want one...
(4)Brian E.
Wish I could give this place 5 stars, maybe after reading the reviews I was expecting Heaven on a bun. The sandwiches were good, they just weren't great. The way the smokers were going out back I thought the smoke flavor would be more prominent but it was lacking. Would love to go back to give a second try but it just wasn't good enough to take the extra time off the interstate.
(3)Jessica T.
Always amazingly delicious!
(5)S. H.
Yummy! At Eli's the BBQ is great and certainly the highlight. The sides are solid, but in this yelpe'rs opinion the sides are not as outstanding as the BBQ. The outdoor seating is fun and a great way to meet new people, as long as its not too cold. Eli's is worth the trip, but don't forget to bring cash, I do not think they accept credit cards & don't be impatient- good things come to those who sometimes have to wait.
(5)Stephanie H.
Ridiculously amazing BBQ, fantastic sides - must try the jalapeno grits. I'm not a grit fan, but these are a different story. The atmosphere is awesome - sit at a picnic table, inside if it's cold, or bring your own blanket and sit in the grass. And best of all BYOB. Cheap. Chill. and Delicious. What more could ya want.
(5)Steve C.
Food is outstanding. Register person could have been a little nicer on Sunday That's the only thing that could slow that place down. The people. Food is great.
(4)Kelly R.
BBQ just like I like it, not slathered in Cincinnati-style sweet sauce :( Keep up the good work!
(5)Joshua R.
Our friends came out of town to check out this "highly rated" restaurant. We were given a 1.5 hr wait time. However after 2.75 hrs later and no food we left. If you want to wast half your evening I am sure this is the place to go.
(1)Chuck D.
Visited around 2 PM on a weekday. No crowd at this time. Waited about 10 Minutes for our order. Great food. Rib tips were phenomenal. Sides were good, especially the beans (somewhat spicy). We will definitely return.
(5)Jessica M.
I absolutely love Eli's and I must admit I crave it more often than I would like. It's inexpensive--you can get an entire meal for 8 bucks! But come prepared it's BYOB and cash only. Enjoy!
(5)Daniel H.
Everything you have heard or read is true. Marvelous food. I wonder about what it's going to be like when it's too cold to sit at the picnic tables, but then, I can always eat in the car.
(5)Michael S.
Eli's BBQ is fantastic. I have tasted many of the great BBQ's across the country: Texas, Carolina, Kansas City, and I place Eli's at the top. The puled pork is so juicy and tender, but also has the perfect sweet crust to it. Truly some of the best BBQ in the country.
(5)Erin K.
Yum Yum Yum Pulled Pork in my tum! I tried Eli's for the first time at Midpoint Music Festival, so I didn't actually go to the restaurant - I tried one of the sandwiches at their little food truck station. That being said, I feel like I can't fully review how delicious the food could possibly be, having only had the sandwich. The sandwich in and of itself was very deserving of 4.5 stars, I'd give it 5 but I wish mine had a little bit more meat on it (but maybe they were being kind of scrimpy because of location and limited supply?) Anywho, definitely plan on visiting the restaurant. Rumor has it that they're opening a location downtown soon-ish!! Yay for cheap, delicious, expanded workday lunch options!
(4)Crystal G.
This place is absolutely fantastic! The BBQ is amazing, and if there is a wait, it's absolutely worth it!
(5)Dr. E.
I chuckled a bit when reading the 5 star reviews. "These people need to go to Philadelphia to understand what a 5 star pulled pork sandwich tastes like." I was wrong. This was the best pulled pork sandwich I've ever had. Maybe the best meat sandwich. These must be upstream color pigs or the pigs from animal farm cause they taste smart. I considered eating the carton the sandwich came in. A surprising mega success.
(5)Roth M.
Oh man, should I even write this review? Once the word gets out (if it isn't already), I might not be able to get my new love. Wow, seriously one of the best pulled pork sandwiches I've ever had, and I went to school in South Carolina. The smokey-ness is fantastic, and it was melt in your mouth tender. I usually drown my sandwich in Carolina mustard BBQ sauce if I can find it, or really any kind of sauce. I used very little here, which is saying a lot for me, simply because the meat had SO much great smokey flavor. I've been on a BarBQuest around town to find a good Cue, and usually there is not a lot to offer. Eli's is a game-changer, people. Their sides were also great, Mac n Cheese was firm and rich, as I like it, and the BBQ Beans were peppery and a great compliment to the feast. I plan on eating my way through their menu. Soon. BYOB, FYI.
(5)Travis P.
Hands down best BBQ is this part of the country! Hurry in before 11:30am, or you'll be waiting on a line that goes down the block. Food has a nice smoking char taste and is extremely fresh.
(5)Nora C.
Get here early to grab a seat! Love that's its byob, hard to find around here. Definitely go for something BBQ and some Mac and cheese!
(4)Elizabeth C.
I ate at Eli's BBQ tonight with a few friends. We all ordered a pulled pork BBQ sandwich with BBQ sauce. Mine was excellent, it wasn't too dry And their sauce was a perfect fit. This restaurant is BYOB and has a really cute outdoor venue. Imagine reception style tents with fans and lights covering the rows of picnic tables with shade and a much welcomed breeze. It makes you feel really at home like a family reunion. The wait was about 30 minutes which from what I have heard (and seen) can be quite usual at an establishment so welcoming and delicious that it is always packed full of patrons Considering how busy the night was I was impressed with the staff, each employee was friendly timely and professional. We were even greeted by an employee to see how our food was and if we had decided to get anything else. Eat at Eli's BBQ I am sure you will have a great experience and keep coming back for more, I know we will! P.s. currently cash only!
(5)Joe K.
The food is outstanding, but it can be tough to get a seat. Definitely bring some beer and plan to hang out a while. The wait is worth it, and its always a fun crowd.
(5)Tiffany P.
Get the cornbread and macaroni!! trust MEEEEE!!!!
(5)Jewels B.
Loved the pork tips and the price! Not a fan of pricey sides, although tasty..2 bucks for a slice of cornbread is just too much. FILL UP ON RIBS!
(4)Mike P.
Eli's BBQ is great. The atmosphere is awesome, especially outside, and be sure to BYOB. Try to go on a day when there is live music. Is it worth a two hour wait? It depends on how hungry you are. If you don't mind the wait and are willing to wait in line and then about an hour to get your food then by all means do it.
(4)Bobby B.
Super great quality bbq for good value! Food tastes great, the environment is chill and relaxed. I always go for the pulled pork sandwich. I guess the only disappointment are the sides. I wouldn't say the bean and mac n'cheese are that great. But the ribs and pulled pork is an A+
(4)Jessica N.
Went back to Eli's this weekend, and even though it was crowded on a Friday night, it was still awesome. This time, I went for the turkey bbq and the jalapeno cheddar grits and was not disappointed. I had never had turkey bbq before and will definitely be getting it again! I may like it even more than the pulled pork. The jalapeno cheddar grits were a better choice than the mac n' cheese, IMHO. And, of course, I got an Ale 81 soda. I have some family coming in town this weekend and am thinking Eli's is the perfect place to bring them for a meal.
(5)Annie R.
Amazingly good! Best pulled pork I've ever had--tender and flavorful. Mashed potatoes and jalapeño cornbread were delicious, too. Drink in a glass bottle was a nice touch!
(5)Giselle T.
One of my favorite places to eat in Cincinnati. The BBQ sauce is delicious and the pulled pork sandwich is amazing. My favorite are the hotdogs and mac n' cheese. Place can get really full so if you are hungry call 20 minunutes to anhour ahead (on weekends) Make sure you have cash and oh yeah, its BYOB. Very nice outdoor area in the summer.
(5)Adam B.
Eli's was good. We stopped by on a Monday afternoon for lunch. The weather was great and allowed us to sit outside (which, other than a LOT of bees, was nice). We all had pulled pork sandwiches. I like the crispiness they get on their buns. It's a nice contrast with all the sauce. The pork was moist and flavorful. As for the sides, it was a mixed bag. Cheesy grits and jalapeno cornbread was good. Mac and cheese and cole slaw only so so. You can get the $8 sandwich and two sides, which is a hell of a deal for lunch. And, it's BYOB so bring some beer! (like I did)
(4)Karen C.
Oh Eli's - talk about a gem hidden in the back pocket of the Queen City. I'm pretty notoriously hard to please, but Eli's blew my mind and my taste buds. It restored my faith and hope in the culinary scene in Cincinnati. When you first get to Eli's, it's literally like walking into someone's kitchen. Talk about a homey experience. While you're waiting in line (and there's ALWAYS a line), peruse the milk crate of albums to your right. If you eat inside, you can DJ your own meal. The menu is fairly limited though - or discerning, if you want a positive spin. You can choose from the pulled pork, smoked turkey sandwich, or hot dog a la carte for $5 or as a platter which comes with either of the above and two sides for $8. The pulled pork is phenomenal. It is smoky and has just the right amount of BBQ sauce. The sauce is not too sweet and is full of spices, making every bite a really bold and flavorful experience. The ribs are delicious - those you have to purchase a la carte. They are moist and you just know they've been cooking low and slow all day, just waiting for you to come eat it. Now let's talk sides. I always get the jalapeño cornbread and the jalapeño grits. I have never been disappointed. The cornbread is moist and complements my pulled pork oh so well. Though I'm not normally a fan of grits, the grits at Eli's are smooth, creamy, and have a slight kick from the jalapeños. There's not even a morsel left over when I'm done with it. I'm also not a big fan of Mac-n-cheese but I'd happily eat a whole tub of it if it were made at Eli's. The Mac is not overcooked and limp, and there isn't so much cheese you'll get a coronary just looking at it. Don't get me wrong. It's still cheesy but it's not too ridiculously rich, just ridiculously good. What other praises could I sing of Eli's? The outside seating is basically benches at a backyard BBQ, as if you were just attending a good friend cookout. So it's a really down home and unpretentious experience. Oh and did I mention it's BYO? I don't know why you're still reading this review. Hurry up and go get yourself some Eli's. I'll probably see you in line.
(5)Alex H.
Best BBQ in Cincinnati.
(5)Noah G.
I like all types of barbecue. I've eaten my way around the country, and usually enjoy a good local barbecue joint the most. This place gets a +1 for being the best I've found local, fairly priced, and BYOB friendly. Eli's is good BBQ. A local joint that does what they do well. I'm in love with the pulled pork, and their sauce (even though I'm partial to vinegar based), is SPOT ON. Each sandwich is toasted, and has the perfect mix of bark, smoke, and flavor. The spare ribs are good, tender with the right amount of chew, and good smokeyness. I usually rotate between the cheesy jalapeno grits, the cornbread, and the mac & cheese. Don't forget to scoop up any pulled pork that fell off your sandwich, which your favorite side, bonus! So throw you're favorite brews in a cooler, relax with some friends, and enjoy your BBQ!
(5)Abigail M.
I am a huge fan of their pulled pork and mashed potatoes. The mashed potatoes are put on the grittle before serving for a little crunch.
(4)Megan K.
Definitely one of my top 5 favorite places to dine in Cincinnati. Great place to spend a Saturday afternoon. Backyard picnic atmosphere and BYOB. Never been disappointed by their food.
(5)Kerry P.
Bring a cooler of beer and plan on camping out for a while--maybe pack a deck of cards as well. Definitely a chill, convivial atmosphere. I was there on a Saturday in June and I waited about 30 minutes in line and then about an hour for my food after I ordered. The food was well worth the wait, though. I inhaled my pulled pork and then made room for mac & cheese and mashed potatoes. It was fantastic.
(5)vickki c.
so darn good...the barbecue is the best in town. Wish the place was easier to get service as this place has become so popular that we have driven there twice (from KY) and had to turn around. but if you do wait in the LONG line, it is well worth it..take your food to outside covered area, BYOB and enjoy the great food and relaxation!
(5)Felecia G.
The Best BBQ in Cincinnati. The pulled pork, jalapeno cornbread and grits were AMAZING. It was the bomb dot com... I will for sure definitely be back for more.
(5)Katie D.
I love Eli's Barbeque! The loaded beef dogs are my absolute favorite. The price is cheap and I love the byob policy. Be prepared to wait a little while as it is a favorite of many. I also love the record player and outdoor space. It's casual and oh so right for a summer lunch get together.
(5)Joe S.
Eli's is a simple place, It's counter ordering and zero frills (plastic-ware, eat on picnic tables). For my first time I tried the pulled pork sandwich as recommended by the girl at the counter. It was a very good that did not rely on the sauce to taste good. I would eat there again. Not having been there before we were lucky it was still a nice enough day to sit outside, I'd likely not come here in inclement weather, the inside is very small. You can also bring your own drink, soda/water/beer/etc.
(4)Audrey S.
Got the pulled pork sandwich "dirty" with coleslaw on top and the mashed potatoes. I've officially had the best pulled pork sandwich, coleslaw, and mashed potatoes of my life. And it was $5 for the sandwich!
(5)Anne W.
We came to Eli's on the recommendation of one of our good friends from Akron. My grandpa would absolutely love this place. The interior looks like his basement--in a good way. Big record collection, record player cranking out The Drifters...excellent ambiance. We ordered the pulled pork sandwich, rib tips, mac and cheese, baked beans, grits and two old fashioned Cokes. Place is cash or check only and your name is called once your order is ready. We elected to sit at the picnic tables outside since they have a festive atmosphere like you're at one big backyard party. Once our order was ready B decided we needed cornbread so we got some of that as well. As you can tell, we weren't super hungry. The pulled pork and rib tips were absolutely delicious. Didn't even need sauce (though we did indulge in a little sauce). Mac and cheese was perfectly creamy and cheesy. Baked beans tasty. Corn bread and grits smooth, delicious, and full of jalapeño spice. We loved eating at Eli's and I dare say it was the best barbecue we've ever had.
(5)Ryan M.
This place is awesome, amazing food at a reasonable price. Great hang out with good Cincinnatians. Cash only, BYOB
(5)Alicia A.
Cash only... BYOB... jalapeno cheese grits are sooooo good! We tried the dogs, pulled pork, & turkey... all were delicious! Mac-n-cheese & jalapeno cornbread were so-so. We'll be back for sure!
(4)Scott J.
Far & away the best barbecue I've had. Alot of places claim to have a smoky flavor but this place delivers. Great atmosphere with classic rock from the 60s & 70s. This place is a must in Cincinnati
(5)Matt U.
After my first visit i think I need to go to barbeque eaters annonymous! Seriously though...I am addicted. Everything about this place is simple except the amazing flavors! Even the sign out front does not say the name...it is just the outline of a pig so don't miss it when you are driving up. Then menu only has a small amount of choices, but it is simplicity at it's best and makes your decision that much easier. I tried the pulled pork sandwich and some ribs, which both alone have great flavor, especially the dry rub on the ribs. However, once you put their barbeque sauce on top talk about mind blowing! Ok I realize I'm ranting, but go here and try the food and then see if you still want to laugh at me. The restaurant is kind of like a small hole in the wall with limited seating, but in the warm months there is a huge outdoor space with tons of picnic tables (some covered) and the night I went there was a DJ playing music. Oh and you can bring your own drinks including beer, wine, pop, etc...BRING YOUR OWN ALCOHOL! The atmosphere is causual and comfortable and would be perfect to bring a group and a cooler to just hang out while waiting for your food and after you eat. I will definitely be back. Best barbeque I have had in the city thus far!
(5)Todd D.
Top drawer. Swung into Eli's for dinner on a hit-and-run to Cincinnati. Dude playing some slide guitar in the corner, great pulled pork sandwiches, excellent spicy slaw, and jalapeno grits. Can't say enough about the food at Eli's. You won't find better BBQ - and the laid back vibe is relaxing. Some blues guitar or they are spinning albums on the turntable. They only take cash or check, prepare.
(5)Beth K.
Some of the best BBQ around! Eli's keeps it simple with a fairly small menu and they hit the mark with every item on there. The sides are possibly one of the best features here - especially the jalapeno cheese grits! Fairly small interior space, but plenty of room outside to enjoy picnic style. The only downside is the wait, which can be pretty substantial during busy times (45-90 min). Take that time to grab a seat, have a beer (BYOB) and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Don't forget - cash only!
(5)Ron G.
Yuuuuuuum is all I can say. This is the best BBQ in the north.
(5)T P.
Better than any BBQ I've ever had in California (Including Oakland and Los Angeles!). I'm only sad that I didn't get to eat everything they offered. Thanks to the fans here for putting the Do's and Do Nots so I had a heads up before I got here. Phone Order is the way to go, screw waiting in that longass line! I LOVE THIS PLACE!
(5)Michael G.
I've now been to Eli's twice now....in the past 4 days. I'd heard about the place several times from other people, but we finally made a trip over this past weekend, and it was definitely a scene. First, it's off the beaten path, and tucked away in a sleepy neighborhood along the river East of town. The first thing I noticed was that there was a ton of cars parked around just for this place, there were dozens of picnic tables packed with people, and a long line out the door. Well, we didn't drive all the way over there to get turned back for a silly line, but hey, a line that long means it must be good, right? Well, we were right. While it id take a long time to finally eat, and it was fantastic. I had the ribs, with my sides being jalapeno grits and mac 'n cheese. My girlfriend had the pulled pork sandwich, with beans and slaw. Every item that we both had was pretty darn good. My only complaint is that I like my ribs to fall off the bone, and these didn't. But...this might just be the cinncy style. All the sides were great as well, and you even have the added option to throw cracklins on them. We then went back today for their 2-for-1 rib tips deal, which they have every Monday. 3 pounds of rib tips for $8! As these are the best rib tips I've ever had, so we will definitely be coming back many many times. This is the only BBQ I've had in town so far, so maybe after trying some other places I'll find out this is the best place in town. If that's so, I'll update to 5 stars, cause they're straddling the line right now. Also, it's BYOB, sweeeeeet!
(4)Matthew W.
Great BBQ. Everything is outside seating at picnic tables so it's best on a warm day or night. It is great for kids because there is plenty of grass for them to play in. We had a group of 7 and it wasn't difficult to find seating, the tables are large. It is also BYOB which was great to have an awesome time with friends on very little expense. We also used it a pre dinner to a night out on the town so BYOB was fantastic. Be prepared to wait about an hour for your food because it gets very busy.
(4)Tommy C.
My wife and I stopped here on our way to Charleston on our honeymoon. The god's of barbecue were smiling down on us that day because we basically picked the first place we saw on Yelp with a semi-decent review and made it happen because we were starving. Rarely when given the opportunity to eat something new does quality of food take a backseat to the strictly utilitarian function of eating to not starve, but after eight hours of driving I just needed to eat. Luckily for me I stumbled headlong in to one of the best barbecue experiences I've ever had. We got out of our car with wobbly legs and were greeted by a long-but-not-too-long line of Cincinnatians (is that a word?) eager to get some food. Many of the people were already familiar with the spot and were talking eagerly about what they were about to devour. It's always a good sign when you're in a place and you just hear people talking about the food. You never see people in some nasty ambiguous chain or some low-effort drunk food spot eagerly frothing from their mouths for whatever slop they just ordered because the food is never dynamic or interesting, Eli's was. We got macaroni and cheese which was good and the jalapeno cheese grits which were goddamn unforgettable. I also got a pulled pork sandwich with (for the first time in my life) cole slaw on it. I swear it was life altering. My life should be divided up in to two separate eras; BCOPP and ACOPP, Before and After Coleslaw On Pulled Pork respectively.. never going back. Plus to make everything all the more perfect we got to sit outside on a porch, and who doesn't love that? Whether you live in Cincy, are visiting or just passing through, eat at Eli's.
(5)Kari W.
Eli's is hands down the best BBQ in town but the portions are small so it's rather expensive. Great treat every now and then.
(5)Jason B.
Can't say enough good things about this place. Friendly staff, amazing food, reasonably priced. Tips: 1) Walk in the front door off Eastern. Order at the counter in the back. Cash only. Give them our first name (and last initial!) Go sit down and they'll yell for you to pick up. Sometimes with a bullhorn. 2) BYOB. Introduce yourself to the next table and negotiate a bottle trade. It's fun! 3) Come early, like happy hour. The wait will be more palatable and seating more plentiful. 4) Come on a sunny day. There is outdoor seating both immediately adjacent to the restaurant and across the alley in the park. If you have kids, head for the park! 5) One sandwich is enough to share between two. It is the size of your head. Don't skip on the sides, though - they're not generally big enough to share.
(5)Kat F.
my favorite bbq joint in cincinnati. the hot dogs are amazing, the pulled pork is amazing, but the ribs are mediocre. all the sides are good. take some beer and cash, and GO!! well worth the wait.
(5)Zachary H.
Ate at Eli's today for lunch on the tail end of a wedding weekend. It was delicious. I had a pulled pork sandwich and two spare ribs. As someone else mentioned don't forget to BYOB for the full experience. One more bathroom would be nice.
(5)Jennifer Z.
There was so much that I liked about the atmosphere of this place. First, let me say that you should call ahead and order your food. If you do this, your food will be waiting for you and you get to jump in front of the huuuuge line that will possibly be going all the way out the door. Otherwise, you wait on line forever and then go sit down and wait more for your name to be called. This seems to be a popular place filled with people of all kinds which i found to be very cool. There is limited seating inside but they have an awesome outdoor area setup with tons and tons of picnic tables. Some tables are under a pavilion as well. I noticed that some people appeared to be making a night of it since it's BYOB. The mac n cheese was similar to the mac n cheese you get in the box that comes with the packet of creamy cheese sauce. I personally like stretchy, cheesy mac n cheese if I'm going to order it at a restaurant. The baked beans were a tad spicy, my little one wouldn't eat them because of it, but they were still good. The coleslaw seemed a little more mayo flavor than what I was going for. I usually like the sweeter versions of slaw myself. The ribs were good, probably my favorite part of the meal and the jalapeño cornbread was super yummy. I'm picky about pulled pork so I will just say it was nothing to complain about. We fed five kids and two adults with leftovers for about $35 by getting a bulk order so overall we were pretty happy with the whole experience.
(4)Rebecca S.
Outstanding pulled pork and smoked turkey sandwiches! Fabulousity! Lots of people were there from out of town because the word is apparently getting out. Very interesting how it's run - long line to order, inside, with a few indoor tables... but the line moves quickly and is not a problem. Bring cash (or checks) because they don't take credit cards! If you just order a sandwich, it comes with a small cole slaw. Cornbread is a big piece and very good. Don't get the mac and cheese without trying it first (even the kids didn't like it). They don't have cups or free water, only drinks in bottles, but you are welcome to bring your own drinks - I'll bring a water bottle next time. You wait outside, about a half hour, for your food. There are tons of casual picnic tables outside, some covered. Very fun.
(4)Dan T.
Eli's is a local gem. It offers great portions at a better price ($8 for a sandwich and two sides) The atmosphere is perfect as you can sit inside or out. The patio area is great to relax for hours and consume your own beverages. (yes, you can bring your own beer!) The only negative is the wait for food, but it really is not any qorse than the big names downtown, and the experience is far better. I highly recommend Eli's!
(5)Kimberly K.
Great food, great prices. Huge portions. Fun and relaxing atmosphere. If you haven't gone yet you have to go! I've had it downtown on Fountain Square on Tuesdays at lunchtime and at Findlay Market on Fridays after 5 too. Always great!!
(5)Karl C.
After almost three months in this city, Eli's has become my favorite restaurant in Cincinnati. The ribs are high quality and dry-rubbed to a delicious finish. It's consistently been some of the best meat I've had in a long time -- and let me tell you: I have had my fair share of meat. Their Loaded Hot Dogs are absolutely amazing. They're two smoked dogs in a toasted bun topped with coleslaw, toasted pork shreds, and their signature barbecue sauce. Trust me, you'll wish you had more than two of those bad boys. I've tried their mashed potatoes, mac 'n' cheese, and jalapeno cornbread as sides and they have all been delicious. Eli's interior is very small and intimate. The lighting is dim and there's always good music flowing on their record player. If you're desperate for seating, they have heated tents outside. Although sitting out there alone and in the dark makes you feel like a 1920's carnival serial killer... Aside from the lack of physical space in the restaurant, the only major qualm I have is that they don't accept credit cards, and they don't have an on-site ATM so that can be a huge buzzkill. Having said that, the food more than makes up for it and then some. Of all the times I've been there, I was never disappointed. If you're looking for barbecue in Cincinnati, Eli's should be your only choice.
(5)Aly S.
Not sure if my review is even necessary; this place is just plain gold.
(5)Jessie T.
So this local barbecue joint has been the talk of the town for a while now and I FINALLY made my way down to try it. I personally am a huge fan of bbq and southern fix ins, so I was ready to see what the hype was all about. The restaurant itself was teeny tiny with just a few indoor tables and the ordering counter in the back. It was simple and small, with some retro accents. After we ordered, we went outside to find a table and that was where the whole crowd of people was! They had long picnic style tables and other tables scattered throughout the back like the style of your own backyard and it was very outdoorsy-cozy. There was also old jazz playing out there, which I absolutely loved. The food itself was deeeelicious. I ordered the rib tips with a side of mac & cheese and cole claw. The meat was very nicely smoked and had lots of flavor and their house bbq sauce was pretty much drinkable lol. The mac was sooo cheesy and delicious and had a nice thick, creamy texture that I prefer to runny sauces. The cole slaw was also great, and had just the right amount of tartness vs. sweetness. In the midst of eating, I looked back at the door of the restaurant and the line was 20 people out the door! I would say that it did a good job of living up to its hype and I wanna go back to try more : ).
(5)Caroline C.
I can't be mad at Eli's BBQ. There was an iffy time there for a bit where I was close, but smoked meat always prevails, doesn't it? To me, it usually doesn't get any better than the pulled pork sandwich which includes coleslaw on top. Except that time when they gave me a third rib after ordering two. RIB JACKPOT. I forgive you, Eli's for being closed on the day of the flying pig.
(4)Neil H.
There's not much i can add, other than piling on another 5 start review! The pulled pork is perfect...nice and tender with the right amount of smoke and seasoning. the ribs are amazing. teh hot dogs are some of the best you will have ever eaten. the turkey is pretty good, but its my least favorite thing on the menu. get there early or you will wait in one hell of a line! it's BYOB, just so you can plan. one note is that the bbq sauce is pretty peppery. I personally love it, but if you are bringing kids, get the sauce on the side.
(5)Laura M.
I have been enjoying Eli's BBQ at Findlay market for some time now. We finally made it down to the restaurant! So glad we went!! Be prepared to wait quite awhile for your food to be ready. So worth it. I had the pulled pork BBQ with cheese and Mac and the the jalapeño cornbread. The meat was so tender and moist. They really pile it high and top it off with some yummy BBQ sauce. The cheese and Mac is no joke. They put cheese first in the title for a reason. I've never had anything so cheesy and rich. Soooo good. The jalapeño cornbread was good. Not too spicy. I could have used a bit more. But safe for all spice level eaters. My husband and the all beef hotdogs with coleslaw and BBQ crisp ins on top, drizzled with BBQ sauce. He said they were delicious. The atmosphere is laid back. There is a few tables inside the restaurant to eat but the best is the numerous picnic tables they have littered all over the venue outside. They have a canopy set up over a large portion. They also have live music a lot on the weekends. Overall we had a wonderful time and decided next time to bring the kiddos with us.
(5)Kat L.
Some coworkers and I decided to try Eli's Barbeque this weekend after a long morning of teaching. Parking was found easily on the street, but could be seen as a potential issue during busier times of the day. We were excited as we walked to the small storefront, as the smell was intoxicating. There are only a few menu items - some meats and a few sides, but quality is defiantly desired over quantity. I had the pulled pork sandwich - a generous amount of tender pork that fell off the bun while eating it. My side was macaroni and cheese and while it's not the best I've ever had, it was delicious. My coworkers got the mashed potatoes and grits as their sides. One coworker, who's from the south, said it's the first place he's found decent grits in the entire city. Next time I am trying the ribs and baked beans! Seating is very limited inside, but outside if full of picnic tables, perfect for a summer evening - just watch out for bees! Drinks are BYOB, or you can purchase Coke, Diet Coke, Ale8One, or Orange crush. Staff is very friendly and helpful. Payment is Cash/Check only, or Red's tickets - make sure to hit the ATM before visiting. Great food, great service - I'll be back soon!
(4)Thomas F.
This is my favorite restaurant in Cincinnati. Seriously, they do BBQ correctly. It's the middle of the on a Monday, and now I'm craving. Everything on this menu is fantastic. The pulled pork BBQ, the Turkey, the Hot Dogs, the Ribs, the Mac and Cheese, the Beans, the Ale8One. Could someone bring me some?
(5)Esther K.
Best BBQ you can ever get. The best time to go is during the warmer months when they have live music in the back and people are throwing a football around! This is not a quick eat, you'll have to wait because it's not a secret anymore how amazing this place is! Worth the wait. It's BYOB so take some beer and relax and get ready to eat some incredible BBQ!
(5)Krystin M.
Consistently amazing. Always a treat to go there. As a southerner I admire their grits!
(5)Magda C.
One of my top 3 food places in Cincy! The taste of pork and ribs is unbelievable. You have to try to believe! The portions are generous and always good. The quality and taste of meat has been consistent for the last 2 years of my visits. Nothing fancy, but for 8 bucks you get a little piece of heaven with mashed potatoes. Very family friendly! BYOB if you want. CHEERS TO ELI'S!
(5)Rikki T.
Delicious Mac n Cheese! Not many options for vegetarians though. :-(
(4)Alec D.
Eli's is a Cincinnati staple! The BBQ is out of this world. In addition to all of the great ribs, pulled pork and rib tips, their sides are fantastic as well. I've had the mac n cheese as well as the jalepeno cheese grits. I am always looking forward to going back to Eli's. Great thing about Eli's as well, is that they allow you to bring your own alcohol (they do not sell any). So you can grab some great BBQ, head out back to a table and toss back a couple of cold ones with your friends. A great spot for a very tasty meal on a summer day (or any day)!
(5)Mariah Y.
best (real) BBQ in town, hands down. we often get take away since it can be really crowded and a long wait (just to place your order!). recently got take away from downtown and the qualify was just as great (with no wait on a hot weekday evening!). in a word, yum!
(5)Monty B.
Oh Cincinnati you don't even have a clue when it comes to BBQ. It's experiences like Eli's that make me wish I still lived in Texas. The overarching theme across all of their meats was DRY. The pulled pork was dry. The ribs and rib tips were tough and dry. The ribs were grossly undercooked. The meat stuck to the bone like glue and I almost gave myself a hernia trying to chew it. They needed at least another few hours. Slow and steady, my friends. I suspect somebody had a little too much fun partying the night before, didn't show up in time to get the ribs going, and tried to rush something that simply needs time. The sides were disappointing as well. Mac was of the Kraft variety. Mashed potatoes and grits were both flavorless and dry. Oh my God can we get this place some moisture??? In the end, I paid $35 for the worst BBQ of my life. God, I miss you Rudy's. Oh yeah, I saw one of the cooks take his doobie into the trailer. Maybe he was the one that showed up late and rushed the ribs.
(1)Stephanie M.
It's hard to say anything about Eli's that hasn't already been said! It definitely lives up to the hype and is my new favorite barbecue joint in Cincinnati. We showed up at 2:30 on Sunday afternoon, which was a great time because the line was short and the place wasn't too crowded. It only took about 15 minutes for our food to arrive. I had the pulled pork--what else? The bun is toasted just right on the inside and stuffed full of tender, smokey, juicy pork. A smear of sauce and a little mound of coleslaw are the only condiments it needs (and really, you could get by without them--the pork itself is THAT good). The jalapeno cheddar grits were perfectly creamy and had a nice kick. They were delicious but I think I'd order cornbread or a different side next time, just to try another Eli's offering.
(5)Ben W.
I love restaurants that keep it simple and Eli's does a great job. Four entree choices and six sides. I had the Pulled pork sandwich which had great flavor but was a little on the salty side. I can overlook that as it might just be a one time thing or maybe I'll just put the slaw on top of the pork next time. Either way the flavors were bangin'. I also had the rib tips which were excellent along with mashed potatoes and cornbread. They do it right at Eli's. If Im ever in the Cincinnati area again I'll be sure to stop by.
(5)Jason P.
I'm glad I don't live near the joint. I would eat here almost every day. I had the pulled pork sandwich, jalapeño corn bread, and cheesy grits. I also shared some rib tips with the group I was with. Pulled pork was very good. Large portion. The corn bread was average. I was hoping for a little more. The cheesy grits were good. I say all of this to get to the rib tips. Outstanding! Smokey, sweet...everything rib tips should be. Byob.
(4)Jessica S.
I'll be honest - this gets four stars because everyone I know loves it. If it were me and me only, I would give it three but it seems a little unfair. I'm not a fan of pork, so I actually had the hot dogs (fully loaded - bbq sauce, coleslaw, and pork crispins) with mac and cheese and cornbread. The hot dogs were almost TOO much. Too many flavors and it all balanced out to nothingness (really, I don't understand the physics of flavors). I love mac and cheese, and I really wasn't a fan of theirs - cue huge disappointment. I read great reviews about it, so maybe it's just a love/hate sort of thing. I did absolutely love the cornbread. I could probably order that and that alone and live for the next fifty years. Yum. So maybe I gave this four stars for the cornbread. Maybe I gave it four stars for the looks of happiness on 99.9% of the patrons. Either way, I would still definitely go back and would recommend to anyone visiting the area.
(4)Alyssa F.
One star off because I know it's crazy busy in the summer, although I'm not sure what they can do about that. However, I visited in November. Pleasant surprises abounded! 1. NO wait. Seriously, walked up, ordered food, paid $16 for two sandwiches and 4 sides total, sat down, opened our BYOBeers and then they called our order. 2. Heated tents outside! 3. More tables inside than I expected. I figured it'd be a 2 4 top joint, but there are probably 6ish tables? Plus the two heated party tents with picnic tables. 4. Parking! In the back! And no surprise here, because I've eaten their food before, but YUM.
(4)Ted M.
[this review has been wasting away in my drafts folder for a year and a half now... I just couldn't bring myself to delete it though-- ] live bluegrass in the large outdoor seating area when we visited, and easily amongst the best BBQ ive had in Kentucky, Ohio, Mississippi, Tennessee or Alabama.... had rib tips, pulled pork, slaw, cheddar grits and beans. those beans... Layered deep. just go...
(5)Martha K.
The vagablondes are back! We ventured to Eli's BBQ because of the reviews on Yelp. Thank goodness! Eli's ROCKS!!!! My fellow vagablonde and I really enjoyed our food. I got the pulled pork and she got ribs. WOW is all I can say. We were fortunate to have a nice day and sat outside. It was the best picnic food I've ever had. The sides were awesome too. We got mac and cheese and jalapeno cornbread. I have recommended this place to everyone I know. I can't wait to go back!!!! We had the previledge to talk with the gentleman outside around the smoking area and they were very nice and kind. Keep up the good work!!
(5)Doug O.
I was really glad I found this place. It was out of my way but ended up being well worth the trip. It is a small place, rustic and unpretentious. To start, the staff was friendly and helpful. I got a hotdog and pulled pork sandwich. Nice touch-Coke in a bottle. There is just something about the feel of a glass bottle that can not be replaced. The BBQ was very good. The pulled pork was moist and had a nice smokey flavor and the bun was perfect. The hot dog was good too. By the way, if you like spicy- the jalapeño grits are not to be missed. The records and player are a nice throwback. Who ever put together the LP archive has real good taste in music. If you are in the area this place should not be passed up.
(4)Red P.
If you have a list of places you want to eat in Cincinnati, Eli's BBQ should be on that list. Another tip- Don't wait as long as I did!! Every time I finally make it to a place I've wanted to try I kick myself for waiting so long. Be sure to visit their website to learn more about their story and the vision for Eli's ...."where white collar could sit next to blue, black next to white, child next to grown....you see it didn't matter. It's the atmosphere, the music, the FOOD and the people that simmer together and create this place". I couldn't have said it better!!! My favorite Saturday routine (after spin class) is lunch and a trip to Findlay Market. Today, I finally ventured to Eli's. It's not hard to find but it's not a place you pass on your way to the grocery every day (even better!!). I didn't see a sign but I saw a Pig logo and a line out the door (don't worry it goes fast) and I knew i was home! Once inside the small place is funky and fun with great tunes playing and an excellent selection of vinyl to look through while your in line. The menu is simple and I knew I had to have pulled pork on my first visit. My vegetarian friend chose the Hickory Smoked Turkey sandwich..... I'm getting that next time!! Sides included coleslaw, jalapeño cornbread, Jalapeño chess grits and mac n cheese. We found a picnic table outside and joined our white, black and blue friends in the most amazing food event I have ever seen in Cincinnati. Families and friends hanging out, birthdays being celebrated and coolers carrying cold beer coming in for the afternoon. The food was the BEST and It did not disappoint!! A band was setting up as we were packing up so I can't wait to come back and hang out a while, I will pack my cooler and see you there!! Yum grub!! Red Pearl
(4)Courtney C.
How have I not written a review of one of my favorite restaurants yet?! My boyfriend and I are huge fans of Eli's. We first tried it last summer, and I honestly can't even look at Montgomery Inn the same way anymore. The pulled pork (with coleslaw on top, of course) is absolutely amazing, and you can't go wrong with any of the sides. I'm rather partial to the mac & cheese or the mashed potatoes, but the jalepeno cheddar grits are awesome too...and I am not a person who would easily admit to liking grits. I haven't tried the ribs yet - I'm a creature of habit! - but my boyfriend's parents get them and seem to love them. It's cash only, so be aware...it's also BYOB, which is fun. Be cautious if you're planning on bringing a large group...the inside of the restaurant fills up fast. Even so, I love the atmosphere inside...especially the old records. The staff is always friendly, and carrying out is easy. If you haven't tried Eli's yet, you are absolutely missing out on one of Cincinnati's best restaurants!
(5)Vinod S.
The best pulled pork sandwich I've ever eaten. One of the few instances where the coleslaw and BBQ sauce enhance the meat rather than overpower it. Super flavorful and juicy. The cheese grits were great as well, as was the bit of jalapeño cornbread I stole off a friend's plate. You can skip the baked beans unless you like them sweet (I don't).
(5)James L.
This place is sublime. The inside reminds me of old stores in East Texas or Louisiana. There was an hour wait for the food, but I didn't mind one bit. (Of course I wish I knew you could phone in your order ahead of time). The pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw was divine. And the baked beans were the only restaurant-made baked beans I've ever liked. Just like my mom's but with a dash of something else. And the jalapeno corn bread was as good as the best in Texas. Actually better if you eat it with those awesome baked beans.
(5)Cullen W.
Eli's is usually packed and that tells most of what you need to know right there. Sitting on Riverside Dr. its a quick trip from downtown. The BBQ was pretty good, the mac & cheese was great, and the old school Coke in the glass bottle was Classic (pardon the pun). The portions here aren't huge but its definitely worth the trip. Overall its a cool place to eat with good food.
(4)Shari S.
SOOO Good. Im not a huge BBQ fan and then I had Elis. You have to try it to believe! I would give it 5 stars if the inside was just a little bigger to listen to the bands in the winter. Great tent outside for summer.
(4)Chris A.
Awesome BBQ! Pulled pork is fantastic, ribs tender and moist and the smoked turkey is extremely tasty! Sides are great and the fact that you can bring your own drinks makes it very casual and inviting. A local dining event that should be experienced by anyone who considers themselves a true cincinnatian.
(5)Lynn N.
Best BBQ I've had in the city way better than Montgomery and whatever ish.The air in Eli's itself is just heavenly that waiting the five minutes for my friend to join me I worked up an appetite. I got the pulled pork sandwich, jalapeno cornbread and mashed potatoes and cannot wait to try everything else that is on the menu. At some places its better to stick to what you know 'tried and tested' stuff, but around me people had ordered a variety of everything on the menu and it all looked incredibly drool-worthy that if I weren't stuffed, I'd totally have gone for some extra sides or ribs. I do not know of a BBQ place in the city that even remotely compares. Very reasonably price, parking accessible and staff was attentive. I'm happy they are doing well and receiving the recognition they deserve, I will definitely be back.
(5)Krystyna C.
If I had a last meal, it would be a pulled pork sandwich from Eli's BBQ. I first tried this place on a whim while at Findley Market with my fiance and dad. My dad and I are self-proclaimed "Barbeque Freaks" and we take our 'Q very seriously. We are from Memphis (the barbeque capital of the world) and know what it takes to have some seriously good BBQ. When I saw they were opening a brick and mortar storefront, I counted down the days until we could eat here. I L-O-V-E the Memphis style serving of the pulled pork sandwich that is topped with coleslaw and the sweet, smoky, tangy sauce. My mouth literately waters just thinking about how amazing this is. The restaurant itself is small, but intimate. The music is played off a vinyl record and the lights are low, and that kind of atmosphere is what makes Eli's worth visiting. NOTE: When you do make the trip to Eli's remember to bring your own alcohol and CASH. They do not accept credit cards as of yet, but it's been rumored they will sometime soon. If you haven't been here yet, make plans to do so ASAP!! You won't regret it!
(5)Peter B.
Wow! Who knew that Cincinnati actually had some outstanding BBQ. Just when I thought that Cincy BBQ would be eternally defined by the mediocrity of the Montgomery Inn, along comes Eli's BBQ at the bottom of Delta, east of downtown. The place is fairly no-nonsense. Open seating, is the order of the day. Diners cozy up to the cashier, place there order, and grab a seat inside or out back. The food is dirty cheap, but not the flavor. These guys really know how to slow cook some pulled pork. I loved the slaw and the mac n cheese. And the corn bread is delicious. An absolute must for anyone who wants really great BBQ!
(4)Mallory T.
AMAZING! Totally worth the wait if you have one, I recommend trying one of everything ! There isn't anything on the menu I don't like, you might leave smelling like a meat smoker from sitting outside but oh well the food makes up for it.
(5)Preston B.
Not too bad for a northern joint. Nice bark in the BBQ sandwich. Will come back next visit.
(4)Mike C.
Very good BBQ. However, I wasn't blown away like many of the other reviewers. My favorites are the pulled pork sandwich and the hot dogs. I pretty much just go for those two things. I'm usually a big fan of ribs, but I have never been super impressed with theirs. I just remember them being dry. The sauce though is very good. Not too sweet. Also don't think that any of their sides are really to die for. The jalapeno grits are good, as well as the cornbread. Prices are very reasonable. I like the fact that it is BYOB. The small inside space is hipster-ish. They also have records that you can play on their turntable. Lots of picnic tables out back to sit on in the warmer months, which is what I usually do. Otherwise, I usually just get takeout. Parking is located in the back or on the street.
(4)Christine M.
I've eaten Eli's many times at Findlay Market. I would have called myself a fan before my visit last week to their base, but I never really knew the depth of charm Eli's possesses prior to my visit. The space is a bit confusing, or crowded inside maybe, but ultimately very cozy and cute. There are records, signs about alphabetizing (for real, people, do it!) and a chalk board of goodness. The sides, that's what I was missing at Findlay. I opted for the baked beans and the jalapeno grits. Next time I'd love to try the jalapeno corn bread (that looked solid) and maybe the mac and chesse (though it's of the super creamy gooey variety- not always my favorite). In addition to my sides, was my pulled pork sandwich. Delicious as always. I'm really glad I visited the homebase and plan to take some other casual admirers (from Findlay) there very soon. We went here during lunch on a Thursday and took the smell of the smoker back to work with us. Ooops...but it was worth it.
(4)Amy E.
Yum. Fulfills any pulled pork craving-- juicy, DELICIOUS BBQ sauce, just the right amount of cole slaw. It can be difficult to find-- look for the sign of a pig. It can get busy and seating can be a premium sometimes. In any case, definitely a place to go again and again.
(4)Cliff K.
Not just Eli's BBQ, but Eli's Yummy BBQ. DO: -Ribs ($5 for 2, $10 for 4, $15 for 6) -Mac & Cheese DON'T: -N/A PARKING: -Lot in the back Ribs are amazing at Eli's. It's a dry rub and I believe it is smoked. It's so damn tender it makes you wonder how a human being can create such a wonderful dish. It's very likely that they sprinkle the ribs with either crack cocaine or fairy dust powder. Of course I haven't tried either of these rather hardcore substances, but you just need to trust me. It's so good it reminds me of the feeling that I get when I walk into the break room at work on a Friday afternoon to find leftover pizza from a meeting. You see, I absolutely love pizza, especially free pizza, on Fridays. So yea, the pizza it's delicious, I mean the ribs, wait, what?
(5)Rick W.
We had Mother's Day yesterday with Eli's.Best idea I've had in a long time.Ordered off of the picnic menu to take home.Make sure to order at least 4 days in advance.We got pulled pork which is so good.Also got smoked turkey, what a great taste.For sides-baked beans that have a little bite to them good-a good creamy cole slaw-and Mac n cheese with plenty of cheese.And cornbread for me, love the taste.So if your having a group our small party and don't want to cook call Eli's.Want to go back and set outside and enjoy music and food with others.Worth it!
(5)Ben N.
There are plenty of benefits to living on Cincinnati's East Side, but there is very, very, very little over here that qualifies as "cool." Eli's is that rare exception. (So, yeah, I'm probably a bit old to be worrying about whether some restaurant is "cool," but there is just is so much in Mt. Lookout and Hyde Park, let alone farther east, that is white-bread and dorky that you are almost compelled to notice when something breaks the mold....) Anyway, Eli's is a superb addition to a largely moribund East Side dining scene. In its food, decor, and ambience, Eli's is genuinely filling a long-vacant niche for folks on this side of town who just want a fun, casual, and inexpensive place to grab some good food. (Terry's could be that spot, but the massive crowds don't always qualify as "fun" and the prices don't really qualify as "inexpensive.") Eastern Avenue is a perfect place, and provides the perfect older building stock, for the low-lit roadhouse vibe Eli's is evidently aiming for and so far succeeding in attaining. (Although at least twice big groups of yuppie families have turned it into Romper Room....) Seating might be a problem some nights; there are only about eight tables. But maybe they'll be able to have outdoor seating in warmer-weather months. As I think I've said elsewhere, I'm no BBQ expert, but I did grow up in the Deep South, have family in North Carolina, and have spent a decent amount of time in Texas. My general opinion of Cinci BBQ is pretty low. But Eli's is just about at the top of the heap here. The pulled pork is tender and has nice smoky flavor. And the meat has decent "bark." (When Eli's was a BBQ stand downtown, it was getting this bark by griddling the pork before putting on the the plate, which, depending on your point of view, is either clever or cheating. Not sure how it's done here...) Sides are often an afterthought at BBQ places down south; it's all about the meat. (Good Brunswick stew is an exception.) Here, simple items like jalapeno grits and baked beans are treated simply, to their benefit: the pepper and cheese are nicely balanced in the grits, which are cooked to the right consistency, and the beans have a nice tang without being too sweet. Cole slaw is nicely done, too. Cornbread is a bit too fluffy, though. And it'd be nice if Eli's added something green to the sides menu, like collards or green beans. Only eight bucks for a loaded BBQ sandwich, two sides, and a smaller container of slaw (which you can either eat straight or top your sandwich with). No alcohol yet, but that's OK: You can bring your own. (But please not wine, like I saw one couple drinking. Not that I don't love wine, but wine and barbecue together just ain't right.) The staff is welcoming, friendly, and helpful. Overall, Eli's is the best restaurant addition to this side of town since Shaan. P.S. Maybe it's just because I grew up in an age of vinyl, but I love the idea of spinning LPs on a turntable for the music--a staff member has to wander over the flip the LP every 20 minutes--instead of the usual piped-in pop dribble and overplayed classic rock that is way too common at restaurants. P.P.S. (update) Fresh-brewed iced tea would be a nice thing for Eli's to offer. It is de rigueur in BBQ restaurants down south, especially sweet tea.
(4)Kate G.
My mouth waters whenever I think about Eli's BBQ. The pulled pork sandwich Eli's way, mac & cheese and mashed potatoes are awesomely delicious. Eli's way = cole slaw on top of the pulled pork. I loved the crunch and tang from the cole slaw with the smokey pulled pork. Definitely get the mashed potatoes - they're out of this world. They're buttered and browned on the griddle so they're creamy in the middle and crunchy on the outside. Does it get any better than that?
(5)Ed P.
Over the summer I had the pleasure of sampling a pulled pork sandwich on Fountain Square from Eli's BBQ. It was the same day that I tried Tom + Chee for the first time. At that time, Eli was only operating from the food tents that were located on the square, but once the city removed them late last year, the owners were forced to find other options. Fortunately they found a space at 3313 Riverside Drive to open a permanent restaurant and it just happens to be relatively close to my home. In addition to the new location, the menu has also grown from the single item pulled pork sandwich and now included smoked turkey and ribs. The new restaurant space seats 25-30 people comfortably at a variety of high or low top tables. At the back of the dining space is a record player that was playing a variety of folk and bluegrass tunes. Orders are placed at the back of the space, near an open door to the kitchen. Menu items are written on a chalk board hanging on the back wall. Currently only cash and checks are accepted, so plan accordingly. My wife and I agreed to split a variety of the food offerings. I walked to the counter and ordered the pulled pork sandwich platter with baked beans and cheese macaroni, as well as a hickory smoked turkey sandwich platter with jalapeño cheese grits and jalapeño corn bread. We also decided to sample two bottles of Ale-8-One, a ginger ale like soft drink from Kentucky, which I really liked and will have to find more of in the future. The pulled pork was just as good as I remembered it being this past summer. Easily the best pulled pork sandwich in the area, at least that I've had. The pork has a bit of smokey flavor, is really tender, and is just a bit crisp on the ends. It comes served on a grilled honey bun and is topped with a great flavored coleslaw and some of the wonderful signature BBQ sauce. The baked beans were awesome, quite possibly my favorite ever! They weren't overly spicy, but had a really nice complex flavor full of various spices. The cheese macaroni was super creamy. The smoked turkey sandwich was definitely more smokey in flavor than the pork. For me, it might have been smoked just a tad too long. It was thick sliced and piled high on the same grilled honey bun and again topped with slaw and sauce. I didn't enjoy it as much as the pulled pork, but I will still order it again on future visits. The sides with this platter both featured jalapeños. Typically I'm not a fan of grits, as I find them bland and boring, but these were full of flavor. I would easily order them again if it weren't for the other sides that I enjoyed even more. The cornbread was delicious! It was still moist and the addition of jalapeño helped kick it up a notch. Everything we had cost only $20. The sodas were $2 each, making the platters just $8 each for a ton of food! My wife couldn't finish her portion so I gladly cleaned up behind her. I couldn't get enough of Eli's wonderful food. We will be back soon and I encourage you to visit perhaps the best BBQ spot in the city.
(5)Cacique G.
The ribs revolutionized my mouth.. The pulled pork sandwich was wonderfully moist with crispy edges. So amazing.
(5)Jonny T.
Awesome BBQ,jalapeño cornbread, and Mac n cheese. Enough said, time to go eat!
(5)Ed J.
Best pulled pork sandwich in Cincinnati. Beautifully smoked pork, moist without being watery with chewy edges (otherwise known as "bark"). Sauced with a slightly spicy sweet tomato based sauce (probably ketchup), topped with slaw. The flavor of the pork really stands out, with the crunch of the slaw coming through with just a hint of the sauce. Wonderful. The jalapeño cornbread was light and a bit sweet, with just enough heat to notice. Crispy on the bottom. Very nice. Mac & cheese is fairly ordinary, basically made with velveeta or American cheese. Somewhat disappointing given the quality of the other offerings, so skip it and try something else. The space is just right for a BBQ joint - order your food from the register in back, sit down at one of the 8-10 tables in the front, admire the collected Americana and the extra cool portraiture on the walls, and very quickly a basket of pure delight will be delivered to you. Soft drinks only, but you can carry in your own booze. Menu varies a bit, and they take only three forms of payment: cash, check or Reds tickets (the last may be a bit of hyperbole). If the mood strikes you, choose an LP and put it on the record player. Whatever you do, try the pulled pork. Five bucks (or a bleacher ticket) is all it will cost you, and you won't be sorry, unless you aren't a fan of delicious flavor.
(5)Mary H.
LOVE this restaurant! Great pulled pork sandwiches, fantastic sides and the hot dogs are the best in the whole world! Cute place, love the BYOB and the outside seating during the warm weather months.
(5)Nate S.
What a quaint little place. If you didn't know it was there, you would completely miss it. To start...I don't like BBQ - the flavor doesn't appeal to me, however, I liked this place. I kept it pretty simple and went with the dogs, hot dogs that is. The coleslaw served on top of the dogs made for a nice combination! There's no alcohol here (wah wah wah), but that's not a problem because you can bring your own (saves money anyways). Price - $5 to $8
(4)Princess T.
The pulled pork sandwich and the ribs are both pretty good. The sides are just average though. Eli's definitely has a good pulled pork sandwich but would I go as far as saying they have the best in town? No I wouldn't. The place is over hyped and you'll be lucky if you can get your food in less than 1 hour during weekend evenings. Try Jim Dandy's BBQ for great ribs without the wait time.
(4)Michelle B.
My husband and I went here for a lunch date but I will come back with our toddler soon. They have an outdoor eating area with plenty of space for little ones to roam, scream, throw a ball, whatever. The turkey sandwich was good but I had a bite of my husbands pork bbq and I think I'll get that next time. Nothing remarkable about the mac n cheese, but its still yummy. They also have glass bottles for coke, which is always fun. And as you leave, don't forget to drop that bottle into the clearly marked recycling bin.
(4)Laura H.
Best BBQ hands down. Try the hotdogs: topped with bbq sauce, coleslaw and pork crispins - SO GOOD. You can get two dogs, two sides and a Mexican Coca-Cola for $10. Cheap eats y'all. Just remember it's cash only!
(5)Patricia L.
I can't aptly describe how excited I was to venture east along the river to the newly finished restaurant space for Eli's BBQ. After falling in love with owner Elias' pulled pork sandwiches at Findlay Market, could this new space live up to expectations? Absolutely. First, let me touch on the space itself. I wouldn't be surprised if the drive down Riverside might deter some casual BBQ seekers. While nice, it isn't the most populated side of town, but parking is abundant and it takes less than 10 minutes to get there from downtown Cincinnati. The service is fast, so I think it is a perfectly feasible work lunch spot. Really, the slightly hidden locale just adds to the charm, and the thought of carrying out BBQ to one of the dozen of nearby parks this summer already has my heart aflutter. Ah... Anyhow, speaking of charm, the new space is full of it. It's simple, but adorable. High, white beadboard lines the walls. The floors are checkered tile. Low and high-top wooden tables line both sides of the dining room with rustic tin light fixtures overhead. The menu is on a chalkboard in the rear, and there is a record player. Playing while we ate? Willie Nelson. Perfection. As for the food, the pulled pork sandwiches haven't changed a bit from Findlay-- they are still wonderful. For those of you who have missed out thus far, there is a nicely toasted bun topped with a pile of pork, cole slaw, and a drizzle of Eli's signature BBQ sauce. The pork is well-smoked and not the least bit soupy like other local spots. Thanks to a toss on the flat top, it has a nice crunch to it. I love the contrast of the crunchy and creamy coleslaw, and the BBQ sauce on top is rich and has the perfect balance of spice and sweet. I've been all across the south, and this is a great pulled pork sandwich. What I looked forward to in the new space was the availability of sides, and like the pulled pork, they didn't disappoint. The macaroni and cheese is simple, but creamy. My kids both approved wholeheartedly with two thumbs up. I like it with a bit of the BBQ sauce sprinkled on. The cornbread is moist with a touch of sweetness, and my favorite, the baked beans, are spicy and tangy and perhaps the best I've ever had (don't tell my mom). The kids have also tried the all-beef hotdogs, which are topped with a bit of pork and coleslaw, and they are great as well. There are also a few other sides on the menu we haven't tried yet, as well as ribs and turkey. For those of you who decide where to eat based on drinks, Eli's also has Coke products in cans and bottles, as well as water. What I appreciate is that everything is done with a savvy, handmade touch, yet nothing is fancy or pretentious. It's one thing "big city" places seem to miss the mark on the most. They make quality correlate with stuffy, but Eli's doesn't. The space, the staff, and the food are all incredibly welcoming. Go. Now.
(5)Rachael W.
Great food, BYOB, live music, pet-friendly outdoor seating and a hang-out-all-afternoon kind of atmosphere...a total win!
(5)Cynthia R.
Sometimes I don't write reviews for places because I don't know what else I could say that hasn't already been said. After 230 Eli's reviews and counting, there isn't much more to add. But since this would be in my top 10 recommendations of where to eat in the city, I felt like it was time to add my own love. So go for the food, go for the atmosphere, and go to support a great local independent restaurant!
(5)Monika N.
When I finished my first meal at Eli's I just sat and stared with a smile on my face - I couldn't believe my food was all gone. I left Eli's with a full belly and a determination to return very soon. What I'm really trying to say is that Eli's serves hands-down the best bbq I've ever had - even better than the places I've had in Kansas City. I had the pulled pork sandwich and my husband had the hot dogs. After trying both I couldn't decide which one was better - next time I go there I'm definitely going to have a hard decision to make! We shared two sides - mac and cheese and mashed potatoes. The two main dishes and two side dishes between two of us was perfect - I left quite full but not overstuffed. The meat was perfectly seasoned and smoked - no need to drench in bbq sauce. While we're on the topic of sauce - there's is excellent! We put it on more than just the meat - while I've never tried it before, bbq sauce on mac & cheese and mashed potatoes is delicious!!! While this place may be in the middle of nowhere and somewhat difficult to find (see other reviews), it is definitely worth it! Easily one of my top 5 restaurants in Cincinnati.
(5)Jaime S.
YES YES YES YES YES! This is it for BBQ in Cincinnati. Seriously. If you are looking for honest, delicious BBQ Elis is the place for you! This great little spot offers little in the way of grandure. You get a room with tables, a self service record payer and a giant menu board. After choosing dish you seat yourself and the food is brought to your table. It is as about as simple as it gets. But who needs anymore when it is soooooooo darn good. The main event is the pulled pork sandwich. The perfectly good pork is topped with a creamy slaw and served on a griddles bun. It sounds so simple, and it is, which makes it truly special. The simple combination of ingredients is perfectly balanced and ready for the sauce bottle on the table. The sauce is perfect. It doesn't become the star of the show, it acts as wonderful support to truly complete this epic sandwich. Elis offers more than just the pulled pork. Listed on the menu are staples like turkey and the, from what I hear, incredible hot dogs to revolving items like ribs. All selections are priced perfect for lunch and a steal for dinner. Sides are your BBQ staples like super creamy mac and cheese, baked beans and the incredible jalapeno corn bread. CAns of soda and a few specialty drinks, Mexican coke for the win!, round out this simply perfect menu. BYOB and the ability to choose what is spinning on the turntable create an atmosphere that is as much fun as delicious. Simply said, ELIS is perfect. PERFECT PERFECT PERFECT! if you even kinda like BBQ, you have to stop in for a meal. Thank you ELIs, thank you so much.
(5)Sherry T.
Wow! Eli's serves some good grub! I took the advice of other Yelpers and went with the pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw on top and the jalapeño cheddar grits. Yum times two! The pork was seasoned and smoked so perfectly that there was no need to add BBQ sauce! The grits had a nice kick that offered the perfect amount of intensity. I will be back!
(4)Missy L.
Eli's is a no frills locally owned barbeque joint with a bit of quirk. The outside is lined with old claw foot bathtubs filled with potted plants. I'm not sure what I was expecting, but really this place just offers some good old fashioned comfort food and there ain't a thing wrong with that! Eli's is BYOB so be sure to bring your favorite bev with ya. The rest is on them. I highly recommend the mac and cheese. It tastes just like my mom's homemade. I'm not a red meat eater and I was surprised to see their alternative was not chicken like most BBQ places, but rather turkey! It was a delicious change up and their BBQ sauce is the thing dreams are made of! I liked Eli's because it was no frills, it's not trying to be some swanky hipster BBQ paradise. You walk up, order your food and they bring it to you. The place is minimally decorated, but the food really speaks for itself. I would re comment Eli's to anyone who is having a bad day and just needs delicious comfort food made with lots of love and care. It's a bit out of the way, but worth the journey!
(4)Michael T.
awesome
(5)Ryan J.
RIBS!
(5)Eric G.
There is something to be said about a restaurant that is confident enough of its standing in the community that the sign out front does not display the name. If I told you that the sign hanging over the front door is simply a yellow outline drawing of a pig on a dark brown background, would you know the place? In this inconspicuous place, tucked away on Riverside Drive, just west of Delta Ave in the Columbia-Tusculum area is Eli's BBQ, touted as the best barbeque in the city and I am not here to argue. Don't come here expecting table linens or a drive through. Bring an appetite and bring cash; credit cards are not accepted. The menu is simple, sandwiches are $5, sides are $2, or you can order the Plate for $8, which includes a sandwich and 2 sides. Sandwich offerings are Pulled Pork, Smoked Turkey, Beef Hot Dogs (2) or Smoked Ribs (2 bones) and sides consist of Cheese Macaroni, Mashed Potatoes, Baked Beans, Cole Slaw, Jalapeno Cheddar Grits and Jalapeno Corn Bread. I have made two visits to Eli's and to be honest, I have not been able to convince myself to order anything other than the Pulled Pork. A co-worker offers rave reviews of the Turkey and the Hot Dogs, but I cannot report on them myself. On my first visit I had the Cheese Macaroni and the Jalapeno Corn Bread. The Mac & Cheese was good, having experienced a homemade baked, Southern heart attack in shells and cheese form, all other Mac & Cheese dishes tend to pale in comparison. I also thought the corn bread lacked a little, I expected more "zip". On the other hand, the Jalapeno Cheddar Grits were fabulous; creamy and with just enough bite to give me a little scalp sweat. The mashed potatoes appear to be pan seared, producing a very light crust, very good as well. The main attraction however is the sandwich. A very generous helping of smoked, pulled pork topped with barbeque sauce and a spoonful of coleslaw. You can request it without, but to get the full effect, I recommend the coleslaw topping. There is more barbeque sauce and plenty of napkins at each of the tables and believe me, you will need the napkins. It will be a hardship, for sure, but I am going to force myself to keep going back until I have tried all the main entrees and I will report back. Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May through October Eli's is also available at Findlay Market. Either location, you can't go wrong.
(5)Sarah F.
Finally ended up in the neighborhood so had to try some barbecue! I like to think of myself as a BBQ sauce connoisseur. I've also been super wary of Cincinnatians' taste buds because Montgomery Inn's BBQ sauce sucks! First off, BRING CASH! We did not and had to run to an ATM. My husband and I both had the pulled pork. Love that they put the cole slaw on the sandwich. Anyways, VERY good BBQ! The place smells amazing when you first come in and the meat has a great smoked taste on its own. And there's extra sauce on your table. So really, you are covered. And all pop comes in ice cold glass bottles! 4 stars because the sides were nothing special. The cornbread was very eh. Bonus for being able to make any side "dirty" aka...adding crispy pork scraps. Ambience...loved it! Not a ton of room...basically a hole in the wall BBQ place with a sign out front with a pig on it, no name. First time I've seen a record player with TONS of albums that you can dig through. Beats a jukebox. Service was minimal but super friendly. One guy (cook, manager) checked in on us and sold us on getting the hot dog the next time we come. I would never EVER EVER order a hot dog at a BBQ place, but he convinced us that it is no ordinary hot dog.
(4)Nikki F.
LOVE THE RIBS HERE!!! Smoky. Sweet. Meaty. The atmosphere is fun and they have bottles of coke. They also have really good mac n cheese. The place is BYOB so that is always a favorite. It is cash only so be prepared. It is also really popular so you may have to wait but it is worth it. SO DARN GOOD!! We got takeout with the kids one night and it was great too. ENJOY!
(5)Chuck C.
totally worth the wait and best food for the value around!
(5)Suavecito m.
We ordered at the counter and were served pulled pork, mac and cheese , mashed potatoes, corn bread and baked beans with a pair of Crush Soda's. The pulled pork is their signature but I was more impressed with the baked beans and mac and cheese. I thought it was a solid four stars in my book however I like Salinas City BBQ better in Nor Cal
(4)Valerie G.
Had a very good Saturday night dinner with 6 of my friends. If you like BBQ, you'll love Eli's. The smoker smells outrageously good right off the bat. We were very happy with our pulled pork sandwich and ribs. The Macaroni and Cheese and the Baked Beans are amazing; the baked beans have a little kick to them. I tried the Jalapeno Cheddar Grits, and they were ok, but I don't think I am a grits fan. I've heard nothing but raves about the Jalapeno Cornbread, so I will be trying that next time. Overall, I was very pleased with the food and the atmosphere. We brought our own wine and beer. We grabbed a table outside under the tent and had a fun, casual dinner. Only docked the 1 star because our food was a little cold, and the line/service system could use a little improvement. Eli's is too busy and good to not have a consistent way to deliver food - they use numbers inside but a faulty bullhorn outside (where it is very loud on a weekend night)? The whole line system is a little confusing to people who haven't been there before. That said, we will definitely return, the food is as good as they say!
(4)John J.
Unbelievably good. Went to Eli's tonight after seeing it on yelp. Figured with so many reviews in a short period of time, it had to be friends of the restaurant. Well who cares, it was sick. Had the pork sandwich with grits and cornbread (out of mac and cheese which is my usual go to bbq side), along with an order of the ribs (which you get 2 of). My girlfriend has the smoked turkey sandwich with no sides. And it was all so tasty. On top of it all the service was great, the chef (owner?) greeted us both on the way in and out, and the counter girl was very sweet. I've been living in Cincinnati for 4 months and I mostly complain about how the food doesnt compare to my favorite places in New England. Well this changed tonight, finally found a place I can call a local favorite.
(5)Nathan V.
Everything I tried here: the pulled pork, turkey, grits, was great. Relatively inexpensive to boot. The surprise was the hot dogs. I bought them for my son. At age 3, they fall into one of the 4 foods he will eat consistently. Lucky for me, they are served in pairs, and I got to try one, because it totally stole the show. The combination of the crispy pork and slaw on the smoked Nathan's hot dog is a real winner. If we didn't live out in the 'burbs, I'd be hard-pressed not to make this a weekly stop.
(5)Matthew S.
I've never been here and had the food be less than sublime. Literally the only bad thing about it is that it's not next door to my house. Best BBQ in the city by a lot.
(5)Bryan B.
Best BBQ I have had in the Midwest. Cool Vibe inside and a great place to chill outside when the weather permits.
(3)Maureen B.
I wish it was better. They smoke the heck out of the ribs and they fall off the bone - but then they slather it in the sweetest, most cloying bar-b-que sauce ever, which is saying something for Cincinnati. People like things sweet here, so what can they do, but offering more than one sauce option would help if they have to have this one.
(2)Jeffrey B.
Yummers! Simply the best Cincinnati BBQ. Brisket, St. Louis ribs, hot links, beans, mac n cheese are all first rate. Perfect outdoor dining during nice weather. What more can I say, its meat snack heaven. mmmmmm sho is goooood.
(4)Manu M.
This place seems like its been listed as a local legend. I have been planning to go here since some time. Its just 3 miles from where i live, so its a mystery how i did not go there till now. Place is very cheap, in about $15 i got myself a delectable feast to-go. $5 for a sandwich and $8 for a sandwich and 2 sides. I got cornbread and baked beans as sides then pulled pork sandwich and ribs. Cornbread has a bite of jalapenos, and beans were buttery sweet. Since i tasted bbq first in Texas i have been a fan of ribs. I was looking forward to having ribs here. But.. I did not like the ribs here. They were "not falling off the bone" as advertised. They were kinda dry. It had a new taste which i liked, but i miss the wetter, ribs which fall off the bone.
(3)David L.
Got the combo pulled pork sandwich with slaw, baked beans and threw on an order of ribs for good measure. First, those ribs were probably the best ribs I've ever eaten. They were fall off the bone tender, but still had structure. The dry rub on the outside left a nice crunch and after that first bite, you can see that deep penetrating smoke ring. The pulled pork sandwich was piled high with a nice mix of tender smoky pork, with just the right about of fat and the outside crunchy goodness. Excellent sandwich as well. Slaw was good too. I was going to give this place 5 stars, because the ribs were just that amazing, but minus a star for the baked beans. Seemed to have good flavor, but the overwhelming taste was salt. Couldn't even manage more than a few bites because it was so salty. If I'm back in the area, I'll most definitely stop by and just load up on the ribs.
(4)Taylor S.
Loved the pulled pork sandwich. The mac and cheese lacks flavor, but it's not bad.
(4)Shama M.
The pulled pork sandwich is great!
(4)Heather C.
Yum! As a non-pork eater, I approach BBQ spots with a bit of skepticism. I devoured an amazing Hickory Smoked Turkey Sandwich and loved sitting outside on a picnic bench with our dog. Pork-eaters rejoiced with the pulled pork and ribs. The sides were good, not great... I was hoping for more with the Mac & Cheese.
(4)Joe M.
Interesting how some BBQ places feed you well and some leave you hungry, this BBQ joint will feed you. Over in Sharonville there's a BBQ place that used to sell out of a trailer that would feed you well, then moved up the street in a building and portion sizes dropped dramatically. $10~$11 and I walked out hungry, sad! You have all been to a BBQ place where you paid for more bun than BBQ, I mean if the edges of the bun are touching after the sandwich is made it doesn't have enough meat on it. This BYOB BBQ Eatery isn't afraid to throw down the meat, sides are plentiful as well.
(5)John M.
What a treat! I spent a year in Kansas City... Been to Arthur Byrant's, been to Gates BBQ, & I'll tell you that Eli's BBQ is as good, if not better! Great atmosphere. Great Service. Everyone seemed to take pride, and enjoy what they were doing. I took the time to savor every bite. As good as it gets!
(5)Angel T.
Went with a friend for lunch and wobbled out like a stuffed pig!!! We had the pulled pork, pulled turkey, hot dogs and the ribs. The sweet peppery rub on the ribs was too die for!! We tried the grits (amazing!!), mac and cheese, slaw, baked beans and cornbread. Only down fall, they only take cash. Otherwise the place is absolutely delicious. So good that I had to buy a small buffet to take home for the family!! Large portions, wonderful food and great service and atmosphere make this a definite GO TO place!!!
(5)Ron A.
My love for food has its costs. I now shop at the Big and Tall store (p.s. I'm not tall), I spend an inordinate amount of money on eating out, and I like my BBQ sauce by the pint with a straw in it. Yes, it's true, I love BBQ. And lucky for me, southern-style BBQ is infiltrating every city in the United States. Here in Cincinnati we are blessed with a near perfect pit BBQ joint in Columbia-Tusculum by the name of Eli's BBQ. This place is all kinds of money. $5 gets you a bombass pulled pork or smoked turkey sandwich on a toasted bun with or without coleslaw (don't hate on cabbage, get the slaw!). $3 more gets you two side dishes which are all ridiculously ridiculous. The mac and cheese is gooey and angelic, the jalapeno cornbread is a fiery delight, and the baked beans are the best I've had in my life (I think I tasted chili powder, bourbon, and Tinkerbell's fairy dust in them... they were that good). The ambiance is awesome, you can eat outside on a picnic bench or sit inside their cozy indoor seating area and fill your audible senses with the amazing sounds of vinyl records from the 60s and 70s. The staff is fun and upbeat, and honestly there is nothing negative I can say about this place (except that they didn't open their restaurant across the street from my place). If your idea of BBQ is dipping a McNugget into a BBQ sauce packet then expand your horizons and treat yourself to a culinary orgasm at Eli's BBQ. And if you're already a lover of smoked meats and great homemade southern fare, then make your way to Columbia-Tusculum and bask in the blissfulness that is Eli's BBQ.
(5)mia u.
Amazing BBQ! This quality and flavor of BBQ may not be what you expect in Ohio, but trust me this place is exactly what good BBQ looks and tastes like. You wait in line (excitedly) to order, the entire time deciding which amazing meat and which sides you're going to divulge in that day. Thank goodness there is a line because I need that time to make up my mind! I have had the pulled pork, smoked turkey, and obviously the ribs, all of which are flawless. The ribs are hearty sized with plenty of tender meat that practically falls of the bone. The smoked turkey has a great spice to it that I have not tasted at any other BBQ joint. Not only is the BBQ itself amazing, the sides are great as well. The jalapeno cheddar grits are unbeatable. Cornbread is sweet and spicy. The only bad part I have run into at Eli's is the mac and cheese :( It tastes like Kraft unfortunately. Not only is the food great, but so is the setting. Most of the seating is outside on huge picnic tables. BYOB, grab a seat, and be ready to heave a great time. Eli's is a must go! And, if it were up to my husband we would probably go everyday!
(4)Brandon R.
If you haven't been to Eli's, Take a long hard look in the mirror....... You don't have what it takes to be somebody. Not now.. Not ever.. The pulled pork is great ! Why no beef though? And cash only..... Really?
(4)Brian H.
CASH ONLY This wasn't a problem for me luckily, because this was great BBQ. I have only eaten outside, the inside seemed a bit cramped. There are tables and a grassy park out back that makes a great spot for a meal when the weather is nice. Everything I have had has been amazing, it is cheap, and it is BYOB! What more can you ask for? I would definitely recommend this as a great place for a date or group of friends.
(5)Curtis S.
Best BBQ I have had in Ohio. Cool building and decor. The sides are really good, especially the jalapeño grits. I would highly recommend this restaurant.
(5)Jason R.
When I first heard about this place I rushed to get my favorite food: pulled pork sammiches. It was incredible, to say the very least. I thought it was the bestest pulled pork sandwich I had ever had in my life. HOWEVER, I have one prevailing issue which I can never escape. I'm handicapped - could not get inside. Not accessible to the likes of me. But, my companion went inside and got my food. So, sez I, can't come here without help. It was OK weather so we sat outside. Fast forward, I went again today with some "help". This time, I went to a side door with the steps and handrail. Door had no handle on the outside. Sign said "Exit. Use Front Door". So, this time, my help got carry out and we carted it home. Too cold to eat outside. The pulled pork was very, very, unpalatibly salty. The mac and cheese was too much - like pure velveeta - it solidified into a brick on the way home. I'm sorry, Eli's, but I have added you to the places I'm not inspired to try for. Just remember: handicapped people have money, too. We get hungry and we like to eat out as much as "normal" people do.
(2)Ann S.
Delish! After reading many reviews, I thought that it might be too hyped up and not as good as I had imagined. Much to my surprise, it was all that! Went late on a Sunday night, and it was dark and quaint and not very busy. I ordered takeout and the young lady who waited on my was very friendly and attentive. Food came out hot and fast. Mashed potatos are okay (I would pick a different side next time I go) and cornbread (good, but would also venture out next time to try another one of their sides). Try it out. Great little spot to hang out and enjoy some great food!
(4)Scott M.
I hear the food is great, but they won't answer their phone phone at 1 PM on a Saturday. Their posted hours state they should be open. Sorry guys, but a business that won't answer their phone during business hours won't get my business.
(1)Allison K.
Great barbecue! The pulled pork had great flavor and was perfectly moist, served on a toasty bun. Definitely go for a platter with baked beans and jalapeño cheddar grits--so worth it!
(5)Russ S.
Great BBQ and atmosphere. - Just don't forget your cash or checks. - They do not take credit cards.
(5)Amy G.
Had an early dinner at this place, around 6:30. There were a few open tables available. Yes, they have a record player, turned way up. Made conversation kind of difficult. The pulled pork was okay. Really smoky. Gave me heartburn the rest of the night. Like that liquid smoke flavoring does. Only one barbeque sauce. Very bland. Cole slaw was tasty, the baked beans were very generic. The mac and cheese was good. The cornbread was moist, just not much flavor. I have mixed feelings about this place. The folks are very nice, service is fast. But the food just didn't wow me. Don't think I will make a return trip, too many other places to try.
(3)Jeremy B.
I heard about this place on Yelp a while ago and have been jones-ing for it for quite some time. I was in the Columbia Tusculum area today playing a little golf when my friend and I wanted a bite to eat. We Yelped the area and his phone showed Eli's where apparently his friend was having a going away party. And as I have wanted to go for a while, this was too perfect to miss. This is unlike any other restaurant I have reviewed in Cincinnati. Often when you go to a restaurant, you may ask about the dining experience; was it casual or formal, did it have a theme like a sports bar or Italian joint. This is nothing like I have ever had before. I don't know if it's because he was having a get together there, but it seemed like a cookout with some of the best bbq I have ever had. We walked up and the restaurant is surrounded by green space and picnic tables, with people eating at the tables, surrounding the smoker and it's intoxicating aroma, and even playing beersbee right next to the restaurant. My friends friend told us to put an order inside and come back out so we did. The inside looked cozy and nice, but it was not meant for us. We walked through the dining area and placed an order for a $5 Pulled Pork Sandwich, a $2 side of mashed potatoes, and a $2 Crush soda. 9 bucks (in cash btw) is one of the best deals I've paid for a meal like this. The pulled pork was INCREDIBLE. Hands down the best I've had. It was not overly saucy, but rather relied more on it's natural flavor and spices instead of gollops of heavy sauce. It also had a wonderful crispness to it, almost like gristle, and I suspect they throw it on a flat top. That was amazing. They also added cole slaw to it to finish it off; excellent! And the mashed potatoes were incredible. Wonderfully seasoned and they too were finished on a flat top to give it a potato-pancake feel, but it was just a crust, giving you multiple textures in one bite. Brilliant. So really I just had a fantastic time. I was given a beer by the guy going away and enjoyed my food, had some conversation and sat and relaxed in the grass. It was one of the best culinary experiences I've ever had in Cincinnati, and I highly, highly recommend it for fans of pulled pork.
(5)Bradley G.
I had the immense pleasure of having Eli's before I moved to Texas. I've yet to find a single pulled pork sandwich, smoked brisket or rack of ribs better than I had at one visit to Eli's. If I was Shel Silverstein, I would've written a song about this place and sent it to Johnny Cash. But essentially this place has all of the qualities you're looking for in a restaurant. It's really amazing food, made apparent by the external smokers tacked to the side of the building, and the crew of happily bearded workers visually pouring love and craft into each cut of meat. The price is too little, and the servings are just right. And a lot of you are probably familiar with the the stand they had in Findlay Market. It's surprising that moving to a physical location hasn't really made them lose that feel. You'll probably miss the parking, and the place is awkwardly arranged to not make it too obvious you're in a house. Regardless, it's amazing food. You can take kids, you can take your girlfriend (I did!) and you can avoid having to avoid each other in lieu of TVs and gimmicks. This is the kind of place that the community needs to foster. So go there. It's as simple as that. You need a place to eat, and everyone likes good BBQ.
(5)Doug A.
The food here is outstanding. Probably the best BBQ place I have ever been to. The only downside is that it is cash only.
(5)Jessalynn S.
My bf and I hadn't made dinner plans on Valentine's Day (oops), so about 6 pm I suggested that we head over and check out Eli's, of which I'd heard much good from other Yelpers. It's a short drive down the road from my apartment in East Walnut Hills, which may prove dangerous. Because Eli's is DELICIOUS. Eli's is pretty small and has limited seating, but when we walked in only a few of the tables were full. I felt rather proud of myself for finding a place that flew under the radar for the V-Day crowd, but boy, was I wrong! By the time we left at 7:15 the place was PACKED. So as a warning, expect Eli's to be busy, and maybe arrive on the early side for optimal results. The pulled pork is, as many others have said, divine. I lived for 12 years in North Carolina, which prides itself on pork BBQ. This is good barbeque. The sides were good, and although I was a little unsatisfied with the mac and cheese, it's possible that I just got a bad batch, or an older one, etc. I didn't even know that Eli's was BYOB when I went there the first time, but now that I do, it's on. Oh yes, it's definitely ON.
(5)Karl V.
Emm good food atmosphere cool 2 ribs is good for one person BYO but they have water and soda
(5)Gordon L.
I know there are quite a few positive reviews but I am perplexed as to how do many people think this place is good. I have spend two and a half decades traveling and have sampled barbecue from all parts of this county and after my fourth trip to Eli's I can say with certainty that what they offer is mediocre at best and includes some pretty awful elements. Here is the breakdown as to why they don't offer a good dining experience: The cash/check thing is silly, the location is cool but a major pain in the butt with a handful of tables inside or sitting outside with propane heaters and an ordering system that is confusing, inconvenient and overall quite horrible. I feel bad for the people that work there because it makes their jobs almost impossible to move around efficiently. Now for the food. Ribs are St. Louis style which usually means a fair amount of fat and cartilage and with these, not much meat. They are properly cooked and the dry rub is decent. That is about the only good thing. The pulled pork had a sour off flavor so bad both my girlfriend and I took one bite each and have up, it had no pleasing smoky juicy flavor, just sour weirdness. I made sure it was just the meat and not any strange sauce. The sides weren't any better. Mashed potatoes to them are a 3" x 3/4" patty of pan fried mashed potatoes that had a thick grilled crust, coleslaw that was much to sour and not sweet and cheddar grits "soup" that needed to be eaten with a spoon. The flavor of the grits was good but impossible to eat with a fork. I need to mention this meal was a redo from a carry out order from a few weeks ago where we didn't get most of our sides. The options they gave me then was generous in an effort to get us to try again and that's what we did today... #4 and out. I never jump to conclusions with restaurants and always give them the benefit of the doubt about having a bad day but don't kid yourself, Eli's is nothing special. Now if they could fix the location, sides, pulled pork and the cash only silliness then I would give them try #5 but i doubt that will happen.
(2)Kayla R.
You can't go wrong at Eli's BBQ. The smoked turkey and jalapeno cheddar grits will change your life.
(5)Jessica L.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this place. The BBQ is mouthwatering-ly good. Best BBQ in Cincinnati. I always get the pulled pork sandwich and play around with the sides - and everything has been great so far. My favorites are the baked beans and grits. This place is BYOB and they do NOT provide cups. I learned this the hard way when I brought a lovely bottle of wine that I wound up drinking out of their condiment cups. There is seating inside, complete with record player and old school vinyl records. There is also a tent outside that they heat when it is cool and plenty of grass to put down a blanket. This is cash or check only so be prepared!
(5)Will H.
Honestly, I was not very impressed. Though the prices may be off the charts and a great place to bring a group, I can't get over the fact that eating here is a 90 minute to 2 hour ordeal. It's incredible the amount of business this place brings in, and it should be expanding - it needs at least a parking lot. I would likely eat here again, but it would not be my first choice.
(3)Mark F.
For what this is it is the best BBQ in the city. The high end Montgomery Inn is all show and low flavor and Newtown's hole on the wall is a shyster zone shadow of this place. This had great ambiance and flavor. You sit on benches but you BYOB. So it is a unique and flavorful deal!!! Prepare and enjoy.
(5)Susan D.
Whoa! I don't think I've ever had BBQ this good! Ever! To back up a little bit, my brother Paul and I were in town from Pittsburgh for the Americanarama Music Festival. I found out about this place on a Yelp Talk thread and as it's only a few miles away from the Riverbend Music Center, we gave Eli's a try. Beats the heck out of eating $5.00 boiled hotdogs and $8.00 steamtray warmed cheeseburgers at the venue, dont'cha think? I went for what's got to be their signature dish, the Eli's Pulled Pork Sandwich. Now this bad boy is slow cooked pork that is so tender, it just melts in your mouth. The homemade barbecue sauce is heavenly, but it doesn't overpower the sandwich. This is food you don't wolf down--you've got to savor every last bite. Paul went for the BBQ hickory smoked turkey sandwich that looked really good, but sorry Bro! The way I see it, when you're havin' BBQ, it's gotta come from either a pig or a cow.
(5)Quyet L.
The food was great with a unique atmosphere. Pricy was cheap and easy. Simple menu but tasteful food. Would love to come back when I'm in Cincy.
(5)R L.
Food is absolutely terrific. Everything is fresh and it's terribly clear that ALOT of attention to detail went into the preparation of each component of my meal. However, I am appalled that they absolutely refuse to take credit cards. It's inconceivable that a restaurant with this acclaim refuses to allow me to pay via credit. Please, it's 2013. Allow me to pay for my meal and the meals of my friends with a credit card.
(4)Divya D.
The pulled pork sandwich is OUT OF THE WORLD !! and for 10 bucks you get the best dinner money can buy !!
(5)Kelly V.
Perfect place to come with a group of friends, family, a date, or alone!! Eli's BBQ is easily the best BBQ in Cincinnati and one of my favorite places to hang out at on the weekend. Live music, great atmosphere, delicious food. And it's an added plus that Dojo Gelato brings their gelato truck so you can add more deliciousness to your meal. Favorite sides are definitely the Mac n cheese and baked beans. Weekends are packed and it feels like a big community picnic!
(5)Thomas H.
Not bad, had the pulled pork sammie on Fountain Square.
(3)Samantha H.
I am going to want to go back every time I visit Cinci. We went on a Friday evening so the line was out the door plus about an hour wait for food once ordered. But it was all fine because we brought our own cooler of beer. So we saved a lot of money by doing that plus the food is so cheap. There was a real record player and picnic tables and people brought blankets and were finding a place to eat at least down the whole block. Then we got the food and it was fantastic. I especially loved the cheddar jalapeno grits. A manager came around asking if we needed anything and they had forgotten my mac n cheese so I told him and it was brought out fast. Very cool little place.
(5)F D.
I dont eat pork, so this review pertains to their beef / turkey entres The beef hotdogs are great and so is the smoked turkey. They have fun outdoor seating, which makes it a good place for large groups. Its byob, but there is mexican coke! Its very popular so seating can be an issue at times. My friends claim that they have the best pork ribs in Cincinnati.
(4)Jen L.
I'm not even a pulled pork fan and their pulled pork is to DIE for. They smoke it and then crisp it up on a flat top I believe so it has that all day cooked tenderness but also a little texture. Holy crap is this place good. I am also a giant advocate of their jalapeno grits and tell whoever will listen to go try them. Their turkey sandwich is also amazing. It's also a byob. So bring a cold one and enjoy :)
(5)Lisa H.
My family of 4 ate here for $21, a remarkable feat in and of itself. The more amazing aspect is that the food was heavenly. The pulled pork sandwich was delicious, best BBQ I've had since moving to Cincinnati from Texas 7 years ago. The sides were terrific as well...the baked beans were probably my favorite but the jalapeno cheddar grits were a close second. My kids devoured the mac and cheese, but of course, they're kids so that probably doesn't say much. I loved the whole vibe of this place...laid back, cash only, and now that I know its BYOB we'll back very soon. With summer coming up, I can just picture myself sipping a cold one on that porch and stuffing my face with porky goodness...mmm!
(5)Ryan Z.
I love this place! I missed true smoked bbq so much since leaving FL and I've finally found an authentic place. Is it 5 stars in the same sense that the Precinct is? Of course not... but, for the price, this is some dang good food. And it's BYOB! Try the rib tip basket... it's incredible. I'm getting hungry just writing this review.
(5)Brandon C.
The only reasons I'm giving four stars is because of the parking and the cash only policy. The food was excellent. I had the pulled pork sandwich with a side of macaroni with cheese and coleslaw, topped with a bottle of Mexican Coke. The sandwich had a toasted bun and a more than generous helping of meat. The Mac n' cheese was some of the best I've ever had.
(4)Trevor F.
By far the best BBQ in the city. They are cash only and byob. Bring $10 and your own 6pack and go home with money in your pocket and full as a tick!
(5)Jason C.
Walking into Eli's, I knew this was my kind of place. The smell of bbq wafts at you as you open the door. You immediately become aware that this is a BYOB place as you see all six and twelve packs of beer on the tables - a definite plus. You have to place your order at the counter where you have a choice of a sandwich or a plate. The plate comes with a sandwich and two sides. Be aware that the place is cash only...no credit cards. All of us went with the smoked turkey sandwich, which was absolutely devine. The meat was tender and juicy with just the right amount of smoke flavor. It was served on a buttered toasted bun with just a smattering of their sweet BBQ sauce. I had the cole slaw as a side, which was a bit too creamy for my taste, but I am more of a vinegar based cole slaw man myself. My wife got the mac and cheese, which was amazing. The cheese sauce was incredibly creamy and just sharp enough to get your attention. The atmosphere was extremely welcoming with now pretension. We sat there for 2 hours with out any attitude from the staff. With the BYOB policy, you could spend the whole night there. We were extremely with this find as will be back in greater numbers. A definite hidden gem on the East side!
(5)Paige M.
Simply the best BBQ you will find in Cincinnati. I first tried Eli's at their booth at Findlay Market. Shortly after, their restaurant opened up in the East End. The storefront is easy to miss, especially if you're driving after dark. It's a small, simple place amongst rows of houses. The parking lot is a gravel pit accessible from a side road. Don't try to turn in from the street; its blocked off by a fence and railroad ties. Once inside, you'll be greeted by a warm country feel of hardwood, old nostalgia hanging on the walls, and a record player where you can pick your own tunes. Up at the counter, a chalk board gives your four choices of dinners as well as a list of sides. The pulled pork sandwich is the flagship item; a must for anyone visiting for the first time. Looking for something different? Try the BBQ dogs: two beef franks with BBQ sauce and coleslaw. For sides, the jalepeno cornbread will light your tastebuds on fire, and the mac n' cheese is full of down-home goodness. Pricing is simple: $5.00 for mains, $2.00 for sides and drinks. Build your own order. During our visit, we had a group of 13 which means we filled up half of the tiny dining room. Kiri, our server, went above and beyond to accommodate us. She let us push the tables together, gave us cups for our wine (Eli's is BYOB), and delivered all of our orders promptly and piping hot. She even smiled as our friends played DJ and sifted through record after record on the turn table. If you're in the mood for some tender, juicy pork, skip the big name chain and chow down at Eli's. Price per person: $10.00 CASH ONLY.
(5)Katie M.
This place is fantastic! I'm bummed I don't live near Cincinnati so I can't go often. I had the hot dogs with coleslaw, BBQ sauce and pork crispins and they were perfect. I also had the jalapeno cornbread, which was delicious. We were there on a warm summer night so we sat outside with friends under the canopies. I imagine that in the winter it's hard for Eli's to accommodate the same size crowd as the inside is pretty small.
(5)Kevin B.
Cash only, BYOB, and my favorite BBQ around. When it is cold, they have a heated tent for everyone. When it is warm, you can sit on the park benches outside to make up for the 8 or 10 tables inside. They have a record player inside to play old music. Choose your favorites to entertain everyone. The food is some of the best. I've never like grits until I had their jalapeno grits. The spice just makes it all come together. The pulled pork is delicious on the slightly toasted bun. Try it with the cole slaw on top of it. If you don't like cole slaw on your sandwich, say yes anyways and you have a free side of slaw. The ribs aren't fall of the bone tendor, but thats just because of how they make them... I think. They have a dry rub with sugar (maybe brown sugar) that tastes so good. The sauce is great and not overly sweet like some other local BBQ restaurants. Price wise, a BBQ sandwich, two ribs, and two sides will run you about $12. No cups of water, everything is bottled. Unique ambiance with some of the best food makes this place a must go.
(5)Rachel R.
they can do nothing wrong. I love eating at one of the picnic tables in the back in the summer, spring and fall. Especially love bringing my own beer and kicking it with friends while enjoying their down home food. Their corn bread is so moist and terrific.
(5)Johnny B.
Excellent! Very good bbq.
(4)Christiaan T.
This place is CASH only BBQ very tender and mouth watering Jalapeño cheese grits are awesome. Dining room is small but they have a tent outside with picnic tables. We sat outside. Wish they could do something about the gnats.
(4)Lydia B.
We learned about Eli's from Yelp, being new to the area. We were so happy with both the food and the atmosphere. We tried the baked beans, macaroni and cheese, jalapeno corn bread, turkey, and the pulled pork. The turkey sandwich and the baked beans were highlights. The macaroni and cheese was unobjectionable but fairly bland and heavy. We also loved that everyone was outside sitting on picnic tables or on the lawn on blankets and drinking beer from coolers. BYOB is great. Relaxing setting and great food! Highly recommend for BBQ.
(5)Jeremy C.
Excellent BBQ and even better atmosphere. Bring your own beer or wine and even a table cloth got the picnic table if it's nice out! CASH ONLY.
(5)Sandra F.
Great dive restarurant! My husband and I got the Sandwich platter which you can choose two sides. We both got the smoked turkey and sides- mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese. I absolutely love the turkey! So delicious and not dry. The mash potatoes were okay (alittle bland), but loved the macaroni and cheese. I liked the fact that they put the barbeque sauce on the side, because I hate it when the sauce is oozing out of the sandwich that it gets too messy to eat. Staff was friendly and pricing is reasonable. Great comfort food!!!
(4)Scott M.
If you blink, you'll miss it You kind of have to drive past it, turn down a no outlet street, turn down another no outlet street and park in the back. When you enter you'll find a small seating area. This is the only seating area. You will be greeted by a record player that's hooked up to an amplifier. It's a little bit of a jenky set up, but it kind of has this awesome retro feel, like some teenager was trapped at grandma's and was in dire need of some tunage, so he just made due. The employees sort of hide off in the kitchen at back, so you have to get their attention if you want some grub. This is one of those places where you have to go up and order and then they will bring you your food, but you wouldn't know that unless someone told you. I imagine a younger version of me sitting down in the front area and getting steamed that no one had yet to serve me. I ordered the pulled pork sandwich upon my first visit and was not disappointed. I love BBQ and this was definitely up to snuff. The sauce is smokey and sweet with the slightest bit of kick (maybe not spicy enough for some). They do not provide adult beverages, but you can bring your own. I would totally come back. Fair Warning: Cash or Check only.
(4)Rachael G.
This place is ah-mazing. I knew everyone had said Eli's was awesome, but I couldn't do barbeque when its 30° and snowing. I took my daughter here on a beautiful, warm and sunny day, and it was well worth waiting for. I honestly can't think of anything negative about this place. I got the pulled pork sandwich (coleslaw on the side) and the jalapeno cornbread. The only reason I even got the coleslaw was because everyone on Yelp said to do so. Yet again, thanks, Yelpers, you were right! I actually despise coleslaw, but this is not your average coleslaw and it was heavenly on the pulled pork. The sandwich was enormous and I definitely felt like I had a solid mass of something just sitting in my stomach for the rest of the afternoon, but it was soooo worth it. You can eat inside at Eli's (loved the kitschy decor and the record player complete with a great vinyl collection) or outside at their covered picnic benches. They also have a lawn and I think next time I'm going to bring a blanket and picnic it up. It's also BYOB, so I have grand visions of sitting on a blanket, eating pulled pork and coleslaw and drinking a beer. My mouth is already watering.
(5)Anita W.
This is the perfect place to get your comfort food fix at an affordable price. Though the menu options are limited, they're all quite delicious. My go to meal is the Pulled Pork sandwich (coleslaw on top!) with mac and cheese (SO CREAMY AND DELICIOUS) and jalapeño cornbread. I find myself needing an Eli's fix every so often. Luckily I live close enough to satisfy that craving and the prices aren't so high as to make me feel guilty about eating out. It's not blatantly clear where the restaurant is when first going there. The only sign out front is a picture of a pig, but the smoky bbq smells as you get nearer will let you know you've arrived. Eli's is cash only so remember to bring the dolla dolla bills. Also, BYOB. Water costs $1. My only dissatisfaction with the restaurant. This place can get really packed and sometimes the wait to get food can be well over an hour. It's good to call ahead just to check on the wait, especially on a weekend.
(5)Pamela F.
Intensely smoky, tangy sweet barbecue. Perhaps the best outside of Orlando. Great kitschy vibe: old timey bottled sodas, blues LPs spinning on turntable, duo tone music legend art, Beadboard, tents with festival style seating. Creamy cheese grits with jalapeño eye watering hot, coarse creamy cole slaw, a pulled pork sandwich $8. BYOB. Be prepared to wait an hour once your order is in weekends.
(4)Alex S.
The first time I had Eli's, it was at their little stand in Findlay Market. There, they made only one thing, a "life changing" pulled pork sandwich, and it was indeed so good that my life changed a little bit. When I found out they had opened up a real store, then I knew I must go. Eli's is in the middle of nowhere (right near gas stations and a water treatment plant.) When you get there, you may miss the house turned restaurant, but double back. There is also parking but you have to go around the street, down a dirt road and then into the unpaved lot. Have I mentioned before that I love BBQ when it's served in a real BBQ joint? Where everything feels a little gritty and unpolished. Because I freakin' do! I was expecting more of this rough around the edges feeling inside, but there I was pleasantly surprised. It was clean, with bright white painted walls and really inviting wooden tables. Yet, it still felt like a down-home BBQ joint, like you were sitting in some southern living room, waiting for a plate of meat. You order at the counter then sit at the table and wait for your food. They also, and let me point out how awesome this is, had music coming from a record player and piles of records you could go through and put something on. Oh yes. The food? My god, the food, still one of the best pulled pork sandwiches I've ever eaten. Juicy, flavorful, with coleslaw on top and all between two toasted buns. Mmm. Prices are great, it's $5 for a sandwich or $8 for a sandwich and two sides. (I was told that next time, I need to get the hot dogs which are out of this world ... next time for sure) It is cash or check only, so watch out. This was a great time. But as always, that fifth coveted star comes from a surprise factor. Something that makes me stop and go, "Woah." It did it for me all over at Eli's - from the charming little BBQ hut atmosphere to the friendly staff to the fact that if you don't have cash or check and they know you, you can start a tab (not sure how long that's going to last, but what!) It was just great all around. Absolutely recommended. Get there as soon as you can for some tasty BBQ.
(5)Andrea H.
Eli's was a spiritual experience for me and my friends. We were all nearly in tears over how happy this food made us. Comment from one in my group as we took a moment to stop eating to breathe: "This is the best moment of my entire life." Absolutely life-changing. The buns: toasted and buttery. The BBQ: perfectly seasoned. The cornbread: invaded with a delectable amount of jalapenos. The mashed potatoes: FRIED?! I have no idea how you mastered that one, Eli's. Not only was the food the best I've ever had (really, not exaggerating), the atmosphere was so much fun. Record player with a large amount of vinyls let customers create their own ambiance. Tons of picnic tables outside offer loads of seating in an otherwise crowded spot. I'm entirely sure that next time I visit Cincinnati, this will be the first place I stop. Just remember to bring cash. And BYOB.
(5)Aubrey C.
Not a big BBQ girl, but YUM! Have only been once, but will absolutely be back!
(5)Katie F.
The most delicious pulled pork sandwich I'd ever had, and with such a fun atmosphere. It also makes for great catering food! Plain and simple... this place rocks.
(5)Jimmy W.
I guess I'm going to seem like a heretic but I try to be honest in my reviews. I am not a big fan of the BBQ at Eli's. I've had it a few times and met a friend for lunch today. I had the pulled pork sandwich with Mac and cheese and mashed potatoes as a side. The pulled pork was overcooked and it was the same the last 2 times I had it. It was very dry and too crunchy for what I consider a scrumptious pulled pork sandwich. I had to drown the pork in sauce just so I didn't have to take a sip of my water every time I took a bite. Now the sides were a completely different story. The Mac and cheese was creamy, delicious, and everything I could ask for and then some; even dipped the finger in the bowl to not let any of cheese go to waste. I also like how they cook their mashed potatoes. It's hard on the outside (almost like they sear it) and then underneath it is the soft goodness one expects from mashed potatoes. I like what has been going on at Eli's and want to support them but I just can't go out of my way for the pulled pork when Cincy has so many great rib/pork places (NO, not Montgomery inn...smaller mom/pop places that need to sought out and found!). The customer service is always outstanding and the also have good prices on their soda/water. Just remember it is cash only because they do not have an ATM on sight and the closet one is a few minutes drive up the street.
(3)Jess B.
This place is pretty kick ass. My family is in town for the weekend and wanted a real "Cincinnati meal". After eliminating Skyline (had it the night before), LaRosa's (barf), and Pompilios (meh), we remembered the awesome BBQ sandwich we had at Findlay Market and marched down to this joint. Aside from the fact that we almost passed it by (I am pretty sure the only sign they have has a big pig logo on it), we quickly feel in love with everything Eli's has to offer. The restaurant is really laid back, nothing fancy, but really different and fun. But by far, this is the best BBQ I've had since we've parked in Cincinnati...and what a price. For $8, I had the pulled pork sandwich with mac and cheese and mashed potatoes (comes out looking like a potato cake of some sort). The cheese jalapeno grits were great and so was the cornbread. This place is a definite must-try. Two words of advice. You MUST have cash (or check) and be careful when hitting this place at prime eating times. There are only about 10 indoor tables and, while there is plenty of outdoor seating, you obviously cannot do so when it's raining, cold, or hot as heck out. But you can always get take out!
(5)Andy C.
Amazing BBQ!! I love everything here and it's easy to to select from their menu! Always great service and fast too!
(4)Aaron S.
They absolutely nailed it - this is the place if you love BBQ, period. I've tried it all over the country, including Kansas City, San Antonio, Salt Lake City, Austin, New Orleans, Carolinas, and Georgia. I'd say it is hard to beat Texas's and KC's best, but this is the best BBQ _by far_ in the city of Cincinnati, including (overrated) Montgomery Inn!! This is not some corporatized watered-down version of Americana - it is the authentic, smoked over a real wood fire deal. For real BBQ you've got to respect the meat and put in the time! Rib tips, pulled pork, and turkey are wonderful. And the sides are great, some different takes on common options like cornbread and baked beans. the Jalapeno grits are awesome. Kind of a smallish, funky, rustic, down-home, authentic retro-styled place. Has outdoor seating at plain old picnic tables for nice days. Has a garden out back where it looks like they grow the herbs. On weekday lunches, and weekend eves this place fills up super fast, but you can do takeout. Last time I went they had no liquor license, so it is byob which I think is actually a plus. I love the turntable and vinyl record collection in the dining area - very cool. You'll see a wide variety of people here, including the mayor. I agree with another reviewer that it would be nice if they took credit cards, but the food is worth the hassle. AAAA+++!
(5)Leisa W.
CASH ONLY. CASH ONLY. CASH ONLY. I write this three times, because they lost a star for this. Not for BEING cash only, but for not making it clear. This is the best BBQ in Cincinnati, by far. I am from Alabama so I have authority to make these types of pronouncements. I'll get to the food in a minute, but I need to say again CASH ONLY. When I went, I was in a huge hurry, I was picking up lunch for the crew at a photo shoot and before I left I had searched the website AND the facebook page for hours and prices. Nothing said they were cash only. We are in a postmodern world, people--if you are cash only then you need to let people know. Who carries cash anymore? Not me. So I had to place my order, drive a couple miles away to an ATM, and then come back. Not good, and incredibly frustrating. Now to the food: Well--it's amazing. NO ONE frustrates me as much as I was on this day, and still gets four stars. No one, but Eli's, that is. I haven't even been able to venture into the land of ribs, which is one of my favorite lands...because I'm stuck on the pulled pork sandwich. It comes with slaw, which you MUST get. Listen to me: I HATE coleslaw. Never eat it. Would NEVER order it. But I'm telling you, you must get the coleslaw on your sandwich. Not on the side...ON the sandwich. And you will be transported, afterwards, to heaven. Bliss. I have heard they are moving to OTR in a permanent location (not only in Findlay Market), and that will be absolutely amazing. I can't wait. Until then, Riverside Drive isn't too far. But for the love of God, bring cash!
(4)Amanda C.
This BBQ joint reminds me of BBQ I've had in Georgia, which is to say, AWESOME. It's no-frills but friendly, with a sprawling outdoor eating area complete with picnic tables and yard designated for picnic blankets (Bring Your Own Blanket?). The food is cheap, hearty and delicious. They only have one BBQ sauce, but it's yummy. There's all the BBQ favorites: pulled pork and ribs. The sides are all vegetarian, which is surprising but welcome. Let the smell of the smoker lead you to Eli's... you will be glad you did.
(5)Tom J.
Lunch at Eli's is something I look forward to each week. It is in our rotation and sometimes we hit it a couple of times. The staff is the best. All are friendly and willing to help you out. You also usually catch Eli walking around talking . I like the music selection. Very WNKUish. The new photos are great. They are some of Eli's favorite musicians or people from the 1880s. It is a collaboration with an artist in the area. Sorry I cannot remember his name. Last but certainly not least is the food. I have had it all. The turkey and tips are the best. The sides are just that. A great compliment to the main dish. They are not overwhelming but the perfect partner to the entree. It is cash only. But they will also accept Reds tickets.
(5)Brett B.
It is a "dive" restaurant. That would be ok, if the food was fantastic. However, we did not have a good experience. The pulled pork sandwiches we had were very dry. The cole slaw was like soup.
(2)Timothy C.
Passing through Cincinnati on my way to Louisville from Columbus. Stopped by Eli's BBQ for lunch and it was well worth the stop. They're cash only and the inside of the place is decorated with portraits (for sale) of a bunch of Cincinnati Red's players. They have a record player with a record collection for the patrons to pick their own music. Neat setup. Service is cash only, and the smell of BBQ teases you while you make your order. I had a Pulled Pork Sandwich (with coleslaw), Mac and Cheese, and Baked Beans. Everything was delicious! The pulled pork had a fantastic smokey flavour, though slightly on the dry side for me. I would have added a bit of BBQ sauce but I didn't want to mask the smokey flavour. The Mac was cooked firm and the cheese was gooey. The Baked Beans had a nice consistency and a tiny kick to them. I ordered a "Ale 8 One" (Pronounced "A Late One") which is a Sprite/Ginger Ale mix. Something I've never had before so it added to the charm of this place. I planned to swing by again on my way back to Columbus but drove through on Easter Sunday, so they weren't open (Though they're normally open on Sundays).
(4)Mike B.
This is the spot. Great food, awesome music system, and good service.
(5)Daniel O.
Eli's BBQ is a wonder. Simply put, this is one of, if not the, best sandwiches I have ever eaten. I can't go to Findlay Market on a weekend without getting a sandwich, and their permanent location has even more to offer. The tender, hickory-smoked pulled pork is served drizzled with a fantastic sauce, under a pile of delicious (and I believe homemade) cole slaw, all on a toasted bun. Its vintage-rustic aesthetic, complete with vinyl record player, completes the experience. With a sandwich for only $5 and a plate (with two sides) for just $8, the value is incredible. I cannot recommend this restaurant highly enough. Oh, and they cater too. My wife and I love it so much we chose it for our rehearsal dinner.
(5)TJ I.
This place is on another level. Support the little guys.
(4)Rick C.
Great food as always. We love this place. Best BBQ in Cincinnati! If you haven't tried the hot dogs and grits its a must. Happy eating!
(5)Todd M.
Eli is a cool guy and loves to chat. BBQ sauce is good. I like "wet" sandwiches so the bottles on the table are a plus. Baked beans have a great flavor. Cost is more than reasonable. I hope they can add an outdoor space this summer.
(5)Eric M.
The best BBQ in the city period. The only thing I would say that it lacks is that their menu is somewhat limited but they have mastered all of the things that they offer and they only accept cash or Red's tickets (not sure exactly how they barter with your tickets). You can BYOB, eat outside on their picnic benches, and play music on their record player. This is a great place to bring out of towners who are BBQ fans.
(5)Joel S.
What is there to say about Eli's that hasn't already been said in one of their 200+ reviews? Nothing. Just go there and eat, you won't regret it. Get the jalapeno cheese grits.
(5)Brian R.
No other BBQ like this in the city...
(5)Ryan B.
a million times, yes.
(5)Andrew W.
I love this place. The food is amazing, some of the greatest BBQ I've ever had. Staff is usually quite happy and happenin and engaged. The ONLY down side is the place is very small and has become quite popular. BYOB! or don't. They offer bottled and canned soda.
(5)Marie E.
Great place to have a picnic! Sure you could go to Ault park or one of the other parks around town but then you would have to prepare food and you wouldn't get to bring any alcohol for fear of getting a ticket. Why not just go to Eli's where they provide picnic tables, a restroom that is always open, allow you to BYO, and provide a tent to keep you dry if it rains. There is a big open grassy area where your kids can run around (granted you do have to watch them because it it right by the road unless you move in towards the non-tented area). The food it cheap too. $16 was our bill (not including the alcohol we brought) for a delicious pulled pork sandwich, ribs and sides. If you aren't sure you are up for it take a drive by the place any night and you will smell the BBQ cooking up for the next day. There is some indoor seating but really why would you sit inside when there are picnic tables and grass. Bring a light source of some kind if you go at night. We used IPhone flashlights under a bottle of wine which actually worked really well. Well Done Eli's!
(5)Julianne K.
The absolute best BBQ in Cinncinati! I crave it more than I care to admit. I compare all other BBQ in Cincinnati to it and it can't be beat. The pulled pork and smoked turkey are perfectly smoked and are so good, you don't even need to use sauce. But the sauce is so good!!!! Each bite is a dilemma - with or without sauce! The sides are amazing too. For the longest time, I would only eat my family's recipe for baked beans but then Eli's changed that. The jalepeno cheddar grits is so good and so is the cornbread and then there's the coleslaw! It's so cheap too! $8 for a sandwich and 2 sides - crazy! I have just made myself hungry and must go to Eli's now.
(5)David V.
Big bones...got the four bone rib plate...was plenty...beware...only take cash and check...one one kind of sauce available on the table...
(4)B Q.
Mmmmm...a Cincinnati fave...they're hot dogs are so good. Although I was skeptical of all the toppings (I usually don't even allow mustard on my dogs), it was soooooo good. BYOB to wash it down! The baked beans were some of the best I've had. I like the cornbread, but it's a little too spicy for me. Great record collection!
(5)Becky A.
OMG I love Eli's. I thought my husband was being bowled over by their hipster decor, but their food is actually really good. I grew up eating a lot of barbeque, and this stacks up. Their pulled pork sandwiches are AMAZING. The ribs are good. The sides are hit and miss. The mac and cheese is gross (seriously, how do people like it? It's like processed cheese and soft noodles) but their jalapeno cheddar grits are good, and I'm down with pretty much any cornbread if I can smother it in honey and butter. All in all, a great spot.
(5)Tanya P.
So much better than BBQ Revue. This place has spicy BBQ! Oh so good! The texture of the meat is very important. I need to be able to chew the meat, I can't eat mush. It is tender but not overcooked. There are a bunch of alcohol choices even though they aren't advertised, at least visibly. I went with my kids and it was my first time, I was there solely for the BBQ. It was wonderful. I expected more from the mac n cheese I heard so much about, it tasted like stouffers. I LOVE mac n cheese, but homemade beats all others! The price is really a plus. The lower the price, the more customers, the better the profit, that's my philosophy. The atmosphere here made this place a gem for me. It's a small hole hole in the wall labeled by a pig sign hanging out front. There's indoor and outdoor seating, picnic tables out back so you feel like your at a backyard picnic with friends only you don't have to do the cooking. The indoor dining room is small and fills up quickly. They have a record player with tons of albums available for customers to play as long as they take care of them. This was a plus for my children who have never seen an album. I was one of the few who listened to albums when I was young. I am glad my children had a chance to experience this place. I am sure we will be returning there many more times. This place feels like home. Two more tips, bring cash or a check and two parking is not a problem, there is plenty of it around back. They close at 9 which I think is too early.
(4)Oyler G.
Highly recommend. Love this place! Food is really really good. Grits are incredible. Love that I can pack my own six-pack! Best place for a play date where the parents still get to have fun. Tons of picnic tables and an ice cream truck and lots of space to run and play.
(5)Mela R.
The best BBQ I've ever had!!!! I had the smoked turkey it was tender, juicy, moist, and had a great smokey flavor. No need for the bun. Add some BBQ sauce and savor. The jalapeño cornbread had just enough to add some heat and flavor. Oh the mac and cheeeeeeese. It was the cheesiest Mac I've ever eaten. It's tasted like a standard cheddar Mac if they added some guyere or provolone it would be mactastic. The baked beans were good they seemed to have a bit of a BBQ kick which was unexpected. I prefer typical baked beans with a maple so the change was new. The price is unbeatable. We purchased 4 meals with sides for under...$40. And it's worth twice that, for BBQ. Then to top it off you can sit outside at a picnic table AND it's BYOB.
(5)Mike M.
Legit BBQ. The pulled pork is amazing. Jalapeno grits are amazing. Bring a 6-pack and chill under the tents. Be prepared to wait. This is how BBQ should be.
(5)Ludwig T.
Eli's is a great BBQ place with good food and a fun atmosphere. You can sit outside at one of their many picnic tables and bring your own drinks. I've even seen people with their own birthday cakes. Prices are reasonable, and the combination of their pulled pork and cole slaw is a real treat. When the weather is nice and you are sitting outside with people laughing and kids running around it reminds me of a big family picnic. The last time I went we got our food in about 15 minutes, although it can take as long as 45. The biggest obstacle is finding the place for the first time. You have to keep your eyes peeled for the little pig sign out front, but it is well worth the trip!
(4)Jessi G.
I love Eli's. I think they have the best BBQ in Cincinnati, hands down. I always get the pulled pork sandwich (slaw on top!), and my fiance always get the ribs. When you're getting the ribs, usually four is a pretty good portion size for a guy. Two ribs just doesn't seem like enough food. This place is BYOB, as many people have said, which is a great way to keep lunch/dinner here affordable. If you forget your drinks, you can buy them here, but they only have one type of beer (I can't remember what type...). The prices cannot be beat. I still can't believe how much food they give you for under $10! My favorite sides are the jalapeno cheddar grits and the corn bread. The grits are kind of spicy, so if spice isn't for you, you should check out the mac and cheese instead. The mac and cheese is like cheese to the extreme. It's is very creamy and delicious, but I don't normally get it because it's honestly too rich for me and I can't ever seem to finish a whole serving (I'm probably in the minority with that opinion). Outdoor seating is fantastic in the summer, but a lot of people forget about Eli's in the winter. You can always sit inside (they have a few small tables inside), and they heat their tents outside in the winter! The picnic tables in the heated tents really aren't so cold, and they are dog friendly! I always bring my puppy to Eli's. And in the winter your wait for food is much shorter than the summer, which makes it a good option if you want something quick or you have a big group. There's two reasons why this isn't a 5 star review. Number 1, they are cash only which is a real bummer if you don't normally carry cash on you (like me...who carries cash anymore??). Number 2, they may have the best BBQ in Cincinnati, but it's still not the best BBQ I've ever had. Granted, I am from Texas which is the home of BBQ brisket, so I have high standards. But their ribs and pulled pork are killer. Great job bringing good BBQ to Cincinnati, Eli's!
(4)Kara W.
What is there to say about Eli's that hasn't already been said? The pulled pork is amazing, the prices are great, and the grilled mashed potatoes are quite possibly my favorite. Something about that little bit of char just make them special. Glass bottled drinks, records playing inside, and a nice outdoor area that is covered and heated in winter. My only negatives? I wasn't impressed by the mac n cheese. I gave it a few shots, but the only way I really liked it was smothered in their bbq sauce. Lastly, cash only. I understand it's a small business, but cash is not the norm these days and they are definitely popular enough to afford Square or something like it.
(4)Rachel K.
Prices are pretty good for the amount of food you get. I had their plate which included pulled pork sandwhich, jalapeño cornbread and Mac and cheese. Their barbecue sauce and the jalapeño cornbread were the best part. Not a fan of the Mac and cheese, it looked like it should be creamy and smooth, but it was just kinda chunky without any flavor. The pulled pork was decent and there was a lot of meat on the sandwich which was good. I didn't get one, but I like how they have bottled coke and other drinks.
(3)Bridget S.
Not typically a fan of barbecue, but I have to hand it to Eli's. Their pulled chicken sandwiches are delicious. I also love the Mac and cheese. This place can give the south a run for its money.
(4)Tiera A.
Finally, I made it to Eli's! After seeing this place pop up on "Must have" and "Best Of" lists for quite some time, I knew I needed to try this place and SOON! On a day like today, when I am really missing summertime, (it's currently 18 degrees outside as I'm writhing this) I figured some good ol bbq could put me in the right mood. As I've heard time and time again, that the food here is REALLY good! I'll be honest, it wasn't the best bbq I've ever had (I've spent some time in the south) but by far some of the best in Cincy. I ordered the smoked turkey sandwich and it was absolutely delicious. The turkey was smoked to perfection and the amount of sauce on the bun was just right. You know how some places put so much sauce on the bun that your sandwich completely falls apart? Well that didn't happen here. I was totally expecting it but nope, it was perfect! For my sides, I had baked beans and the jalapeño grits. The baked beans were good but THE JALAPEÑO GRITS CHANGED MY LIFE! My experience at Eli's was all that I could've asked for and they definitely lived up to all of the hype. I can't wait to go back when it's warm out with a group of friends and a couple of brews.
(4)Jonathan R.
Elis is one Barbecue joint I talk about a lot, let's start off like that, I Love This Place!!! While traveling I always look for the best BBQ in ever city I stop in, that's what I love to do. After eating great BBQ from all over, no matter what, Elis always comes to mind when I think of my favorite places to eat BBQ - barbecue I always get the BBQ pork sandwich and the small rib add-on with two sides and a drink for less the $15 The ribs have a rub on them that's so good you don't need sauce,, even tho I put a tad on in between bites most of the time, their sauce is on point! Amazing sauce!! Pork sandwich here is the absolute best in my mind, just give them a visit and enjoy for yourself, because this my friend, is some of the best BBQ in America!!!
(5)Jeff P.
Per usual I like to give a full review of the customer experience at the restaurant from the time you walk in to the time you leave and everything in between. Unfortunately Eli's is at a huge disadvantage with their set up on the inside. The space is narrow and the seating is limited ( about four seats per table with a total of 6 tables altogether). It was a good creative thought to have an ole school record player with some decent music. Once we ordered the cashier/waiter was giving off an impatient "I'm ready to go/please don't dine in vibe." It was close to the time for the restaurant to close so it was excused. Ironically, he turned out to be a decent guy. When it was time to pay the gentleman indicated that they do not accept debit/credit which was totally inconvenient given that no one warned us. I cannot understand why this is the case but maybe they should warn customers prior to entering the restaurant. Since I read the reviews prior to visiting I tried the pulled pork sandwich, "dirty" Mac and Cheese, cole slaw, and jalapeño cheesy grits. The BBQ was AWESOME! Probably the best in Cincinnati but the sides were a huge disappointment, HUGE. My family tried the mashed potatoes (gross) and the baked beans (ok). I hope to try the jalapeño cornbread, I hear it's great. Overall, I recommend this place because of the wonderful BBQ. Eli's need better sides and debit machines!
(3)Ashley M.
Second visit here, on a late Saturday afternoon, and my experience was fantastic. We were surprised to find a large crowd and a line out the door at 3pm but it moved relatively quickly. We ordered two ribs, a pork sandwich, and a side of macaroni and cheese and were told it would be 40 minutes before our food was ready. We sat under a tent and waited and our meals were called twenty minutes in. We ended up receiving an extra complimentary rib--score! Everything was seasoned perfectly and was incredibly delicious. I remember that on my previous visit here, I did not care for the mac and cheese and thought it didn't taste homemade. This time, it was very delicious. The meat was perfectly cooked and I even finished all the coleslaw even though I hate coleslaw. This is definitely one of my Cincinnati favorites and I cannot wait to eat here again. You can't go wrong with Eli's!
(5)Vicky N.
Yeah yeah, there are already so many reviews for Eli's BBQ, but I just have to say one thing: don't you dare slather the ribs with more barbecue sauce! This was a mistake I made the first time around, so the flavor of the rub didn't stand out to me. But damn, when I took that first bite sauce-less, I couldn't believe a piece of meat could have so much bang! It was the Golden Ratio of sweet to savory and ended with a kick of smokiness. I can't tell if I didn't notice this before from the bbq sauce overpowering the flavor of the rub the last time, or from a subtle change in the recipe this time around. Only one way to find out: come back again! P. S. Probably skip the mac n cheese next time, it sort of tastes like they use Velveeta. Mashed potatoes are still a hit though!
(5)Ivet V.
Coming from Texas was Kinda of disappointed they did not have brisket! The short ribs were okay. Was surprised they did not accept credit cards, disappointed more when I realized they didn't have an ATM inside the restaurant. Had to leave and come back with cash.
(3)Ashley C.
Love this place! So good, I went twice during my trip in Cincinnati! First of all, this place is BYOB which is great for summer days. Second, there's plenty of outdoor seating, great for groups. Lastly, best BBQ I've had and I'm not even a big fan of pork! $8 for a heavily stacked pulled pork sandwich and 2 generous sides is a steal! Everything was cooked perfectly and full of flavor. The waiting time isn't even that bad and even if it's 30-40 minutes, trust me, it's worth the wait. Make sure you bring cash, since they don't accept cards, and you'll be set to experience one of the best BBQ places Cincy has to offer!
(5)Marissa P.
Amazing BBQ restaurant, definitely a hidden gem! Their cornbread is so delicious. Seating is a bit tricky indoors but there is plenty of space outside under tents. BYOB so you can always have a fun night with friends if you bring the right drinks, people, and games. Loved the old atmosphere and classic music choices! Four stars only because they only take cash.
(4)Travis L.
They are much more organized! They have buzzers to inform you that your food is ready! Eli's listened! Food is great as always. If you come before noon, you are able to get your food in less than 30 minutes.
(5)Sarah B.
This place is SO urban. They truly did not want to be like any other restaurant, so they aren't. Who says you need cups? BYOB! The food is amazing and extremely reasonably priced. Not to mention, you are getting the environment for a STEAL! Furry friends are welcome, always a plus in my book The outdoor picnic area encourages community and makes for a great time meeting new friends. Eli himself is eccentric and amazing and just my kind of person. The Findlay Market location is just as amazing, being the first introduction I had to Eli's BBQ. You'll also find that same sense of community, live music (weekends) and amazing food at that location. P.s. - They also visit fountain square on Tuesdays, SCORE! Three amazing locations, three more reasons to love Cincinnati. As a side note: I just want to add that I have always hated grits, and always hated jalapeños. Hated. When my friend encouraged me on our first visit to try the jalapeño grits, I refused. She then insisted I try a bite of hers. Lets just say I am now a firm supporter of the jalapeño grit movement, and don't ever visit without a side of em!
(5)Ryan P.
There really isn't anything I can say about Eli's BBQ that hasn't been said hundreds of times before. This is far and away the best BBQ in the city and earned its spot on Yelps Top 100 restaurants in the country for a damned good reason. The pulled pork is incredible but if you get a chance to go back a second time get the hot dogs. They are out of this world.
(5)Chris B.
I'm a big fan of barbecue. So much so that I'll go out of the way to try something new. Like, really out of the way. I've tried BBQ all over the U.S.; my personal favorite is Kansas City style, the best of which I had out of a 15 foot pull behind smoker in Denver, Colorado. But I digress. Eli's was tempting. The smell of smoke as we rolled up was enticing. The atmosphere legit. The BBQ: Disappointing. It was dry. Really dry. As if it had been finished in an oven that was too hot. And no, BBQ should not be finished in an oven, nor should it be dry. I had the rib tips, my wife had pulled pork. She complained her's tasted as if it had been previously frozen. Not sure that was the case, but nevertheless, Eli's was subpar. It might be so highly rated in the community because of its proximity to Montgomery Inn, which is in every way the antithesis of a good BBQ experience. My search for BBQ nirvana (moist, smokey, well finished caramelization) in Cincinnati continues.
(2)Gretchen R.
People! I'm telling you right now, run do not walk to this place. I was passing through town with a friend and we googled great places to eat in Cincinnati and oh my gosh the raves and reviews about Eli's! Let me just say people do not lie. The atmosphere and the food and literally everything about Eli's is amazing. The food alone is so freaking good that makes you want to punch your own mother. We were ambitious and each got a dinner plate, One with the pork and one with the turkey, but also decided to get some of the rib tips and wow I'm mad my stomach was not bigger! it's some of the best barbecue I've ever had with incredible jalapeno cornbread and a great twist on mashed potatoes. Of course the mac & cheese was awesome and the sauce is so good I could drink it by the gallon. The price is ridiculously cheap, you feel like you're stealing and it's such good food. Go to Eli's, you will not be disappointed.
(5)Dani E.
This was our first time! Drove 40 minutes to try it out after hearing all the hype. We ordered and sat outside,with the threat of impending rain we ate under the tents. My husband and I got the pork sandwich, he put extra bbq sauce on his and I put coleslaw on mine. The food was delicious, so much meat you could easily make another sandwich with how much meat you get! My son got the ribs and he said they were great! He got the Mac and cheese and for a 9 year old he thought it was amazing, I tried it and would give it 3 stars. The baked beans and jalapeño cornbread was great too. We will have to make this a regular place and come back more often. My husband even asked the very next day if we could go again!
(5)Samantha F.
The atmosphere alone at Eli's is enough to visit. The BBQ just adds a million bonus points. The outside area is the perfect spot for dining outside and enjoying some BYOB. In the summer they have music performances and there is plenty of space for kids to run around. I whole-heartedly recommend the mac and cheese. It is classic Southern style that is defintely sticking to your insides but is worth every bite. The price is also attractive here. You can get a heaping pile of BBQ pulled pork on a sandwich bun and all the extra sauce you want for 5 bucks. If you haven't been.. go NOW
(5)Erin H.
Love, love, LOVE Eli's. If you are looking for a great outdoor eating experience and you have plenty of time to socialize this is the place for you. Eli's offers a very limited menu, but every item is equally delicious. BE AWARE: there are lots of things you need to know before you venture into an Eli's dining experience: 1. There are about 6 tables inside and all other seating is outside at picnic tables. There are two tents, but over 50% of the tables are not under cover. 2. It is BYOB. Feel free to bring a cooler of drinks. You could also bring dessert, but there is often a gelato truck there. (I also recommend bringing a table cloth or picnic blanket. Especially if you get there early and need seats for lots of people) 3. There is always a long line, there is always a long wait, it is always worth it. This is not the place to come if you are in a "if I don't eat in the next 5 minutes I will likely die" frame of mind. It was not overly crowded when we were there last night and we waited an hour for our food. 4. Parking is on the street. Be prepared to have to look for awhile and walk. 5. CASH ONLY. I repeat- cash only! If you come in knowing all of these things you will have a great time. This is definitely a dining experience. Bring a crowd, but get there early so you can all sit together.
(5)James C.
The place to go to get BBQ in Cincinnati. The smoky flavor matches the upbeat feel. It's BYOB so feel free to tell all of your friends to join you for dinner
(5)Landa D.
A little slice of heaven... This is one place I'd go to again, and again, and AGAIN!! I know a li'l something about barbecue... I've had my share of ribs. I know good ribs. Oklahoma Joe's in Kansas City was my number one place to go for good barbecue. Was. That's the operative word. This barbecue joint LITERALLY made me forget the name Oklahoma Joes! It's true! When we left the restaurant, I had to google the name online. And even when I found it, it didn't sound familiar. I had to laugh out loud at that! I've eaten at Oklahoma Joe's about 20 times, bragged about it relentlessly, and this place made me forget the friggin name! Wow! I had the long ends (ribs). Tender and flavorful- with or without sauce. The jalapeño cornbread was light, fluffy and just good. Although initially skeptical, as I'm not a grits fan, the jalapeño grits were delicious! I didn't have the tips but were told they were excellent. My baby (the only non pork consumer of the group) had the turkey, of which I tasted, and it was moist and filled with flavor. The pulled pork was also tender and on point. Every person in our party spoke about the bbq for hours afterwards. It was THAT good. We stopped there at about noon and didn't eat another thing for the rest of the day. It was THAT FILLING AND SATISFYING. I have no complaints about the food. Everything was great. I can't give it five stars though, because most of the seating was outdoors. In that sticky heat? Uh, no thanks. Hot, humid, flies everywhere...ugh. So we opted to stalk the tables indoors until one of the five became available. Other than that, it was heaven on Earth! Damn right, I'll be back! Everytime I'm in the area. Heck, I might just take another road trip strictly for more Eli's bbq!! It's just that good.
(4)Vince J.
I actually own a BBQ restaurant. Was traveling and came across this gem! Great pulled pork! I like the idea of the smoker in the alley! Very cool! I wish they allowed that in Chicago! They have the classic propane or gas and wood smoker that you simply through meat in and let it cook. Nothing complex here. Sauce is on point - sweet, not vinegar. The menu is super small, nothing complexity here ( no brisket ). They do serve rib tips, which is def odd and they get major point for having these... Overall, I'm very hard to please, and they did a great job. Place has your typical BBQ "shack" vibe. Def make a stop if you are in the area!
(4)Kaitlyn W.
Very cool atmosphere. Decor is artsy and they only play vinyl. BYOB and that's fun. Outdoor seating when it's nice. Meat products- pretty good. We had the ribs and pulled pork. The pork is more stringy, not chunked or pulled. The toasted bun was a nice touch. I think there is only one kind of sauce bc that's all we were offered, but it's nothing but a normal bbq sauce. If you want brisket, you won't find it here which is just odd for a bbq place. They do have hotdogs though... ??? All of Eli's sides are extremely okay. Cole slaw is nothing special, M&C tastes like noodles and a cheese sauce from a pouch, beans weren't bad with a smokey flavor, corn bread was very dry, mashed potatoes taste instant. Eli's isn't bad, I just feel like it's overrated. If you are looking for a subpar BBQ joint, this is your place.
(3)Robbin B.
So I've revisited Eli's and I must say I am going there more often. I prefer the Findlay Market location. You can't eat in but I usually get take away anyway so that doesn't matter. There is a huge difference in the quality of the product between the two locations but I will forever go to the satellite location from now on. If it's nice outside and you want to sit to eat Findlay has outdoor seating and a beer garden so it's all good. I'm still not crazy about the sides. My current favorites are baked beans and cole slaw. The beans are too sweet and the slaw is still too vinegary. I mix them together and achieve a perfect balance. The pulled pork sandwich is really good and the jalapeño cornbread was okay.
(5)Nick T.
Awesome pulled pork and slaw sandwich. It gets real messy but so good. Eli's is super cheap - $8 for sandwich and 2 sides (Mac n cheese/jalapeño cornbread is the way to go). It's also BYOB so you can bring your own alcohol if you want. Lots of outdoor seating, but it does get crowded. Be prepared for the communal seating and to rub some elbows with others.
(4)Leslie R.
Drove specifically from Indy yesterday to try Eli's. It was well worth the drive. The place is perfect. I loved the interior... the records, simple decorations, chalkboard menu, clean tables. I had the pulled pork sandwich with slaw. Which was truly the most amazing sloppy mess of a sandwich. For sides I had the flat grilled mashed potatoes and the Mac & Cheese. The potatoes were amazing with grilled char. The Mac & Cheese was my least favorite part of the meal (I only took two bites..)... It quickly congealed into a cheesy un-eatable mass of noodles. I also enjoyed the pricing strategy.... No "ending in .99" prices here. Want a sandwich? $5. Wanna add sides? Another $3 for two. Wanna drink? It's a buck. For two people it was $19. $19 well spent for a great meal!!!! ps. This is a CASH ONLY establishment!!!!
(5)Beth F.
HOLY YUM SAUCE YELP PEEPS!!!! Good gravy this place is even better than I imagined. If Eli's were a person I'd compare them to the Duke's of Hazard driving their bad ass car yelling YEEEEEEE HAWWWWWWWWW!!!! and only then would you perhaps get a glimpse of how truly amazing Eli's is. I don't know what I expected honestly but all my expectations were destroyed, in a FANTASTIC way. Ok, here's how it went... My sweetie and I were feeling adventurous and decided to try something new. We had Eli's in the bookmarks and decided on the first warm day to check it out. As we drove to the other side of town, we got a bit lost looking for it and the river was WAAAAY up. We weren't sure if the water had reached the place or not so we were a bit concerned. We realized we had blown past the place initially and turned around to find our way. Then we saw the most amazing beacon in the sky, a pig on a sign. We knew we had found our slice of heaven. Parking was totally full up front so we took the next side street and were able to find a spot pretty quickly despite seeing a ton of people at Eli's. There were so many people outside sitting at picnic tables that I was a little confused at first. Is there a park back there with some type of outing? Do people live back there? What the??? We got out and walked to the front of the place and it was seriously the coolest thing I've seen in awhile. I lived in Charlotte for almost 2 years and Man, I tell you what for an instant I felt like I was back. It was nice. Eli's is not what I would call, your typical Cincy affair. We walked in through a rickety screen door to an open and small dark dining room with amazing handcrafted artwork gracing the walls. You could smell the delicious aroma all the way down the street. When we came in, it was like a gracious sucker punch to the face and stomach that I'd be happy to get beaten up by repeatedly. Seriously. An old record player was blaring some old tunes, and as we waited in line, the menu was visible and easy to read for us newbies. There is a cooler with bottled pop and water, so I went old school and grabbed an orange crush, while my love grabbed a bottle of Coke. The record went off midway through our wait, and I heard the girl ask her coworker to go flip the record. Now, that's not something you hear every day and it was awesome. Our turn to order came quickly, and we ordered 2 BBQ sandwiches 2 sides of mac and cheese, mashed potatoes and our 2 drinks. It was all right at $20. Amazing. We head outside and there were tents with picnic tables or just tables in the sun. We opted for the sunshine and looked around. People in large groups, people alone, people with their dogs, etc. Everyone just seemed to be happy. I noticed some people with alcohol and realized that this is a BYOB place! How cool is that? It did take a bit for our food to come out, but it was such a nice day and such a large crowd that I didn't mind. When your food is ready they yell your name, so pay attention! When it did come out, wow. WOW, wOw. The sandwich had pork piled on top of it and it was so tender and delectable. I am a lady who loves some pulled pork, and Eli's did not disappoint. The mac and cheese was ok, but a bit too cheesy for me and not my fave. My honey didn't eat all of his either, but the mashed potatoes were cool! They cook them on the grill so the top is almost like a hashbrown or something.. it had a nice crunch on the surface and the inside was salty and creamy. My only complaints, parking obviously can be an issue but it's worth it. The drinks go quickly when you're waiting, so you may want to order 2 of them. The 3rd thing is that they only have one container of BBQ sauce where you pick up your food. If you didn't put enough on when you grabbed it, you have to walk all the way back up there just to add more since they don't have it on the tables. I will definitely go back, even though it's all the way on the other side of town. it was worth every mile. YUM. I just can't say enough great things about the place.
(5)Lonnetta P.
The weather was so nice last week, that a BBQ lunch date was so appropriate. I've heard Cincinnatians rant and rave over how great this local BBQ spot is so my foodie friend and I had to check it out. While he kept his eyes on the road, I looked for the famous pig sign! Street parking wasn't too hard to find. As you walk into this TINY eatery, you will immediately notice the retro decor with just a few tables. You place your order at the counter in the back and pay with cash or check only. The menu is basic and a la carte. The two of us ate for less than $20 with drinks. I tried the smoked turkey sandwich, served with coleslaw on top. He tried the pulled pork sandwich served the same way and a side of Mac & cheese. I'd say that the BBQ was tender and had a good taste, although I've had better. The tables out back is where most of the crowd gathered to enjoy their BBQ under the tent. FYI: BYOB
(3)Adam D.
One of my favorite BBQ places. The turkey and baked beans are phenomenal. Nice evolution of traditional BBQ too; smoked, deep fried hot dogs on a grilled bun with bacon, pulled pork, and coleslaw. Yes. When in Cincinnati, avoid Montgomery Inn (and Skyline) and go to Eli's (and Graeters).
(5)Megan H.
4/5 Big Momma Bellies! We took a ride on the motorcycle from Columbus and our destination was solely to eat at Eli's BBQ. It was a beautiful day for a ride, however the temps soared into the 90's and by the time we arrived, I was burnt and sweaty. Would of loved to walk into air conditioning. However I felt nothing and only spotted a fan that another patron was keeping to herself cool. This is why the BBQ joint lost 1/2 a Big Momma Belly! It's 2015, customers should be able to come in on a cold day and warm up or on a hot day and cool off. Comfort is a huge deal when enjoying a meal. The other 1/2 was lost to the decor. Would of been fine had not every single picture be ruined with a card of where and how to buy the printed pics, yes every single pic had a the exact same card. Personally I just found it annoying. Let's start with the reason I gave Eli's 4/5 Big Momma Bellies!! We pulled up and the aroma, was surrounding the neighborhood, the lack of a place to park told me we was not the only one in search of eating from this place. We was walking up and families of 10-15 people are carrying coolers of beer and drinks for the littlest kiddos! This seems like tradition, I love that! We walk in and order, my boyfriend and I getting different foods so we can share! Ordered two bottles of the old fashioned Dr Pepper We sat down and the food came quickly after being told it could be 30 minutes, I'd say 10 minutes was our wait time. I received the Pulled Pork, Cole Slaw (which I immediately dumped on my sandwich),Macaroni & Cheese & Baked Beans. My first surprise was the bun was toasted, mmmmm!!!! I tried my first bite and was completely astounded, I knew immediately I didn't need to add BBQ sauce like A1 on a bad steak! I needed nothing but this sandwich! The flavor was intense, every bite juicy and savory. I can't express enough that this was the hands down best Pulled Pork I have ever had, and I am a foodie! I finished the sandwich and realized I had not tried my sides, I was already stuffed from the gigantic sandwich they served. I had to be fair, tried the Mac and cheese, it's the creamy kind and delicious. Next the baked beans, the flavor hit me like a brick wall. What was in this cup of beans?? Was it heaven my belly asked?? I was full I was miserable but I ate all of those beans. I finally take a breath and look up and my foodie BF is smiling and showing me his clean Rib bones He was impressed! It's harder to impress this man with ribs but he had that smile. He said the flavor was intense and I knew what he meant! He had the mashed potatoes which I never tried because I was unable to put any more food into my lil mouth ! He said they was amazing! So we ride home and a couple hours later we snuggled up and realized that we just had the best BBQ ever and didn't bother to bring any home? Was we in shock and didn't or couldn't think clearly? We are now planing another trip to the Best BBQ Joint in Ohio! Decor 1/2 Big Momma Belly Comfort 1/2 Big Momma Belly Presentation 1 Big Momma Belly Overall Taste 1 Big Momma Belly Price 1 Big Momma Belly
(4)Tim M.
My father-in-law insisted that we good by Eli's in Cincinnati. The food was great, but the location/parking needs to be improved. They had a great selection of items on the menu and the food had a great smokey taste. The BBQ sauces were outstanding. The location is problem. It is on a very busy street and the dirt (or muddy) parking lot is not appealing to me.
(4)Tiffany J.
I've been hearing soooo many good things about this place I was eager to try this place. So when my husband and I were picking a place for there was no debate we were going to Eli's! We got there a little after 12 and had a 40 minute wait. They have a great back patio that's byob it cant get any better than that! And the staff is super friendly. My husband and I had the loaded hot dogs which were so amazing toasted bun pork cracklins Cole slaw and sauce these we're just heavenly! I didn't even want to eat it all at once I needed to savor these flavors through out my day lol. I got Mac and cheese and the cheddar jalapeño grits he hot grits and baked beans. That Mac and cheese is definitely cheesy and comforting, it's a little different than I'm used to but so delicious. I can't even begin to tell you how unearthly amazing those grits were! Great family spot or hang out nice homey feel.
(5)Gus W.
This was some of the best BBQ I've had. Period. I went with the ribs, and they were cooked absolutely perfectly. My girlfriend had the pulled pork sandwich with a side of mac-n-cheese, and she really enjoyed her meal as well. I had a chance to taste the pork, and it was very good, but the ribs stole the show for me. Like any BBQ aficionado will tell you, good BBQ doesn't need sauce, and like everyone else has said, these ribs did not need it at all. Eli's does give you BBQ sauce on the side for to go orders, and the BBQ sauce was decent, nothing extraordinary, but I didn't really use it too much. The mac-n-cheese was okay, but I'm not really a huge mac-n-cheese person. I'd say it's pretty similar to the stuff Hot Chicken Takeover slings out here in Columbus but maybe not quite as good. The spot itself is just outside Cinci on the East side, and we were there right around dinner time on a Saturday night, so it was a bit hectic. The actual restaurant itself only has a few tables, but they have a bunch of tables outside inside tents. Most of the people sat out there. You order first and then go find a table, and they'll bring your meal out to you (Once again, for the Columbus HCT fans, it's the same setup, so you have an idea what you're doing). The place is BYOB as well and just about everyone was rolling in with coolers and six packs. Next time I'm in the 'Nati, I'll be back to try the rest of the menu!
(5)Jeffrey O.
Like Oprah's "The Secret" to Eli's: 2-4pm... Do this solo, show-up, order, eat (on the inside, enjoy vinyl Pink Floyd). Chill, chill some more... Stab your fork into another creamy bite of Mac n Cheese (this is why you are solo, don't judge me), drink your coleslaw... I don't care... Either does Eli, just enjoy. Seriously, a MUST stop in Cincy.
(5)Matt K.
Wow. That was just perfect. Walking up from the parking in the back, the smell of Pulled pork BBQ, fast, sides are excellent baked beans, Mac n cheese, jalap corn bread, mashed potatoes are all absolutely delicious. We sat outside at one of the picnic tables and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. I know where I'm going the next time I'm in Cinci.
(5)Jeff B.
Some of the best rib tips I've ever had! I've traveled to a lot of the BBQ Capitals of the country but I have to say the rib tips at Eli's BBQ are probably my favorite! They use a rub that has some sweetness to it which compliments the smoke so well, and their barbecue sauce is perfect for their meat. One of the tell-tale signs of barbecue quality is whether they slather it in sauce. To me that always seems like they're hiding something when that is done, but here they just have sauce on the counter and you can choose to use it or not! (Sometimes I don't, their meat and rub have that much flavor!) Their sides are also all pretty killer. I have not had anything here I wasn't completely happy with! This place also just has a cool atmosphere in general. Outdoor picnic tables and live music during the summer, or sit inside with the record player! It's also BYOB so a few times we have just brought a cooler along and spent the afternoon outside! It's cash or check only so don't forget to run by the ATM first!
(5)Todd H.
LISTEN!!!! This is probably the BEST ive EVER had... The ribs were so tender and well seasoned I didn't even need to use sauce. All the sides were phenomenal. I was here for the Cincy Music Fest and I'm glad yelp showed is this place. #SatisfiedCustomer
(5)Eli D.
I'm giving them 3.5 stars for their food, based on how I compare their BBQ to other BBQ I've had; Eli's is good, but is really nothing special. The pulled pork sandwich is usually pretty tasty, but is sometimes a bit too dry. Their ribs are hit or miss. They also do not have brisket / burnt ends on their menu. Minus the beef franks, it's strictly a pork BBQ joint. However, for the money, you cannot beat Eli's. You get a lot of decent food for less than $10. It may be one of the best deals in this city. So when a place like Senate tries to make you wait 1+ hours for a table before you eat a BS hotdog which is hilariously priced at $11, you can laugh in their faces, and walk over to Eli's new location near Findlay, get a decent pulled-pork sandwich (that'll taste better than any Senate hotdog, no matter how gourmet they try to spin it) and 2 sides, for the same price.
(4)Benjamin H.
The only BBQ that comes to mind when someone says "Where's the best BBQ in Cincy?" I'm always telling friends that have never been, to come down and go with me to Eli's. SOO good. The prices are right. The food is phenomenal. I've had the BBQ hotdogs and the pulled pork. Both are excellent. And the two hot dogs are easy to split with your significant other if you're not tooo hungry. The coleslaw, macncheese and mashed potatoes are my favorite sides. Simple but so tasty. It's a great summer hang out spot with BYOB picnic tables. If there is a negative to Eli's it would have to be the cash only aspect. As long you remember though it's not a big deal.
(5)Patrick D.
Went to Eli's for the first time yesterday and was very impressed. It is cash or check only folks so be aware. Small inside but very unique, they have an old record player with a very nice selection of music. There is a big tent and picnic area outside to eat if its not too hot. The menu is not very big but thats ok when what you are putting out is top notch. We both got the turkey sandwich platter to go. My sides were mashed potatoes and mac and cheese, she got the corn bread and baked beans. That turkey is 100% on point! I must admit that her sides were better than mine. The mashed potatoes lacked the flavor i was hoping for and the mac and cheese was just ok. Corn bread was fantastic and the baked beans had a unique flavor which i enjoyed. (got a big hint of chili powder) Overall will be back for sure. If you are in the area check them out.
(4)Eddie C.
I am Stuffed! Excellent BBQ! Cousin Drew does it up right! If anybody is ever in 200 miles of this place you need to eat here. Now I can't say it's better than our Alabama BBQ, that might get me shot upon my return. But it is good! Yall check this place out!!
(5)Marissa B.
Just go. Be prepared to wait, but really, GO! If you don't feel like standing in line for what could be quite a while, go on a week night, and call in your order ahead of time. Pulled pork sandwich is a must, and I LOVE the baked beans and Mac n cheese. The atmosphere is awesome!
(5)Stacy S.
My son and his fiancé invited all the parents to a casual dinner to celebrate their engagement!!! We had a great time! The atmosphere was so much fun! We went on a Saturday night when it was crazy! But that was part of the fun!!! I ordered the ribs and they were good, I got the cheesy grits they were good also! The kids ordered several hotdogs for us all to try bc they felt it was the best thing on the menu!!! THEY WERE RIGHT!! Dee-lishous!!! I recommend this place for a great casual night of good food and good company with friends!!!
(4)Eira T.
Yum! Finally checked this place out. The BBQ definitely lives up to the hype -- the pulled pork sandwich was very good. The day we went it was well-attended but not packed, so I can't compare this to what it's like when it's slammed. The coleslaw was fine, and I really liked my fiance's side of baked beans. I got the cheesy jalapeno grits which would have been stellar except it tasted a little... old. Like they made a gigantic tub and it was like the last serving they scooped out. Loved the dining room with some old-school Dolly Parton playing on vinyl, and some cool artwork on the walls. It's cash only, so be prepared!
(4)Rikki V.
The community this place thrives in is integrated into the restaurant, live events and music, picnic area, plus an amazing menu. Oh yeah, of course glass bottle pops!
(5)Keith C.
All I can say about Eli's is "GREAT BBQ". I don't crave BBQ often but was in the mood for some today and decided to give Eli's a try for the first time. Prior to living in the Northern Kentucky region, I was lucky to live in areas that have spoiled me with high quality BBQ - still, I'd rank Eli's right in there with the best of a very small group. I also have been known to smoke my own pork in the past, and make my own sauces, so I tend to have a snobby palate. When I walked into the front door the first thing I noticed was how simple the menu was. There were only 3 or 4 protein items and 4 or 5 side items so I thought to myself "it better be good if they are this focused." I wasn't disappointed. I ordered the pulled pork plate. The sandwich came with the option of slaw on the side or directly on the sandwich (I ordered it with the slaw on the sandwich). The sandwich was visually appealing - the bun was toasted on the griddle, pork mixed well with both dry and wet pieces, Snow White creamy cole slaw and a tangy looking red BBQ sauce. I took my first bite and was amazed at the quality of the pork - it was juicy and had just the right amount of smoke flavor (not too over powering but you knew it was there). The quality of the pork itself win me over. but all the other components I mentioned just made the deal sweeter. My only desire would have been to have a more vinegar based BBQ sauce - many places have an alternative it two so they can cater to folks with different tastes - I was told Eli's only had one. I also ordered the baked beans and cheddar cheese jalapeño grits as my side items - both were delicious. The grits were something more unique that you can't find other places, so if recommend trying them if you like spicy dishes. Don't forget to bring cash for payment when you go - they don't accept credit cards. Also, feel free to bring your own drinks; they have a limited offering and don't mind if you bring them in (the ones they have aren't cheap). I'm looking forward to going back. It looks like an amazing place to take a crowd if friends or family (especially if they are loud like mine).
(5)Olwen C.
I love BBQ, and this place does it really good. I'm giving it 4 stars instead of 5 because of the side dish choices. And the fact that they only accept cash or check. Who pays with a check? Anyway, the smoked meats are good. The sides are your typical BBQ Joint sides: Mac and cheese, cornbread, grits, mashed potatoes (not so typical), etc. They do not have any green beans, or collard greens which are my favorites. I really wish they had a green veggie option. Not that I'm exactly looking for a healthy option at a BBQ place, but I really like collard greens with my BBQ. Next time I come here I plan on trying the hot dogs. You get 2 in an order and they look so good. I've only tried their pulled pork.
(4)Jarrad H.
They keep things pretty simple and straightforward here. That's exactly how I like my BBQ. Love this place. You might run into lines during peak hours, but it is worth the wait!
(5)Brian S.
Simply the best pulled pork sandwich in the world. I can say this because I have tried over 4 other pulled pork sandwiches from other places stretching the globe from downtown Cincinnati to Covington to Over the Rhine. The one thing I tell everyone- even if you think you don't like slaw, get the slaw on your sandwich. It is an absolute perfect pairing. Sides- get the Mac and cheese or the grits "dirty". Crispy pork bits from the griddle are like magic fairy dust from the pig. The outdoor picnic bench style encourages sharing tables with new friends. The wait can be long. Come a different day if you are in a hurry. Come prepared to relax and enjoy a great community restaurant.
(5)Alex K.
Eli's is the best around. Choose between Smoked Turkey breast, two all-beef hot dogs, or go BIG and get the pulled pork! Every side is amazing, although the Jalapeno Cheddar Grits are by far the best. Pick up an Ale-8 (one) or B.Y.O.B. and drink outside on a picnic bench or in a heated tent. This place is not a hidden gem and can get crowded during peak dinner time so plan ahead. Also, Cash or Check ONLY.
(5)Brian W.
Eli's is my new favorite BBQ joint. The pulled pork is amazing, as are the beans, as is the cornbread, as is the sauce, and so on like that. It's also very affordable and served fast. A couple of caveats: the indoor seating (which features local artwork and a working phonograph) is limited, but there's plenty of benches and even a grassy picnic area outside. Also, they only accept cash, which could be a real bummer if you only have plastic. Go get some.
(5)Bekki M.
Definitely worth the trip off I71 if you're traveling through Cincy. The pulled pork is the best I've ever had. The ambiance is pretty cool. Make sure you have cash, and you may want to sit outside if its not too hot. There aren't too many seats inside, but if you can snag a seat the record player is awesome.
(5)Mike M.
i am embarrassed to say i have never been here until today. finally - i found a bbq joint that is worth it's weight in sauce. i have been looking in cincinnati for 15 years for such a spot - and i found it today with kt m. i got 4 ribs on the bone, mac n cheese and a bottle of coke. the sauce was the best i've found in ohio. kt m had a pulled pork sandwich on honey toasted bread and an ale 8 (her fave). as a georgia boy, i am very critical of bbq, and i was so happy as i ate today. add to the great food the fact that there is a HUGE outdoor seating area AND a "blankets and bare feet only" section and you get awesomeness. add on top of THAT the pics of jerry garcia, frank zappa and america behind the counter and you have a slice of heaven on the banks of the ohio. thank you, whoever owns this place. i will be having my council victory party in your parking lot if that's cool with you.
(5)Terri D.
This is where I take out of town guests young and old who want great casual food. Everyone thinks they know good barbecue, and this will not be as good as their favorite, but every time, the overall experience at Eli's wins. 1 - Food is wonderful. I can't stop ordering the hot dogs of all things, and before you pooh-pooh the thought, you need to be quiet and try them. 2 - bring in your own drink means you can take wine, a couple brewski's, and relax, everyone is happy. 3 - no one could eat enough to break the bank here, so that's always a happy surprise. LOVE THIS PLACE.
(5)Dominique B.
I don't think it is too strong of a statement to say thank God for Eli's BBQ. It's just so f'n good! The meat is about perfectly tender, the sauce is delicious, the side options are plentiful! I know I'm gushing, but this is what happens when you fall in love....and I'm in love. It is far and above the best BBQ in the city. I'll be insulted if anybody ever suggests we go anywhere else for BBQ.
(5)Barbara M.
First trip to Eli's but won't be my last. Beautiful day -sat outside & enjoyed some of the best BBQ ribs I have ever tasted. Road trip from Union KY but worth every mile!
(5)Josh K.
A small little house on the side of the road in residential Cincinnati, you'd miss Eli's if you weren't looking closely (I missed it the first time). You walk in and there are a few tables inside, and a few outside, near where they do the cooking. It's very quaint and small, and they have an old school record player and a rather large record collection that people can browse through and choose music they like. Very cool. Best pulled pork I've ever had...Just a delicious sandwich. Their sauce is unreal, the bun is good, and the pork is just perfect. I also had a side of the jalapeno cornbread, which was really good as well, and I grabbed an orange crush from the cooler by the register. For the sandwich, cornbread and drink it was only $9! Cheaper than any other meal I ate on the trip, and arguably the best food. The pork was the star, but I looked around and everyone else's food looked great too. In hindsight I should have just been a glutton and ordered something else...Maybe next time. It's in a random area in Cincinnati, but if you're ever around that area, I highly recommend Eli's.
(5)Al H.
This place, honestly is the stuff of legend. Everyone wants to know that little hole in the wall place off the beaten path where real foodies go to get their fix on some amazing BBQ. Well that very place my friends, is Eli's. Such a random location, such an understated sign and building. About the only indication that this little jewel exists is a flag out front with a pig on it. The inside of the place is humble, original, and massively cool. The menu, adorned with the usual BBQ fair but without all the gimmicky 3000 sides and 200 choices. You will indeed have about 5 meat choices and maybe 6 sides. Only and you can have 1 of 4 drinks available. This is BBQ in its purest form. No fancy menus, no professionally designed signage, just good-ass BBQ for very reasonable prices. If I haven't convinced you yet, I've been here twice in the last 2 weeks..... And I live in Columbus.
(5)Elizabeth W.
Still amazing...just a few updates that make it even better...Now they have a large tent outside, so no matter how popular this place is, there's a place to enjoy your savory bbq. Also, I've tried the ribs - yum yum yum! sugary crispy spicy and meaty, I want to eat them all up! And the smoked turkey - it was good, but I like the pork better :)
(5)Rachel F.
After not being able to find a place to agree on in downtown Cincy. Graham D. found the "best bbq" in Cincy on yelp. Even thought I'm not the biggest bbq fan, I said sure. We were easily a half mile away and we could smell it. I knew this was a great sign. We both got a pulled pork sandwich, me with cornbread & mac & cheese. The food itself was pretty good. The sandwich especially. The mac & cheese was a bit of let down, it was kinda better velveeta, but the sandwich and ambiance made up for it. Elis is set in such a cool little neighborhood. It has a park and picnic tables surrounding it with what looked like a community garden. They encourage guests to byob picnic right outside and I thought that was really cool. Inside they've got a record player for you to put on any old classic they've got. I loved the vibe, and for that alone you should check it out. Cash only though*
(4)Mark O.
This place earns a coveted five-star review for the layers of flavors. Everything is complexly delicious. The pulled pork is juicy with perfect smokey notes and just enough crispy texture! Then you pile on the toasted bun with the spicy BBQ sauce. The mac n cheesy has a uber-cheesy taste that's just-before-the-point-of-over-powering and served in a thick, creamy consistency. The baked beans come with a little black pepper (I think) which adds some kick! I also love that they serve old school Coke. You know, the stuff that uses real sugar and comes in glass bottles. Great touch. I need to visit some other time to try the turkey and the rib tips. Be sure to bring cash as they do not accept credit cards. It also may be better to visit in daylight as it's easy to miss the white house-turned-restaurant exterior while driving down riverside. There are a few street side spaces out front plus an unpaved lot behind the restaurant. I've been to Eli's twice and found the service to be friendly and knowledgeable. On my second visit the owner stopped by my table to check on me. He then retreated to an old record player to spin his favorite Neil Young album. It's that kind of personal flavor that I love about locally-owned restaurants. I only wished I lived closer, so I could eat there weekly.
(5)Rahul D.
The best barbecue in Cincinnati. Pulled pork sandwich with grits and slaw, sprinkle some pork crispins in and you ate set. Also, can't go wrong with a BYOB place right?
(5)Julie T.
Cash or check only at this place, but man is it worth it! The Pulled Pork Sandwich is one of the very best that I've ever had. This no-frills restaurant doesn't seem like much when you first get there, in fact if you don't know about it, you'll probably drive right by... but once you find it & eat there, you will definitely be back for MORE!!!
(5)Will H.
I want to write and write and write about Eli's but basically what I do I think speaks for how awesome this place is... I can't stop telling everyone to go here. I tell people at the grocery store, guys at the gas station, people in the park... I tell everyone they have to check out what's smokin' down in Columbia Tusculum. I run past this place all the time and the smell alone drove me in. They only have a few tables, its BYOB and its cash only. Get over all of that and go try it out. Hot dogs - Awesome. Pulled Pork - best in the city by 10 points, at least! Grits - omg feed me those till i puke! mac & Cheese - completely cheesy (almost too cheesy if thats possible!) Jalepeneo Corn Bread - warm and just the right level of spicey You have got to try this place now! Stop reading at your computer and go now!
(5)Gigi F.
We heard this is THE place for BBQ in the Queen City. That is a sad statement for Cincinnati. We waited in line for 15 minutes to order - not a big deal. There was an hour wait to serve the food. Wasn't my meat in the smoker for 12 hours? Why does it take an hour to plate it up and bring it to the table? We tried pulled pork and turkey, along with grits, cornbread and slaw. Everything was so dry, except the grits. The grits were super runny and there are no spoons - just forks. The sauce was good, and once we doused the meat in it, it tasted OK. I'd go again if a group wanted to go, but I don't think it would be my suggestion.
(3)Carrie C.
This is easy: Go. Eat good food. Leave happy. Easy on the wallet too. Five stars without a doubt.
(5)Brad K.
Love going to Eli's, especially in good weather. Remember: cash only. But as a huge benefit, it is also BYOB. I highly recommend heading down to Eli's on a nice night, take a 6-pack and sit outside. I have not been when they have live music but that would be even better. Food is fantastic. Have not had a bad dish. Prices are very low and service is nice.
(5)Ryan L.
This place has great food but far too pricy for the atmosphere. Maybe they just weren't feeling generous that day but I was expecting $15 for 6 ribs was going to get me some meaty ribs. They were pretty pitiful actually (but delicious). I also expected a side to be of decent size for $2 but it was just a tiny scoop in the compartment next to my ribs. Maybe 4 good sized bites? I spent $28 for 6 ribs, 2 hot dogs and 4 sides and it wasn't much food at all. I'm not a big guy either. Never again Eli's...
(2)Daniel V.
It's too bad you can only give this place five stars. I would give it more if I could. I have a pulled pork sandwich with a scoop of slaw on it every time I'm at Findley Market, but when I finally got a chance to go to their home base in Columbia-Tusculum I discovered many more outstanding items on the menu. Go when it's warm out so you can eat outdoors and enjoy the live music. Love this place!
(5)Kelly M.
LOVE THIS PLACE! BEST BBQ IN CINCY! Cheap, delicious, and GREAT customer service! Definitely try it you wont regret it! i always get their smoked turkey sandwhich with mac & cheese and baked beans! you cant go wrong eating here!
(5)Kyle G.
I've never been as passionate as others about my BBQ, but that all changed after eating at Eli's. I stop in as often as I can for the best BBQ I've had anywhere, period. If you want something that's unique to Cincinnati, this is a prime spot. The atmosphere is also top notch, especially when the weather is nice. Picnic tabels and yard games outdoors. Pub tables and 45's on the turntable inside. Friendly service. Oh, and gotta love BYOB joints! The only thing keeping this place from achieving a 5th star is the wait. If you're headed to Eli's on any given evening, plan on wiating in line for 10-15 min to place your order, and another 30-40 minutes to receive your food. This seems pretty excessivefor BBQ, but I've never left without a smile on my face.
(4)Liz G.
Great barbecue, fun atmosphere. Just bring cash and BYOB.
(5)Keith W.
Very good turkey sandwich Sauce is very sweet with a little bit of kick Overall good smoked meat with a decent BBQ sauce, what more could you ask for in Cincinnati
(3)Bobbie M.
Something very special about this pulled pork with a bit of a crisp on it. Very good...possibly crisped up under a broiler?? Flavor was good, atmosphere was different. Have to say that they would get five stars from me but I left hungry. I could have eaten two sandwiches ...and I'm a size 6. Maybe just an off day as the photos look to have bigger portions
(4)Chris R.
One of the best BBQ restaurants I have ever experienced! If you are even driving through Cincinnati, you have to stop at this hidden gem. The restaurant is actually a house in a neighbor along the river. I highly recommend the ribs, even if they are a bit pricier. The jalapeno grits are also a must have!
(5)Zackariah C.
Loved the rough-n-tumble authentic southern dive atmosphere. Food options are very simple but very tasty. I've been twice now with equally good experiences. The food was very tasty and service was good. Nit-picks: I would have liked (and will probably just request next time) for my sandwich to be a little more sloppy. I do like my sauce. Other than that, I loved it and would go back again any day. The building is very small so plan for sitting outside. They have a sort of backyard picnic area with picnic tables setup outside with plenty of grass and seats.
(4)Tim L.
Amazing BBQ. Killer value and a unique casual atmosphere. Outdoor seating is clutch during nice weather.
(5)Dennis R.
The concession stand at the pro shop had just closed after finishing our 9 holes. One person recommended Eli's. I vow never to settle for rec hotdogs or burgers as long as Eli's is open and nearby! The other 200+ reviews are accurate. Simply the best pulled pork sandwich. We chose to eat outside under the awning and the smoke smell enhanced the dining pleasure. Being our first time there I was unaware of the BYOB or more importantly, the need for cash. I will definitely be back.
(4)John M.
I love good smoked barbecue and I love Eli's. If you want good BBQ in Cincinnati, Eli's and BBQ Revue are two of my favorites. Eli's has the bonus of having a funky atmosphere. If you haven't been here before and you are looking for something different and good, go here.
(4)Denver L.
After reading all the reviews i decided i had to go. Being an avid smoker i am constantly on the lookout for new recipes and tricks. I was happy to see it was at least a propane smoker with hickory chips being used. I really am anti electric smokers, its just me. After talking with the guy working the pits we went inside to a neat looking place. Seating was limited, but we got there early enough to get a table, half way through our meal we got to make new friends since they were out of seats. After waiting 29 minutes for our meal Ken decided to go ask where it was since 3 tables after us received there meals. It showed up about a minute later. I ordered the turkey sandwich with mac and cheese and jalapeno cheddar grits, I was going for the cornbread till i saw a patron sneeze all over the pan :( My turkey meat was overcooked, It did have a nice hint of hickory, but no smoke ring, no seasonings, and took most of the water from my mouth. The Mac and Cheese is exactly what i expected, nothing to brag about but definitely wasn't from "the box". The Jalapeno Cheddar grits were disappointing, it was just tasteless bright yellow fluff with green pieces in it. This made me a sad panda as I absolutely love grits in almost any flavor you decide to make it. Ken got the pulled pork with baked beans and mac and cheese. I tried Ken's pork, it wasn't a true pulled pork, but a chopped pork lightly topped with sauce. The pork meat had a nice flavor to it with a hint of smoke. Again no smoke ring, same as the turkey. The beans were good but could of used some additional flavor, maybe some of the rub from the pork. There was only one kind of sauce. I am a hot fan, and this was definitely mild. It has a strong ketchup base with some hints brown sugar and seasonings. This place is pretty standard for BBQ joints. I loved the pigs in space lunch box and the record player. This isn't a bad place, but being a fellow pit master myself i just expect more from down home BBQ places. The gentleman at the table behind us was giving rave reviews over the hot dogs, so I'll have to try that next time around.
(3)CHRISTY L.
Hipster BBQ at its finest!
(4)Emma S.
The BEST BBQ in town. It melts in your mouth. Not too sweet and it has a little kick. Mac 'n Cheese tastes homemade and baked beans are perfectly spicy. They grill the mashed potatoes and all the buns. Perfect!
(5)Steven T.
Wow....just wow! With that said, the bbq is dryer than anything I ever had before, but that doesn't mean it isn't amazing.....just not messy!
(5)Red H.
The ribs are fantastic. This is the place for barbecue in Cincinnati.
(5)David K.
This is going to be in your top 5 best pulled BBQ Pork Sandwiches ever! Simple menu, in and out, happy belly! Chalk up another restaurant to bring out of town friends and family to!
(5)Todd S.
Its BYoB!!! Also bring water or they'll charge you for bottles. After hearing about this and finally tasting some Q n slaw at Best of Cincy, I finally visited tonight. The place is small inside but the tents outside with picnic tables might as well be a part of the restaurant as that's how they are utilized. The inside was homey and had vinyl records to play, it was inviting. The Q: My cohort in crime had the pulled pork (with slaw on top) with mac and cheese and mashed potato. The pulled pork was excellent and the slaw on top is the way to go but be ready to cut it in half and get messy. The Mac and cheese was very cheesy and creamy. The mashed potatoes were grilled off and had a nice crust on it. I had 4 ribs with baked beans and jalapeño corn bread. I poured some extra sauce (ketchup based and slightly sweet) in a small cup to dip the ribs which were slightly over done as the bones fell out. The meat was not mushy but was softer than desired. The rub has hints of sweet and spicy; with the ribs sauce is not required. The beans were fantastic, salty sweet and spicy with some meat in them. The corn bread was good but I wanted a little more jalapeño. Would I get it again; definitely. Another friend showed up and had a side of cheesy jalapeño creamy grits. She was complaining about the heat which made me want to get it next time. All in all I can't wait to get back and try the loaded hot dog special. Edit: Cant name the number of times I've visited. Caution the weekends get busy and there can be a wait. Worth the price of admission every time and those cheesy gits and pulled pork NEVER get old.
(5)Brandy V.
Wow. I am in love and thinking about the next time that I can have it again. I had been there before and was not able to get something to eat, because the wait was 45 minutes for a carryout order and I was starving. I called ahead so that my husband could pick up the order and not have to wait...I called 3 times and kept getting a voicemail, I called back about 30 minutes later and after being on hold for 5 minutes I talked to someone and placed an order. The man I spoke to said that I could order and have it picked up at a certain time...well when my husband got there he still had to wait about 15-20 minutes..so I guess calling ahead doesn't really help. I had the pulled pork sandwich with a side of mashed potatoes and baked beans. My husband also had a pulled pork sandwich with mashed potatoes and mac and cheese. At first I didnt want to try the small side of cole slaw that came with my sandwich but decided to try a bite...then I fell in love. I ate my side and then my husbands. I would definitely recommend Eli's! We have a lot of parties in the summer and cant wait to order off the picnic menu and share this wonderful restaurant with our friends!
(4)Lizz R.
Amazing BBQ. If you want anything healthy, don't go.
(4)James B.
This is my new fav place to eat the pulled pork is awesome as well as the ribs but as we all know the best BBQ joints also have amazing sides. The mashed potatoes that they then fry part on the griddle is worth the trip alone. Along with the jalapeño grits. It is a cash only
(5)Stacey L.
I have such mixed feelings about this review because there were things I loved and things I was totally disappointed with. But, no matter what, I will be back! Here is what I loved: 1. BYOB- Our party of 13 brought 6 bottles of wine and some beer. The staff was more than happy to break out some solo cups for us to drink from. They also had some bottle openers and corkscrews on hand. 2. Their pulled pork- The sandwich was amazing!!!! The sauce was great and I loved the little bit of crunch on some of the pork. 3. Atmosphere- My husband went wild playing DJ with their records. I loved the casual feel of the place. It felt like eating at someones house without having to cook or clean. 4. Staff- Thanks to Kiri and the rest of the staff for putting up with the 13 of us with a smile! Things I was disappointed in: 1. The sides- We tried mac and cheese, jalapeno grits, and the cornbread. The bread was super dry and generally flavorless. The mac and cheese was only OK. The grits were the best of the bunch, but still only OK. We found that all was better with a little BBQ mixed in. 2. The ribs- A new addition to their menu that I would skip. Definitely try this place out!
(4)john e.
the best
(5)Tom W.
This is the first BBQ joint in Cincinnati I've tried that goes really heavy on the vinegar mop - mop is when you mop the meat with a sauce throughout the cooking process. It can accentuate the smokey flavor and enhance moisture, but the more you do it, the more the meat tastes pickled. Eli's is a little pickled. I'm not saying that's bad, in fact, it makes it worth the trip alone so you can experience this style cooking. The sides were OK. The beans seemed like doctored canned, but doctored very well indeed. I'm not a big grits fan, but I had the cheddar jalapeno grits 'cuz two out of three ain't bad, and turns out in this case I liked all three. Processed cheese in the mac and cheese, again, not good, not bad, I wouldn't get it again for that reason though. Ton's of outdoor seating makes it really nice, even if the view included a few winos taking advantage of the BYOB atmosphere - hey shirtless tattooed park bench guy, no paper bag around the bottle required. It made the atmosphere perfect for the area, though.
(4)Kait B.
A little hipstery/gimmicky, but the pulled pork sandwich, ribs and BBQ sauce is to die for!! I went there on Saturday and only waited 20 minutes, so people need to chill on that. Smoking food takes time!! Also, they are cash only, so keep that in mind. I'd write a longer review, but I can just say this: it's simply awesome and you have to try it. A cheaper alternative to Montgomery Inn and possibly better!
(5)Andi P.
BEST BBQ IN CINCINNATI! The first time we went was a Friday evening and it was so good we went back two more times that weekend and brought friends. We have enjoyed them before and after softball games at Schmidt Field.. although before is a bad idea.. playing softball with a stomach full of BBQ does not help you win :) So far I have tried the BBQ tukey sandwich, the ribs, cornbread, macaroni and cheese and all were EXCELLENT. Another thing I love is the BYOB rule and having great outdoor seating. I will continue to go back time and time again, its our go to place to bring out of town guests!
(5)Stuart T.
Eli's is a small BBQ joint on riverside dr. If you blink, you'll drive right past it. It's only identified by a black sign with a pig on it above the door. They have about 8 tables. It wasn't packed though. It's BYOB. One of the coolest things there was the record player and vinyls they had to play. What a great idea! They had other little antiques in the window sill as well as decoration. The service was very fast. You order in the back and they bring it out to you. It's cash only, which sucks for me since I don't carry cash all that often. It isn't a large menu but all the options looked great. I had the pulled pork without slaw. It normally comes with, but I am not a slaw fan. Then for sides I had mac and cheese and jalapeño cheddar grits. The grits were not over spicy due to the jalapeño, which I was afraid of. It was just a hint of jalapeño. The Mac and cheese was standard, but very good. Right now it seems like a hidden gem within the city. A nice small BBQ joint near the city that serves great food and isn't packed on the weekends!
(5)Jesse F.
Oh sweet, delicious BBQ, you can do no wrong.... until you do. Went to Eli's for the first time a little while back. It's delightfully obscure. Tucked into into an intimate little space off of Columbia Parkway, Eli's is a great little find. It is BYOB, so don't forget to bring your favorite libation. I would say my two favorite things about Eli's was the BBQ sauce and the corn bread. They make real southern corn bread with jalapeno in it. The perfect kick to go along with your tangy bbq awesomeness. My mistake was in getting the special. They had a deal on rib tips that day, and it left a bit to be desired. They were fairly tough and rather fatty. I did try a bit of the pulled pork and that was incredible. All in all, i think i'll stay away from their specials in the future. However, I might ask to get a jar of their sauce.
(4)Sara W.
Great barbecue! The type of place that everyone is welcome and there is no dress code. It's BYOB which I found odd, but nice for a night out with friends. The pulled pork was some of the best I've ever tasted. My friends LOVED the ribs. I do have to say my biggest complaint is about the side dishes. I ordered the cheesy grits and they were a bit spicier than I expected. Also, the mashed potatoes were subpar. Next time, I'll probably stop on over and get the entrees to go. Make my own sides at home. Best of both worlds!
(4)Christopher W.
A new favorite! The menu is small, it's BYOB, it's local, and IT"S AMAZING! Unfortunately when I went they were out of the Ribs for the evening. Will definitely stop back in for those. I ordered up the pull pork sandwich platters with jalapeno corn bread, baked beans, and jalapeno cheese grits. Reviews as follows: Pulled Pork - some of the best I have ever had. The bun was toasted, which is big in my book. The pork had a perfect smoke flavor. The best part though is that they included some of the bark with the pork. Most restaurants reuse the bark for other dishes, or keep it for themselves. The BBQ sauce was the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. Corn Bread - Fantastic as well. Could stand to be a tad bit sweeter though - add some honey! Baked Beans - On point. Could definitely taste the chili powder they added to it. Delicious. Cheese Grits - AMAZING. The texture was a little too smooth, but they were still delicious. Do yourself a favor...Stop eating the overpriced crap that Montgomery Inn is producing and make a stop at Eli's, even if it's just To-Go!
(5)Chris M.
I am a die-hard BBQ-Revue fan and supporter as the best in Cincinnati. Eli's beats them by a slim margin. Great little place and atmosphere, outdoor seating, BYOB.....dinner and drinks for $11, can't be better. Heads up, cash only.
(5)Alex L.
A small place in a weird part of town, Eli's BBQ is surrounded by no other restaurants and it is a really unassuming restaurant. The place is pretty small with a few tables but what it lacks in size it makes up in...a really small menu as well. Yeah, the only thing big about this place is the quality of their ribs. I've gone a few times and the first thing you should know is bring cash or a check (but really? who actually carries around a check?). They don't accept credit card so that kinda sucks in that respect. However, they have great bbq items. Ribs, rib tips, pulled pork, hot dogs with pulled pork on top of them, all of their food items are delicious. Add some of their bbq sauce on there and you get a decent meal for it's price. Don't expect gigantic portions but for lunch it's good. Or for dinner if you add some of their sides. I'd recommend the jalapeño cornbread personally. Add a soda and you have yourself a good meal.
(4)Jay S.
Food is still amazing. But the WAIT. Holy crap. We waited for 20+ minutes last Friday for 3 pulled pork sandwiches. Also, they were out of cornbread at 11:45?? How does that happen? I'll maintain my 4 stars for now (because the BBQ is amazing), but they may drop in the future if they don't improve their throughput and food production schedule...
(4)Dan M.
Oh man, this barbecue is probably the best in Cincinnati proper. I went down here on a Friday with some coworkers. Despite the fact that it has just recently opened, it was packed. People have already found it! Anyways, the pork sandwich I got was great, and everyone else loved their sandwiches. The sides are the troubling bit. The slaw that came on my sandwich was fine - just fine. The grits (while tasty) are pasty, like instant grits and not creamy as grits should be. I didn't try all of the sides, but from looking around the table, I decided they need a little work for this place to be truly top-notch. Maybe they'll get it together. Even if they don't it's still a heck of a tasty meal. If I've got a moment to drive, I'd probably make my way out to SmoQ. Bottom Line: I'll be back for the best barbecue in Cincinnati proper.
(4)Corey G.
I am from tx; I know good BBQ. This is the best I have had in ohio.
(5)Chris S.
Wow! Pulled pork heaven. Everything I've had here is amazing. Rib tips, Mac and cheese, their sauce, coleslaw, and that pulled pork. Dry, but crispy and moist. This is not standard mushy pulled pork, it is something entirerly different. It is something entierly awesome. The bun could use an upgrade, but you won't notice, I promise.
(5)James A.
Went there for the first time yesterday for lunch with some coworkers. Very good. I doubt it's the BESTEST BBQ EVER EVER, but it was REALLY good. The ambiance, the smell inside, the outdoor picnic and park area with tables was very nice. Great restaurant. Credit Cards NOT accepted btw. Just cash, and maybe checks. But who pays using checks anyway- BRING CASH!!!!! Pulled pork BBQ sandwich- yum. Really good. Mac & cheese- good but not anything new Baked beans- different, peppery, and really good. Coleslaw- good. Coke in vintage 16 ounce glass bottles that you need a bottle opener or tough skin to open- classy. :) Sorry Diet Coke fans, no glass bottles for you. Worth driving 30 miles to go to if you have no other reason to be near downtown like a reds game, probably not. It's really good but not drive-from-indianapolis good. But with the combo of really good BBQ and great dining area and outdoor area, great place. EDIT: so when I first wrote this review, it was after I went there a couple times during business lunch hours. I had NO IDEA how much MORE awesome (and crazy busy) this place is during weekend dinner hours. It is like a community bbq gathering. There were 100's of people outside (beautiful day). BYOB (encouraged). I saw a lot of people carrying Mad Tree and Rhinegeist brewed beer. Got to listen to live, outdoor music, a la banjo/fiddle music. A lot of people laying down picnic blankets. GREAT vibe if you like the outdoors, folksy, Portland Oregon vibe. Hipster vibe without annoying hipsters. This place just got bumped up in my book, as a MUST visit place. Be warned though, while it is DEFINITELY worth the wait, you WILL wait. We showed up at 5:30pm on a Saturday, to a line outside the door. The line lasted 30-40 minutes. After ordering, we waited another 45 minutes (quoted 60 minutes though) for the food. But it was SOOOO GOOD! We ran into some friends there, so it made the wait feel faster. Chances are, if you are local, you will see someone you know. So just plan ahead knowing there's a wait, and you WILL enjoy this place. It really is worth the wait. So my tips: 1. Go with a family or group of friends 2. Bring cash 3. Eat outside if you can 4. Bring your own beer (Bud Light and Miller Light don't count as beer, grow a pair and try some local beer) 5. GRUB DOWN!
(5)John M.
This place is very casual. You line up to place your order, then find a seat. Your number is then called. There is limited inside seating. We sat on picnic benches outside. The food was amazing. We had ribs, pulled pork, baked beans, corn bread all amazing. The macaroni and cheese was just ordinary. Pick another side. You can smell the smoke as you drive up and this place delivers. I try BBQ places when ever I travel and this was great. Montgomery BBQ is better for formal sit down service, but if you just crave great food, come here.
(5)Treetta M.
" What they say is really what they mean."A worker came by while we were waiting in line the Sat before Memorial Day and announced it will be an hour and a half before you get your meal and indeed it was an hour and forty five minute wait. While waiting we experienced the nice open outdoor seating we witnessed birthday parties,wedding anniversaries. I must say when we received our food it was piping hot and very tasty but not a large portion for sure if your hungry order two sandwiches or load up on the sides. It was nice to visit and experience I will go again during the week to avoid the long wait.
(4)Bryan D.
Delicious BBQ that is quite possibly the best in Cincinnati. A hole in the wall on Riverside Drive, Eli's doesn't try too hard in regards to ambience or decor...and it doesn't matter. The "jukebox" is an old turntable and a few milk crates full of classic blues and jazz vinyl. My wife and I both had the pulled pork sandwich, which we agreed was the best we've had in the city. The jalapeño grits were tasty, and the mac & cheese was good too. The baked beans are distinctly smoky, with a slight peppery kick. The jalapeño cornbread was decent, but a bit on the dry side. Our food came out within 3 minutes, ad the owner himself floated around the dining room checking on patrons. Limited seating (36-ish); however, with the quick service and delicious eats, the tables turn pretty quickly, so I wouldn't expect too much of a wait.
(5)Parker P.
PLUSES: The pulled pork and the jalapeno grits are insanely delicious. Coleslaw was perfect. BBQ sauce might be the best I've ever had. Priced like a street vendor ($8 for a sandwich and two sides), and made even cheaper by their BYOB policy. Music courtesy of a turntable and a stack of old vinyl albums (think Neil Young, Grateful Dead, and Phish) for customers to operate. MINUSES: It's not uncommon for them to run out of pulled pork and ribs, leaving you stuck with the forgettable smoked turkey. Walking to the back of the restaurant to order at a counter you can't see until you get to it can be confusing on the first visit. Seven tables, total. SUMMARY: If they have their whole menu available, and there's a place to sit, you'll be blown away.
(4)Kristine G.
The best BBQ ever. Eat here or regret that you didn't.
(5)Bea D.
We went for the barbecue. We arrived around 5:30 on Saturday since we had heard that the crowds can grow out of control at times. There was a line to the registers where you ordered. The line started just inside the entrance. The indoor eaters have plenty of people watching entertainment. You can't really see the chalkboard menu while you are waiting in line. So when you finally are ready to order, the pressure is on. We ordered pulled pork, ribs, and sides. We handed over our green bills and looked for a place to sit. We knew the indoor seating was at capacity so we wandered outside. You can sit on picnic tables in the open air or inside of heated tents. We sat inside the tent as it was a bit too dark outside for us to be able to see food we would be eating for the first time. Our name was called and the food was delivered to us. There is one bottle of barbecue sauce for the entire tent. That makes it difficult to know how much sauce to put where without getting up to get sauce several times throughout your meal. Yes, costs are cut at every corner. If you like the food, you won't mind. The pulled pork and ribs were the best I have had in Cincy. The sides were no match for the main feature. Mac&cheese was velveeta style, I thought the slaw was way too sweet, the jalapeño cornbread was dry, and the jalapeño grits were not that spicy. Ok, so you come here for the barbecue, not the sides. Bring your own beverages and glasses. They will provide a pack of flimsy plastic ware for utensils. If you love barbecue, this is a must visit.
(4)Nick B.
Great BBQ, but I find that their hot dogs blow away the BBQ! Love the fact that it is BYOB, just remember CASH ONLY!
(4)Louise D.
I went to Eli's BBQ for lunch and really didn't know what to expect when my colleagues asked me: do you like BBQ? I do, but in Europe BBQ is really something you only do in the summer time, in your garden. So this was my first BBQ restaurant experience. I had the pulled pork sandwich and absolutely adored it! I'm not hungry now and already craving another one! As a side I took the coleslaw and that was a little bit too heavy for my taste so next time I'd definitely try another side. The place is very simple, but the service was excellent and so was the food! I liked the fact you need to know where it is to get there. It is less convenient without a car though... For a BBQ place this is a perfect spot!
(5)Matthew M.
Love this place. The hot dogs covered in bacon and bbq sauce and cole slaw are what I get here and they are awesome. Others I go with get the pulled pork sandwich and they all rave about them. I haven't been to every BBQ style place in Cincy, but I'm confident this is at or near the top of the list. Writing this review makes me want to go there again today. Oh, they also have Coke in glass bottles, which always bumps a place up a couple of notches.
(5)Camilo O.
HOLY $#!T-BALLS, BATMAN!!! Go right now. Seriously, stop what you're doing and go there right now. The pulled pork sammich, the beans, mac, everything. Oh, the buttered and toasted bun = perfection. Immediate jumps up to a top-5 food joint in the City.
(5)Rachel G.
One of the best pulled pork sandwiches in town. The sides are great too! I've had pretty much everything on the menu by now...my favorites are the jalapeno cornbread and the mac and cheese. Everything is homemade, and the best part is that the joint is BYOB, so we always bring a couple 6-packs along. Great food, laid-back atmosphere. Only complaint would be that they should have ribs! The sauce and pulled pork is great, but I would love to see them add more variety to the menu.
(5)Jen J.
Finally had the chance to check out Eli's a little over a week ago and man it did not disappoint. Sadly, I didn't come very hungry so I only tried the pulled pork sandwich (no sides), but it was amazing. I cannot wait to go back and try the ribs and a side or two. Great job!
(5)Mitch D.
I had high hopes for Eli's, and somewhat surprisingly they were exceeded. The vibe is cool, sparse, Riverside Drive shack, and the food is simply delicious. I had a smoked turkey sandwich, mac and cheese, and jalapeno cornbread for lunch, and it literally made my day. I will very likely be back tomorrow.
(5)Kevin B.
Had lunch at Eli's today. Very good food at a very good price. The pulled pork sandwich is all that! We also enjoyed the smoked turkey sandwich - the meat was very tender with a great smokey flavor. We had 4 sides, Mac & Cheese, Jalapeno Grits, Beans and Cole Slaw. The mac & cheese was certainly creamy and had a bit of a cheez whiz taste - not that there is anything wrong with cheez whiz. The jalapeno grits were quite good but could have been a bit creamier. The beans were the best of the sides - very peppery and saucey and delicious. The cole slaw had a nice vinegar flavor but had a bit too much mayo for my liking. (Note that all of the sandwiches come with cole slaw for topping so I wouldn't order this as a side). The food will definitely bring us back and the fact that this place is in walking distance is an added bonus. My guess would be that this place will be really hopping in the warmer weather with the boaters and the softball players from neaby Schmidt Field.
(4)Courtney K.
the best bbq in Cincinnati hands down! Love going in the summer with my cooler of drinks and sitting outside on the picnic tables. It is amazing!!!!!
(5)Ianp P.
Best BBQ in Cincy, haven't tried anything besides the pulled pork, I need to but it's so good hard to not order it. Make sure you try the jalapeño cornbread, jalapeño cheddar grits, & mashed potatoes, hold off on the Mac & cheese it's nothing special. Don't forget it's BYOB.
(5)Kim K.
Just a converted ol' home, some picnic tables and a gravel parking lot in the wee hours of morning, but drive by on a Friday night watch this place light up: tables are garnished with tablecloths, picnic baskets and wine bottles and beer bottle line the tables, groups of friends play corn hole (or bags for you from outside of Indiana), puppies waiting patiently for you to drop a morsel, and the look of complete satisfaction of diners devoured their meals. Stand in the line, grab a coke in a bottle out of the refrigerator or bring you favorite kit of six, and prepare to devour the best BBQ you have ever had (bold statement.) I honestly can't tell you what makes their BBQ so good (it's some family secret or something like that), but I can tell you that I LOVE their pulled pork perfectly topped with cole slaw and with a side of jalepeno cheddar grits on the side. It's the perfect pairing. Also, the sauce. Rich, thick, savory. Note: Be prepared to wait a while on a Friday or weekend night. But I promise you (pinky promise) that it is worth it. Again, bring a few brews, make a new human or furrend and enjoy the experience.
(5)Alyssa T.
Everyone has told me that this is the best bbq in Cincinnati. Don't get me wrong, it's good! However, I was not fond of them not accepting card...luckily I had enough cash for one item. The bbq was okay, but the actual meat tastes like kerosene from the grill. The mac n cheese is not that great. I do like that it's picnic style and BYOB. It creates a fun atmosphere for friends and family. In all honesty, Pontiac BBQ in OTR is the better choice for BBQ....and their Mac n cheese is the best I've ever had.
(3)Andrew W.
I'll be honest, I'm not much of a bbq type of guy, so coming to Eli's I was a little bit skeptical, mostly fearing for how my stomach would feel afterward. On reading the reviews on yelp!, I was convinced, but also because I know my girlfriend wouldn't lead me wrong, she's wonderful. After we arrived we made sure to quickly put in our order, and grabbed a table outside. I should've set a reminder to grab some local beers beforehand, especially since I was visiting, because we ended up waiting about 30 minutes or so for our food. Don't let this lead you astray though, the wait was totally worth it; I mean c'mon, it was dinner time. Let's get to the stuff we're here for: the good eats. I ended up going with the BBQ turkey sandwich with cole slaw, and my girlfriend chose the classic pulled pork sandwich. We had to grab a few sides as well, specifically the Mac and cheese and the baked beans. The turkey sandwich I chose was to die for. The smokey flavor complemented the melt-in-your-mouth meat, with a sweet aftertaste, mostly thanks to that cole slaw slathered on top. A warm bun encapsulates the meat. Overall, I definitely recommend it, tenfold. Similar things can be said about the pulled pork sandwich. It had a wonderful taste, definitely takes the cake (or the hog) for the best pulled pork sandwich I've ever had. The flavor was perfect. The cole slaw on the side gave me a chance to try it aside from the food. The sides were extremely satisfying. The mac and cheese was a nice, thick cheesy consistency, and the baked beans rocked. They had such a sweet, yet spicy flavor. Overall, Eli's was truly a satisfying experience, with rich homely BBQ flavor in all their meats and eats.
(5)Stacie R.
Awesome set up & just as good barbeque. The tips were a bit dry, but everything else, especially the ribs were amazing! The service was more than helpful, being our first time. Even with a line to the door, they took their time to explain the menu & make suggestions. They provide canned pop or bottled water, but from other Yelpers & the customers I saw, bring your own cooler & even lawn games or a football to toss around. This place was so relaxed & enjoyable (minus the flies). They even provided citronella candles on each table. Please know, everyone is the Cincinnati area seems to know about this place, so you may want to try this place before peak hours. We got there around 5ish, got right to the counter, but by 6pm the line was out the door. I cant wait to go back, we'll definitely bring a cooler, but we'll probably call ahead our order. Please take a day to try this place out, it's worth the trip!
(4)christina k.
Got carryout from the Findlay Market location for lunch and Eli's lived up to hype that I'd been hearing. It is cash or check only and if you choose to eat in, there are tables outside near the Findlay Market beer garden. There is no seating in the restaurant. Even arriving around 11 am, we still had a brief (10-15 minute) wait for lunch on a Thursday. Had the smoked turkey sandwich and mashed potatoes. The turkey was flavorful and served on a toasted bun with plenty of BBQ sauce. The mashed potatoes were fried on the grill so they were crispy outside, smooth and creamy inside, and even had a lightly smoky flavor. Jalapeno cornbread was also very good.
(5)Marygrace A.
Eli's is hands-down the best BBQ you can get in Cincinnati, if not the great state of Ohio. Their meats are high-quality, smoked to perfection, and at a reasonable price. They actually got their big break while selling lunch on Market on the Square, a Tuesday farmer's market on Fountain Square. At their Riverside location, you should call ahead, or get there early and prepare for an hour wait. Bring cash!!! As you wait, grab a seat at a picnic table outside, bring a 6-pack of beer, and enjoy the scenery. You'll see people of all ages, even live music if you're lucky. Bring bug spray :) What to order: I have tried almost everything on the menu, and 3 of my favorites are the rib-tips, pulled pork sandwich and the hot-dogs. The rib-tips are unlike anyone else's - not all fat and gristle. Instead, they are delicious burnt and crispy ends, with more meat than expected. The pulled pork is excellent, and their BBQ sauce can be added at your own pace. The hot-dogs are a treasure: crispy bacon pieces, tangy cole-slaw, and delicious hot dogs. The sides are all fantastic: baked beans, mac & cheese, jalapeno corn bread, mashed potatoes, etc. I have been here too many times to count, and will continue to enjoy their BBQ. Try it out, you won't be disappointed!
(5)Kim P.
Hands down best BBQ ribs in Cincy. It's perfectly flavored and there's a sweet crispy glaze on top of the ribs from the brown sugar. Ribs fall off the bone. There's always a line here. If it gets very crowded, the wait time for your food is about 30-45 minutes. Jalepeno corn bread is also really good. Tip: BYOB!
(5)Marie M.
If you don't have cash, check, or if you want brisket, or beer, keep searching bc those options do not exist here. They are established enough to take credit/debit cards so I'm not sure why they won't. It's definitely an inconvenience. They also do not have alcohol of any kind- so if you want to enjoy a nice beer with your food, better bring your own. The set up inside is kinda odd. The line was long but went pretty quickly. It's an order line and you pay at that time. Then they will notify you with a pager when your food is ready. The food did not take too long to get to us. There is ample outdoor seating but very little seating inside- and I mean like 4-6 tables max. Ok on to the food-I would never order the mashed potatoes again, they felt and tasted like boxed instant potatoes. But wait-there's still hope! The Jalepeno cornbread was amazing! Perfect combination of sweet and spicy. The baked beans are also amazing. They are sweet, spicy and tangy and done right. The pulled pork was good, good flavor and juicy and the BBQ sauce was not the best but not bad. Overall I'm kinda disappointed in the lack of meat options. This is not the best BBQ I've ever had but, if I'm around I'll stop back in if I'm hungry.
(4)Matthew C.
Finally made it to Eli's after hearing about it for a long time. Wow, what a great time. A perfect summer night to hang out with our neighbors. I love the BYO drinks, this really cuts down on the cost. We loved the barbecue and thought the sides were good. We had the pulled pork sandwich and the ribs. They were both very good. I thought the sides were good especially the jalapeno grits. While I am not a barbecue expert, Eli's is worth the visit. We will be back. Don't forget this is a cash only business. Wait time on a Wednesday night at 6:30 was approximately 40 minutes.
(4)Jen I.
The absolute best pulled pork I may of ever had! It is also Cash or Check only! Luckily I had my checkbook on me:) I had to start with that! This lil place would be impossible for me to find - there's only a pig on a small sign and the white tents you see in other pis here on yelp! Thanks to my GpS we were all good! My friend is from NC And he agreed it was a amazing pulled pork sandwich! The coleslaw was ok, and I'm a fan of sweet cornbread but this jalapeño one was tasty! He also said the jalapeño grits were excellent! They only have 1 sauce - and it was great! We also tried he ribs - very good also! I'd get both the pulled pork and couple of bones again! The inside is very small and they have tents set up outside - along with picnic tables in a small park across the drive. Def a must try! I'll be coming back!
(5)Andrew E.
My son and I come into town on a regular basis to visit Cincinnati Children's, we spot this place the last time in town and said it looked worthwhile. My wife made the next trip with our son and even though he is 10 he went online to research where he was going to bring his mother to eat. Another Foodie is born! They would have stopped but it is Cash only and as my father use to say she wasn't "holdin". So now that we are a paragraph in with no critique here we go. 1 word LEGIT! The vibe of this joint is outstanding, record player plugged into a vintage Marshall Amp in front, playing Jim Croce. Long line most of the time, great smell of smoke. The food, cmon man, unreal. We sampled the pulled pork, turkey, and spare ribs. Along with several sides. My son said it correctly, Dad I could eat these ribs all day. The rub has an ample amount of both savory, spicy, and sweet. They were as tender as I have ever had, yet still with a bite to them. The turkey was perfection, awesome smoke ring, still juicy. Pulled pork same thing. All of the sides were excellent compliments, but my son and I agree that the griddle cooked mashed potatoes and Jalapeño Cheese Grits took the prize. I luv this place right down to the Old School 12 oz classic soda bottles! The sitting inside is small, but no worries, bring a cooler (BYOB) and hang out on the lawn with picnic tables and tents! Like I said LEGIT!
(5)Bob B.
The perfect pulled pork sandwich: toasted roll, great sauce, fantastic cole slaw, and the pulled pork was perfect. Sides: Mac & cheese and baked beans were awesome. Highly recommended.
(5)Angelina M.
Feels like I am at a big family reunion--in a good way! I have been to Eli's several times and they have consistent service and food. I usually order the barbeque turkey sandwich with a side of cornbread. The turkey is very juicy and the serving size is spot on for the price. The jalapeño cornbread is a bit spicy and sweet. The mac and cheese is ok, nothing to write home about. The baked beans are a tad spicy as well and have good flavor. The location is great for large groups, byob, and dog friendly. It gives the feeling of going to a casual cookout. Make sure you bring cash or check as they do not accept credit cards. I would say it is some of the best barbeque in Cincinnati--better than Montgomery Inn. However, I would like the option of a dry rub barbeque with sauce on the side, something similar to Kansas City style. In general Eli's is a nice casual place to go on a fall day with a large group and not feel pressured to leave your table.
(3)Amanda H.
I really like the actual restaurant. There are some good features and some weird ones. the logistics of how it is set up is a little weird to me. A small 4 table dinning area in the front, then you walk to the side of the house and order, then go outside and eat on picnic tables. Its really cool for summer but I don't understand how it works for winter. My biggest problem with Elis is that you eat outside and there TONS of bees everywhere. My daughter was screaming and freaking out. They are everywhere, all over the food, the prep area where they give you the food, in your drink- EVERYWHERE! So if you are allergic- don't go here! I really like the BYOB aspect of Elis though. That is cool and I would definitely go back and drink/eat if it weren't for the bees. The food was pretty good. The pulled pork and brisket were awesome. I didn't care for the cracklins on everything. I wish I hadn't ordered them and I would have liked my meal a lot better. I also wish my bun wasn't toasted so much on my hot dogs and that pulled pork was on it. It was burnt and I had to tear some black pieces off. The ribs were WAY over cooked. They were tough to eat so Lauren wouldn't eat them. But all in all the food was decent, it just didn't live up the hype. I'll try it again though. My heart for BBQ still belongs to Walts BBQ though. I'd like to go back and get the pulled pork again; just not eat outside where all the bees are!
(3)Joe A.
Wow, was I impressed! Went to a bbq place and got the hot dog. No regrets. What a mouthful of flavor. The dog, the sticky bbq sauce, getting it served "dirty" ( the burt end goodness from the meats). Just yum. The side of jalapeño cheese grits served dirty was just unbelievable as well. Next time I visit Cincy, this will be a must stop.
(4)Nick H.
It's always busy and it is for a good reason the food here is amazing. Some of the best ribs I have ever had, they are even better than my mom's (but don't tell her that). Their macaroni and cheese is great as well all for a very reasonable price.
(5)Madeline A.
Amazing!!! Following what all the Yelpers have said before! This is a MUST while in Cincinnati!! I ordered take out on a Saturday night. I arrived to see the line was out the door about 50-75 people long!! Pick up was quick and easy at a separate counter! Remember it's cash or check only! I got the pulled pork sandwich, Mac and cheese, and corn bread for $8! Definitely worth it!! It was all delicious!! They had awesome picnic tables outside and people were bringing their own drinks. Live music was getting set up as I was walking out! Overall, definitely try it out! You won't regret it!!
(5)Adam D.
What can I say about Eli's that hasn't already been said in the hundreds of other reviews on Yelp? For BBQ in Cincinnati it is hard to beat, offering pulled pork, turkey, and ribs and delicious sides including my favorites jalapeno cheddar grits and grilled mashed potatoes. Eli's also is BYOB and has tons of outdoor seating for large groups. I also noticed on my last visit there that they now provide seating beepers when you order your food and wait which is nice, in the past you were required to listen for your name and when it is busy that sometimes proves difficult. The only thing I could add to Eli's is that I wish they had brisket as most BBQ do, but what they offer is great and it is a great place to have a good meal outside with a few drinks and a few friends.
(5)Rose K.
OBLIGATORY ELI'S REVIEW, because let's be real, it's amazing. I can't believe I hadn't had Eli's until just a few weeks ago. I have had it 3 times since and can't wait to go back and eat it again. The menu is as simple as it should be. The BBQ basics. Pulled pork or turkey? Pick a few classic sides and you are good to go! Want to be super daring? Add some bacon to just about anything! The meat is super smokey and moist, not dried out at all. They let you put the BBQ sauce on the meat which I love, because some places definitely over do it. For a great summer night, sitting outside on the picnic benches and enjoying the meal and good company is a winning decision. I love that it is BYOB because I often have plenty of beverages in my fridge at home and being able to bring those is definitely a money saver. Plus I can enjoy more beer for less money when I purchase the 6 pack at Kroger opposed to the restaurant. This is a plus for me. The food is a stellar value as well! I've never paid more than 10 dollars for any amount of food I've ordered which is wonderful. The only value that does not exist here is one for your time. I'm confused how you can order so quickly yet wait over an hour for food to be ready for you. Like it's BBQ staples so shouldn't the meat be smoked and prepared already? PRO TIP- Call ahead and order takeout for a specific time. Then go in, pay for your takeout, and sit on the benches with the beer you brought anyway. That's how I did it the last time I went and my food was just as fresh and tasty but I didn't have to sit around waiting for a whole hour. I would also imagine the Findlay location is less busy with less wait times, but I've never been before. Will have to report back!
(4)Anne R.
Customer service to perfection! Place an order for a dinner party of bbq and a single order of corn bread because I cannot resist it. When I arrived the young lady provided instruction on how to heat up. She also gave me an extra piece of cornbread! This local bbq is fantastic!
(5)Nick H.
Eli, Eli, Eli... Thank you for cutting through the fluffy barbecue crap and keeping it real. Your setting, service and food are undeniably worthy of the letters BBQ. My pulled pork sandwich was so good I nearly ate the silverware just to enjoy all the perfectly tangy sauce. The cornbread and grits were amazing as well - kind of like the cherry on a delicious sundae that is simply topping it off to let you know "yeah that just happened." No you are not dreaming. Eli's is really that good. Bring your friends and leave your diet plan at home.
(5)Ricky P.
Best environment in the city for BarBQ! Fromt he festivities to the delicious food, I love bringing my family here for an evening of delicious dinner and fun times. My children beg me to come here all the time.
(5)Jacob H.
Fantastic!!! Delicious barbecue. I had the smoked turkey sandwich, the rest of the family had pulled pork. Piled high and delicious! Nice selection of real-sugar sodas as well. And great service!
(5)Shawna L.
Best BBQ I've ever had! I ordered the pulled pork sandwich and jalapeño cornbread - so delicious. The pork is the perfect combination of sweet and smokey and the bun has just the right amount of crisp. The cornbread was flavorful and not too spicy, and was definitely overshadowed by the awesomeness of the pork. The dining experience is really cool - you eat outside on picnic tables and its BYOB. So you can make an evening of it without having to pay a premium on drinks!
(5)David B.
BYOB. That's awesome. The jalapeño grits are top notch. The baked beans are also good. Pulled pork sandwich is delicious. I was a little disappointed with the ribs but I'll have to try them again. Great place. I wish it was closer to me.
(5)Julissa S.
Had the rib tips for the dinner special. They were really good. This place was really busy with a fun vibe.
(5)Sidra M.
I've traveled all over the place and tried bbq around the country, and nothing- I mean NOTHING- compares with Eli's. The smokiness and tenderness of the meat is perfect. The bbq sauce they use is has the perfect balance of sweetness and a touch of heat. The pulled pork and hot dog are my favorite meats. Their jalapeño cheddar grits are to die for. I also love their baked beans. Best bbq in the USA.
(5)Joe B.
OMG! My coworkers an I go out of pur way to try to swing down that way for some of the best Intergalact I c bbq! Great Job keep it up
(5)Chelsea G.
BEST.BBQ.EVER! I even highly recommend the dogs too! I just love this beautiful little gem in Cincinnati! That's right America, we know how to BBQ in little ole' Cincinnati and we're coming from ya! Makes me so proud, as a life long Nati' native, to have such a great establishment near by. Only down side to this restaurant, is the poor attitude and customer service that I've received from some of the female servers. Cheer up girls, you'll still get my money one way or another. Don't kill my foodie good vibes!
(5)Amy T.
What you need to know: Casual atmosphere. Americana vibe that makes you feel you stepped back in time to a roadside cafe. Amazing BBQ food. Get the "pork on a fork" with mashed potatoes and cole slaw. BYOB. Record player in the very small indoor dining room. Food is inexpensive. Did I mention BYOB? Old-timey looking sodas in a glass front fridge. Lots of outdoor seating; open air (very, very casual) when it's warm. Covered tents when it is cold.
(5)Natalie R.
I really don't understand the hype. The sides are nothing to write home about, the buns used for the sandwiches are just blah and the mac n cheese tastes like Kraft. There are definitely better BBQ places in the city that go above and beyond with every item on the menu and that aren't just trendy. Do yourself a favor and try other places.
(2)Megan K.
This place is INSANE! it's a dive-type place in a house setting with huge smokers in the back... That's when you know it's gonna be good! They also have outdoor picnic tables as well as a tent outdoors with heaters inside, in case it's chilly but you just aren't feeling sitting inside the dining room. You walk to the register to order and pay, then find yourself a place to sit down. They'll bring your food to you. The first time, I got a pulled pork sandwich with baked beans and mac-and-cheese. The second time, I skipped the baked beans and just got the pulled pork sandwich and mac-and-cheese. MAN OH MAN is this place fantastic!!!! The food is mind blowing. This is real deal pulled pork and will stick to your gut! The mac-and-cheese is the thickest I've ever had in my life and also the cheesiest. It's mind blowing! I got the beans on a recommendation from a friend, despite me not usually being a fan. They were delicious though! The best I've ever had. It's not an option people, you HAVE to check out Eli's!!
(5)Heather L.
Hands down the best BBQ in Cincy! I had the pulled pork with jalapeño cheddar grits and mashed potatoes (which are awesomely grilled!) All delicious! Very friendly and helpful staff. BYOB outside.
(5)Malcolm M.
I wanna write a thousand words. But like a photograph, food can also say a thousand words. With that said, I think Eli's could write a novel. A delicious novel. A Novel that-- that aromatic's remind you of your uncle Ted's house on a hot summers day with freshly squeezed lemonade in one hand, and your toes dipped into a crisply cool pool that is shimmering with refreshment, and barbeque in your other. Smearing thick and flavorful sauce all over your face as you demolish this tenderly cared for BBQ that's been smoked all morning. Resulting in you looking like you just had your face painted by your crazy aunt barbara, but instead, it's just barbeque sauce that makes you want to (almost) shamelessly drink the stuff. It's that kind of novel. The novel you wouldn't mind buying over, and over, and over.
(5)Xiaoheng P.
Went there for lunch today with a group of people. Ordered BBQ ribs, pulled pork sandwich, and slice pork with BBQ. Also got a couple sides. pork ribs were pretty good, it was smoked with BBQ sauce on the side. The ribs were rich in favors but not overwhelming so I like that aspect. Although I personally would like the ribs to be a little more tender. All in all, it's a great place to visit for lunch, definitely on similar level if not better then Montgomery inn. Since our company paid for the meal I didn't get to see much much it would cost.
(4)Marie N.
Move over Kansas City! Hello Cincinnati. Bbq has finally arrived. Pulled pork, jalapeño grits, and ribs so authentic slow cooked you can taste the love. Look for the pig sign and ask for Eli-BQ!
(5)Stavro M.
I guess I don't really understand the furor over Eli's, besides the fact that it's a Cincinnati hipster-success story. I'm just trying to provide a slightly different take on the place, so if you're going be upset because one guys thinks the emperor is under-dressed, just skip this review and read the five-star-gushers. The pulled pork is of reasonable quality but the quality has pretty broad range from visit to visit. I've been there when it was moist, smoky, and lovely, but I've also had it dry and overly chewy. The sauce is fine, I suppose. But the sides are all decidedly sub-standard in quality and execution compared to most bbq and/or soul-food places where you might get similar items. The ribs are fine. But that's it, just run-of-the-mill-fine, meaty, dry rubbed, smoked ribs. Special? Maybe in Cincinnati. . .maybe (but not really), and don't think they'd even hit the radar in a more bbq-oriented city/state, no matter what Steven Raichlen might say. There are two primary things that make Eli's an untenable proposition for me. First, I've never, anywhere I've ever, eaten bbq put my order in and been told that I'd have to wait an hour to an hour and half for my food, as does happen at Eli's. I mean, there's a reasonable "slowth" to be associated with good pit bbq, but to me a 75 minute wait for food at 3:00 Saturday afternoon is more like evidence of bad management. The second thing is the "kids" who work there (and I realize this might just peg me as a curmudgeonly old fogey, and for that I'll apologize). But the fact is they're just uniformly downright rude, bordering on the nasty, and, frankly, haughty. Their attitude sort of reminds me of what you get from the sales staff working in the "hot" boutique retail. They're so in love with the coolness of the place that they think it must mean THEY'RE cool by association. In the end, if everything else was a good experience, I'd probably be OK popping by Eli's a couple of times a year when I wanted a different bbq experience, but on balance, Eli's is just not worth it.
(2)Winifred L.
Disclosure: I'm not a big BBQ girl, but Eli's always makes me reconsider. Eli's is a great neighborhood spot for relaxing, enjoying good weather and being BYO helps a ton. A girlfriend and I stopped by for dinner and beers last night, and Eli's did not disappoint. After a 45 minute wait, we both got rib bones, cheesy jalepeno grits, mac and cheese and jalepeno cornbread. The rib bones were delicious, with just the right amount of smokiness without being overwhelmed with ketchup-y sauce (though you can add more, if that's your thing). The sides were ok: think comfort food with the finesse of home cooking. The best part of Eli's is definitely hanging out enjoying the good weather, people watching and hearing the employees holler out ready orders. If you want a taste of Cincinnati at its truest, you should come here. Pros: eating outside on picnic tables, value (whole meal for $8), BYOB, and the ability to bring your pooch (or play with someone else's tagalong) Cons: parking, cash only
(3)Karen D.
This place is delicious! Our family went there on a Wednesday night in the summer and it was packed solid. We meant to take the food to go but ended up eating on a picnic table under their tent. The pulled pork sandwiches are the best in town and the cornbread is scrumptious. The only bad part is the long wait and cash only.
(4)Amy C.
Oh, yes, it is worth all the hype and accolades. The lack of a perfect review has nothing to do with their current menu. I only want them to serve brisket, which they don't. (They have pork, smoked turkey, ribs & hot dogs, plus sides.) Also, be aware, they only take cash or checks; no debit or credit cards...How often do you have cash or a checkbook?! I wish Yelp would allow a 4.5 stars as my grips are very minor. The food IS spectacular. My husband is a barbecue fanatic, so we try it all over the city & Eli's is definitely at the top overall. I eat their pork sandwich even without sauce it's so tender & juicy, with such depth of flavor. Their mashed potatoes are the best as they have a crisp edge from the grill top & the mac & cheese is super cheesy & delicious. Craving it all right now!
(4)Bianca J.
Make sure you bring cash or check! So delicious it's UNREAL. We called in an order, which I highly recommend! I hear there's usually a long wait, but MAN, it's worth the wait! A rack of ribs was great to split between me, my boyfriend, and our friend. It's a dry rub, but they give you plenty of BBQ sauce. You can't pass up the hot dog!! Get it loaded. They also do dirty mac and cheese (a bit too nacho cheesy for me).
(5)Melvin A.
BBQ is a specialty of NC. I was in Cincinatti for a few days and drove over to Eli's because of the reviews. The line wasn't long, the food came out fast, and it tasted AMAZING. Some of the best BBQ I've ever had.
(5)Damian M.
BBQ paradise! These smoked ribs are just amazing!!!! The best I ever had! And the pulled pork, heaven! I cannot even decide which I like more, both are out of this world. The dogs are amazing too, but if you are there, try the ribs and pulled pork! You will never go back! Yesterday there was a cool Who Dey moment, when Adam Jones picked up his dinner there! The place itself is very simple, but the food is exquisite!
(5)Jonathan E.
this, my friends, is some of the best BBQ in the city. though it's a long wait for your food (an hour in our case), there are plenty of picnic tables (and BYOB) to pass the time. great for a fun evening ... and tasty food! CASH ONLY. highly recommended. we will return!
(5)Randy D.
One of my favorite places to eat in the area, particularly if you are going to sit outside there with friends/family with a cooler of beers or your beverage of choice. The pulled pork sandwich is my go-to...the pork is usually perfect and I love their BBQ sauce. For sides, the Mac and Cheese is probably my favorite although it's definitely on the heavy side and might be made with processed cheese. Order it 'dirty' like others have mentioned and it comes with crispy Pork pieces on top and is amazing. I've had the jalapeno cheddar grits and wasn't crazy about those...mostly because I'm just not crazy about grits in general, they're bland and boring. The beans are very good, as is the cornbread.
(5)Ashley W.
My Lord this place is amazing! We went here five, yes 5 weekends in a row before we got burned out! I first had Eli's at Taste & Tunes for Sight. And ever since I had been having a taste for this stuff. We have had the turkey sandwich which was succulent and mouthwatering with the coleslaw on top. The hot dogs loaded with crackling and coleslaw which will make you smack somebody. The rib tips are plentiful and glazed perfectly, and somehow still melt in your mouth. And the pulled pork is shredded to perfection. The sides are equally pleasing. The jalapeno cheese grits are so smooth and creamy. The baked beans have the perfect amount of tanginess. The coleslaw is not to creamy or vinegary, it has a great balance especially for a none coleslaw fan like me. And lastly the mashed potatoes, they are ridiculously good being that they throw them on the griddle to give them a delectable crisp! You have to try this place, the prices are beyond reasonable, the staff are super friendly and helpful. Beware the wait can be long at times, but on a nice day have a seat outside and enjoy yourself.
(5)P J L.
What can you say about Eli's! Its definitely your nitchy BBQ shack down by the Ohio River. You can't beat the price of $8 for a humongous sandwich and choice of two sides. Bring your own drink b/c theirs are rather small & you'll tend to need more than one in order to wash down the meal. Above average pulled pork but it can been over salted by whoever back in the kitchen. Try the turkey! Darn good stuff. I wanna do the dogs but it seems kinda blasphemous. One day I will. The side cant be beat. One sauce that a tad spicy and very wet. If you get a 'to go" and need more, they charge an extra buck. Just go over to a table and squirt some into your box. Would love for them to add a nice sweet tease for desert like brownie or cookie.
(4)C W.
Get the hot dogs with everything, they were the star of the show. 2 Nathan's all beef smoked with slaw, bbq sauce and pork crisps. The ribs are weak. St. Louis rib some have a lot of meat and some just bone. If you want ribs get the tips they have a lot more meat. We get hotdogs all around and a order of rib tips to share. Baller style bring beer and a bag of grippos BBQ chips
(4)Priya S.
I'd say this is the best bbq place in the city. Their meat is cooked to perfection. The only issue is that now that I'm a vegetarian, this place isn't as feasible anymore since they don't have a great selection. Nonetheless, if u love bbq, this is the place for you
(5)Michael R.
Eli's is a great restaurant that has really stuck to what makes them successful. Their food is amazing. When you have people sitting outside in tents when it is 10 degrees it really says something for your food. I've been going since they opened and try to get food from them when they are at fountain square or findley market. Their food has never slacked in quality no matter where it is. I'm looking forward to the Findlay Market Location!
(5)Samantha M.
Amazing pulled pork and ribs! Great prices for a LOT of food!!
(5)Bill C.
Eli's is a great BBQ joint, but is becoming a victim of its own success. First off the good... the food is delicious. BBQ pulled pork sandwiches are always way overstuffed, and the meat is tender and flavorful. Be sure to get Cole slaw on top!! Sides are great also... mashed potatoes have a crispy brown top and are really good. I love the jalapeno cornbread too, never too dry. Prices are reasonable, and it's a great place to eat outside with friends. Now the bad... expect to wait at least 30 minutes during off times, and up to 2 hours during peak times. Unfortunately for me, nothing is worth that long a wait. Also don't forget to bring cash as they don't accept credit cards. In this day and age of the Square, there's really no excuse for that. And last time we ate there, my pork had some burned pieces... felt as though the crowds were causing quality to drop a bit. All in all not to be missed, but maybe not worth repeated visits.
(4)Matt M.
Finally ate at Eli's after hearing it was the best bbq in Cincinnati hands down. Maybe it was built up too much or maybe after having eaten more bbq than I could dream of in Memphis my standards are out of sorts but it was just underwhelming. The sauce was too sweet and mac and cheese wasn't as good as I expected. The prices are good though.
(3)Rich L.
Great BBQ, questionable business practices, paranoid use of social media. Earlier this month Eli's wrote a Facebook post announcing it was disassociating itself from a supplier due to unspecified violations of its "MORAL, code of conduct" [sic]. Many people, including yours truly, complained in the comment thread that it was unfair to hurl an allegation and leave it to readers' imaginations to determine the violation. As my comment got 27 likes, it struck a chord with other observers but evidently a nerve with Eli's; after a few halfhearted and unpersuasive rebuttals, they deleted my comment as well as those of other critics. If this bizarre episode is growing pains on their part, so be it. But they shouldn't be sliming other businesses in social media and then censoring the predictable and reasonable criticisms they receive.
(3)Ryan H.
Hands down one of the best summertime restaurant experiences in the city. You can BYOB and sit outside under one of their tents, enjoying your beverages while you wait for your food. Be prepared for a long wait no matter when you go but it is well worth it! Personal favorites are the hot dogs and the Mac and cheese.
(5)Caitlin M.
This is the best dinner I have had in...forever. I think my total meal cost $9 including a tip and I was absolutely stuffed and satisfied. The BBQ sandwich topped with cole slaw...PERFECTION. I got the mac n cheese and jalapeño cheddar biscuit on the side. The mac n cheese was that "so good it's bad for you" kind...swimming in cheese. The biscuit was great too because it wasn't too spice, just a perfect amount of kick. Please do yourself a favor and eat here the next chance you get!
(5)Emily S.
Love this place. Pulled pork sammy, mac n' cheese and the cornbread are the bomb. Be sure to bring CASH!!
(5)Stacey N.
Here's the thing: I love the food at Eli's. And that's coming from a vegetarian. I've been here literally countless times and I always come back for the sides and laid back environment. So why 2 stars ? Customer service. Honestly, it deserves 1 but I'm holding out hope that they can improve on this. As my dad would say: Eli's has simply gotten "too big for their britches." The last several times and several experiences I've had has made that plainly clear. The last few times I've gone, they'll announce how long it will be (usually a near 2 hour wait for food) and then cop an attitude and get rude that people still want to wait and eat there. Wait, you are upset that people are willing to wait THAT long for your food? You should be grateful! The last time I went, a gentlemen had a carry out order. He was told it'd be about an hour. He arrived within the hour and waited another 45 minutes before saying something. The cashier then handed him a box that had been sitting behind the counter for at least 30 minutes. He told her this and said that no one ever called his name or anything, they just set it there with no announcement. Her response? Oh well. Sucks to be you. His bill? Over $80 for 30 minute old BBQ and awful customer service. I also recently went to an event that Eli's catered. My friend called them about the event and she told them how many people were attending, etc and she ordered what they told her. This turned out to be waaayyyyy less food than what she needed (in fact, we suspect they shorted her) and they still tried to charge her an extra bill even though she paid everything in full with receipts to back it up. Their response when she complained? Blame her and became patronizing and rude. When she called them out, they finally took responsibility and offered to rectify it (which gave them one extra star in my review, with the hopes they are learning from their mistakes and recognizing customer service is important, though to date, it remains to be seen if they will actually make good on this) So Eli's, yes, your food is great but it's way more than good food and a following of hipsters to keep customers returning. After all, hipsters are flighty and will quickly move onto the next cool, before it was cool thing. Don't forget where you came from and how you started.
(2)Laura A.
Excellent food. The pulled pork was very tasty. Rivals anything you can get in Memphis. The baked beans were good but a bit Spicy for my taste. The building is not much to look at but that adds to the charm. It was packed and seats were hard to come by. It is definetly a repeat destination
(5)Kaitlyn F.
Pulled pork and mac and cheese is amazing! Eli's is a great place to go with friends on a nice summer day. You can sit outside, BYOB, eat great inexpensive food, and in the summer there's sometimes an ice cream truck outside.
(5)Dave M.
Best barbecue in town. Maybe not the best I have ever had, but tops Montgomery Inn and a few other for the Cincinnati crown. Not only the barbecue, but the atmosphere is great, especially for families with kids. There are only a few seats inside but hundreds out back at picnic tables, some covered under a huge tent, some not. There is also a great park/vacant lot that has a few picnic tables and is a great place for the kids to run around and burn off some energy. GET THERE EARLY! If you arrive later than 6 the lines start to get really long. Also, if going on a Friday or Saturday expect live music and possibly the Dojo Gelato truck.
(5)Erik P.
Eli's BBQ offers a decent selection of meat/sandwich and platter combos, all for an affordable price. The platter combos come with your choice of two sides. If you order a pulled pork sandwich, you can either get slaw on your sandwich or on the side. So, if you were considering cole slaw as one of your two sides, it would be wise to get it on the side. This will afford you what essentially amounts to a third side, i.e., more variety with your meal. The place itself is small, but has a certain hip vibe to it. The walls of the dining area are adorned with drawings of various celebrities. You'll have fun trying to identify them all, during your brief wait for your grub. There is also a turntable and a small collection of vinyl LPs. A sign near the rack suggests that patrons are welcomed to spin their own selections, though an "employees only" sign closer to the phonograph seems to contradict this. Aspiring deejays, I would strongly suggest getting the skinny from management before commencing an impromptu cut 'n scratch wikki wikki session. The macaroni and cheese is the creamy/queso type. As a non-fan of liquid cheese, I evidently need to start inquiring about this upfront, as Cincinnati area restaurants seem to be obsessed with this approach to cheese fries, etc. Suggestion: shred it, then bake it. Golden brown and fused together is what 4 out of 5 dentists surveyed recommend for their patients who frown upon Cheez Whiz. The baked beans were more my speed. The biggest drawback of all is their "cash or check only" policy. I rarely carry cash on me and I honestly can't tell you the last time I wrote a check. Wait, yes I can. It was the counter check I cashed at Chase, in order to get the Benjamins to eat at this silly place, when their ATM was out of order. It's a debit card driven world, Eli. Let's get with the program. Your beverage options are limited to bottles. Coke products, which is always a plus, as well as local favorite Ale-8-One. The bottles include a fancy bar-coded sticker. However, they are not "retornable", according to their strange import print. So, please don't attempt to "retorn" them. Whatever the heck that means. Of course, bottled soda means no free refills. That said, outdoor dining is available, in and around the adjacent field out back. So, assuming you're there when the weather is pleasant, I'm sure you could bring your own ice chest full of Family Dollar Yoo-Hoo and make an amazing tailgating experience of the whole shebang. Just remember to stop at the bank. Otherwise, you'll be relegated to their award-winning aroma menu and that ain't as fun. All things considered, Eli's is a fine place to grab a bite, if you happen to be in the area. I wouldn't suggest making a special trip from the 'burbs. Their smokehouse barbecue is roughly on par with City, Famous Dave's or Dickey's, in my opinion. And without the sauce options of those more easily accessible chains. The few bucks you might save on dinner will inevitably be spent on gas and/or jumping through hoops. But it does manage to set itself apart in other ways and is definitely worth checking out.
(3)Erica H.
I had the pulled pork sandwich with grits and cornbread. Only $8! The sandwich was amazing. I couldn't have asked for anything better, which is saying a lot since I'm used to delicious Texan BBQ. The grits were also fantastic- just the right amount of cheese with a nice jalapeño kick. The cornbread was tasty but I felt the jalapeño in it could've been stronger. 5/5 stars! I literally just finished my sandwich and am already craving another. *sigh*
(5)Linsey G.
I never liked BBQ and, I'm not sure what it is, but in the past few months I've been really coming around to the taste. I must be growing up. Alas, when we were discussing places to meet my dad for Father's Day, I threw out the idea of Eli's thinking that it would be debunked due to its lack of proximity to everyone. But given its informal setting (order at the counter and take seats at picnic tables under large white tents) and its allegedly amazing food, I felt it would serve as a really great venue for my nearly-2-year-old nephew especially. Dad, Brother, Sister-in-law, and Date also really like pulled pork and BBQ, so I was pleasantly surprised that everyone was all in on the idea. Between the five of us adults, we got some kind of combination of pulled pork or smoked turkey sandwiches; macaroni and cheese; baked beans; cole slaw; jalapeno cornbread; and mashed potatoes. I'm happy to report that I got to try them all and YUM across the board. I was very impressed with everything I got to try and, although I got the smoked turkey, I think I will opt for the pulled pork next time. My favorites were the macaroni and cheese and jalapeno cornbread, but I even liked the baked beans, which I don't typically love. Truly everything was very good. Everyone else loved Eli's, too, and I'm really happy that it was such a hit. The food was delicious, it was reasonably inexpensive, and there was plenty of seating and a short wait for food when we got there at 11am (there was a line when we left around 11:45). All around a fantastic experience. I will absolutely be back.
(4)Keith L.
The original location is a must see in Cincinnati but if you just want the flavor without the wait, try the one at Findlay market. Great food. Good people!
(5)David K.
Great BBQ! interesting sides, very limited indoor seating but have an expansive outside section.
(4)Luke S.
I wish there were more restaurants like Eli's. They are the best at what they do...which is the most amazing BBQ I have ever eaten. You can tell they put love in everything on the menu. I've had everything here but I always go back to the pulled pork sandwich, mac and cheese, and mashed potatoes. The hot dogs are also on point as well as the ribs. There really isn't a bad choice on the menu. If you really want to give the middle finger to your diet make sure you ask for pork cracklings on your sides. Eli's should really be commended for not raising their prices and still allowing BYOB. I'm sure they could charge $3 to $5 more for everything and the customers would stay consistent. This is a restaurant that knows their audience and their market and are succeeding because of it. If you haven't been here you are missing out.
(5)Philip H.
Very small. Very loud. The food is good quality including sides. They only had hot dogs, pulled pork and turkey. No brisket and no full slabs of ribs. It's pretty far off the track for us. They charged for water. Service was fast. I still think for the price their competition in Sharonville win. Edit. It is also cash only!
(4)A-Aron G.
This is my favorite BBQ spot in Cincinnati. On a beautiful day, its a great place to bring my dog and a 6 pack of beer. Plan on waiting for a while since there is usually a long line!
(5)Emma F.
Only has their catering, but its great. The food is a crowd pleaser - you can't go wrong. I've only tried the pulled pork and its some of the best I've had!
(5)Kyra W.
Not much to say here as there seems to be a general concensus of awesomeness. Great food, quick service, good music. We tried the pulled pork (dirty, of course), hot dogs, and forewent the sides in lieu of ribs. Seriously, the best bbq I have had in the region. Everything was cooked to perfection. I could easily see how the parking could be a huge pain in the butt when they're busy, but at 130 on a Friday afternoon we had no problems. We will definitely be back!
(5)Dana C.
WOW!! 5 stars without a doubt. Had lunch here today, and nothing can beat this value!! For $8 you can get your dish with 2 sides and I was definitely full from that. 3 out of 4 of us got the ribs, while the 4th got the pulled pork sandwich. Nobody was disappointed. I don't get ribs very often because I'm not typically a fan of messy food... but I couldn't resist. All week, people kept telling me about Eli's ribs... and they weren't wrong. That dry rub is worth singing about. It's sweet, spicy, and savoury and the meat just falls off the bones. My uncle said the sandwich was delicious too, but I was too busy attacking my rubs to try a bite. I've heard that they get insanely busy and are lined up down the street a lot of the time, but we got there around 12:30 today and there was no line. Even if there was, it would be well worth it. I can't wait for my next trip here so I can get my hands on those ribs again...
(5)Ashley K.
This is one of the most fantastic places to eat in Cincinnati. My favorite wedding reception ever had an Eli's food buffet, that's how amazing it is! I've had their classic pulled pork sandwich, which is great, but as I'm trying to stay away from processed carbs, I've been eating more and more of their ribs. HOLY MOLY those ribs are tasty! And if one rib is small, they'll usually comp you with another small rib to make up for it. I highly recommend Eli's catering for Weddings or large parties, and also for just a fantastic afternoon/evening with friends! Remember to bring CASH!
(5)Christine M.
Excellent food and unassuming atmosphere. They even have a record player. Invited by my brother who lives down the street. He loves to find the unique, non-corporate eateries. I sense he spends a bit of time here. I only had the pulled pork sandwich-all I needed. I love BBQ and really appreciated that the meat wasn't over-saturated when I got it. They have a bottle of sauce on hand to let customers choose their own juiciness. I did do some fork wandering to my lunch mates plates (baskets actually). Tried the cheese grits-yum. The mac&cheese was pretty good. I can be a m&c snob. The piece of cornbread served was twice the size I expected to see and carried just a bit of jalapeño heat. I don't eat hot dogs but my brother shared his with my daughter. She swears she will have the double dogs (They serve 2 in an order) the next time she visits. Will definitely return!
(5)Joel B.
Eli's has earned it's reputation, but along with that reputation comes the long wait, loud dining areas, and difficulty parking. Good luck placing a telephone order, the staff is typically too busy to answer the phone, and the old school landline disconnects as often as not. All of that is forgivable though, because the food is really that good. But the one thing I can't over look? There's not a single green option. You want any type of vegetable that isn't a baked bean you have to bring it yourself - which they have no problem with by the way! I like to place an order, run up to Kroger and grab a bagged salad, and then when I get back they're either calling my name or just about to. I know it's bbq, I know we're not eating healthy, but I happen to like vegetables and lament their total absence from such an awesome place.
(4)Jordan T.
Thank you east end for giving life to Eli's. I have to say everything is tasty as can be at Eli's. Go with a large group or by yourself. For the ultimate Eli's experience go on a cold winter day when it doesn't take 1.5 hours to get your food. Bring some brew and some cash money (cash only). Trust me and order the smoked turkey sandwich and an all beef loaded dog. They are truly the underdogs on the menu and are sure to blow your gourd!
(4)Mike G.
This is definitely a hipster place in the fact that they have their vinyl records and don't take credit cards but they can make some awesome bbq and mac n cheese. And it's a cool summer set up. Bring some beer and sit out in the sun and eat some bbq. Sounds like a great day to me.
(5)Therese W.
LOVE!!! Have to go at least 1-2 times a month for my Eli's fix!!! Jalapeño cornbread and grits... YUM! Pulled pork out of this world!
(5)Tsyria T.
Love this place! I've only tried the pulled pork and baked beans with cornbread. I can't seem to try anything else because I just crave it when I walk into the restaurant! I'll definitely be back many times to check out the rest of the menu! Awesome vibe as well. The lines get pretty long on a nice day and there aren't many seats inside, but they have plenty of outside seating...though that fills up as well! Waited for one hour for food once, but it was worth it.
(5)Ben S.
Being a Kansas City boy, this place is the only thing I have close to BBQ back home, and goddamn is it soooo good. Cash only is hilarious. No less than 50 people there at a time, wait for like 30 minutes for food. I get the pulled pork sandwich and mac & cheese because they are always perfect. Ribs are too over-done when we've had em. There's styles to getting BBQ done, and while they've perfected their pulled pork and sauce, I'm left slightly disappointed in the dry-rub ribs. This place is always, always, always worth the wait. Also...you cannot beat the price. These guys double the price and I don't think anyone would bat much of an eye.
(4)Dawn B.
The food is good, but definitely not the stuff legends are made of. Its simple but not always the best in flavor. Sometimes the cornbread is dry, the mac n cheese is average at best and the cole slaw is just not my style at all. I always get the bbq turkey, which has been pretty consistent in flavor but sometimes lacks enough sauce to coat. Good thing they keep bottles of bbq sauce on the tables. Getting it to go? Ask for extra on the side. No worries. The service here is always, always great. They let you get comfortable, like you're at home. Its a great place for hanging out with a group of friends. If the weather is warm, bring a blanket and enjoy being outside on their lawn. So why the four stars? The atmosphere is what truly makes this place so great. And its also the reason why people, self included, keep coming back here.
(4)Amy B.
What can I say about Eli's that hasn't already been said? I'm not a big meat eater... BUT... I dream of Eli's pulled pork. When I finish my sandwich I immediately want another one. Although, I know my body couldn't handle that much awesomeness so I always leave wanting more. Helpful Hints: - Come hungry. - Come with cash. - Come with beer (BYOB). - Come here often.
(5)Stephen L.
Absolutely the best BBQ I have enjoyed in ages. Superb! The price is very reasonable. I order the BBQ sandwich and even the sides that came with it were amazing! I cannot wait to return. Loyal for life to this place!
(5)Ryan M.
I cannot say anything to actually draw a positive enough picture of this place. The food is amazing! The pulled pork is the best I have had and I'm a huge barbecue fan and eat it from all over. The atmosphere is laid back with a rural feeling inside of an urban area. BYOB enough said there. Live bands and gelato on weekends (maybe other nights but I'm not sure). If you go here understand this is a very popular place and the waits can be long! But get over it and enjoy a beer or two and the atmosphere and talk to the people around you. They have been learning how to be faster even though the line is ridiculously long and they will continue to get faster. So definitely go here and get the full experience.
(5)Younglan L.
Perhaps the best bang for the buck in Cincinnati. With a full meal under $10, Eli's has great bbq without the fuss of a typical restaurant experience. The simple layout and simpler dining experience place focus on the food. There's a variety of bbq options from ribs, pulled pork, rib tips, and beef dogs and a great variety of sides. Summertime is the time to go with open air picnic style seating and live bands on certain nights. You can bring your own sides or sauces to supplement the bbq or alcohol. I've seen people bring China and silverware to personalize their bbq dining. Anything goes but every comes for the food and relaxed atmosphere. Cash only with checks and Reds tickets as alternative payment options.
(5)Isaiah F.
I honestly didn't know what to give Eli's BBQ. When I think BBQ, I imagine everything that Eli's provides including the outdoor atmosphere, drinking cold beers with your buds, and enjoying the sides as much as you enjoy the meats. The reason I had to question what to give them is because in comparison to other Cincy BBQ places (Montgomery Inn) it's easily the best. But when i compare it to the best BBQ I've ever had (Oklahoma Joe's) it's one rung below. This place has the intangibles though and that's why I will continue to return to Eli's.
(5)Stefanie F.
I've been eating Eli's about once a month for a few years now. This review is long overdue. Anything you order is guaranteed to be delicious. The pulled pork sandwich is my favorite but I would eat everything that comes out of this kitchen. Pure gold, all of it. The dining area is on the smaller side. In colder months, get your food to go. In warmer months, they have a huge outdoor area with picnic tables and lots of grass. BYOB! Cleveland needs Eli's. We have nothing like it.
(5)Gnarly G.
My favorite barbecue in Cincinnati. This is a fantastic place in the summer. Bring a few growlers of local beer, sit your butt in a chair and feast on some of my favorite pulled pork that I have ever eaten. This place brings an experience... Not just fantastic food.
(5)Jack S.
The food is absolutely phenomenal. There's no denying it. I won't go into detail because a thronging horde yelpers have already described it more than adequately. The reason I'm withholding the last two stars is that it is absolutely absurd that they don't take credit cards. There's really no excuse for it, it's the 21st century.
(3)Rachel C.
Pulled Pork Sandwich with mashed potatoes and cornbread. Yes yes yes. Be careful of suffering from a massive food coma post meal!
(4)Devin R.
I am a huge Eli's fan. Never disappointed. They offer a fantastic value and you sure can't beat byob. The pulled pork is unbelievable especially when you slap on there tasty homemade BBQ. The mashed potatoes and baked beans are also a must. They cook the potatoes on the griddle to get a golden brown crust. I am very excited for their Findley Market location to open up. Eli's is uniquely Cincinnati and in a class of it's own.
(5)Joel L.
Cash only and there is a heated tent for outside seating. Eli's BBQ was excellent. The inside is small on the inside and food took a little longer than I'd hope but it was packed with people. The tables turned over quickly so it shouldn't be hard to find a seat. I highly recommend the Pulled Pork Sandwich. The Mac & Cheese tasted like something from a box. The Jalapeno Cornbread was very good and the Mashed Potatoes were fine. I had take-out but could tell the servers were very busy. I would plan to order quickly and not count on extra requests once you have left the ordering counter.
(4)Michael S.
The food was just okay. Nothing to write home about. I like the music, but you need more light so you can see what you are putting on your mouth. Now the BAD: the service was just bad, not very friendly or accommodating. I was by myself and cashier made me feel I was an inconvenience. She did even ask if I wanted something to drink. So I ate my dinner without a drink. I just moved to cincinnati and somebody recommend your place. Not sure I will return. Will look for my BBQ elsewhere.
(2)Evan W.
Awesome BBQ and outdoor atmosphere! Should look at expanding. The old BBQ review on Madison is available and would definitely be a good area. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu here.
(5)Witni S.
This place is amazing! Believe all of the review, it's legit. I'm a southern girl at heart. My family is from Carrollton, KY (pronounced car-l-tun). So, I'm no stranger to some southern barbecue and yummy comfort food. And this place does it right! My first experience here was last summer when we were having a going away party for some friends. Whoever picked the location for this place was a genius! When I talk about my friend group, I'm not talking a bunch of 20 and 30 somethings. Well, I am, except you have to add about 40-50 toddler-10yr old somethings because most of my friends are growing families with young kids. This place was amazing for our group! The set up is similar to a park scene because you have picnic benches and a large field for the kids to roam in. If you've ever tried to corral your kids while at a nice restaurant, trying hopelessly to keep them behaved and quiet, you know the angst. You don't have to do that here! Bring your own 6-pack (byob), and let the kids run around in the open field, coming to you for bites of deliciousness whenever they are ready. My vote as a MOM, 5 starts for Eli's! And I haven't even talked about the food. Delicious. Every meat I've had here has been fantastic, but I am also in love with the mac & cheese, jalapeno grits and baked beans. For the price, the fun, the casual atmosphere and the food, you can't go wrong! It's worthy of all the buzz.
(5)Zach D.
This place has really made a name for itself in Cincinnati, best BBQ I have ever had, the pulled pork sandwich basically melts in your mouth, the Mac n cheese and mashed potatoes is nothing short of perfection. The ribs are excellent, as well as the rib tips. The hot dog is also fantastic, the prices are reasonable as well, and it is worth every dime. Great atmosphere with having a record player in there too, and most importantly is the fact that you can bring your own booze! Great place to check out.
(5)Kaitlyn H.
At Eli's you will find a big taste of America! Although the BBQ is phenomenal, I usually make it through the sides first! The Mac and cheese will blow your mind...my mouth is watering just thinking about it. The portions are great, as is the price. Although it is small inside when the weather is nice the outside is open and equipped with tables, a dessert food truck, joy johns and lights to set the mood. You will also find a good crowd with same love of BBQ and chowing down as you. Remember it is BYOB (bring your own booze) and they will recycle the containers for you when you are done. Enjoy!! Cheers
(5)Mike T.
Just had to stop in here after reading the reviews when I passed through Cincinnati. Pulled pork sandwich was Excellent!! Bits of crispy pork with the slaw went well together. Only negatives: sides were sub-par: need to work on that guys!
(4)Andrew ß.
Must haves -Grits -Mac&cheese -Mashpotatos -Cornbread And you will not be disappointed with the pulled pork sandwich - !!!!!!Enjoy!!!!!! -
(5)King P.
Sometimes when I'm bored, I'll just look at their menu and drool on myself.
(5)Carlee T.
Best BBQ in town, and honestly some of the best I've had ever. I love the casual, outdoor atmosphere, and it's BYOB!
(5)J. David G.
NOTE: cash or check only! Can't add much that hasn't already been said. Simple menu. Fantastic pulled pork sandwich with 2 sides. Unbeatable price at $8. Pair with an Ale 8 and you've got the perfect $10 lunch or dinner.
(5)Haiku ?.
Really love pulled pork Indigestion every time Will be back again
(3)Nick G.
Eli's is easily one of the best BBQ joints I've experienced in Cincinnati. Don't be discouraged by the long, meandering line - as one nearly always exists. It is well worth the wait. As the line approaches the entrance to the small, office-like, ordering counter you'll often hear tunes from local old-timey folk bands that perform alongside the eager queue. Even on days when a band isn't present, the restaurant offers an extensive vinyl collection available for playing on their in-house record player. If this weren't fantastic enough, the restaurant allows BYOB to accompany the wait, your meal, or both. Once you've finally reached the point to order, be sure to have made up your mind. This shouldn't be hard, as everything is simple and delicious. My personal go-to $8 plate, typically includes the staple that is their pulled pork sandwich, accompanied by two of their 6 available sides. Normally I'll go with the grill-seared mashed potatoes along with their mac and cheese - as coleslaw is available on top of the sandwich. Even if you've brought a nice pale ale along to go with the BBQ, it's hard to pass up the bottled Ale-8 available. Whatever you decide, be sure to have cash available, as credit cards are not accepted. Decide, finally, whether to sit on picnic tables under tent or open air, have a beer, and wait for your name to be called. Desert food trucks on site afterward. It's hard to find a reason to complain about Eli's.
(5)Robert P.
Best BBQ I've had in cinci. Pulled pork was super tender and great flavor. Got some ribs to share and same story, fall off the bone and perfectly cooked. Only one choice for BBQ sauce but that's all that's needed. Sweet and spiced without any burn for sensitive palets. Jalepeno corn bread was amazing as well. Mac n cheese was good, maybe just a touch to rich for me. Even liked the Cole slaw which I almost never like. BYOB was a great plus too, can't wait to come with friends during warmer weather and eat in the "picnic area".
(4)Cindy G.
Ok I was holding off writing this review because of all the crazy attention that Eli's has been getting. I had had Eli's at almost every event in Cincinnati and honestly, I wasn't THAT impressed. The meat was sometimes dry and the sauce was cold so I didn't want to judge it until I could get to the actual location. Last night we had a mini family reunion at Eli's. We decided it was the perfect way to end the summer. We brought our blankets, and our puppies and sat on the awesome picnic area and watched the sun go down. It was pretty much the most amazing location ever. Now for the food--the only reason I am not giving them 5 stars is because I feel like the menu does not have great options. I am not a huge fan of pulled pork but I love pretty much any other kind of meat. Something about the texture weirds me out. So I begrudgingly ordered the pulled pork sammi for $5 bucks, the cornbread $2, and the mac and cheese for $2. The food came out hot, and the pork was as juicy as ever! Just as I suspected, fresh from the source this place is the bomb diggity. Everyone in our group enjoyed the flavor of the jalapeño cornbread as well and couldn't stop talking about it. This was one of the best memories our family could ever make. Great good, relaxing atmosphere, a cooler full of beer (BYOB btw) and our pups. I cannot wait to go back!
(4)Ian G.
Well. Having moved from South Carolina to Louisville, I've been on the lookout for some good BBQ - especially some mac n' cheese. While yelping (planning) a day in Cincinnati, I ran across this place getting some stellar reviews. Per my allegiance to finding good BBQ, we decided to give this place a shot! And good gosh am I glad we did. The pulled pork sandwich has a great, juicy, smoky flavor; the sauce balances savory and sweet. And the mac n' cheese - the mac n' cheese! - drowning in the stuff would be a glorious way to die. Truly. Sure, expect the ordeal to take awhile. Good BBQ should.
(5)Emily E.
Absolute favorite! So much so, my fiance and I changed our reception location so that we could have Eli's brought in for dinner the night of our wedding! ! ! My family is from Kansas, and Texas, and they are serious about their BBQ! I can't wait to share Eli's with them, and show them Cincy can play ball with the big boys!
(5)Josh K.
Nothing quite like it in town. Right by the river, picnic tables and tents. It is BYOB but, there is a beer truck that sells loose bottles. It is very reasonably priced and you can get a meal for under 8$. The portions are large and everything comes on Styrofoam cups and plates. The atmosphere is like a southern family reunion from a movie you recently watched. There are huge benches meant for sharing so either go in a large group or be prepared to have somebody you dont know sit down next to you. Easily the best coleslaw I have had in Cincinnati.
(5)Stephen P.
Really impressed. Great prices. Great place for lunch. Take your friends very informal but pleasant.
(5)Tom B.
The food is awesome ! My first review isaid I was disapointed because I've never been told about this restaurant sooner ! It was the BEST BBQ Ever! I will be back! Great place to eat BEST ribs I ever tasted!
(5)Chris G.
After seriously yearning for good BBQ for the longest time, I finally made it to Eli's. This joint has come very highly recommended, and for good reason. It's got charm... AND delicious BBQ! I came to visit Eli's with a large group, perhaps 15 or so, and we all sat outside in one of the tented areas. I ordered just about everything, as I am a share-er. Although I was disappointed not to see any chicken on the menu, I more than made due with both the roasted turkey sandwich and the pulled pork sandwich. Though slaw on the meat is a traditionally southern method of eating BBQ (from NC), I chose to remain a northerner at heart and eat slaw separately. The slaw, was some of the best I've had north of the Ohio river. The pulled pork was tender and rich. I prefer mine with a big of rubbed in spice like you might find in Memphis or Little Rock, but this pulled pork hit the spot easily. The roast turkey was ok. It wasn't very "interesting." I think that's the only way to put it. It really was just roast turkey, on a bun with a little sauce that didn't mismatch or stand out. I ordered plenty of sides. First was the jalapeño cornbread. This stuff was awesome. I think I'd order up a bunch of the stuff to take to the next Reds game and chow down. SO tasty! The jalapeño grits were also delicious. These cheesy, spicy grits aren't the normal flavorless depressing grits you find just about everywhere. These grits were a wonderful side to an awesome pulled pork sammie. Then, there's THE BEANS! I happen to love beans. They're tasty, versatile and filling. What's not to love? These though, probably some of the best BBQ beans I've ever had. Spicy, with a peppery kick and a flare for making me want a whole pot of the stuff. A definite pleaser for me. And finally, I'm no lame-o. Who could order BBQ and NOT get the mac & cheese? Certainly that's not me. I LOVE mac & cheese. And these were the mac & cheesiest! I love a good cafeteria style mac as much as the next guy, but this was like buttah it was so good. I'll be back. With friends in tow. *A quick word of caution though, Eli's is CASH ONLY!!!
(4)Unknown C.
As my dog Steve and I travel the country and sample BBQ joints, you wouldn't expect such a gem in Cincinnati. I want to tell people to stay away!!! But that would be selfish because when I want it I don't want to wait in line. Steve says I need therapy. Eli's is great in taste quality price. Try the hotdogs or rib tips or EVERYTHING. I guess I'll wait in line.
(5)Anna S.
I've made it my goal to try as many BBQ restaurants in TN while I am assigned the state for work. Each business travel (which is weekly) I try 1-2 BBQ restaurants. While some are amazing and might offer a better side item, or a protein like brisket etc., I'm very proud and happy to report back that Cincinnati's Eli's has yet to be dethroned as my #1 fave bbq joint.
(5)Robert L.
Absolutely amazing BBQ and at a great price! There is typically a long line and wait time. The solution then is to go on days when you are not pressed for time. Go there with friends and sit under the tents on a nice day with your beverage (Its BYOB). Have fun with your friends and socializing, then when your food is ready, its time to eat!
(5)Justin K.
I have lived in Cincinnati my whole life and Tuesday was my first time ever eating here. Which is good and bad. First the good: The food that I had was definitely delicious! I had the Hickory Smoked Turkey Sandwich and my significant other and I shared the Cheese Macaroni and Jalapeño Corn Bread side options. They definitely did not skimp on the meat. The Turkey had a perfect combination of smoked flavor and was very tender and the Bar-B-Q sauce was quite complimentary to the sandwich. I have often found that my biggest complaint in these types of restaurants is the Bar-B-Q sauce. The Cheese Macaroni was good, not earth shattering but solid and pretty standard for this cuisine. The Jalapeño Corn Bread was like the Cheese Macaroni, solid but not earth shattering. It was nice that it was BYOB because we went to Rhinegeist before hand and got a Growler to take with us. On to the bad... It really has nothing to do with Eli's personally, it's more so with the immense bar that people have set for the place. It has been talked up so much that unless you're Jeff Ruby's, odds are you're not going to meet expectations. Don't get me wrong, it was great, but not the best Bar-B-Q I have had. Also, the last star was not achieved due to the fact that they do not have Brisket. How is that possible? All in all I will definitely be back and would recommend it to others, but with a little less hype than I was given over the years.
(4)Nic M.
Excellent BBQ. The baked beans and Mac and Cheese were great. Casual atmosphere. Quick service. We sat inside which was great but then as we left saw 2 large canopies with more people sitting outside. It's a BYOB place. Did not know that until we got there. Gladly will go back.
(5)Katie F.
Caution: Do not attempt to eat here on a Saturday night unless you want to be badgered about a 1.5 hour wait. Long story short-we arrived at 8, and did not get our food until 9:30. The funny thing is, when the servers yelled at the line waiting to order about the wait time, they genuinely seemed perturbed by our very presence, like, "WHY ARE YOU STILL HERE? GO SOMEWHERE ELSE!" As yummy as the food might be, it is really not 1.5 hour wait yummy. So maybe my view is influenced by the time of day, but at least for a Saturday evening dinner, the food does not match the hype.
(3)Heather W.
SO GOOD. We have tried bbq at a number of other places and in other states and we still love elis. I love the pork sandwich without a bun and the mashed potato cake and jalapeño grits. The beans are peppery and sweet and the turkey breast is also great. My fiancé raves about the hot dogs but I could never pass on their pork sandwich to try much else. You can get a sandwich and 2 sides for $8 and an ale81 or coke old school in the glass bottle. Plus. It's bring your own beer. Elis can do no wrong.
(5)Hannah C.
Eli sure knows what he is doing when it comes to BBQ. Admittedly, I've eaten Eli's BBQ two times in a week, and it never grows tiresome. The atmosphere at Eli's is reminiscent of a huge backyard cookout. There's almost always a line out the door and around the corner of the restaurant, but the "BYOB" standard makes waiting in line (with a beer) much more tolerable. There's usually some variant of banjo-pickin' music echoing from the outside speakers, and the banquet-style picnic tables make you feel like you're sitting down with old friends for some good ol' BBQ. The pulled pork sandwich is absolutely heavenly. The buns are lightly grilled, buttery, soft and forgiving. The pork itself is rich, smokey, and meaty, slathered in Eli's signature BBQ sauce. The occasional crunch of cracklin' lets you know it's authentic. The baked beans are always served steaming hot and a little on the spicy side (cumin maybe?). The macaroni and cheese is smooth and rich. Each plate comes with a small side of coleslaw (or plopped directly on the sandwich, per your request). The slaw itself is the perfect compliment to everything else on the plate - crunchy, zesty, and fresh. Eli's takes cash or check only, so come prepared. Bring your favorite 6-pack, a cooler, a tablecloth if you wish, and an appetite.
(5)Jake V.
The pulled pork is amazing! So tender and perfectly smoked. The Mac and cheese is also stupendous! It is a great place to take a group of family and friends too!
(5)Nathan H.
Went to Eli's based on RAVE reviews. I don't understand what makes this place so special. It is located in a house on a street that looks like it should be avoided. When you walk in, you are immediately confused. Nobody greets you, or informs you not to sit at a table (yet). You have to walk to the way-back and order your food. Then you must try your best to find a place to sit in this very-small indoor sitting area (and be prepared to clean your own table beforehand). Warning: they don't take credit card!? There are no drink refills. And the biggest disappointment? No brisket!?!?!? The pulled pork sandwich I got was sour and I was unable to finish it. The mac & cheese may have been the worst mac I have ever had. Worst than Velveeta. The jalapeño cornbread was fantastic though and was the only part of the meal I was able to complete. I brought a friend from out of town with me so he could partake in this highly-reviewed eatery - sadly, he may have hated the place more than I. I ended up having to buy him a few drinks later to make up for this meal. Maybe I got the place on a bad day? With this many good reviews, I will give it another shot. Let's hope I don't regret that decision.
(1)Caitlin B.
Rode our bikes out to Eli's from downtown the other night. LOVED the food, the families with their kids playing in the yard, the picnic tables, and it's actually cool that you must BYOB. Forgot the bug spray but did remember to bring our check book since it's only cash or check. We ordered 4 ribs (they gave us 5 :) and we each got a pulled pork sandwich, mac/cheese, jalapeno cornbread. The staff was very friendly. From the time we got there it only took 20-30 min for us to get our food. We will be back.
(4)Konstantin A.
My big picture thoughts on Eli's - I think the hype hurts the experience a little bit. Location: very good, there's an indoor space and an outdoor space. The outdoor space is essentially a covered picnic area so you can bring your pets. Sides: the sides we tried - baked beans, mac and cheese and coleslaw were just average unfortunately. That is, good but nothing special. The meat: we had a pulled pork sandwich and some of their rib bones with special rub. The meat was all excellent with or without their sauce. They could take their pulled pork sandwich to the next level by putting it on a nice bun (rather than the current run of the mill grocery store brand bun). Going back to the comment I started with, I unfortunately think this place is over-hyped. Worth checking out but not my favorite BBQ in Cincinnati. Tip: BYOB since they do not serve alcohol but allow you to bring your own. Can also bring your dog but has to stay outside.
(4)Alex G.
If you're new to Cincinnati or just visiting the city, Eli's BBQ should be at the top of the list when it comes to eating out. Eli's has an amazing outdoor set up, and you can bring your own beer and wine. The food is remarkably good and relatively inexpensive. Between myself and one other we ordered 4 ribs, "dirty" man n cheese, cornbread, baked beans, a pulled pork sandwich and 2 drinks for $20. All of the food was delicious. If you're planning on going to Eli's on the weekends, be prepared to wait. We waited 15 minutes to order and another 30 minutes for our food. But they have a great area outside to hangout with friends, drinks beers etc. so the wait really isn't an issue unless you're in a hurry. Also bring CASH because Eli's doesn't accept credit/debit cards.
(5)Devon C.
Holy BBQ! Since coming to Cincinnati a few months ago, many of my friends have raved about the BBQ found at Eli's, but it was only tonight that I traveled down the rabbit hole into this unassuming restaurant marked only by a hanging sign with a pig on it. The smell of barbecue, pork, and meat goodness immediately hit me in the face as I walked in. I knew I was home. Eli's is truly a down-to-earth summer barbecue picnic type place. Order from their chalkboard menu and prepare your mouth and body for a BBQ odyssey. Tonight I had the pulled pork sandwich, ribs, as well as the macaroni and cheese and jalapeno cornbread. The pork was succulent, the ribs were moist and had a delightful outer tangy and spicy char, and the sides were delicious. This will certainly be a place that I frequent. A few things to be aware of. First, they are BYOB and do not serve any alcoholic beverages, so bring your own brews! Second, they are cash/check only. Third, they have limited indoor seating, but ample outdoor seating, even with a covered and heated outdoor area for the winter.
(5)Bobbie C.
Some of the best BBQ I've ever had! The jalapeño grits and the cole slaw were amazing! (I don't like slaw but this was great) pulled pork was yummy! My husband and I visited the Findlay market and this place was there. Had to try and I will be back!
(5)Leah A.
Everything about this place is perfection. It's low-key atmosphere creates picnic style dining like you're at a family backyard BBQ. The sometimes long wait out the door is worth it. I've eaten the turkey BBQ most of the time, and am obsessed. The pulled pork is the obvious go-to for most, and it doesn't disappoint. Even their buns are delicious. As for sides: can't go wrong with the jalepeno corn bread or the smashed potatoes. Don't forget to check them out at Fountain Square on Tuesdays, and now at Findlay Market.
(5)Andy R.
After having the pulled pork, I can see why this place has the collective attention of the city. The smoker is ALWAYS going, with a staff that functions around the clock. Parking can be a little difficult to find due to the buzz surrounding Eli's, but it is definitely worth the trip to the Columbia-Tusculum area. Although not my favorite BBQ place in Cincinnati, I would rank them in the top 5 for sure.
(4)Christina M.
We love Eli's!!! Hard to get anything else since we are obsessed with the pulled pork...one day we will try everything else. Love ALL the sides! Mac and cheese, jalapeño cheddar grits, slaw....everything is amazing here.
(5)Lia V.
Okay Okay... I get to update this review... It really matters what you order here. This time around I got the pulled pork sandwich which was tender and delicious - definitely the right choice. They do it well. Don't mess around with ordering anything else. For sides we got the jalapeno cornbread and jalapeno cheesy grits both of which were fantastic. The ambiance is still wonderful. It's really what makes this place worth it. I don't see myself going here in the winter when you can't sit outside.
(4)Kristen G.
I called and got some take out. My only complaint from this whole experience is that you could hardly hear the person on the phone and you couldn't set a time for it to be ready, 10 minutes or nothing. I got the pulled pork and 2 sides. I heard the grits were amazing and they were. Everything was delicious.
(5)Linda A.
There are already well over 400 reviews for Eli's BBQ. Do I really need to add another? Do I actually have anything new to add? No. I don't. But I feel I still must go on the record saying that Eli's is fantastic, wonderful, delicious and something I should eat more often. Love the outdoor seating, too.
(5)Terry M.
A late February afternoon and a desire for the perfect pig sandwich equaled a road trip to Eli's. First, they were playing vinyl CCR Cosmo Factory on a old Marshall amp and speakers. It was time travel to late summer 1970 when all in the world could be made right with a pulled pork sandwich and CCR. Eli's IS the king of PIG in Cincinnati. All the rest are pretenders. Not many choices but what they make is made with love and quality. Have your plate served dirty and life is really good. I want to die holding this pulled pork sandwich. Sides on our visit were slaw, beans, jalapeno corn bread and mac n'cheese. All done right! I lived in NC and Va, have visited TX, OK and Ks and nobody, nobody has as good of smoky piggy delight.
(5)Kellan C.
One of those place that no matter how full you are, you will keep eating... Upon walking in, I knew I made a good choice today. Got the pulled pork sandwich with mashed potatoes and jalapeño corn bread on the side. Sanwhich: very messy the way it should be. Added some extra bbq and finished in seconds. Mashed potatoes and corn bread : I hate jalapeño corn bread. I saw this on there and knew I could trust Eli's to change my mind - they did just that. Mashed potatoes were also very good. I will be coming back and and back and back and I would recommend this to anyone and anyone who enjoys good bbq. P.s. Heard they have byob too. Haven't tested that yet...
(5)Michael S.
Some of the best BBQ I've ever had and definitely the best in Cincinnati. For one of the best deals in the city go on Monday for the 2-for-1 rib tips. Although my favorite things in the menu is the hot dog platter. Be sure to get crispins on the sides as the deep fried coating makes all of them better. To avoid the long wait during peak hours call ahead and by the time you get there the food will be ready. That way you don't have to wait outside when it's cold or try to fight for limited indoor and outdoor seating.
(5)Justin M.
I have had Eli's BBQ all over the city but have never specifically ordered it and eaten it from their base camp - which was a mistake. I've always loved Eli's food when I've eaten and now I love it even more getting it directly from the source. Just take every positive thing said about Eli's and insert here _______ because it is nothing but the truth. Eli's is without a doubt the best BBQ in the city, I don't care what you say. I speak the truth. Starting with the food. Pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw on top...NOM. Mac and Cheese - creamy, hot, and delectable...NOM. Jalapeno cornbread - moist, crumbly, rich...NOM. Rib - tender, sauced up, fall off the bone...NOM. What I am saying is there really isn't a WRONG option here. For drinks they don't have much. They offer bottled water, Coke, Diet Coke, etc. Oh, and Orange Crush in a glass bottle. Really the only way you should have Orange Crush. On to the experience. It is one in a million. The large outside patio/picnic area is a perfect setup for a BBQ restaurant. You are able to smell the smoker going while sitting under to large ceiling fan clad tents or on the lawn with a blanket picnic style. We chose to bring our dogs and let them hang out as we devoured Eli's luscious offerings. They also have Dojo Gelato hanging out in case you need a dessert after your belly satisfying meal. Because really, how can you not succumb to the pressure of enjoying a Dojo after your Eli's? At the end of the day Eli's BBQ is an experience more than anything. Cheap delicious food, outdoor dining area, BYOB, Dojo, time with family and friends. What else could you ask for - except maybe a stretcher to carry you out after you eat too much!
(5)Michael M.
Been coming to Eli's for over two years. Hands down the best BBQ in Cincy even over Mont Gom. Prices are great, environment is A+ and you cannot go wrong with BYOB! I would recommend this place to anyone. You will not be disappointed. From their bbq sauce to their cole slaw it is all unreal! Only down fall is cash only....
(5)Lauren J.
This is a place you eat at once and hope it'll be around forever. It's simple, order at the counter and then take your number to the table. Not much inside seating, which can be a pain- but they have plenty of tables outside. The BBQ is phenomenal and is one of those meals you think back on 2 days later. It's really that good. Try the cornbread.
(5)Mary N.
The food here is awesome. I always get the pulled pork sandwich and jalapeño cornbread. My only complaint is the wait sometimes. One time we were quoted 45mins-1 hour which turned into an hour and a half. Last time I tried to call ahead and their phone line never picked up. Will continue to come here when there's a reasonable wait, but I guess being busy isn't a bad thing, for them.
(4)Joey M.
This place is crazy good and it is BYOB! Come get drunk and make sure you order the grits.
(5)Kathryn D.
My boyfriend and I had waited a long time for it to be nice enough to eat outside here! We both got pulled pork ($5), plus a couple sides ($2 ea). The BBQ is a little spicy for me but still delicious (still some of the best)! The sides, not so much. Boyfriend got jalapeño grits, which we're alright. The mac and cheese, which was recommended, just tasted like American cheese and Velveeta to me- way too gluey and "artificial" tasting. Atmosphere is great! Live music, plenty of seating and plenty of shady spots. Parking wasn't too difficult for us either. Next time I'll remember to BYOB, though. You will definitely need more than a single bottle of water or a soda ($1 and $2).
(4)Ralph H.
The good: The pulled pork on the generic bun smamich was purdy dang good. The mac and cheese was same as you get at the store. The jalapeno corny-bread was purdy dang good. The bad: Why the fudge they gotta have all that loud-ass music blaring so damned loud for? They don't need that crap. Hell... people wanna talk to each other without having to hear all that junky junk already. The bad: No CC. Cash only. No fountain drinks. All bottle. That includes water. The ugly: Bees! Lots and lots of aggressive bees. Eat inside when you go there. So, if they'd take cards, get rid of the damned loud-ass music and the bees, hell, they'd be gettin' more stars now, wouldn't they? But damn.. the best pork smamich evar. Ain' no other bbq joint touch that smamich.
(3)Lisa M.
So, so good! The BBQ ribs were quite possibly some of the best I've ever eaten in my life. The dry rub was stellar. If I lived in Cincy, I'd probably be here at least once a week. A must try!
(5)Dana K.
This is definely the best pulled pork in the Cincinnati area. The baked beans are smokey flavored and are delicious . For $8 I got a HUGH sandwich, cole slaw and baked beans. Long lines at 4:30 tell the popularity of this place. Remember cash or check only..no credit cards.
(5)Amy W.
I feel a little silly leaving yet ANOTHER raving review of Eli's because it's pretty obvious how awesome this place is. The menu is small and everything tastes great, it's super reasonably priced, you can BYOB and play one of your old favorite records on the record player, so what else is there to say about Eli's? I have no clue. Eat there if you haven't already. At some point, you're going to be the only person in Cincinnati that hasn't eaten at the tastiest, most inexpensive, cool, BBQ place in town. What does that say about you?
(5)Elaine W.
The consensus is that nowhere in town beats Eli's for some pulled pork lovin' (don't even mention Montgomery Inn). I have to say the pulled pork sandwich is fantastic. The pulled pork itself is so juicy, and the coleslaw complements the bbq sauce perfectly. Bun could be a little sturdier (with all the goodness inside it's somewhat mushy). All in all it's the perfect messy summer sandwich. Have also heard people rave about the hot dogs (best gourmet dogs in town?!) and the rib tips, which I'll have to try sometime. Don't be fooled into thinking you're making a healthy choice with the smoked turkey sandwich. Apparently the reason it's the best smoked turkey you ever had is because they smoke it right under the pork so that all the good fatty juices from the pork drizzle onto the turkey. YUM. Half the allure of the simple menu is the sides: best sweet/spicy baked beans ever, and I love the jalapeno cheesy grits! Sides are so good that you'd be a weirdo to only get a sandwich instead of the $8 plate. Some people even order more to bring home. As a result, the wait to order can be excruciating, plus another 40 min to get your food after ordering. Worst is probably Friday dinner when there's a live band. Best time for speedy service is weekday lunch hours (practically no wait). You can also call ahead to order and come pick up. But the experience of enjoying your BBQ with byob and music in the picnic area in the back on a summer night is worth the wait.
(5)Channon S.
I just don't get the hype. I ordered a pulled pork sandwich and it was just nothing special. Only one sauce to choose from, generic Kroger bun.... I....just.....don't.....get...it.
(2)Momo N.
It was ok. Nothing was really standing out compare to other bbq places around cincinnati.
(3)Johannah M.
The Best !!!! I was in taste bud heaven with the ribs! Melted in my mouth !!
(5)Ashley K.
Eli's is one of the few places that I actually get cravings for. I think I've had nearly everything on the menu and never been disappointed. My absolute guilty pleasure food is the "dirty" hotdogs (topped with coleslaw, BBQ sauce and crumbled bacon). Hands down one of the best things I've ever had. I'm betting that it's only a matter of time before Guy Fieri tries these on DDD!
(5)Brian G.
Amazing, craft BBQ. Went there on a whim and will definitely be a return trip.
(5)Kelsey H.
I went here for the first time ever and the BBQ was pretty tasty! It's probably the BEST BBQ I've had in Cincinnati. I had the smoked turkey sandwich (but only ate the turkey, no bun) and I thought it was super flavorful, especially smothered in the smokey rich sauce. A little bit too salty for my taste though. The baked beans were PHENOMENAL!! Probably the best baked beans I've ever had.. they were packed with flavor and they had a huge KICK! Definitely not for people who shy away from spicy foods. The place was busy for a Monday night in Cincinnati.. it seems like business is doing super well! Not much seating inside but they have a sizeable area outside. Don't forget: BYOB! They do have small cups, but bring your own cups if you need some.
(4)Marcia M.
Simple menu, great food, great atmosphere. Love the indoor/outdoor vibe. Parking could be a problem if busy but we had no trouble with that.
(5)Gerardo R.
I think these ribs are the best in town. But, I always prefer the rib tips, which are the best deal. Usually pick a side, Jalapeno Cheese Grits or Creamy Southern Coleslaw. Nice you can bring your own drink. Keep in mind it's only cash.
(5)Kristen D.
My best friend lives in Cinci and hasn't stopped talking about this "cool BYOB BBQ place" that she always wants to go to. Finally had the chance to try it this weekend! The menu is so easy: choose your main dish (ribs, pulled pork, etc.). Then, choose two sides (grits, cornbread, mac & cheese, beans, etc.). Get all that for $8. It is seriously SO MUCH FOOD for a fantastic price. I'm still dreaming about the mac& cheese, and the BBQ sauce is addicting. Meat was to die for! Beans were slightly spicy. Everything else about Eli's absolutely rocks. It totally was nothing like I expected: you drive up to a bunch of tents and picnic tables where people are just hanging around waiting for their food. Walk into a small house that looks like it should be an apartment...there's a record playing in the corner, some tables inside, a small, one person bathroom, and a tiny counter where you place your order. They bring your food out to you when it's done, so grab a seat and enjoy all the awesomeness around you. One other thing I loved: they had a boombox attached to the top of the tent outside playing Johnny Cash on repeat. You'd never notice it if you weren't paying attention, but I loved this tiny detail. It helped me fall in love with this place even more. I can't wait to go back to Cinci again for the sole purpose of eating at Eli's. This place absolutely needs to be on a TV show!!
(5)Jes O.
This is the best BBQ in Cincinnati. Hands down. Or up. It doesn't matter, its that good. Even better is the BYOB. I mean come on, does it get any better than that? Grab your best friends and meet us at Elis!
(5)Mr And Mrs G.
MR says ... best BBQ!!! MRS says ... I can easily give this place a perfect score for several reasons: - great BBQ. they make it a little charred and crispy-licious. 4pcs ribs is plenty - sides are delicious and tasty. get the crispy pork toppings with mac&cheese and grits - get the corn bread, it's yummy!!! - open seating, picnic style BUT what's disappointing is ... they don't accept debit/credit cards!!! CA$H only please. I don't carry ca$h often and when I feel like stopping by ELI's ... usually, I don't have the CA$H so boooooo!!!! but sure love love love this place. and YES! I'm a FAN :)
(4)Laurie E.
I absolutely love this place. The atmosphere is cool and laid back. You eat outdoors in the summer and winter. It's kept really warm. The food is very affordable and delicious. The best BBQ in town for sure!
(5)Jann W.
The pulled pork and smoked turkey are the real deal. Jalapeno grits are amazing and quite spicy. Minimal advertising so watch for the pig sign on the front street. Park around back and enjoy your meal on wooden picnic benches outside behind the restaurant. In our opinion and having moved from Texas, this is the best barbecue in Cincinnati. And we love that it is a BYOB. Everyone was opening beer from their coolers outside and it's a fun atmosphere.
(5)Rachel T.
I love Eli's and it pains me to review them this way so I want to state that their food is great but do NOT cater with them! I was planning my wedding for months and from out of state. I'm from Cincy and moved back recently and got married here. The food order I placed with their online guides after speaking to someone about how much I should order for the picnic catering for my wedding. I wanted to ensure I ordered enough sides since my vegetarian friends love their sides too. I was told to use the web guide and I doubled what was suggested. After paying my deposit and the rest of the order and delivery, it arrived at my event and half way through the guests we totally ran out!!! This was so embarrassing and awful and after inquiring with them they pawned it as carelessness on my part after claiming I had remaining balance that they would cover for me that I had already paid! Insulting me further. This was a terrible experience I can never undo and unfortunately it was in what was supposed to be the greatest day of my life. After double checking my order to see if I was shorted to find it was an ordering oversight on their catering team, I reiterated how confusing their buying guide was for picnic orders urging them to revise so this wouldn't happen to anyone else and so far the suggestion hasn't been acknowledged or valued in any way. I got a generic ramble about essentially how careless I was about not asking the specific question "is this enough" after doubling what they advised! Ridiculous and terrible catering customer service. This could have totally been avoided and now there's no changing the disaster that happened. Please don't let them do this to you event too. Be very careful and deliberate! Now they're claiming that I owe them a deposit they cashed.
(1)Sarah D.
Well I am easily 10lbs heavier because I've my visit to Ohio and I blame it all on you Eli's!! You forced me to eat a pulled pork sandwich, order of ribs and two sides of mac and cheese. Just forced it down my throat!! This place is amazing - get there early since the wait is out of control busy in the evening. Took about an hour to get our food but totally worth the wait.
(5)Bob C.
Great bbq with a laid back Sunday afternoon atmosphere. Warm days bring a crowd so be prepared to wait a while for some of the best bbq in the city. Mac and cheese, mashed potatoes and bbq are favorites.
(4)Darrell M.
BBQ Pride of Cincinnati Eli's is right there on my short list of best food in Cincinnati. As we sit in the dead of winter, I can think of nothing more amazing than when this Spring rolls around and my wife and I can bring a six-pack of beer down to Eli's, sit outside at a picnic table and enjoy the best barbeque in the city... state... world! I have family in South Carolina who came with us to Eli's this fall and had no issue placing Eli's at or above what they'd had in the heart of Barbeque country. I love this place so much! Pulled pork is so good it's hard to even try anything else and the Cheese Grits, Mac and Cheese, Cornbread, and Baked Beans are all out of this world. We even brought a container of baked beans to my dad in Indiana because he'd been craving them even since we took him here last year. Writing this review has me thinking I'll be back to Eli's in the next week!
(5)Leo Y.
Expect an hour wait time for dinner. The line starts at the register, runs the whole length of the building, and then take a right out the door, stretching nearly the length of the property. This allows one to study the place from the outside, and the inside, in great detail. The decor is quite lovely, with a working record player, collection of records and a vintage amplifier providing the perfect soundtrack of eagles for the scene. After finally getting to the register, and paying for my food, I went outside to make a few phone calls on the lawn, while it was being prepared. About 15 minutes later, my name was called, I grabbed the to go bag, and headed to my car. Deciding to check the food in the car, I realized that it wasn't mine, and not in my favor. Walking back to the counter, I handed back my incorrect order, received an apology, and received my correct order, with an extra rib thrown in, roughly five minutes later. Once I finally received my food, found it to be a solid four stars. Nothing to change your life, and not the best BBQ that I've ever had, but a solid meal for a decent price.
(4)Eric S.
Went once with a group of friends and will DEFINITELY be going back! I walked up and noticed a table of friends chomping on a tray of deliciously smoked rip tips. I thought, "oh, they bought some kind of group deal." Observing a little further, I noticed my friend had a sweaty glow about him and was on the verge of uncomfortable. "Dude," he said, "please help me eat these!" Turns out, Eli's had a deal for 5 FREAKING POUNDS of rib tips for $8. Are you kidding me?!!!??? So, we obliged. My wife, and I, 2 kids, and a friend not only ate these for dinner, but enjoyed their deliciousness throughout the week. Other huge perks of Eli's - 1. BYOB - nuff said. 2. Outdoor seating - adjoining large field was perfect for young kids. You can eat great food here and not have to constantly shush the kids. They can play and have a blast, and come to the picnic tables to eat as needed. 3. Fun Atmosphere - everyone was having a good time, and they had a DJ 4. Great for families As for sides, the baked beans and jalapeno grits were a must. My wife devoured the cheesy goodness of the grits. As probably noted by others - you need CASH, check or Reds tickets. Funny story. Some of our friends didn't have cash. Guy behind them picks up their tab and gives them extra saying, "take your family to the movies." Who is it? None other than Dusty Baker! Very cool. Can't wait to go back and bring others to Eli's!
(5)Mort H.
Awesome food. The flavor was outstanding. I didn't know whether to keep eating and die happy, or save the goodness for later. So I ended up taking the remaining half of an order of the double order of rib tips home. That half order made for an excellent breakfast item. We dined in the early evening, so there was ample seating inside. The outside setup looked odd at first. However, knowing what I know now, I know I would sit outside for another chance to dine at this location. As mentioned in another review, I hope to be back several times to work my way down the menu.
(5)Martha C.
Came to Eli's with a few friends for some grub. Being that Eli's has been getting a lot of media lately for Best BBQ in the region (i.e. Food & Wine), we were glad to find a spot at one of the many picnic tables. The wait ended up being about 25 minutes for food, which for a nice Saturday evening, wasn't bad. We missed out on the BYOB, but now know for next time. As for the food, I thought it was OK. I ended up ordering the turkey, which might have been why I was happy with it, but not overly impressed. It wasn't dry or anything, it just wasn't fantastic. I added some extra BBQ sauce, and that seemed to help it out.....along with the cole slaw that they put on top of the sandwich. And, if you can't tell the cole slaw was awesome. The other sides seemed pretty good as well. One recommendation I have for Eli's would be for them to provide multiple sauces for you to put on yourself. I myself prefer a vinegar based BBQ sauce and one of the people I was with preferred a sweeter sauce. I think that would help make Eli's a little more unique and a little more for everyone.
(4)Melissa W.
I am not an easy judge of barbecue, but OMG, Eli's serves some amazing 'que! The hot dogs don't sound like a culinary explosion, but are they ever! Best ribs I have ever eaten outside my own grill. Turkey is way underserved in my opinion- Eli's turkey is the absolute bomb. And the pulled pork that started it all is smoky, fatty, crispy, awesomeness. The BYOB policy makes it so fun to park at a picnic table with a cooler, listen to some fun bluegrass tunes, and eat some fantastic food. Go! It is worth the wait, but if you want to avoid the crowds, go between 2 and 5 on Sunday.
(5)John B.
I've been back a couple times since my original review and I've gotta give credit where credit is due. I love their food and find it to be magically delicious comfort food. I'm glad that its warm enough to eat outside at the picnic tables. This place is a perfect meeting spot for a group of friends on a warm spring/summer night. So, grab some cold ones, bottles of wine, or go dry, but get out and support this place.
(5)Andy L.
Hidden BBQ gem east of town. Great lunch haunt. Ask for the crispins for a buck on your mac n cheese. Worth it!
(5)Paul K.
This is a party every time! Outdoor seating at picnic tables, covered and it has overhead fans so it's usually comfortable. Indoor seating is limited but fun. Bring your own beverages, don't be in a hurry...typical wait time on weekends is 1 hour and that's after you waited in line to place your order. Again, byob so who cares. Ok, now the important stuff...FOOD. Pulled pork sandwich comes with a bit of sauce and coleslaw unless you tell them to put it on the side. This is my favorite and...It's awesome, smokey, moist enough...perfect. I've had the smoked turkey sandwich and it's really good. The baked beans are killer, the cheddar jalapeño grits are great and I'm not a huge grit fan...I had the dirty dog which comes with slaw, BBQ sauce and pork cracklings...yep. Last and not least...I've had their ribs and these are perfect. Skip the mashed potatoes, they're not bad... It's just that everything else is superb. I take people here that are in from out of town and they love it. This place is a gem.
(5)lisa w.
ambiance: casual and inviting. americana curated with taste. the inside is pretty small, but no worries, there's plenty of tables outside (complete with music and heaters). perfect for any occasion, with any number of guests. food: over the top amazing bbq. i wanted more of everything. all sides are also amazing. i know because we made it a point to try every single item on the menu over a course of 3 visits. service. excellent. nothing fancy but certainly friendly, quick and knowledgeable. l there was a little fly issue outside the door, but i think that's kind of inevitable given the in and out food delivery
(5)Chris C.
Well, we expected to have to wait to order on a Friday night, and we did wait 30 minutes. What we didn't expect was that AFTER ordering it would take an HOUR to get our food! It's BYOB and we had only brought 2 beers each, and they were gone by the time we got our food :( so we had nothing to drink with our food (NOT waiting in line again). The food was good, but not worth the wait. Won't be back.
(3)Jamey B.
Ate here for lunch today. Had to try some Cincinnati BBQ and this place didn't disappoint. The food was cheap and ribs were excellent. I would highly recommend getting ribs, the best thing I ate. The pulled pork sandwich was good but not as great as the ribs. Also tried the naked beans, it was pretty good when you mix in their BBQ sauce. Also liked the fact you could sit outside in the tent area on the picnic tables to add to the feel of backyard BBQ
(4)Tom T.
This is a great place for smoked meats! Pulled pork is fantastic. I tried the Mac and Cheese and it was good but I have had better. Next time, I'll try a different side. Overall , I are lunch for $10 and it included a drink, pulled pork with slaw, Mac and cheese and a side of cornbread. Very good deal and the food was perfect. Can't wait to try the ribs or the smoked turkey next time. Almost forgot, their sauce was very tasty... Not too sweet with a slight kick. Next time I will bring down a few beers to wash my food down as they do not have a permit to sell alcohol yet. Byob and pulled pork.. A winning combo. Don't forget this is a cash only place!!!!
(5)Ryan P.
Finally, I've found amazing barbecue in Cincinnati! I've heard so much about Eli's, but just now got the chance to go there. I enjoyed a nice outdoor lunch with some coworkers, and we all left happy. I always use the pulled pork sandwich to test how good a barbecue place is, so I ordered one (slaw on top, yes please!) along with the jalapeno cornbread and jalapeno cheese grits (dirty style too, with crispy pork bits on top). The sandwich was amazing. The bun is nice and toasted, also not too big and not too small. The pork is super smoky, with lots of little burned bits. The sauce was nice and tangy, and they didn't use too much, like some lesser BBQ joints do. The slaw was creamy, delicious, and gave a nice crunch to the sandwich. The combination of everything came together perfectly to form the best pulled pork sandwich in the Queen City. My sides were amazing as well. The cornbread wasn't too sweet, and wasn't too spicy. I was worried that I didn't have any butter to put on it, but it didn't really need it, as it wasn't too dry. When I first tried the grits, I dug under the "dirty style" crispy pork bits to get a bite without those in it. The grits were creamy, super cheesy, and incredibly spicy (way much more so than the cornbread). After mixing the pork bits in, I didn't like them nearly as much. You couldn't taste the cheese and the true flavor of the grits, the burned smoke flavor and heat from the jalapenos overwhelmed them. I'll be sure to leave the dirty style option off next time. The decor of this place is great. There's a turntable and great record collection where you can spin whatever tunes you want. After placing your order at the counter in the back, if you can't find a seat at one of the 5-6 tables inside, there's a ton of picnic tables outside under a tent, and there's even a barefoot grass area. Parking is in a private lot behind the building off a side street, or there's spots up front on Riverside too. One thing that really brings this place from a 4 star to a 5 star is the price. It's only $8 for a sandwich and two sides. Sodas are $2 each, which isn't a good deal for the Ale-8 that I drink, but a really good deal for the Mexican Coke that my coworker got. I'll be sure to order one of those next time, or maybe I'll just bring some beer, as this place is BYOB. It's a hell of a value here, and the food is worth every penny and more. Come down and try it for yourself!
(5)Aaron Z.
This is now my 3rd five star review from Cincinnati, something is going on here.The only Q joints I know are Bay area , but this place blew all others away, by a wide margin. They should call the joint Pavlov's Q, 'cause you salivate as soon as you walk in the door, the massive force of nature smoker out back permeates the air inside. The menu and pricing is simple, but we all had the pulled pork. Creative sides like jalapeno cheese grits, and hot 'n spicy black beans along with the usual slaw and cornbread all excellent. You order, pay, head outside to one of the 20 or so picnic tables, then wait for your name to be called. It's all cash and BYOB which ensures your favorite beverage will be served .Pulled pork was the best I've had, hot , smoky, complex. perfectly balances with the slaw. I heard weekends the place jams with long lines and live music on the low wooden platform stage. This Monday was cool and laid back. Great way to chill thru a super satisfying dinner.For those in need of doing their 'bidness, there are unlit Port-O-Lets outside as well. Figure out your phones flashlight function before entering.
(5)Cindy Y.
The pulled pork bbq was excellent, it totally lived up to expectations. So excellent that it made me crave a true southern dessert, such as a cobbler or pecan pie. Nothing else would do. Not ice cream, not a chocolate bar from the store, not a cookie. But there is no dessert on the menu. A true southern dessert would be a great addition to the menu. Maybe a cobbler of the day?
(4)Soly Z.
Oh man, was this place ever good! Another hidden gem that we wouldn't have discovered if it weren't for Yelp. The turkey was so tender and the sauce was delicious. We ordered a sampling of the sides, including mac & cheese, cole slaw, the potatoes, and beans, and they were all equally delicious.
(5)Melissa W.
Best mashed potatoes on the planet! Seriously. The ribs were very good too. Cool, casual spot. Most seating is outdoors so it's best to go when it's not scorching temperatures. You can bring your own adult beverages. Crowd forms a line outside by 7 ( on a Monday!) so be prepared to wait a bit but well worth the wait!
(5)Patrick E.
Love this place! Best food in town. Price has the best BBQ in Cincinnati, Ohio at a great price. I would recommend this place to anyone.
(5)Carol J.
excellent bbq!
(5)Mark S.
The best BBQ in town. The mega rib place in town is the best of the 1970's (it was Bob Hope's favorite rib place) crossed with a Wal*Mart. Eli's is small, quirky and cash only ... the food outstanding. Don't bring your CCC friends, there are no linen napkins; this is real food. Try the rib bones, dry rubbed and smoked. Baked beans are spicy, cole slaw has too much mayo. Ale8 is the drink to have. Take a blanket and eat out on the grass. The record player is total throwback; find the Springsteen disks and rock out.
(5)Alan O.
I know good BBQ, and this BBQ is excellent. The sauce is perfectly spiced and is well balanced by the cole slaw. However, last time I went my girlfriend ordered the hot dogs. I am not exaggerating when I tell you that Eli's hot dogs are the best I have ever had. It's cash only, but you can bring your own booze. Seriously, you need to go.
(5)Carla G.
Easily the best BBQ in the Cincinnati area. Just wish they had more space in their dining room. Very happy to see that they're improving their parking lot. We'll be back often.
(5)Todd S.
Phenomenally smoked BBQ, in a perfectly dive-y outdoor environment. BBQ doesn't get any better in Cincinnati.
(5)J K.
While the menu is relatively small, the food here is solid, and that's enough to keep me coming back to Eli's. There have been a couple of hiccups that prevent me from being a head-over heels fan though. The first time I went to the new location, the restaurant wasn't opened yet, even though there were already reviews online. Odd. But whatever. The owners were kind. They apologized, showed us the space, and even offered us free sandwiches when we returned. In the two subsequent times I went there I have tried the rib tips, pulled pork sandwich, the jalepeno corn bread, and mac n cheese, all of which were above expectation. However, there seems to be a good amount of variation in what they serve. For instance, some of the rib tips were soft and juicy while others were burnt to an inedible crisp. The sides of mac n cheese were larger in our first visit than our second. While these things weren't totally off putting, it did make question what you were really ordering. Oh, and even though the owners recognized our group, we didn't get the free sandwiches were were promised. ah well. I apologize for such a downer review, but it's the summation of these little gripes prevent me from being fanatic about Eli's. Don't get me wrong though, I still recommend it!
(4)Dawna G.
I have been to this place three times now. The barbecue is the best I've had so far in Cincinnati (compared to Pit-to-Plate, Montgomery Inn, and Smoq'd). The menu is limited but I like what I've had. I usually get the pulled pork sandwich which is well-seasoned pork great BBQ sauce and baked beans (very good as well). No salt or seasoning needed--perfect as is! I also get the mashed potatoes which taste more like a cross between potato pancakes and mashed potatoes--which is weird, but I like potatoes so it's fine. It also has a bit of a fly problem (when I've been there), maybe because of the bbq sauce not fully/immediately cleaned from the tables, and that bothered my boyfriend. Reminds me of a cookout, tho. As long as they don't land on my food... I'm good. Overall, the food is great and very affordably priced. The service, when I've been there and it wasn't packed by the way, was quick and the staff will ask you how the food is.
(4)Alex V.
If you are looking for excellent Bar BQ sandwiches, excellent sides, excellent atmosphere, excellent service, and BYOB ... this is the place. It's small but energetic. They have a great staff. The food is spot on. It's reasonable whether you enjoy a few pops or not. But if you have a cooler of cold ones it's a steal. Well done Eli's!
(5)James G.
Awesome! Get the pulled pork and the beans. Great atmosphere, great food. An excellent experience. Highly recommended.
(5)Harold L.
The BBQ here isn't bad, but far from the best in Cincinnati. Ollie's Trolley and Walt's immediately come to mind as pulled pork that would beat Eli's in a blind taste test, hands down. Eli's is a better atmosphere though, and is BYOB. So if you can bear the 45 minute plus waits for pre-cooked food in the name of being at a cool place that you can bring your own beer to, then go for it.
(2)Gary H.
Hole in the wall BBQ place with awesome food. No credit cards are accepted so bring cash or checks. The food deserves a five star review but the young lady behind the counter taking our order was very rude and short with us. We were doing a larger order for 9 people and there was no one behind us yet she rushed us to order. Once we got home we realized they had shorted us two side dishes that we paid for. Overall the food was incredible so if you can call ahead and check your order before you go you will have a great dinner.
(4)Travis P.
This is a great new addition to bar b Que in and around Cincinnati. My first trip was a great success. I ordered the hot dogs with brisket and Cole slaw on top and it was amazing. The combination was perfect with the salty-ness from the hot dog, the creamy Cole slaw and the sweet and tangy bbq sauce. The sides are great as well. The mashed potatoes were excellent, they seemed the be fried just a little bit too which added a crisp to them. The jalapeno corn bread was a great combination to everything as well. I will definitely be going back to taste some of the other items on the menu.
(5)Beverly C.
Our first time here! Food was excellent, service was with a smile! Great little venue with outside picnic tables under some big trees, plenty of off street parking and the inside is very clean with a vintage feel. Only missed 5 stars from me because the menu is missing some good "greens".
(4)Karly B.
Such an amazing BBQ restaurant. Special thank you to Brian Jackson, who I dealt with for our "picnic" order for a get together we had at our house this weekend. The BBQ was a huge hit, and everything was delicious as always!! And seriously the best Mac n Cheese in the world!
(5)Tom C.
wow! best hot dog i ever ate.... dont short yourself order 4 of them you can eat em.
(5)Tamara S.
Eli's BBQ is the real deal. The food and atmosphere are both top notch at an extremely affordable price. Love the smoked Turkey and Pulled Pork. Both sandwiches come on a toasted bun with a choice of two sides for a mere $8; it's one of the best bargains in town. I am a fan of the coleslaw and jalapeno corn bread but can't say I'm a huge fan of the other sides. They just don't have the same Wow of the main entrees. I would love to see Eli's offer greens or green bean option along with the other sides. I'm so glad we finally have a viable barbecue option in the city. During the summer months, Eli's also runs a stand a Findlay market. Can't wait until May so I can get some BBQ in my 'hood!
(4)Jon M.
Eli's is addictive. I started going here two weeks ago after some coworkers went and raved about it. I'm pretty skeptical when someone raves about a cincinnati restaurant, because I've been disappointed so many times. BUT, Eli's is legit. This place exudes a cool vibe without making you feel like you're not cool enough to be there. The BBQ is far above any I've had in Cincinnati and the people who work there are extremely nice; they even try to remember your name. So, in the past two weeks, I've eaten there four times. I've never gone this many times to the same restaurant in this short of time. So, I must be addicted. Hmmm... maybe they smoke their meats in crack. I've tried the smoked pork sandwich, the smoked turkey sandwich, the hot dogs, the Mac and cheese, and the baked beans. They have all been great. It's obvious they take great pride in their food and it shows.
(5)Jack R.
Without question, 100% the best pulled pork that I've had in Cincinnati or beyond. Cannot say enough good things about this restaurant--- awesome decor and vibe, amazing food. Location is a little off the beaten path, but easy to reach from any of the Eastern suburbs or downtown (Columbia Parkway to Delta to Riverside). Important: bring cash, as they do not accept credit cards BYOB
(5)Ben C.
Cincinnati is a better city for having Eli's. The food is phenomenal. The pulled pork and baked beans were the best I've ever had, and the ribs, mac and cheese, and grits were great as well. The atmosphere is welcoming and laid back, with a crowd controlled record player in the dining room, BYOB, outdoor picnic seating and a friendly, eager to please staff. I can't wait to go back with a six pack when the weather will permit lounging outside to enjoy friends, family and the smell of the pit. I will absolutely be back!
(5)Tony N.
Stopped in for a late lunch and had a great experience. Very good pulled pork sandwich with very tasty sause. Great sides, mac and cheese and jalapeno cheese grits. Very reasonably priced, friendly staff, plain but comfortable seating. They have some great vinyl in the dining room....the Monkees Greatest Hits were on while I ate...good food good tunes!
(4)Richard H.
Picked up food to go 4/26/2012. I walk into most restaurants (and write my reviews) with an idea of where I am going and the type of environment, service, food I am going to get. So if you walk into Eli's expecting the Montgomery Inn you will be in for a big surprise. Eli's at its core is a simple BBQ joint and doesn't try to be anymore than that. I had the pulled pork sandwich with cole slaw on top and a side of mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese. The mashed potatoes had a seared edge that I enjoyed and the mac and cheese was outrageously cheesy. It was a beautiful day, and many people lined the picnic tables out back. I hear it is byob and per the cashier, that is not expected to change anytime soon.
(5)Chelsea F.
Eli's BBQ is some of the best grubb you can find in Cincinnati, it is so unique and different from many of the restaurants located throughout the city. You can't go wrong with any menu item, I usually can't stray away from the pulled pork or the delicious black peppered baked beans - drool. Whether you want to take the whole family or just bring a case of your favorite brew and have a little picnic in the blanket only area, it has a little something for everyone. Definitely a point of interest if you are visiting the city.
(5)Hannah P.
Y'all, I don't even dig on swine, but this place rules. Their East End location is adorable, from the bathtub planters out front to the no-frills record player spinning Blues and Honky Tonk standards and the staff's friendly, laid-back attitude. The prices are reasonable for pulled pork that gets rave reviews. Myself, I like to get a bunch of sides, and build my own little mountain of jalapeno-cheddar cornbread, mac 'n cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw. It's picnic food at its finest and just about the best thing I can think of after a sweaty, rowdy softball game. (Eli's flanks Schmidt Softball Complex.) I love that their BYOB policy lets you pick your poison, and though I've yet to sit barefoot in the designated picnic area, it's only a matter of time before I do, and I bet it'll be great, too. Eli's is good food and good summertime fun. Can't wait to check out the vibe at their new location on Vine St. when it opens!
(5)Pamela D.
Was Good.....Real good BBQ.
(5)Colin G.
Awesome spot for great fast and affordable BBQ. Great vibe and love the tunes. Pulled pork, Mac and cheese (w some BBQ sauce mixed in) and jalapeño cornbread are must haves!
(5)Greer B.
We love this place! BYOB, plenty of room for kids to run and play outside. The BBQ is the best in Ohio. It also doesn't hurt that it is cheap eats as well...
(5)Hagatha C.
As wonderful as Eli's BBQ is, it is NOT worth an hour and a half wait, as it was tonight. I suspect they had to go out and first catch the pig, then butcher it, then cook it. Yes the place was crowded, but the staff should have warned people about the anticipated wait time. Clearly their production capacity can't meet the demand. The least they can do is be honest and tell people up front, before they take their money, how long they will have to wait for their food.
(3)Peggy Z.
In this small, unremarkable, lonely building along the side of the road is the Best BBQ in town! Unbelievable pulled pork and great side dishes! Even the buns are terrific! My daughter had the hot dog and she loved it. It even looked and smelled great to me and I don't like hot dogs. Heads up -- if you would like an adult beverage with your meal, it's BYOB.
(5)Shauna W.
Really delicious!
(5)Hillary k.
Eli's is AWESOME! Every single one of these reviews says that. I'm going to tell everyone a little secret about Eli's BBQ......get the hot dogs!!!!! They are amazing and totally different. The smoked turkey is super delicious as well. The first time you go there get the pulled pork, then try other things as you become addicted...you will become addicted.
(5)nicholas y.
Excellent BBQ and a great location! The pulled pork is definitely the best in Cincinnati. Not only do they have a neat rustic southern feel but the service is A+ and they even DELIVER!!! We are a local resident and local small business owner and will definitely be eating at Eli's on a regular basis. Keep up the great work guys!
(5)Matt P.
Had this barbecue downtown during lunch in the summer. My family is from the south where there is fantastic barbecue, and this place is amazing! Best barbecue I've had north of Tennessee!
(5)Andrew A.
Best pulled pork sandwich I've ever had. Great baked bean and slaw. Rest of sides good too. Would be nice to have cups for beverages.
(4)Ryan H.
There is nothing wrong with this place, it is perfect. I always want to eat here. I love bringing my own beer, I love playing and listening to the records, I love the hot dogs, I love the baked beans, I love the location. Eli is exceedingly nice and came by to clear our table when he noticed we were finished, I liked that. You have to have a pretty bad attitude to not enjoy this place. I love parking my truck in the mud behind the restaurant after it rains, I love smelling the smoker as I walk up, I love the nice ladies at the counter, I love the rotary phone, everything is awesome all the time and I can't wait to eat there again. Oh, I'll tell you what I don't like, negative reviews about this place.
(5)Steve S.
This place is dank! Went with my main bros Bernt and Cargo here a couple weekends ago but haven't been able to find my computer since then to write a review. I got the turkey sandwich and the pulled pork, along with the loaded mashed potatoes and mac and cheese and all of it was amazing. Bernt got the hot dogs, because he always does, and he loved them too. Eli's rocks!
(5)Nicholas W.
Cash Only--I've eaten here many times and always get the pulled pork sandwich, which ranges from good to very good, the sides are pretty average but you get 2 for $3 so you might as well get them. If your looking for a good BBQ sandwich this is a good place to start.
(4)Jen S.
If you want BBQ, this place is awesome. Eating here earned Cincinnati some extra stars in my book. This spot just has the kitschy feel of an underground place that just sprung up. No real sign, other than their logo on the building, cash or check only, byob and picnick tables out back, a record player in the front. Love it so much I've ate here twice in the last two days! And I NEVER do that. Oh, and did I mention that on top of the fun atmosphere, the BBQ is ridiculously delicious?
(5)Nick B.
Eli's is a great addition to the area. Outdoor seating is offered at tables and at a special "barefoot and blankets" section of lawn. You can bring your own beer in and pick records to play from their extensive vinyl collection. Eli's has the best pulled pork in the city and the jalapeno grits are not to be missed. I've started coming here on a weekly basis as it's on my regular commute to UC.
(5)Michael W.
Hands down, best BBQ I've had in Cincinnati. Love the atmosphere, prices and most of all, the food. Highly recommend!
(5)Liz D.
DELICIOUS!!! Cheap and fantastic dinner. BYOB too and very close to mt lookout.
(5)Kathy W.
Just went for our second visit to make sure the first visit was repeatable. Without question the best pulled pork BBQ sandwich ever. Toasty bun, incredible pork with just the right amount of crispy meat. The sauce is fantastic. I thought I would need more but this is truly a place where you want to fully taste the meat. I think the coleslaw on the sandwich provides just the right amount of creaminess and balance. Just order the sandwich and forget about the sides. It is perfection.
(5)Hyme R.
Good BBQ worth checking out. The ribs had a good smoke ring and where well seasoned. They where fresh as well, most ribs in southern rib places sit around and get soggy waiting for customers. These tasted right out of one of the 3 smokers in the back. The sauce was middle of the road. Love the coke in the bottles. Here are a few suggestions for improvements: offer a half or full slab regardless of the price. The rib meal had two bones- WTF. I wanted about 10 of them. Also, put some work into the sauce. You need a few of them, spicy and South Carolina would be great. I like that you can bring beer in but I'd prefer an upscale beer menu, but that's just me. Check them out.
(3)Eric B.
I don't want to be dramatic but BBQ doesn't get better than this. They do it right plain and simple. I would suggest going now and saying you did before this place blows up. I'm a KC native and have lived in Cincy for 3 years and this rivals Arthur Bryant's, Oklahoma Joes, & Gates as my favorite BBQ restaurants. This joint is an expanded menu away from the big time.
(5)Beth K.
Some of the best BBQ around! Eli's keeps it simple with a fairly small menu and they hit the mark with every item on there. The sides are possibly one of the best features here - especially the jalapeno cheese grits! Fairly small interior space, but plenty of room outside to enjoy picnic style. The only downside is the wait, which can be pretty substantial during busy times (45-90 min). Take that time to grab a seat, have a beer (BYOB) and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Don't forget - cash only!
(5)Ron G.
Yuuuuuuum is all I can say. This is the best BBQ in the north.
(5)T P.
Better than any BBQ I've ever had in California (Including Oakland and Los Angeles!). I'm only sad that I didn't get to eat everything they offered. Thanks to the fans here for putting the Do's and Do Nots so I had a heads up before I got here. Phone Order is the way to go, screw waiting in that longass line! I LOVE THIS PLACE!
(5)Laura M.
I have been enjoying Eli's BBQ at Findlay market for some time now. We finally made it down to the restaurant! So glad we went!! Be prepared to wait quite awhile for your food to be ready. So worth it. I had the pulled pork BBQ with cheese and Mac and the the jalapeño cornbread. The meat was so tender and moist. They really pile it high and top it off with some yummy BBQ sauce. The cheese and Mac is no joke. They put cheese first in the title for a reason. I've never had anything so cheesy and rich. Soooo good. The jalapeño cornbread was good. Not too spicy. I could have used a bit more. But safe for all spice level eaters. My husband and the all beef hotdogs with coleslaw and BBQ crisp ins on top, drizzled with BBQ sauce. He said they were delicious. The atmosphere is laid back. There is a few tables inside the restaurant to eat but the best is the numerous picnic tables they have littered all over the venue outside. They have a canopy set up over a large portion. They also have live music a lot on the weekends. Overall we had a wonderful time and decided next time to bring the kiddos with us.
(5)Kat L.
Some coworkers and I decided to try Eli's Barbeque this weekend after a long morning of teaching. Parking was found easily on the street, but could be seen as a potential issue during busier times of the day. We were excited as we walked to the small storefront, as the smell was intoxicating. There are only a few menu items - some meats and a few sides, but quality is defiantly desired over quantity. I had the pulled pork sandwich - a generous amount of tender pork that fell off the bun while eating it. My side was macaroni and cheese and while it's not the best I've ever had, it was delicious. My coworkers got the mashed potatoes and grits as their sides. One coworker, who's from the south, said it's the first place he's found decent grits in the entire city. Next time I am trying the ribs and baked beans! Seating is very limited inside, but outside if full of picnic tables, perfect for a summer evening - just watch out for bees! Drinks are BYOB, or you can purchase Coke, Diet Coke, Ale8One, or Orange crush. Staff is very friendly and helpful. Payment is Cash/Check only, or Red's tickets - make sure to hit the ATM before visiting. Great food, great service - I'll be back soon!
(4)Thomas F.
This is my favorite restaurant in Cincinnati. Seriously, they do BBQ correctly. It's the middle of the on a Monday, and now I'm craving. Everything on this menu is fantastic. The pulled pork BBQ, the Turkey, the Hot Dogs, the Ribs, the Mac and Cheese, the Beans, the Ale8One. Could someone bring me some?
(5)Esther K.
Best BBQ you can ever get. The best time to go is during the warmer months when they have live music in the back and people are throwing a football around! This is not a quick eat, you'll have to wait because it's not a secret anymore how amazing this place is! Worth the wait. It's BYOB so take some beer and relax and get ready to eat some incredible BBQ!
(5)Krystin M.
Consistently amazing. Always a treat to go there. As a southerner I admire their grits!
(5)Mariah Y.
best (real) BBQ in town, hands down. we often get take away since it can be really crowded and a long wait (just to place your order!). recently got take away from downtown and the qualify was just as great (with no wait on a hot weekday evening!). in a word, yum!
(5)Monty B.
Oh Cincinnati you don't even have a clue when it comes to BBQ. It's experiences like Eli's that make me wish I still lived in Texas. The overarching theme across all of their meats was DRY. The pulled pork was dry. The ribs and rib tips were tough and dry. The ribs were grossly undercooked. The meat stuck to the bone like glue and I almost gave myself a hernia trying to chew it. They needed at least another few hours. Slow and steady, my friends. I suspect somebody had a little too much fun partying the night before, didn't show up in time to get the ribs going, and tried to rush something that simply needs time. The sides were disappointing as well. Mac was of the Kraft variety. Mashed potatoes and grits were both flavorless and dry. Oh my God can we get this place some moisture??? In the end, I paid $35 for the worst BBQ of my life. God, I miss you Rudy's. Oh yeah, I saw one of the cooks take his doobie into the trailer. Maybe he was the one that showed up late and rushed the ribs.
(1)Stephanie M.
It's hard to say anything about Eli's that hasn't already been said! It definitely lives up to the hype and is my new favorite barbecue joint in Cincinnati. We showed up at 2:30 on Sunday afternoon, which was a great time because the line was short and the place wasn't too crowded. It only took about 15 minutes for our food to arrive. I had the pulled pork--what else? The bun is toasted just right on the inside and stuffed full of tender, smokey, juicy pork. A smear of sauce and a little mound of coleslaw are the only condiments it needs (and really, you could get by without them--the pork itself is THAT good). The jalapeno cheddar grits were perfectly creamy and had a nice kick. They were delicious but I think I'd order cornbread or a different side next time, just to try another Eli's offering.
(5)Ben W.
I love restaurants that keep it simple and Eli's does a great job. Four entree choices and six sides. I had the Pulled pork sandwich which had great flavor but was a little on the salty side. I can overlook that as it might just be a one time thing or maybe I'll just put the slaw on top of the pork next time. Either way the flavors were bangin'. I also had the rib tips which were excellent along with mashed potatoes and cornbread. They do it right at Eli's. If Im ever in the Cincinnati area again I'll be sure to stop by.
(5)Jason P.
I'm glad I don't live near the joint. I would eat here almost every day. I had the pulled pork sandwich, jalapeño corn bread, and cheesy grits. I also shared some rib tips with the group I was with. Pulled pork was very good. Large portion. The corn bread was average. I was hoping for a little more. The cheesy grits were good. I say all of this to get to the rib tips. Outstanding! Smokey, sweet...everything rib tips should be. Byob.
(4)Jessica S.
I'll be honest - this gets four stars because everyone I know loves it. If it were me and me only, I would give it three but it seems a little unfair. I'm not a fan of pork, so I actually had the hot dogs (fully loaded - bbq sauce, coleslaw, and pork crispins) with mac and cheese and cornbread. The hot dogs were almost TOO much. Too many flavors and it all balanced out to nothingness (really, I don't understand the physics of flavors). I love mac and cheese, and I really wasn't a fan of theirs - cue huge disappointment. I read great reviews about it, so maybe it's just a love/hate sort of thing. I did absolutely love the cornbread. I could probably order that and that alone and live for the next fifty years. Yum. So maybe I gave this four stars for the cornbread. Maybe I gave it four stars for the looks of happiness on 99.9% of the patrons. Either way, I would still definitely go back and would recommend to anyone visiting the area.
(4)Alyssa F.
One star off because I know it's crazy busy in the summer, although I'm not sure what they can do about that. However, I visited in November. Pleasant surprises abounded! 1. NO wait. Seriously, walked up, ordered food, paid $16 for two sandwiches and 4 sides total, sat down, opened our BYOBeers and then they called our order. 2. Heated tents outside! 3. More tables inside than I expected. I figured it'd be a 2 4 top joint, but there are probably 6ish tables? Plus the two heated party tents with picnic tables. 4. Parking! In the back! And no surprise here, because I've eaten their food before, but YUM.
(4)Ted M.
[this review has been wasting away in my drafts folder for a year and a half now... I just couldn't bring myself to delete it though-- ] live bluegrass in the large outdoor seating area when we visited, and easily amongst the best BBQ ive had in Kentucky, Ohio, Mississippi, Tennessee or Alabama.... had rib tips, pulled pork, slaw, cheddar grits and beans. those beans... Layered deep. just go...
(5)Martha K.
The vagablondes are back! We ventured to Eli's BBQ because of the reviews on Yelp. Thank goodness! Eli's ROCKS!!!! My fellow vagablonde and I really enjoyed our food. I got the pulled pork and she got ribs. WOW is all I can say. We were fortunate to have a nice day and sat outside. It was the best picnic food I've ever had. The sides were awesome too. We got mac and cheese and jalapeno cornbread. I have recommended this place to everyone I know. I can't wait to go back!!!! We had the previledge to talk with the gentleman outside around the smoking area and they were very nice and kind. Keep up the good work!!
(5)Doug O.
I was really glad I found this place. It was out of my way but ended up being well worth the trip. It is a small place, rustic and unpretentious. To start, the staff was friendly and helpful. I got a hotdog and pulled pork sandwich. Nice touch-Coke in a bottle. There is just something about the feel of a glass bottle that can not be replaced. The BBQ was very good. The pulled pork was moist and had a nice smokey flavor and the bun was perfect. The hot dog was good too. By the way, if you like spicy- the jalapeño grits are not to be missed. The records and player are a nice throwback. Who ever put together the LP archive has real good taste in music. If you are in the area this place should not be passed up.
(4)Red P.
If you have a list of places you want to eat in Cincinnati, Eli's BBQ should be on that list. Another tip- Don't wait as long as I did!! Every time I finally make it to a place I've wanted to try I kick myself for waiting so long. Be sure to visit their website to learn more about their story and the vision for Eli's ...."where white collar could sit next to blue, black next to white, child next to grown....you see it didn't matter. It's the atmosphere, the music, the FOOD and the people that simmer together and create this place". I couldn't have said it better!!! My favorite Saturday routine (after spin class) is lunch and a trip to Findlay Market. Today, I finally ventured to Eli's. It's not hard to find but it's not a place you pass on your way to the grocery every day (even better!!). I didn't see a sign but I saw a Pig logo and a line out the door (don't worry it goes fast) and I knew i was home! Once inside the small place is funky and fun with great tunes playing and an excellent selection of vinyl to look through while your in line. The menu is simple and I knew I had to have pulled pork on my first visit. My vegetarian friend chose the Hickory Smoked Turkey sandwich..... I'm getting that next time!! Sides included coleslaw, jalapeño cornbread, Jalapeño chess grits and mac n cheese. We found a picnic table outside and joined our white, black and blue friends in the most amazing food event I have ever seen in Cincinnati. Families and friends hanging out, birthdays being celebrated and coolers carrying cold beer coming in for the afternoon. The food was the BEST and It did not disappoint!! A band was setting up as we were packing up so I can't wait to come back and hang out a while, I will pack my cooler and see you there!! Yum grub!! Red Pearl
(4)Courtney C.
How have I not written a review of one of my favorite restaurants yet?! My boyfriend and I are huge fans of Eli's. We first tried it last summer, and I honestly can't even look at Montgomery Inn the same way anymore. The pulled pork (with coleslaw on top, of course) is absolutely amazing, and you can't go wrong with any of the sides. I'm rather partial to the mac & cheese or the mashed potatoes, but the jalepeno cheddar grits are awesome too...and I am not a person who would easily admit to liking grits. I haven't tried the ribs yet - I'm a creature of habit! - but my boyfriend's parents get them and seem to love them. It's cash only, so be aware...it's also BYOB, which is fun. Be cautious if you're planning on bringing a large group...the inside of the restaurant fills up fast. Even so, I love the atmosphere inside...especially the old records. The staff is always friendly, and carrying out is easy. If you haven't tried Eli's yet, you are absolutely missing out on one of Cincinnati's best restaurants!
(5)Vinod S.
The best pulled pork sandwich I've ever eaten. One of the few instances where the coleslaw and BBQ sauce enhance the meat rather than overpower it. Super flavorful and juicy. The cheese grits were great as well, as was the bit of jalapeño cornbread I stole off a friend's plate. You can skip the baked beans unless you like them sweet (I don't).
(5)James L.
This place is sublime. The inside reminds me of old stores in East Texas or Louisiana. There was an hour wait for the food, but I didn't mind one bit. (Of course I wish I knew you could phone in your order ahead of time). The pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw was divine. And the baked beans were the only restaurant-made baked beans I've ever liked. Just like my mom's but with a dash of something else. And the jalapeno corn bread was as good as the best in Texas. Actually better if you eat it with those awesome baked beans.
(5)Cullen W.
Eli's is usually packed and that tells most of what you need to know right there. Sitting on Riverside Dr. its a quick trip from downtown. The BBQ was pretty good, the mac & cheese was great, and the old school Coke in the glass bottle was Classic (pardon the pun). The portions here aren't huge but its definitely worth the trip. Overall its a cool place to eat with good food.
(4)Shari S.
SOOO Good. Im not a huge BBQ fan and then I had Elis. You have to try it to believe! I would give it 5 stars if the inside was just a little bigger to listen to the bands in the winter. Great tent outside for summer.
(4)Lynn N.
Best BBQ I've had in the city way better than Montgomery and whatever ish.The air in Eli's itself is just heavenly that waiting the five minutes for my friend to join me I worked up an appetite. I got the pulled pork sandwich, jalapeno cornbread and mashed potatoes and cannot wait to try everything else that is on the menu. At some places its better to stick to what you know 'tried and tested' stuff, but around me people had ordered a variety of everything on the menu and it all looked incredibly drool-worthy that if I weren't stuffed, I'd totally have gone for some extra sides or ribs. I do not know of a BBQ place in the city that even remotely compares. Very reasonably price, parking accessible and staff was attentive. I'm happy they are doing well and receiving the recognition they deserve, I will definitely be back.
(5)Krystyna C.
If I had a last meal, it would be a pulled pork sandwich from Eli's BBQ. I first tried this place on a whim while at Findley Market with my fiance and dad. My dad and I are self-proclaimed "Barbeque Freaks" and we take our 'Q very seriously. We are from Memphis (the barbeque capital of the world) and know what it takes to have some seriously good BBQ. When I saw they were opening a brick and mortar storefront, I counted down the days until we could eat here. I L-O-V-E the Memphis style serving of the pulled pork sandwich that is topped with coleslaw and the sweet, smoky, tangy sauce. My mouth literately waters just thinking about how amazing this is. The restaurant itself is small, but intimate. The music is played off a vinyl record and the lights are low, and that kind of atmosphere is what makes Eli's worth visiting. NOTE: When you do make the trip to Eli's remember to bring your own alcohol and CASH. They do not accept credit cards as of yet, but it's been rumored they will sometime soon. If you haven't been here yet, make plans to do so ASAP!! You won't regret it!
(5)Peter B.
Wow! Who knew that Cincinnati actually had some outstanding BBQ. Just when I thought that Cincy BBQ would be eternally defined by the mediocrity of the Montgomery Inn, along comes Eli's BBQ at the bottom of Delta, east of downtown. The place is fairly no-nonsense. Open seating, is the order of the day. Diners cozy up to the cashier, place there order, and grab a seat inside or out back. The food is dirty cheap, but not the flavor. These guys really know how to slow cook some pulled pork. I loved the slaw and the mac n cheese. And the corn bread is delicious. An absolute must for anyone who wants really great BBQ!
(4)Mallory T.
AMAZING! Totally worth the wait if you have one, I recommend trying one of everything ! There isn't anything on the menu I don't like, you might leave smelling like a meat smoker from sitting outside but oh well the food makes up for it.
(5)Preston B.
Not too bad for a northern joint. Nice bark in the BBQ sandwich. Will come back next visit.
(4)Mike C.
Very good BBQ. However, I wasn't blown away like many of the other reviewers. My favorites are the pulled pork sandwich and the hot dogs. I pretty much just go for those two things. I'm usually a big fan of ribs, but I have never been super impressed with theirs. I just remember them being dry. The sauce though is very good. Not too sweet. Also don't think that any of their sides are really to die for. The jalapeno grits are good, as well as the cornbread. Prices are very reasonable. I like the fact that it is BYOB. The small inside space is hipster-ish. They also have records that you can play on their turntable. Lots of picnic tables out back to sit on in the warmer months, which is what I usually do. Otherwise, I usually just get takeout. Parking is located in the back or on the street.
(4)Christine M.
I've eaten Eli's many times at Findlay Market. I would have called myself a fan before my visit last week to their base, but I never really knew the depth of charm Eli's possesses prior to my visit. The space is a bit confusing, or crowded inside maybe, but ultimately very cozy and cute. There are records, signs about alphabetizing (for real, people, do it!) and a chalk board of goodness. The sides, that's what I was missing at Findlay. I opted for the baked beans and the jalapeno grits. Next time I'd love to try the jalapeno corn bread (that looked solid) and maybe the mac and chesse (though it's of the super creamy gooey variety- not always my favorite). In addition to my sides, was my pulled pork sandwich. Delicious as always. I'm really glad I visited the homebase and plan to take some other casual admirers (from Findlay) there very soon. We went here during lunch on a Thursday and took the smell of the smoker back to work with us. Ooops...but it was worth it.
(4)Amy E.
Yum. Fulfills any pulled pork craving-- juicy, DELICIOUS BBQ sauce, just the right amount of cole slaw. It can be difficult to find-- look for the sign of a pig. It can get busy and seating can be a premium sometimes. In any case, definitely a place to go again and again.
(4)Cliff K.
Not just Eli's BBQ, but Eli's Yummy BBQ. DO: -Ribs ($5 for 2, $10 for 4, $15 for 6) -Mac & Cheese DON'T: -N/A PARKING: -Lot in the back Ribs are amazing at Eli's. It's a dry rub and I believe it is smoked. It's so damn tender it makes you wonder how a human being can create such a wonderful dish. It's very likely that they sprinkle the ribs with either crack cocaine or fairy dust powder. Of course I haven't tried either of these rather hardcore substances, but you just need to trust me. It's so good it reminds me of the feeling that I get when I walk into the break room at work on a Friday afternoon to find leftover pizza from a meeting. You see, I absolutely love pizza, especially free pizza, on Fridays. So yea, the pizza it's delicious, I mean the ribs, wait, what?
(5)Rick W.
We had Mother's Day yesterday with Eli's.Best idea I've had in a long time.Ordered off of the picnic menu to take home.Make sure to order at least 4 days in advance.We got pulled pork which is so good.Also got smoked turkey, what a great taste.For sides-baked beans that have a little bite to them good-a good creamy cole slaw-and Mac n cheese with plenty of cheese.And cornbread for me, love the taste.So if your having a group our small party and don't want to cook call Eli's.Want to go back and set outside and enjoy music and food with others.Worth it!
(5)Chris A.
Awesome BBQ! Pulled pork is fantastic, ribs tender and moist and the smoked turkey is extremely tasty! Sides are great and the fact that you can bring your own drinks makes it very casual and inviting. A local dining event that should be experienced by anyone who considers themselves a true cincinnatian.
(5)Ed J.
Best pulled pork sandwich in Cincinnati. Beautifully smoked pork, moist without being watery with chewy edges (otherwise known as "bark"). Sauced with a slightly spicy sweet tomato based sauce (probably ketchup), topped with slaw. The flavor of the pork really stands out, with the crunch of the slaw coming through with just a hint of the sauce. Wonderful. The jalapeño cornbread was light and a bit sweet, with just enough heat to notice. Crispy on the bottom. Very nice. Mac & cheese is fairly ordinary, basically made with velveeta or American cheese. Somewhat disappointing given the quality of the other offerings, so skip it and try something else. The space is just right for a BBQ joint - order your food from the register in back, sit down at one of the 8-10 tables in the front, admire the collected Americana and the extra cool portraiture on the walls, and very quickly a basket of pure delight will be delivered to you. Soft drinks only, but you can carry in your own booze. Menu varies a bit, and they take only three forms of payment: cash, check or Reds tickets (the last may be a bit of hyperbole). If the mood strikes you, choose an LP and put it on the record player. Whatever you do, try the pulled pork. Five bucks (or a bleacher ticket) is all it will cost you, and you won't be sorry, unless you aren't a fan of delicious flavor.
(5)Mary H.
LOVE this restaurant! Great pulled pork sandwiches, fantastic sides and the hot dogs are the best in the whole world! Cute place, love the BYOB and the outside seating during the warm weather months.
(5)Ben N.
There are plenty of benefits to living on Cincinnati's East Side, but there is very, very, very little over here that qualifies as "cool." Eli's is that rare exception. (So, yeah, I'm probably a bit old to be worrying about whether some restaurant is "cool," but there is just is so much in Mt. Lookout and Hyde Park, let alone farther east, that is white-bread and dorky that you are almost compelled to notice when something breaks the mold....) Anyway, Eli's is a superb addition to a largely moribund East Side dining scene. In its food, decor, and ambience, Eli's is genuinely filling a long-vacant niche for folks on this side of town who just want a fun, casual, and inexpensive place to grab some good food. (Terry's could be that spot, but the massive crowds don't always qualify as "fun" and the prices don't really qualify as "inexpensive.") Eastern Avenue is a perfect place, and provides the perfect older building stock, for the low-lit roadhouse vibe Eli's is evidently aiming for and so far succeeding in attaining. (Although at least twice big groups of yuppie families have turned it into Romper Room....) Seating might be a problem some nights; there are only about eight tables. But maybe they'll be able to have outdoor seating in warmer-weather months. As I think I've said elsewhere, I'm no BBQ expert, but I did grow up in the Deep South, have family in North Carolina, and have spent a decent amount of time in Texas. My general opinion of Cinci BBQ is pretty low. But Eli's is just about at the top of the heap here. The pulled pork is tender and has nice smoky flavor. And the meat has decent "bark." (When Eli's was a BBQ stand downtown, it was getting this bark by griddling the pork before putting on the the plate, which, depending on your point of view, is either clever or cheating. Not sure how it's done here...) Sides are often an afterthought at BBQ places down south; it's all about the meat. (Good Brunswick stew is an exception.) Here, simple items like jalapeno grits and baked beans are treated simply, to their benefit: the pepper and cheese are nicely balanced in the grits, which are cooked to the right consistency, and the beans have a nice tang without being too sweet. Cole slaw is nicely done, too. Cornbread is a bit too fluffy, though. And it'd be nice if Eli's added something green to the sides menu, like collards or green beans. Only eight bucks for a loaded BBQ sandwich, two sides, and a smaller container of slaw (which you can either eat straight or top your sandwich with). No alcohol yet, but that's OK: You can bring your own. (But please not wine, like I saw one couple drinking. Not that I don't love wine, but wine and barbecue together just ain't right.) The staff is welcoming, friendly, and helpful. Overall, Eli's is the best restaurant addition to this side of town since Shaan. P.S. Maybe it's just because I grew up in an age of vinyl, but I love the idea of spinning LPs on a turntable for the music--a staff member has to wander over the flip the LP every 20 minutes--instead of the usual piped-in pop dribble and overplayed classic rock that is way too common at restaurants. P.P.S. (update) Fresh-brewed iced tea would be a nice thing for Eli's to offer. It is de rigueur in BBQ restaurants down south, especially sweet tea.
(4)Kate G.
My mouth waters whenever I think about Eli's BBQ. The pulled pork sandwich Eli's way, mac & cheese and mashed potatoes are awesomely delicious. Eli's way = cole slaw on top of the pulled pork. I loved the crunch and tang from the cole slaw with the smokey pulled pork. Definitely get the mashed potatoes - they're out of this world. They're buttered and browned on the griddle so they're creamy in the middle and crunchy on the outside. Does it get any better than that?
(5)Ed P.
Over the summer I had the pleasure of sampling a pulled pork sandwich on Fountain Square from Eli's BBQ. It was the same day that I tried Tom + Chee for the first time. At that time, Eli was only operating from the food tents that were located on the square, but once the city removed them late last year, the owners were forced to find other options. Fortunately they found a space at 3313 Riverside Drive to open a permanent restaurant and it just happens to be relatively close to my home. In addition to the new location, the menu has also grown from the single item pulled pork sandwich and now included smoked turkey and ribs. The new restaurant space seats 25-30 people comfortably at a variety of high or low top tables. At the back of the dining space is a record player that was playing a variety of folk and bluegrass tunes. Orders are placed at the back of the space, near an open door to the kitchen. Menu items are written on a chalk board hanging on the back wall. Currently only cash and checks are accepted, so plan accordingly. My wife and I agreed to split a variety of the food offerings. I walked to the counter and ordered the pulled pork sandwich platter with baked beans and cheese macaroni, as well as a hickory smoked turkey sandwich platter with jalapeño cheese grits and jalapeño corn bread. We also decided to sample two bottles of Ale-8-One, a ginger ale like soft drink from Kentucky, which I really liked and will have to find more of in the future. The pulled pork was just as good as I remembered it being this past summer. Easily the best pulled pork sandwich in the area, at least that I've had. The pork has a bit of smokey flavor, is really tender, and is just a bit crisp on the ends. It comes served on a grilled honey bun and is topped with a great flavored coleslaw and some of the wonderful signature BBQ sauce. The baked beans were awesome, quite possibly my favorite ever! They weren't overly spicy, but had a really nice complex flavor full of various spices. The cheese macaroni was super creamy. The smoked turkey sandwich was definitely more smokey in flavor than the pork. For me, it might have been smoked just a tad too long. It was thick sliced and piled high on the same grilled honey bun and again topped with slaw and sauce. I didn't enjoy it as much as the pulled pork, but I will still order it again on future visits. The sides with this platter both featured jalapeños. Typically I'm not a fan of grits, as I find them bland and boring, but these were full of flavor. I would easily order them again if it weren't for the other sides that I enjoyed even more. The cornbread was delicious! It was still moist and the addition of jalapeño helped kick it up a notch. Everything we had cost only $20. The sodas were $2 each, making the platters just $8 each for a ton of food! My wife couldn't finish her portion so I gladly cleaned up behind her. I couldn't get enough of Eli's wonderful food. We will be back soon and I encourage you to visit perhaps the best BBQ spot in the city.
(5)Cacique G.
The ribs revolutionized my mouth.. The pulled pork sandwich was wonderfully moist with crispy edges. So amazing.
(5)Jonny T.
Awesome BBQ,jalapeño cornbread, and Mac n cheese. Enough said, time to go eat!
(5)Nate S.
What a quaint little place. If you didn't know it was there, you would completely miss it. To start...I don't like BBQ - the flavor doesn't appeal to me, however, I liked this place. I kept it pretty simple and went with the dogs, hot dogs that is. The coleslaw served on top of the dogs made for a nice combination! There's no alcohol here (wah wah wah), but that's not a problem because you can bring your own (saves money anyways). Price - $5 to $8
(4)Patricia L.
I can't aptly describe how excited I was to venture east along the river to the newly finished restaurant space for Eli's BBQ. After falling in love with owner Elias' pulled pork sandwiches at Findlay Market, could this new space live up to expectations? Absolutely. First, let me touch on the space itself. I wouldn't be surprised if the drive down Riverside might deter some casual BBQ seekers. While nice, it isn't the most populated side of town, but parking is abundant and it takes less than 10 minutes to get there from downtown Cincinnati. The service is fast, so I think it is a perfectly feasible work lunch spot. Really, the slightly hidden locale just adds to the charm, and the thought of carrying out BBQ to one of the dozen of nearby parks this summer already has my heart aflutter. Ah... Anyhow, speaking of charm, the new space is full of it. It's simple, but adorable. High, white beadboard lines the walls. The floors are checkered tile. Low and high-top wooden tables line both sides of the dining room with rustic tin light fixtures overhead. The menu is on a chalkboard in the rear, and there is a record player. Playing while we ate? Willie Nelson. Perfection. As for the food, the pulled pork sandwiches haven't changed a bit from Findlay-- they are still wonderful. For those of you who have missed out thus far, there is a nicely toasted bun topped with a pile of pork, cole slaw, and a drizzle of Eli's signature BBQ sauce. The pork is well-smoked and not the least bit soupy like other local spots. Thanks to a toss on the flat top, it has a nice crunch to it. I love the contrast of the crunchy and creamy coleslaw, and the BBQ sauce on top is rich and has the perfect balance of spice and sweet. I've been all across the south, and this is a great pulled pork sandwich. What I looked forward to in the new space was the availability of sides, and like the pulled pork, they didn't disappoint. The macaroni and cheese is simple, but creamy. My kids both approved wholeheartedly with two thumbs up. I like it with a bit of the BBQ sauce sprinkled on. The cornbread is moist with a touch of sweetness, and my favorite, the baked beans, are spicy and tangy and perhaps the best I've ever had (don't tell my mom). The kids have also tried the all-beef hotdogs, which are topped with a bit of pork and coleslaw, and they are great as well. There are also a few other sides on the menu we haven't tried yet, as well as ribs and turkey. For those of you who decide where to eat based on drinks, Eli's also has Coke products in cans and bottles, as well as water. What I appreciate is that everything is done with a savvy, handmade touch, yet nothing is fancy or pretentious. It's one thing "big city" places seem to miss the mark on the most. They make quality correlate with stuffy, but Eli's doesn't. The space, the staff, and the food are all incredibly welcoming. Go. Now.
(5)Rachael W.
Great food, BYOB, live music, pet-friendly outdoor seating and a hang-out-all-afternoon kind of atmosphere...a total win!
(5)Cynthia R.
Sometimes I don't write reviews for places because I don't know what else I could say that hasn't already been said. After 230 Eli's reviews and counting, there isn't much more to add. But since this would be in my top 10 recommendations of where to eat in the city, I felt like it was time to add my own love. So go for the food, go for the atmosphere, and go to support a great local independent restaurant!
(5)Princess T.
The pulled pork sandwich and the ribs are both pretty good. The sides are just average though. Eli's definitely has a good pulled pork sandwich but would I go as far as saying they have the best in town? No I wouldn't. The place is over hyped and you'll be lucky if you can get your food in less than 1 hour during weekend evenings. Try Jim Dandy's BBQ for great ribs without the wait time.
(4)Monika N.
When I finished my first meal at Eli's I just sat and stared with a smile on my face - I couldn't believe my food was all gone. I left Eli's with a full belly and a determination to return very soon. What I'm really trying to say is that Eli's serves hands-down the best bbq I've ever had - even better than the places I've had in Kansas City. I had the pulled pork sandwich and my husband had the hot dogs. After trying both I couldn't decide which one was better - next time I go there I'm definitely going to have a hard decision to make! We shared two sides - mac and cheese and mashed potatoes. The two main dishes and two side dishes between two of us was perfect - I left quite full but not overstuffed. The meat was perfectly seasoned and smoked - no need to drench in bbq sauce. While we're on the topic of sauce - there's is excellent! We put it on more than just the meat - while I've never tried it before, bbq sauce on mac & cheese and mashed potatoes is delicious!!! While this place may be in the middle of nowhere and somewhat difficult to find (see other reviews), it is definitely worth it! Easily one of my top 5 restaurants in Cincinnati.
(5)Nikki F.
LOVE THE RIBS HERE!!! Smoky. Sweet. Meaty. The atmosphere is fun and they have bottles of coke. They also have really good mac n cheese. The place is BYOB so that is always a favorite. It is cash only so be prepared. It is also really popular so you may have to wait but it is worth it. SO DARN GOOD!! We got takeout with the kids one night and it was great too. ENJOY!
(5)Chuck C.
totally worth the wait and best food for the value around!
(5)Suavecito m.
We ordered at the counter and were served pulled pork, mac and cheese , mashed potatoes, corn bread and baked beans with a pair of Crush Soda's. The pulled pork is their signature but I was more impressed with the baked beans and mac and cheese. I thought it was a solid four stars in my book however I like Salinas City BBQ better in Nor Cal
(4)Jaime S.
YES YES YES YES YES! This is it for BBQ in Cincinnati. Seriously. If you are looking for honest, delicious BBQ Elis is the place for you! This great little spot offers little in the way of grandure. You get a room with tables, a self service record payer and a giant menu board. After choosing dish you seat yourself and the food is brought to your table. It is as about as simple as it gets. But who needs anymore when it is soooooooo darn good. The main event is the pulled pork sandwich. The perfectly good pork is topped with a creamy slaw and served on a griddles bun. It sounds so simple, and it is, which makes it truly special. The simple combination of ingredients is perfectly balanced and ready for the sauce bottle on the table. The sauce is perfect. It doesn't become the star of the show, it acts as wonderful support to truly complete this epic sandwich. Elis offers more than just the pulled pork. Listed on the menu are staples like turkey and the, from what I hear, incredible hot dogs to revolving items like ribs. All selections are priced perfect for lunch and a steal for dinner. Sides are your BBQ staples like super creamy mac and cheese, baked beans and the incredible jalapeno corn bread. CAns of soda and a few specialty drinks, Mexican coke for the win!, round out this simply perfect menu. BYOB and the ability to choose what is spinning on the turntable create an atmosphere that is as much fun as delicious. Simply said, ELIS is perfect. PERFECT PERFECT PERFECT! if you even kinda like BBQ, you have to stop in for a meal. Thank you ELIs, thank you so much.
(5)Missy L.
Eli's is a no frills locally owned barbeque joint with a bit of quirk. The outside is lined with old claw foot bathtubs filled with potted plants. I'm not sure what I was expecting, but really this place just offers some good old fashioned comfort food and there ain't a thing wrong with that! Eli's is BYOB so be sure to bring your favorite bev with ya. The rest is on them. I highly recommend the mac and cheese. It tastes just like my mom's homemade. I'm not a red meat eater and I was surprised to see their alternative was not chicken like most BBQ places, but rather turkey! It was a delicious change up and their BBQ sauce is the thing dreams are made of! I liked Eli's because it was no frills, it's not trying to be some swanky hipster BBQ paradise. You walk up, order your food and they bring it to you. The place is minimally decorated, but the food really speaks for itself. I would re comment Eli's to anyone who is having a bad day and just needs delicious comfort food made with lots of love and care. It's a bit out of the way, but worth the journey!
(4)Michael T.
awesome
(5)Ryan J.
RIBS!
(5)Jeffrey B.
Yummers! Simply the best Cincinnati BBQ. Brisket, St. Louis ribs, hot links, beans, mac n cheese are all first rate. Perfect outdoor dining during nice weather. What more can I say, its meat snack heaven. mmmmmm sho is goooood.
(4)Eric G.
There is something to be said about a restaurant that is confident enough of its standing in the community that the sign out front does not display the name. If I told you that the sign hanging over the front door is simply a yellow outline drawing of a pig on a dark brown background, would you know the place? In this inconspicuous place, tucked away on Riverside Drive, just west of Delta Ave in the Columbia-Tusculum area is Eli's BBQ, touted as the best barbeque in the city and I am not here to argue. Don't come here expecting table linens or a drive through. Bring an appetite and bring cash; credit cards are not accepted. The menu is simple, sandwiches are $5, sides are $2, or you can order the Plate for $8, which includes a sandwich and 2 sides. Sandwich offerings are Pulled Pork, Smoked Turkey, Beef Hot Dogs (2) or Smoked Ribs (2 bones) and sides consist of Cheese Macaroni, Mashed Potatoes, Baked Beans, Cole Slaw, Jalapeno Cheddar Grits and Jalapeno Corn Bread. I have made two visits to Eli's and to be honest, I have not been able to convince myself to order anything other than the Pulled Pork. A co-worker offers rave reviews of the Turkey and the Hot Dogs, but I cannot report on them myself. On my first visit I had the Cheese Macaroni and the Jalapeno Corn Bread. The Mac & Cheese was good, having experienced a homemade baked, Southern heart attack in shells and cheese form, all other Mac & Cheese dishes tend to pale in comparison. I also thought the corn bread lacked a little, I expected more "zip". On the other hand, the Jalapeno Cheddar Grits were fabulous; creamy and with just enough bite to give me a little scalp sweat. The mashed potatoes appear to be pan seared, producing a very light crust, very good as well. The main attraction however is the sandwich. A very generous helping of smoked, pulled pork topped with barbeque sauce and a spoonful of coleslaw. You can request it without, but to get the full effect, I recommend the coleslaw topping. There is more barbeque sauce and plenty of napkins at each of the tables and believe me, you will need the napkins. It will be a hardship, for sure, but I am going to force myself to keep going back until I have tried all the main entrees and I will report back. Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May through October Eli's is also available at Findlay Market. Either location, you can't go wrong.
(5)Sarah F.
Finally ended up in the neighborhood so had to try some barbecue! I like to think of myself as a BBQ sauce connoisseur. I've also been super wary of Cincinnatians' taste buds because Montgomery Inn's BBQ sauce sucks! First off, BRING CASH! We did not and had to run to an ATM. My husband and I both had the pulled pork. Love that they put the cole slaw on the sandwich. Anyways, VERY good BBQ! The place smells amazing when you first come in and the meat has a great smoked taste on its own. And there's extra sauce on your table. So really, you are covered. And all pop comes in ice cold glass bottles! 4 stars because the sides were nothing special. The cornbread was very eh. Bonus for being able to make any side "dirty" aka...adding crispy pork scraps. Ambience...loved it! Not a ton of room...basically a hole in the wall BBQ place with a sign out front with a pig on it, no name. First time I've seen a record player with TONS of albums that you can dig through. Beats a jukebox. Service was minimal but super friendly. One guy (cook, manager) checked in on us and sold us on getting the hot dog the next time we come. I would never EVER EVER order a hot dog at a BBQ place, but he convinced us that it is no ordinary hot dog.
(4)Valerie G.
Had a very good Saturday night dinner with 6 of my friends. If you like BBQ, you'll love Eli's. The smoker smells outrageously good right off the bat. We were very happy with our pulled pork sandwich and ribs. The Macaroni and Cheese and the Baked Beans are amazing; the baked beans have a little kick to them. I tried the Jalapeno Cheddar Grits, and they were ok, but I don't think I am a grits fan. I've heard nothing but raves about the Jalapeno Cornbread, so I will be trying that next time. Overall, I was very pleased with the food and the atmosphere. We brought our own wine and beer. We grabbed a table outside under the tent and had a fun, casual dinner. Only docked the 1 star because our food was a little cold, and the line/service system could use a little improvement. Eli's is too busy and good to not have a consistent way to deliver food - they use numbers inside but a faulty bullhorn outside (where it is very loud on a weekend night)? The whole line system is a little confusing to people who haven't been there before. That said, we will definitely return, the food is as good as they say!
(4)John J.
Unbelievably good. Went to Eli's tonight after seeing it on yelp. Figured with so many reviews in a short period of time, it had to be friends of the restaurant. Well who cares, it was sick. Had the pork sandwich with grits and cornbread (out of mac and cheese which is my usual go to bbq side), along with an order of the ribs (which you get 2 of). My girlfriend has the smoked turkey sandwich with no sides. And it was all so tasty. On top of it all the service was great, the chef (owner?) greeted us both on the way in and out, and the counter girl was very sweet. I've been living in Cincinnati for 4 months and I mostly complain about how the food doesnt compare to my favorite places in New England. Well this changed tonight, finally found a place I can call a local favorite.
(5)Nathan V.
Everything I tried here: the pulled pork, turkey, grits, was great. Relatively inexpensive to boot. The surprise was the hot dogs. I bought them for my son. At age 3, they fall into one of the 4 foods he will eat consistently. Lucky for me, they are served in pairs, and I got to try one, because it totally stole the show. The combination of the crispy pork and slaw on the smoked Nathan's hot dog is a real winner. If we didn't live out in the 'burbs, I'd be hard-pressed not to make this a weekly stop.
(5)Matthew S.
I've never been here and had the food be less than sublime. Literally the only bad thing about it is that it's not next door to my house. Best BBQ in the city by a lot.
(5)Bryan B.
Best BBQ I have had in the Midwest. Cool Vibe inside and a great place to chill outside when the weather permits.
(3)Maureen B.
I wish it was better. They smoke the heck out of the ribs and they fall off the bone - but then they slather it in the sweetest, most cloying bar-b-que sauce ever, which is saying something for Cincinnati. People like things sweet here, so what can they do, but offering more than one sauce option would help if they have to have this one.
(2)Manu M.
This place seems like its been listed as a local legend. I have been planning to go here since some time. Its just 3 miles from where i live, so its a mystery how i did not go there till now. Place is very cheap, in about $15 i got myself a delectable feast to-go. $5 for a sandwich and $8 for a sandwich and 2 sides. I got cornbread and baked beans as sides then pulled pork sandwich and ribs. Cornbread has a bite of jalapenos, and beans were buttery sweet. Since i tasted bbq first in Texas i have been a fan of ribs. I was looking forward to having ribs here. But.. I did not like the ribs here. They were "not falling off the bone" as advertised. They were kinda dry. It had a new taste which i liked, but i miss the wetter, ribs which fall off the bone.
(3)David L.
Got the combo pulled pork sandwich with slaw, baked beans and threw on an order of ribs for good measure. First, those ribs were probably the best ribs I've ever eaten. They were fall off the bone tender, but still had structure. The dry rub on the outside left a nice crunch and after that first bite, you can see that deep penetrating smoke ring. The pulled pork sandwich was piled high with a nice mix of tender smoky pork, with just the right about of fat and the outside crunchy goodness. Excellent sandwich as well. Slaw was good too. I was going to give this place 5 stars, because the ribs were just that amazing, but minus a star for the baked beans. Seemed to have good flavor, but the overwhelming taste was salt. Couldn't even manage more than a few bites because it was so salty. If I'm back in the area, I'll most definitely stop by and just load up on the ribs.
(4)Taylor S.
Loved the pulled pork sandwich. The mac and cheese lacks flavor, but it's not bad.
(4)Shama M.
The pulled pork sandwich is great!
(4)Heather C.
Yum! As a non-pork eater, I approach BBQ spots with a bit of skepticism. I devoured an amazing Hickory Smoked Turkey Sandwich and loved sitting outside on a picnic bench with our dog. Pork-eaters rejoiced with the pulled pork and ribs. The sides were good, not great... I was hoping for more with the Mac & Cheese.
(4)Joe M.
Interesting how some BBQ places feed you well and some leave you hungry, this BBQ joint will feed you. Over in Sharonville there's a BBQ place that used to sell out of a trailer that would feed you well, then moved up the street in a building and portion sizes dropped dramatically. $10~$11 and I walked out hungry, sad! You have all been to a BBQ place where you paid for more bun than BBQ, I mean if the edges of the bun are touching after the sandwich is made it doesn't have enough meat on it. This BYOB BBQ Eatery isn't afraid to throw down the meat, sides are plentiful as well.
(5)John M.
What a treat! I spent a year in Kansas City... Been to Arthur Byrant's, been to Gates BBQ, & I'll tell you that Eli's BBQ is as good, if not better! Great atmosphere. Great Service. Everyone seemed to take pride, and enjoy what they were doing. I took the time to savor every bite. As good as it gets!
(5)Angel T.
Went with a friend for lunch and wobbled out like a stuffed pig!!! We had the pulled pork, pulled turkey, hot dogs and the ribs. The sweet peppery rub on the ribs was too die for!! We tried the grits (amazing!!), mac and cheese, slaw, baked beans and cornbread. Only down fall, they only take cash. Otherwise the place is absolutely delicious. So good that I had to buy a small buffet to take home for the family!! Large portions, wonderful food and great service and atmosphere make this a definite GO TO place!!!
(5)Ron A.
My love for food has its costs. I now shop at the Big and Tall store (p.s. I'm not tall), I spend an inordinate amount of money on eating out, and I like my BBQ sauce by the pint with a straw in it. Yes, it's true, I love BBQ. And lucky for me, southern-style BBQ is infiltrating every city in the United States. Here in Cincinnati we are blessed with a near perfect pit BBQ joint in Columbia-Tusculum by the name of Eli's BBQ. This place is all kinds of money. $5 gets you a bombass pulled pork or smoked turkey sandwich on a toasted bun with or without coleslaw (don't hate on cabbage, get the slaw!). $3 more gets you two side dishes which are all ridiculously ridiculous. The mac and cheese is gooey and angelic, the jalapeno cornbread is a fiery delight, and the baked beans are the best I've had in my life (I think I tasted chili powder, bourbon, and Tinkerbell's fairy dust in them... they were that good). The ambiance is awesome, you can eat outside on a picnic bench or sit inside their cozy indoor seating area and fill your audible senses with the amazing sounds of vinyl records from the 60s and 70s. The staff is fun and upbeat, and honestly there is nothing negative I can say about this place (except that they didn't open their restaurant across the street from my place). If your idea of BBQ is dipping a McNugget into a BBQ sauce packet then expand your horizons and treat yourself to a culinary orgasm at Eli's BBQ. And if you're already a lover of smoked meats and great homemade southern fare, then make your way to Columbia-Tusculum and bask in the blissfulness that is Eli's BBQ.
(5)mia u.
Amazing BBQ! This quality and flavor of BBQ may not be what you expect in Ohio, but trust me this place is exactly what good BBQ looks and tastes like. You wait in line (excitedly) to order, the entire time deciding which amazing meat and which sides you're going to divulge in that day. Thank goodness there is a line because I need that time to make up my mind! I have had the pulled pork, smoked turkey, and obviously the ribs, all of which are flawless. The ribs are hearty sized with plenty of tender meat that practically falls of the bone. The smoked turkey has a great spice to it that I have not tasted at any other BBQ joint. Not only is the BBQ itself amazing, the sides are great as well. The jalapeno cheddar grits are unbeatable. Cornbread is sweet and spicy. The only bad part I have run into at Eli's is the mac and cheese :( It tastes like Kraft unfortunately. Not only is the food great, but so is the setting. Most of the seating is outside on huge picnic tables. BYOB, grab a seat, and be ready to heave a great time. Eli's is a must go! And, if it were up to my husband we would probably go everyday!
(4)Brandon R.
If you haven't been to Eli's, Take a long hard look in the mirror....... You don't have what it takes to be somebody. Not now.. Not ever.. The pulled pork is great ! Why no beef though? And cash only..... Really?
(4)Brian H.
CASH ONLY This wasn't a problem for me luckily, because this was great BBQ. I have only eaten outside, the inside seemed a bit cramped. There are tables and a grassy park out back that makes a great spot for a meal when the weather is nice. Everything I have had has been amazing, it is cheap, and it is BYOB! What more can you ask for? I would definitely recommend this as a great place for a date or group of friends.
(5)Sherry T.
Wow! Eli's serves some good grub! I took the advice of other Yelpers and went with the pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw on top and the jalapeño cheddar grits. Yum times two! The pork was seasoned and smoked so perfectly that there was no need to add BBQ sauce! The grits had a nice kick that offered the perfect amount of intensity. I will be back!
(4)Michelle B.
My husband and I went here for a lunch date but I will come back with our toddler soon. They have an outdoor eating area with plenty of space for little ones to roam, scream, throw a ball, whatever. The turkey sandwich was good but I had a bite of my husbands pork bbq and I think I'll get that next time. Nothing remarkable about the mac n cheese, but its still yummy. They also have glass bottles for coke, which is always fun. And as you leave, don't forget to drop that bottle into the clearly marked recycling bin.
(4)Laura H.
Best BBQ hands down. Try the hotdogs: topped with bbq sauce, coleslaw and pork crispins - SO GOOD. You can get two dogs, two sides and a Mexican Coca-Cola for $10. Cheap eats y'all. Just remember it's cash only!
(5)Curtis S.
Best BBQ I have had in Ohio. Cool building and decor. The sides are really good, especially the jalapeño grits. I would highly recommend this restaurant.
(5)Jason R.
When I first heard about this place I rushed to get my favorite food: pulled pork sammiches. It was incredible, to say the very least. I thought it was the bestest pulled pork sandwich I had ever had in my life. HOWEVER, I have one prevailing issue which I can never escape. I'm handicapped - could not get inside. Not accessible to the likes of me. But, my companion went inside and got my food. So, sez I, can't come here without help. It was OK weather so we sat outside. Fast forward, I went again today with some "help". This time, I went to a side door with the steps and handrail. Door had no handle on the outside. Sign said "Exit. Use Front Door". So, this time, my help got carry out and we carted it home. Too cold to eat outside. The pulled pork was very, very, unpalatibly salty. The mac and cheese was too much - like pure velveeta - it solidified into a brick on the way home. I'm sorry, Eli's, but I have added you to the places I'm not inspired to try for. Just remember: handicapped people have money, too. We get hungry and we like to eat out as much as "normal" people do.
(2)Ann S.
Delish! After reading many reviews, I thought that it might be too hyped up and not as good as I had imagined. Much to my surprise, it was all that! Went late on a Sunday night, and it was dark and quaint and not very busy. I ordered takeout and the young lady who waited on my was very friendly and attentive. Food came out hot and fast. Mashed potatos are okay (I would pick a different side next time I go) and cornbread (good, but would also venture out next time to try another one of their sides). Try it out. Great little spot to hang out and enjoy some great food!
(4)Scott M.
I hear the food is great, but they won't answer their phone phone at 1 PM on a Saturday. Their posted hours state they should be open. Sorry guys, but a business that won't answer their phone during business hours won't get my business.
(1)Allison K.
Great barbecue! The pulled pork had great flavor and was perfectly moist, served on a toasty bun. Definitely go for a platter with baked beans and jalapeño cheddar grits--so worth it!
(5)Jeremy B.
I heard about this place on Yelp a while ago and have been jones-ing for it for quite some time. I was in the Columbia Tusculum area today playing a little golf when my friend and I wanted a bite to eat. We Yelped the area and his phone showed Eli's where apparently his friend was having a going away party. And as I have wanted to go for a while, this was too perfect to miss. This is unlike any other restaurant I have reviewed in Cincinnati. Often when you go to a restaurant, you may ask about the dining experience; was it casual or formal, did it have a theme like a sports bar or Italian joint. This is nothing like I have ever had before. I don't know if it's because he was having a get together there, but it seemed like a cookout with some of the best bbq I have ever had. We walked up and the restaurant is surrounded by green space and picnic tables, with people eating at the tables, surrounding the smoker and it's intoxicating aroma, and even playing beersbee right next to the restaurant. My friends friend told us to put an order inside and come back out so we did. The inside looked cozy and nice, but it was not meant for us. We walked through the dining area and placed an order for a $5 Pulled Pork Sandwich, a $2 side of mashed potatoes, and a $2 Crush soda. 9 bucks (in cash btw) is one of the best deals I've paid for a meal like this. The pulled pork was INCREDIBLE. Hands down the best I've had. It was not overly saucy, but rather relied more on it's natural flavor and spices instead of gollops of heavy sauce. It also had a wonderful crispness to it, almost like gristle, and I suspect they throw it on a flat top. That was amazing. They also added cole slaw to it to finish it off; excellent! And the mashed potatoes were incredible. Wonderfully seasoned and they too were finished on a flat top to give it a potato-pancake feel, but it was just a crust, giving you multiple textures in one bite. Brilliant. So really I just had a fantastic time. I was given a beer by the guy going away and enjoyed my food, had some conversation and sat and relaxed in the grass. It was one of the best culinary experiences I've ever had in Cincinnati, and I highly, highly recommend it for fans of pulled pork.
(5)Bradley G.
I had the immense pleasure of having Eli's before I moved to Texas. I've yet to find a single pulled pork sandwich, smoked brisket or rack of ribs better than I had at one visit to Eli's. If I was Shel Silverstein, I would've written a song about this place and sent it to Johnny Cash. But essentially this place has all of the qualities you're looking for in a restaurant. It's really amazing food, made apparent by the external smokers tacked to the side of the building, and the crew of happily bearded workers visually pouring love and craft into each cut of meat. The price is too little, and the servings are just right. And a lot of you are probably familiar with the the stand they had in Findlay Market. It's surprising that moving to a physical location hasn't really made them lose that feel. You'll probably miss the parking, and the place is awkwardly arranged to not make it too obvious you're in a house. Regardless, it's amazing food. You can take kids, you can take your girlfriend (I did!) and you can avoid having to avoid each other in lieu of TVs and gimmicks. This is the kind of place that the community needs to foster. So go there. It's as simple as that. You need a place to eat, and everyone likes good BBQ.
(5)Doug A.
The food here is outstanding. Probably the best BBQ place I have ever been to. The only downside is that it is cash only.
(5)Russ S.
Great BBQ and atmosphere. - Just don't forget your cash or checks. - They do not take credit cards.
(5)Amy G.
Had an early dinner at this place, around 6:30. There were a few open tables available. Yes, they have a record player, turned way up. Made conversation kind of difficult. The pulled pork was okay. Really smoky. Gave me heartburn the rest of the night. Like that liquid smoke flavoring does. Only one barbeque sauce. Very bland. Cole slaw was tasty, the baked beans were very generic. The mac and cheese was good. The cornbread was moist, just not much flavor. I have mixed feelings about this place. The folks are very nice, service is fast. But the food just didn't wow me. Don't think I will make a return trip, too many other places to try.
(3)Jessalynn S.
My bf and I hadn't made dinner plans on Valentine's Day (oops), so about 6 pm I suggested that we head over and check out Eli's, of which I'd heard much good from other Yelpers. It's a short drive down the road from my apartment in East Walnut Hills, which may prove dangerous. Because Eli's is DELICIOUS. Eli's is pretty small and has limited seating, but when we walked in only a few of the tables were full. I felt rather proud of myself for finding a place that flew under the radar for the V-Day crowd, but boy, was I wrong! By the time we left at 7:15 the place was PACKED. So as a warning, expect Eli's to be busy, and maybe arrive on the early side for optimal results. The pulled pork is, as many others have said, divine. I lived for 12 years in North Carolina, which prides itself on pork BBQ. This is good barbeque. The sides were good, and although I was a little unsatisfied with the mac and cheese, it's possible that I just got a bad batch, or an older one, etc. I didn't even know that Eli's was BYOB when I went there the first time, but now that I do, it's on. Oh yes, it's definitely ON.
(5)Karl V.
Emm good food atmosphere cool 2 ribs is good for one person BYO but they have water and soda
(5)Alex K.
Eli's is the best around. Choose between Smoked Turkey breast, two all-beef hot dogs, or go BIG and get the pulled pork! Every side is amazing, although the Jalapeno Cheddar Grits are by far the best. Pick up an Ale-8 (one) or B.Y.O.B. and drink outside on a picnic bench or in a heated tent. This place is not a hidden gem and can get crowded during peak dinner time so plan ahead. Also, Cash or Check ONLY.
(5)Brian W.
Eli's is my new favorite BBQ joint. The pulled pork is amazing, as are the beans, as is the cornbread, as is the sauce, and so on like that. It's also very affordable and served fast. A couple of caveats: the indoor seating (which features local artwork and a working phonograph) is limited, but there's plenty of benches and even a grassy picnic area outside. Also, they only accept cash, which could be a real bummer if you only have plastic. Go get some.
(5)Bekki M.
Definitely worth the trip off I71 if you're traveling through Cincy. The pulled pork is the best I've ever had. The ambiance is pretty cool. Make sure you have cash, and you may want to sit outside if its not too hot. There aren't too many seats inside, but if you can snag a seat the record player is awesome.
(5)Mike M.
i am embarrassed to say i have never been here until today. finally - i found a bbq joint that is worth it's weight in sauce. i have been looking in cincinnati for 15 years for such a spot - and i found it today with kt m. i got 4 ribs on the bone, mac n cheese and a bottle of coke. the sauce was the best i've found in ohio. kt m had a pulled pork sandwich on honey toasted bread and an ale 8 (her fave). as a georgia boy, i am very critical of bbq, and i was so happy as i ate today. add to the great food the fact that there is a HUGE outdoor seating area AND a "blankets and bare feet only" section and you get awesomeness. add on top of THAT the pics of jerry garcia, frank zappa and america behind the counter and you have a slice of heaven on the banks of the ohio. thank you, whoever owns this place. i will be having my council victory party in your parking lot if that's cool with you.
(5)Terri D.
This is where I take out of town guests young and old who want great casual food. Everyone thinks they know good barbecue, and this will not be as good as their favorite, but every time, the overall experience at Eli's wins. 1 - Food is wonderful. I can't stop ordering the hot dogs of all things, and before you pooh-pooh the thought, you need to be quiet and try them. 2 - bring in your own drink means you can take wine, a couple brewski's, and relax, everyone is happy. 3 - no one could eat enough to break the bank here, so that's always a happy surprise. LOVE THIS PLACE.
(5)Dominique B.
I don't think it is too strong of a statement to say thank God for Eli's BBQ. It's just so f'n good! The meat is about perfectly tender, the sauce is delicious, the side options are plentiful! I know I'm gushing, but this is what happens when you fall in love....and I'm in love. It is far and above the best BBQ in the city. I'll be insulted if anybody ever suggests we go anywhere else for BBQ.
(5)Barbara M.
First trip to Eli's but won't be my last. Beautiful day -sat outside & enjoyed some of the best BBQ ribs I have ever tasted. Road trip from Union KY but worth every mile!
(5)Josh K.
A small little house on the side of the road in residential Cincinnati, you'd miss Eli's if you weren't looking closely (I missed it the first time). You walk in and there are a few tables inside, and a few outside, near where they do the cooking. It's very quaint and small, and they have an old school record player and a rather large record collection that people can browse through and choose music they like. Very cool. Best pulled pork I've ever had...Just a delicious sandwich. Their sauce is unreal, the bun is good, and the pork is just perfect. I also had a side of the jalapeno cornbread, which was really good as well, and I grabbed an orange crush from the cooler by the register. For the sandwich, cornbread and drink it was only $9! Cheaper than any other meal I ate on the trip, and arguably the best food. The pork was the star, but I looked around and everyone else's food looked great too. In hindsight I should have just been a glutton and ordered something else...Maybe next time. It's in a random area in Cincinnati, but if you're ever around that area, I highly recommend Eli's.
(5)Al H.
This place, honestly is the stuff of legend. Everyone wants to know that little hole in the wall place off the beaten path where real foodies go to get their fix on some amazing BBQ. Well that very place my friends, is Eli's. Such a random location, such an understated sign and building. About the only indication that this little jewel exists is a flag out front with a pig on it. The inside of the place is humble, original, and massively cool. The menu, adorned with the usual BBQ fair but without all the gimmicky 3000 sides and 200 choices. You will indeed have about 5 meat choices and maybe 6 sides. Only and you can have 1 of 4 drinks available. This is BBQ in its purest form. No fancy menus, no professionally designed signage, just good-ass BBQ for very reasonable prices. If I haven't convinced you yet, I've been here twice in the last 2 weeks..... And I live in Columbus.
(5)Elizabeth W.
Still amazing...just a few updates that make it even better...Now they have a large tent outside, so no matter how popular this place is, there's a place to enjoy your savory bbq. Also, I've tried the ribs - yum yum yum! sugary crispy spicy and meaty, I want to eat them all up! And the smoked turkey - it was good, but I like the pork better :)
(5)Rachel F.
After not being able to find a place to agree on in downtown Cincy. Graham D. found the "best bbq" in Cincy on yelp. Even thought I'm not the biggest bbq fan, I said sure. We were easily a half mile away and we could smell it. I knew this was a great sign. We both got a pulled pork sandwich, me with cornbread & mac & cheese. The food itself was pretty good. The sandwich especially. The mac & cheese was a bit of let down, it was kinda better velveeta, but the sandwich and ambiance made up for it. Elis is set in such a cool little neighborhood. It has a park and picnic tables surrounding it with what looked like a community garden. They encourage guests to byob picnic right outside and I thought that was really cool. Inside they've got a record player for you to put on any old classic they've got. I loved the vibe, and for that alone you should check it out. Cash only though*
(4)Mark O.
This place earns a coveted five-star review for the layers of flavors. Everything is complexly delicious. The pulled pork is juicy with perfect smokey notes and just enough crispy texture! Then you pile on the toasted bun with the spicy BBQ sauce. The mac n cheesy has a uber-cheesy taste that's just-before-the-point-of-over-powering and served in a thick, creamy consistency. The baked beans come with a little black pepper (I think) which adds some kick! I also love that they serve old school Coke. You know, the stuff that uses real sugar and comes in glass bottles. Great touch. I need to visit some other time to try the turkey and the rib tips. Be sure to bring cash as they do not accept credit cards. It also may be better to visit in daylight as it's easy to miss the white house-turned-restaurant exterior while driving down riverside. There are a few street side spaces out front plus an unpaved lot behind the restaurant. I've been to Eli's twice and found the service to be friendly and knowledgeable. On my second visit the owner stopped by my table to check on me. He then retreated to an old record player to spin his favorite Neil Young album. It's that kind of personal flavor that I love about locally-owned restaurants. I only wished I lived closer, so I could eat there weekly.
(5)Rahul D.
The best barbecue in Cincinnati. Pulled pork sandwich with grits and slaw, sprinkle some pork crispins in and you ate set. Also, can't go wrong with a BYOB place right?
(5)Julie T.
Cash or check only at this place, but man is it worth it! The Pulled Pork Sandwich is one of the very best that I've ever had. This no-frills restaurant doesn't seem like much when you first get there, in fact if you don't know about it, you'll probably drive right by... but once you find it & eat there, you will definitely be back for MORE!!!
(5)Will H.
I want to write and write and write about Eli's but basically what I do I think speaks for how awesome this place is... I can't stop telling everyone to go here. I tell people at the grocery store, guys at the gas station, people in the park... I tell everyone they have to check out what's smokin' down in Columbia Tusculum. I run past this place all the time and the smell alone drove me in. They only have a few tables, its BYOB and its cash only. Get over all of that and go try it out. Hot dogs - Awesome. Pulled Pork - best in the city by 10 points, at least! Grits - omg feed me those till i puke! mac & Cheese - completely cheesy (almost too cheesy if thats possible!) Jalepeneo Corn Bread - warm and just the right level of spicey You have got to try this place now! Stop reading at your computer and go now!
(5)Gigi F.
We heard this is THE place for BBQ in the Queen City. That is a sad statement for Cincinnati. We waited in line for 15 minutes to order - not a big deal. There was an hour wait to serve the food. Wasn't my meat in the smoker for 12 hours? Why does it take an hour to plate it up and bring it to the table? We tried pulled pork and turkey, along with grits, cornbread and slaw. Everything was so dry, except the grits. The grits were super runny and there are no spoons - just forks. The sauce was good, and once we doused the meat in it, it tasted OK. I'd go again if a group wanted to go, but I don't think it would be my suggestion.
(3)Carrie C.
This is easy: Go. Eat good food. Leave happy. Easy on the wallet too. Five stars without a doubt.
(5)Brad K.
Love going to Eli's, especially in good weather. Remember: cash only. But as a huge benefit, it is also BYOB. I highly recommend heading down to Eli's on a nice night, take a 6-pack and sit outside. I have not been when they have live music but that would be even better. Food is fantastic. Have not had a bad dish. Prices are very low and service is nice.
(5)Ryan L.
This place has great food but far too pricy for the atmosphere. Maybe they just weren't feeling generous that day but I was expecting $15 for 6 ribs was going to get me some meaty ribs. They were pretty pitiful actually (but delicious). I also expected a side to be of decent size for $2 but it was just a tiny scoop in the compartment next to my ribs. Maybe 4 good sized bites? I spent $28 for 6 ribs, 2 hot dogs and 4 sides and it wasn't much food at all. I'm not a big guy either. Never again Eli's...
(2)Daniel V.
It's too bad you can only give this place five stars. I would give it more if I could. I have a pulled pork sandwich with a scoop of slaw on it every time I'm at Findley Market, but when I finally got a chance to go to their home base in Columbia-Tusculum I discovered many more outstanding items on the menu. Go when it's warm out so you can eat outdoors and enjoy the live music. Love this place!
(5)Kelly M.
LOVE THIS PLACE! BEST BBQ IN CINCY! Cheap, delicious, and GREAT customer service! Definitely try it you wont regret it! i always get their smoked turkey sandwhich with mac & cheese and baked beans! you cant go wrong eating here!
(5)Kyle G.
I've never been as passionate as others about my BBQ, but that all changed after eating at Eli's. I stop in as often as I can for the best BBQ I've had anywhere, period. If you want something that's unique to Cincinnati, this is a prime spot. The atmosphere is also top notch, especially when the weather is nice. Picnic tabels and yard games outdoors. Pub tables and 45's on the turntable inside. Friendly service. Oh, and gotta love BYOB joints! The only thing keeping this place from achieving a 5th star is the wait. If you're headed to Eli's on any given evening, plan on wiating in line for 10-15 min to place your order, and another 30-40 minutes to receive your food. This seems pretty excessivefor BBQ, but I've never left without a smile on my face.
(4)Liz G.
Great barbecue, fun atmosphere. Just bring cash and BYOB.
(5)Keith W.
Very good turkey sandwich Sauce is very sweet with a little bit of kick Overall good smoked meat with a decent BBQ sauce, what more could you ask for in Cincinnati
(3)Bobbie M.
Something very special about this pulled pork with a bit of a crisp on it. Very good...possibly crisped up under a broiler?? Flavor was good, atmosphere was different. Have to say that they would get five stars from me but I left hungry. I could have eaten two sandwiches ...and I'm a size 6. Maybe just an off day as the photos look to have bigger portions
(4)Chris R.
One of the best BBQ restaurants I have ever experienced! If you are even driving through Cincinnati, you have to stop at this hidden gem. The restaurant is actually a house in a neighbor along the river. I highly recommend the ribs, even if they are a bit pricier. The jalapeno grits are also a must have!
(5)Zackariah C.
Loved the rough-n-tumble authentic southern dive atmosphere. Food options are very simple but very tasty. I've been twice now with equally good experiences. The food was very tasty and service was good. Nit-picks: I would have liked (and will probably just request next time) for my sandwich to be a little more sloppy. I do like my sauce. Other than that, I loved it and would go back again any day. The building is very small so plan for sitting outside. They have a sort of backyard picnic area with picnic tables setup outside with plenty of grass and seats.
(4)Tim L.
Amazing BBQ. Killer value and a unique casual atmosphere. Outdoor seating is clutch during nice weather.
(5)Dennis R.
The concession stand at the pro shop had just closed after finishing our 9 holes. One person recommended Eli's. I vow never to settle for rec hotdogs or burgers as long as Eli's is open and nearby! The other 200+ reviews are accurate. Simply the best pulled pork sandwich. We chose to eat outside under the awning and the smoke smell enhanced the dining pleasure. Being our first time there I was unaware of the BYOB or more importantly, the need for cash. I will definitely be back.
(4)John M.
I love good smoked barbecue and I love Eli's. If you want good BBQ in Cincinnati, Eli's and BBQ Revue are two of my favorites. Eli's has the bonus of having a funky atmosphere. If you haven't been here before and you are looking for something different and good, go here.
(4)David K.
This is going to be in your top 5 best pulled BBQ Pork Sandwiches ever! Simple menu, in and out, happy belly! Chalk up another restaurant to bring out of town friends and family to!
(5)Chris M.
I am a die-hard BBQ-Revue fan and supporter as the best in Cincinnati. Eli's beats them by a slim margin. Great little place and atmosphere, outdoor seating, BYOB.....dinner and drinks for $11, can't be better. Heads up, cash only.
(5)Denver L.
After reading all the reviews i decided i had to go. Being an avid smoker i am constantly on the lookout for new recipes and tricks. I was happy to see it was at least a propane smoker with hickory chips being used. I really am anti electric smokers, its just me. After talking with the guy working the pits we went inside to a neat looking place. Seating was limited, but we got there early enough to get a table, half way through our meal we got to make new friends since they were out of seats. After waiting 29 minutes for our meal Ken decided to go ask where it was since 3 tables after us received there meals. It showed up about a minute later. I ordered the turkey sandwich with mac and cheese and jalapeno cheddar grits, I was going for the cornbread till i saw a patron sneeze all over the pan :( My turkey meat was overcooked, It did have a nice hint of hickory, but no smoke ring, no seasonings, and took most of the water from my mouth. The Mac and Cheese is exactly what i expected, nothing to brag about but definitely wasn't from "the box". The Jalapeno Cheddar grits were disappointing, it was just tasteless bright yellow fluff with green pieces in it. This made me a sad panda as I absolutely love grits in almost any flavor you decide to make it. Ken got the pulled pork with baked beans and mac and cheese. I tried Ken's pork, it wasn't a true pulled pork, but a chopped pork lightly topped with sauce. The pork meat had a nice flavor to it with a hint of smoke. Again no smoke ring, same as the turkey. The beans were good but could of used some additional flavor, maybe some of the rub from the pork. There was only one kind of sauce. I am a hot fan, and this was definitely mild. It has a strong ketchup base with some hints brown sugar and seasonings. This place is pretty standard for BBQ joints. I loved the pigs in space lunch box and the record player. This isn't a bad place, but being a fellow pit master myself i just expect more from down home BBQ places. The gentleman at the table behind us was giving rave reviews over the hot dogs, so I'll have to try that next time around.
(3)CHRISTY L.
Hipster BBQ at its finest!
(4)Emma S.
The BEST BBQ in town. It melts in your mouth. Not too sweet and it has a little kick. Mac 'n Cheese tastes homemade and baked beans are perfectly spicy. They grill the mashed potatoes and all the buns. Perfect!
(5)Andi P.
BEST BBQ IN CINCINNATI! The first time we went was a Friday evening and it was so good we went back two more times that weekend and brought friends. We have enjoyed them before and after softball games at Schmidt Field.. although before is a bad idea.. playing softball with a stomach full of BBQ does not help you win :) So far I have tried the BBQ tukey sandwich, the ribs, cornbread, macaroni and cheese and all were EXCELLENT. Another thing I love is the BYOB rule and having great outdoor seating. I will continue to go back time and time again, its our go to place to bring out of town guests!
(5)Steven T.
Wow....just wow! With that said, the bbq is dryer than anything I ever had before, but that doesn't mean it isn't amazing.....just not messy!
(5)Red H.
The ribs are fantastic. This is the place for barbecue in Cincinnati.
(5)Todd S.
Its BYoB!!! Also bring water or they'll charge you for bottles. After hearing about this and finally tasting some Q n slaw at Best of Cincy, I finally visited tonight. The place is small inside but the tents outside with picnic tables might as well be a part of the restaurant as that's how they are utilized. The inside was homey and had vinyl records to play, it was inviting. The Q: My cohort in crime had the pulled pork (with slaw on top) with mac and cheese and mashed potato. The pulled pork was excellent and the slaw on top is the way to go but be ready to cut it in half and get messy. The Mac and cheese was very cheesy and creamy. The mashed potatoes were grilled off and had a nice crust on it. I had 4 ribs with baked beans and jalapeño corn bread. I poured some extra sauce (ketchup based and slightly sweet) in a small cup to dip the ribs which were slightly over done as the bones fell out. The meat was not mushy but was softer than desired. The rub has hints of sweet and spicy; with the ribs sauce is not required. The beans were fantastic, salty sweet and spicy with some meat in them. The corn bread was good but I wanted a little more jalapeño. Would I get it again; definitely. Another friend showed up and had a side of cheesy jalapeño creamy grits. She was complaining about the heat which made me want to get it next time. All in all I can't wait to get back and try the loaded hot dog special. Edit: Cant name the number of times I've visited. Caution the weekends get busy and there can be a wait. Worth the price of admission every time and those cheesy gits and pulled pork NEVER get old.
(5)Brandy V.
Wow. I am in love and thinking about the next time that I can have it again. I had been there before and was not able to get something to eat, because the wait was 45 minutes for a carryout order and I was starving. I called ahead so that my husband could pick up the order and not have to wait...I called 3 times and kept getting a voicemail, I called back about 30 minutes later and after being on hold for 5 minutes I talked to someone and placed an order. The man I spoke to said that I could order and have it picked up at a certain time...well when my husband got there he still had to wait about 15-20 minutes..so I guess calling ahead doesn't really help. I had the pulled pork sandwich with a side of mashed potatoes and baked beans. My husband also had a pulled pork sandwich with mashed potatoes and mac and cheese. At first I didnt want to try the small side of cole slaw that came with my sandwich but decided to try a bite...then I fell in love. I ate my side and then my husbands. I would definitely recommend Eli's! We have a lot of parties in the summer and cant wait to order off the picnic menu and share this wonderful restaurant with our friends!
(4)Lizz R.
Amazing BBQ. If you want anything healthy, don't go.
(4)James B.
This is my new fav place to eat the pulled pork is awesome as well as the ribs but as we all know the best BBQ joints also have amazing sides. The mashed potatoes that they then fry part on the griddle is worth the trip alone. Along with the jalapeño grits. It is a cash only
(5)Stacey L.
I have such mixed feelings about this review because there were things I loved and things I was totally disappointed with. But, no matter what, I will be back! Here is what I loved: 1. BYOB- Our party of 13 brought 6 bottles of wine and some beer. The staff was more than happy to break out some solo cups for us to drink from. They also had some bottle openers and corkscrews on hand. 2. Their pulled pork- The sandwich was amazing!!!! The sauce was great and I loved the little bit of crunch on some of the pork. 3. Atmosphere- My husband went wild playing DJ with their records. I loved the casual feel of the place. It felt like eating at someones house without having to cook or clean. 4. Staff- Thanks to Kiri and the rest of the staff for putting up with the 13 of us with a smile! Things I was disappointed in: 1. The sides- We tried mac and cheese, jalapeno grits, and the cornbread. The bread was super dry and generally flavorless. The mac and cheese was only OK. The grits were the best of the bunch, but still only OK. We found that all was better with a little BBQ mixed in. 2. The ribs- A new addition to their menu that I would skip. Definitely try this place out!
(4)john e.
the best
(5)Tom W.
This is the first BBQ joint in Cincinnati I've tried that goes really heavy on the vinegar mop - mop is when you mop the meat with a sauce throughout the cooking process. It can accentuate the smokey flavor and enhance moisture, but the more you do it, the more the meat tastes pickled. Eli's is a little pickled. I'm not saying that's bad, in fact, it makes it worth the trip alone so you can experience this style cooking. The sides were OK. The beans seemed like doctored canned, but doctored very well indeed. I'm not a big grits fan, but I had the cheddar jalapeno grits 'cuz two out of three ain't bad, and turns out in this case I liked all three. Processed cheese in the mac and cheese, again, not good, not bad, I wouldn't get it again for that reason though. Ton's of outdoor seating makes it really nice, even if the view included a few winos taking advantage of the BYOB atmosphere - hey shirtless tattooed park bench guy, no paper bag around the bottle required. It made the atmosphere perfect for the area, though.
(4)Kait B.
A little hipstery/gimmicky, but the pulled pork sandwich, ribs and BBQ sauce is to die for!! I went there on Saturday and only waited 20 minutes, so people need to chill on that. Smoking food takes time!! Also, they are cash only, so keep that in mind. I'd write a longer review, but I can just say this: it's simply awesome and you have to try it. A cheaper alternative to Montgomery Inn and possibly better!
(5)John M.
This place is very casual. You line up to place your order, then find a seat. Your number is then called. There is limited inside seating. We sat on picnic benches outside. The food was amazing. We had ribs, pulled pork, baked beans, corn bread all amazing. The macaroni and cheese was just ordinary. Pick another side. You can smell the smoke as you drive up and this place delivers. I try BBQ places when ever I travel and this was great. Montgomery BBQ is better for formal sit down service, but if you just crave great food, come here.
(5)Stuart T.
Eli's is a small BBQ joint on riverside dr. If you blink, you'll drive right past it. It's only identified by a black sign with a pig on it above the door. They have about 8 tables. It wasn't packed though. It's BYOB. One of the coolest things there was the record player and vinyls they had to play. What a great idea! They had other little antiques in the window sill as well as decoration. The service was very fast. You order in the back and they bring it out to you. It's cash only, which sucks for me since I don't carry cash all that often. It isn't a large menu but all the options looked great. I had the pulled pork without slaw. It normally comes with, but I am not a slaw fan. Then for sides I had mac and cheese and jalapeño cheddar grits. The grits were not over spicy due to the jalapeño, which I was afraid of. It was just a hint of jalapeño. The Mac and cheese was standard, but very good. Right now it seems like a hidden gem within the city. A nice small BBQ joint near the city that serves great food and isn't packed on the weekends!
(5)Jesse F.
Oh sweet, delicious BBQ, you can do no wrong.... until you do. Went to Eli's for the first time a little while back. It's delightfully obscure. Tucked into into an intimate little space off of Columbia Parkway, Eli's is a great little find. It is BYOB, so don't forget to bring your favorite libation. I would say my two favorite things about Eli's was the BBQ sauce and the corn bread. They make real southern corn bread with jalapeno in it. The perfect kick to go along with your tangy bbq awesomeness. My mistake was in getting the special. They had a deal on rib tips that day, and it left a bit to be desired. They were fairly tough and rather fatty. I did try a bit of the pulled pork and that was incredible. All in all, i think i'll stay away from their specials in the future. However, I might ask to get a jar of their sauce.
(4)Sara W.
Great barbecue! The type of place that everyone is welcome and there is no dress code. It's BYOB which I found odd, but nice for a night out with friends. The pulled pork was some of the best I've ever tasted. My friends LOVED the ribs. I do have to say my biggest complaint is about the side dishes. I ordered the cheesy grits and they were a bit spicier than I expected. Also, the mashed potatoes were subpar. Next time, I'll probably stop on over and get the entrees to go. Make my own sides at home. Best of both worlds!
(4)Christopher W.
A new favorite! The menu is small, it's BYOB, it's local, and IT"S AMAZING! Unfortunately when I went they were out of the Ribs for the evening. Will definitely stop back in for those. I ordered up the pull pork sandwich platters with jalapeno corn bread, baked beans, and jalapeno cheese grits. Reviews as follows: Pulled Pork - some of the best I have ever had. The bun was toasted, which is big in my book. The pork had a perfect smoke flavor. The best part though is that they included some of the bark with the pork. Most restaurants reuse the bark for other dishes, or keep it for themselves. The BBQ sauce was the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. Corn Bread - Fantastic as well. Could stand to be a tad bit sweeter though - add some honey! Baked Beans - On point. Could definitely taste the chili powder they added to it. Delicious. Cheese Grits - AMAZING. The texture was a little too smooth, but they were still delicious. Do yourself a favor...Stop eating the overpriced crap that Montgomery Inn is producing and make a stop at Eli's, even if it's just To-Go!
(5)Alex L.
A small place in a weird part of town, Eli's BBQ is surrounded by no other restaurants and it is a really unassuming restaurant. The place is pretty small with a few tables but what it lacks in size it makes up in...a really small menu as well. Yeah, the only thing big about this place is the quality of their ribs. I've gone a few times and the first thing you should know is bring cash or a check (but really? who actually carries around a check?). They don't accept credit card so that kinda sucks in that respect. However, they have great bbq items. Ribs, rib tips, pulled pork, hot dogs with pulled pork on top of them, all of their food items are delicious. Add some of their bbq sauce on there and you get a decent meal for it's price. Don't expect gigantic portions but for lunch it's good. Or for dinner if you add some of their sides. I'd recommend the jalapeño cornbread personally. Add a soda and you have yourself a good meal.
(4)Jay S.
Food is still amazing. But the WAIT. Holy crap. We waited for 20+ minutes last Friday for 3 pulled pork sandwiches. Also, they were out of cornbread at 11:45?? How does that happen? I'll maintain my 4 stars for now (because the BBQ is amazing), but they may drop in the future if they don't improve their throughput and food production schedule...
(4)James A.
Went there for the first time yesterday for lunch with some coworkers. Very good. I doubt it's the BESTEST BBQ EVER EVER, but it was REALLY good. The ambiance, the smell inside, the outdoor picnic and park area with tables was very nice. Great restaurant. Credit Cards NOT accepted btw. Just cash, and maybe checks. But who pays using checks anyway- BRING CASH!!!!! Pulled pork BBQ sandwich- yum. Really good. Mac & cheese- good but not anything new Baked beans- different, peppery, and really good. Coleslaw- good. Coke in vintage 16 ounce glass bottles that you need a bottle opener or tough skin to open- classy. :) Sorry Diet Coke fans, no glass bottles for you. Worth driving 30 miles to go to if you have no other reason to be near downtown like a reds game, probably not. It's really good but not drive-from-indianapolis good. But with the combo of really good BBQ and great dining area and outdoor area, great place. EDIT: so when I first wrote this review, it was after I went there a couple times during business lunch hours. I had NO IDEA how much MORE awesome (and crazy busy) this place is during weekend dinner hours. It is like a community bbq gathering. There were 100's of people outside (beautiful day). BYOB (encouraged). I saw a lot of people carrying Mad Tree and Rhinegeist brewed beer. Got to listen to live, outdoor music, a la banjo/fiddle music. A lot of people laying down picnic blankets. GREAT vibe if you like the outdoors, folksy, Portland Oregon vibe. Hipster vibe without annoying hipsters. This place just got bumped up in my book, as a MUST visit place. Be warned though, while it is DEFINITELY worth the wait, you WILL wait. We showed up at 5:30pm on a Saturday, to a line outside the door. The line lasted 30-40 minutes. After ordering, we waited another 45 minutes (quoted 60 minutes though) for the food. But it was SOOOO GOOD! We ran into some friends there, so it made the wait feel faster. Chances are, if you are local, you will see someone you know. So just plan ahead knowing there's a wait, and you WILL enjoy this place. It really is worth the wait. So my tips: 1. Go with a family or group of friends 2. Bring cash 3. Eat outside if you can 4. Bring your own beer (Bud Light and Miller Light don't count as beer, grow a pair and try some local beer) 5. GRUB DOWN!
(5)Dan M.
Oh man, this barbecue is probably the best in Cincinnati proper. I went down here on a Friday with some coworkers. Despite the fact that it has just recently opened, it was packed. People have already found it! Anyways, the pork sandwich I got was great, and everyone else loved their sandwiches. The sides are the troubling bit. The slaw that came on my sandwich was fine - just fine. The grits (while tasty) are pasty, like instant grits and not creamy as grits should be. I didn't try all of the sides, but from looking around the table, I decided they need a little work for this place to be truly top-notch. Maybe they'll get it together. Even if they don't it's still a heck of a tasty meal. If I've got a moment to drive, I'd probably make my way out to SmoQ. Bottom Line: I'll be back for the best barbecue in Cincinnati proper.
(4)Corey G.
I am from tx; I know good BBQ. This is the best I have had in ohio.
(5)Chris S.
Wow! Pulled pork heaven. Everything I've had here is amazing. Rib tips, Mac and cheese, their sauce, coleslaw, and that pulled pork. Dry, but crispy and moist. This is not standard mushy pulled pork, it is something entirerly different. It is something entierly awesome. The bun could use an upgrade, but you won't notice, I promise.
(5)Bryan D.
Delicious BBQ that is quite possibly the best in Cincinnati. A hole in the wall on Riverside Drive, Eli's doesn't try too hard in regards to ambience or decor...and it doesn't matter. The "jukebox" is an old turntable and a few milk crates full of classic blues and jazz vinyl. My wife and I both had the pulled pork sandwich, which we agreed was the best we've had in the city. The jalapeño grits were tasty, and the mac & cheese was good too. The baked beans are distinctly smoky, with a slight peppery kick. The jalapeño cornbread was decent, but a bit on the dry side. Our food came out within 3 minutes, ad the owner himself floated around the dining room checking on patrons. Limited seating (36-ish); however, with the quick service and delicious eats, the tables turn pretty quickly, so I wouldn't expect too much of a wait.
(5)Parker P.
PLUSES: The pulled pork and the jalapeno grits are insanely delicious. Coleslaw was perfect. BBQ sauce might be the best I've ever had. Priced like a street vendor ($8 for a sandwich and two sides), and made even cheaper by their BYOB policy. Music courtesy of a turntable and a stack of old vinyl albums (think Neil Young, Grateful Dead, and Phish) for customers to operate. MINUSES: It's not uncommon for them to run out of pulled pork and ribs, leaving you stuck with the forgettable smoked turkey. Walking to the back of the restaurant to order at a counter you can't see until you get to it can be confusing on the first visit. Seven tables, total. SUMMARY: If they have their whole menu available, and there's a place to sit, you'll be blown away.
(4)Kristine G.
The best BBQ ever. Eat here or regret that you didn't.
(5)Bea D.
We went for the barbecue. We arrived around 5:30 on Saturday since we had heard that the crowds can grow out of control at times. There was a line to the registers where you ordered. The line started just inside the entrance. The indoor eaters have plenty of people watching entertainment. You can't really see the chalkboard menu while you are waiting in line. So when you finally are ready to order, the pressure is on. We ordered pulled pork, ribs, and sides. We handed over our green bills and looked for a place to sit. We knew the indoor seating was at capacity so we wandered outside. You can sit on picnic tables in the open air or inside of heated tents. We sat inside the tent as it was a bit too dark outside for us to be able to see food we would be eating for the first time. Our name was called and the food was delivered to us. There is one bottle of barbecue sauce for the entire tent. That makes it difficult to know how much sauce to put where without getting up to get sauce several times throughout your meal. Yes, costs are cut at every corner. If you like the food, you won't mind. The pulled pork and ribs were the best I have had in Cincy. The sides were no match for the main feature. Mac&cheese was velveeta style, I thought the slaw was way too sweet, the jalapeño cornbread was dry, and the jalapeño grits were not that spicy. Ok, so you come here for the barbecue, not the sides. Bring your own beverages and glasses. They will provide a pack of flimsy plastic ware for utensils. If you love barbecue, this is a must visit.
(4)Nick B.
Great BBQ, but I find that their hot dogs blow away the BBQ! Love the fact that it is BYOB, just remember CASH ONLY!
(4)Louise D.
I went to Eli's BBQ for lunch and really didn't know what to expect when my colleagues asked me: do you like BBQ? I do, but in Europe BBQ is really something you only do in the summer time, in your garden. So this was my first BBQ restaurant experience. I had the pulled pork sandwich and absolutely adored it! I'm not hungry now and already craving another one! As a side I took the coleslaw and that was a little bit too heavy for my taste so next time I'd definitely try another side. The place is very simple, but the service was excellent and so was the food! I liked the fact you need to know where it is to get there. It is less convenient without a car though... For a BBQ place this is a perfect spot!
(5)Matthew M.
Love this place. The hot dogs covered in bacon and bbq sauce and cole slaw are what I get here and they are awesome. Others I go with get the pulled pork sandwich and they all rave about them. I haven't been to every BBQ style place in Cincy, but I'm confident this is at or near the top of the list. Writing this review makes me want to go there again today. Oh, they also have Coke in glass bottles, which always bumps a place up a couple of notches.
(5)Camilo O.
HOLY $#!T-BALLS, BATMAN!!! Go right now. Seriously, stop what you're doing and go there right now. The pulled pork sammich, the beans, mac, everything. Oh, the buttered and toasted bun = perfection. Immediate jumps up to a top-5 food joint in the City.
(5)Rachel G.
One of the best pulled pork sandwiches in town. The sides are great too! I've had pretty much everything on the menu by now...my favorites are the jalapeno cornbread and the mac and cheese. Everything is homemade, and the best part is that the joint is BYOB, so we always bring a couple 6-packs along. Great food, laid-back atmosphere. Only complaint would be that they should have ribs! The sauce and pulled pork is great, but I would love to see them add more variety to the menu.
(5)Jen J.
Finally had the chance to check out Eli's a little over a week ago and man it did not disappoint. Sadly, I didn't come very hungry so I only tried the pulled pork sandwich (no sides), but it was amazing. I cannot wait to go back and try the ribs and a side or two. Great job!
(5)Mitch D.
I had high hopes for Eli's, and somewhat surprisingly they were exceeded. The vibe is cool, sparse, Riverside Drive shack, and the food is simply delicious. I had a smoked turkey sandwich, mac and cheese, and jalapeno cornbread for lunch, and it literally made my day. I will very likely be back tomorrow.
(5)Kevin B.
Had lunch at Eli's today. Very good food at a very good price. The pulled pork sandwich is all that! We also enjoyed the smoked turkey sandwich - the meat was very tender with a great smokey flavor. We had 4 sides, Mac & Cheese, Jalapeno Grits, Beans and Cole Slaw. The mac & cheese was certainly creamy and had a bit of a cheez whiz taste - not that there is anything wrong with cheez whiz. The jalapeno grits were quite good but could have been a bit creamier. The beans were the best of the sides - very peppery and saucey and delicious. The cole slaw had a nice vinegar flavor but had a bit too much mayo for my liking. (Note that all of the sandwiches come with cole slaw for topping so I wouldn't order this as a side). The food will definitely bring us back and the fact that this place is in walking distance is an added bonus. My guess would be that this place will be really hopping in the warmer weather with the boaters and the softball players from neaby Schmidt Field.
(4)Courtney K.
the best bbq in Cincinnati hands down! Love going in the summer with my cooler of drinks and sitting outside on the picnic tables. It is amazing!!!!!
(5)Ianp P.
Best BBQ in Cincy, haven't tried anything besides the pulled pork, I need to but it's so good hard to not order it. Make sure you try the jalapeño cornbread, jalapeño cheddar grits, & mashed potatoes, hold off on the Mac & cheese it's nothing special. Don't forget it's BYOB.
(5)Kim K.
Just a converted ol' home, some picnic tables and a gravel parking lot in the wee hours of morning, but drive by on a Friday night watch this place light up: tables are garnished with tablecloths, picnic baskets and wine bottles and beer bottle line the tables, groups of friends play corn hole (or bags for you from outside of Indiana), puppies waiting patiently for you to drop a morsel, and the look of complete satisfaction of diners devoured their meals. Stand in the line, grab a coke in a bottle out of the refrigerator or bring you favorite kit of six, and prepare to devour the best BBQ you have ever had (bold statement.) I honestly can't tell you what makes their BBQ so good (it's some family secret or something like that), but I can tell you that I LOVE their pulled pork perfectly topped with cole slaw and with a side of jalepeno cheddar grits on the side. It's the perfect pairing. Also, the sauce. Rich, thick, savory. Note: Be prepared to wait a while on a Friday or weekend night. But I promise you (pinky promise) that it is worth it. Again, bring a few brews, make a new human or furrend and enjoy the experience.
(5)Alyssa T.
Everyone has told me that this is the best bbq in Cincinnati. Don't get me wrong, it's good! However, I was not fond of them not accepting card...luckily I had enough cash for one item. The bbq was okay, but the actual meat tastes like kerosene from the grill. The mac n cheese is not that great. I do like that it's picnic style and BYOB. It creates a fun atmosphere for friends and family. In all honesty, Pontiac BBQ in OTR is the better choice for BBQ....and their Mac n cheese is the best I've ever had.
(3)Andrew W.
I'll be honest, I'm not much of a bbq type of guy, so coming to Eli's I was a little bit skeptical, mostly fearing for how my stomach would feel afterward. On reading the reviews on yelp!, I was convinced, but also because I know my girlfriend wouldn't lead me wrong, she's wonderful. After we arrived we made sure to quickly put in our order, and grabbed a table outside. I should've set a reminder to grab some local beers beforehand, especially since I was visiting, because we ended up waiting about 30 minutes or so for our food. Don't let this lead you astray though, the wait was totally worth it; I mean c'mon, it was dinner time. Let's get to the stuff we're here for: the good eats. I ended up going with the BBQ turkey sandwich with cole slaw, and my girlfriend chose the classic pulled pork sandwich. We had to grab a few sides as well, specifically the Mac and cheese and the baked beans. The turkey sandwich I chose was to die for. The smokey flavor complemented the melt-in-your-mouth meat, with a sweet aftertaste, mostly thanks to that cole slaw slathered on top. A warm bun encapsulates the meat. Overall, I definitely recommend it, tenfold. Similar things can be said about the pulled pork sandwich. It had a wonderful taste, definitely takes the cake (or the hog) for the best pulled pork sandwich I've ever had. The flavor was perfect. The cole slaw on the side gave me a chance to try it aside from the food. The sides were extremely satisfying. The mac and cheese was a nice, thick cheesy consistency, and the baked beans rocked. They had such a sweet, yet spicy flavor. Overall, Eli's was truly a satisfying experience, with rich homely BBQ flavor in all their meats and eats.
(5)Stacie R.
Awesome set up & just as good barbeque. The tips were a bit dry, but everything else, especially the ribs were amazing! The service was more than helpful, being our first time. Even with a line to the door, they took their time to explain the menu & make suggestions. They provide canned pop or bottled water, but from other Yelpers & the customers I saw, bring your own cooler & even lawn games or a football to toss around. This place was so relaxed & enjoyable (minus the flies). They even provided citronella candles on each table. Please know, everyone is the Cincinnati area seems to know about this place, so you may want to try this place before peak hours. We got there around 5ish, got right to the counter, but by 6pm the line was out the door. I cant wait to go back, we'll definitely bring a cooler, but we'll probably call ahead our order. Please take a day to try this place out, it's worth the trip!
(4)Marygrace A.
Eli's is hands-down the best BBQ you can get in Cincinnati, if not the great state of Ohio. Their meats are high-quality, smoked to perfection, and at a reasonable price. They actually got their big break while selling lunch on Market on the Square, a Tuesday farmer's market on Fountain Square. At their Riverside location, you should call ahead, or get there early and prepare for an hour wait. Bring cash!!! As you wait, grab a seat at a picnic table outside, bring a 6-pack of beer, and enjoy the scenery. You'll see people of all ages, even live music if you're lucky. Bring bug spray :) What to order: I have tried almost everything on the menu, and 3 of my favorites are the rib-tips, pulled pork sandwich and the hot-dogs. The rib-tips are unlike anyone else's - not all fat and gristle. Instead, they are delicious burnt and crispy ends, with more meat than expected. The pulled pork is excellent, and their BBQ sauce can be added at your own pace. The hot-dogs are a treasure: crispy bacon pieces, tangy cole-slaw, and delicious hot dogs. The sides are all fantastic: baked beans, mac & cheese, jalapeno corn bread, mashed potatoes, etc. I have been here too many times to count, and will continue to enjoy their BBQ. Try it out, you won't be disappointed!
(5)Kim P.
Hands down best BBQ ribs in Cincy. It's perfectly flavored and there's a sweet crispy glaze on top of the ribs from the brown sugar. Ribs fall off the bone. There's always a line here. If it gets very crowded, the wait time for your food is about 30-45 minutes. Jalepeno corn bread is also really good. Tip: BYOB!
(5)Ben S.
Being a Kansas City boy, this place is the only thing I have close to BBQ back home, and goddamn is it soooo good. Cash only is hilarious. No less than 50 people there at a time, wait for like 30 minutes for food. I get the pulled pork sandwich and mac & cheese because they are always perfect. Ribs are too over-done when we've had em. There's styles to getting BBQ done, and while they've perfected their pulled pork and sauce, I'm left slightly disappointed in the dry-rub ribs. This place is always, always, always worth the wait. Also...you cannot beat the price. These guys double the price and I don't think anyone would bat much of an eye.
(4)Marie M.
If you don't have cash, check, or if you want brisket, or beer, keep searching bc those options do not exist here. They are established enough to take credit/debit cards so I'm not sure why they won't. It's definitely an inconvenience. They also do not have alcohol of any kind- so if you want to enjoy a nice beer with your food, better bring your own. The set up inside is kinda odd. The line was long but went pretty quickly. It's an order line and you pay at that time. Then they will notify you with a pager when your food is ready. The food did not take too long to get to us. There is ample outdoor seating but very little seating inside- and I mean like 4-6 tables max. Ok on to the food-I would never order the mashed potatoes again, they felt and tasted like boxed instant potatoes. But wait-there's still hope! The Jalepeno cornbread was amazing! Perfect combination of sweet and spicy. The baked beans are also amazing. They are sweet, spicy and tangy and done right. The pulled pork was good, good flavor and juicy and the BBQ sauce was not the best but not bad. Overall I'm kinda disappointed in the lack of meat options. This is not the best BBQ I've ever had but, if I'm around I'll stop back in if I'm hungry.
(4)Matthew C.
Finally made it to Eli's after hearing about it for a long time. Wow, what a great time. A perfect summer night to hang out with our neighbors. I love the BYO drinks, this really cuts down on the cost. We loved the barbecue and thought the sides were good. We had the pulled pork sandwich and the ribs. They were both very good. I thought the sides were good especially the jalapeno grits. While I am not a barbecue expert, Eli's is worth the visit. We will be back. Don't forget this is a cash only business. Wait time on a Wednesday night at 6:30 was approximately 40 minutes.
(4)Treetta M.
" What they say is really what they mean."A worker came by while we were waiting in line the Sat before Memorial Day and announced it will be an hour and a half before you get your meal and indeed it was an hour and forty five minute wait. While waiting we experienced the nice open outdoor seating we witnessed birthday parties,wedding anniversaries. I must say when we received our food it was piping hot and very tasty but not a large portion for sure if your hungry order two sandwiches or load up on the sides. It was nice to visit and experience I will go again during the week to avoid the long wait.
(4)Jen I.
The absolute best pulled pork I may of ever had! It is also Cash or Check only! Luckily I had my checkbook on me:) I had to start with that! This lil place would be impossible for me to find - there's only a pig on a small sign and the white tents you see in other pis here on yelp! Thanks to my GpS we were all good! My friend is from NC And he agreed it was a amazing pulled pork sandwich! The coleslaw was ok, and I'm a fan of sweet cornbread but this jalapeño one was tasty! He also said the jalapeño grits were excellent! They only have 1 sauce - and it was great! We also tried he ribs - very good also! I'd get both the pulled pork and couple of bones again! The inside is very small and they have tents set up outside - along with picnic tables in a small park across the drive. Def a must try! I'll be coming back!
(5)Andrew E.
My son and I come into town on a regular basis to visit Cincinnati Children's, we spot this place the last time in town and said it looked worthwhile. My wife made the next trip with our son and even though he is 10 he went online to research where he was going to bring his mother to eat. Another Foodie is born! They would have stopped but it is Cash only and as my father use to say she wasn't "holdin". So now that we are a paragraph in with no critique here we go. 1 word LEGIT! The vibe of this joint is outstanding, record player plugged into a vintage Marshall Amp in front, playing Jim Croce. Long line most of the time, great smell of smoke. The food, cmon man, unreal. We sampled the pulled pork, turkey, and spare ribs. Along with several sides. My son said it correctly, Dad I could eat these ribs all day. The rub has an ample amount of both savory, spicy, and sweet. They were as tender as I have ever had, yet still with a bite to them. The turkey was perfection, awesome smoke ring, still juicy. Pulled pork same thing. All of the sides were excellent compliments, but my son and I agree that the griddle cooked mashed potatoes and Jalapeño Cheese Grits took the prize. I luv this place right down to the Old School 12 oz classic soda bottles! The sitting inside is small, but no worries, bring a cooler (BYOB) and hang out on the lawn with picnic tables and tents! Like I said LEGIT!
(5)Bob B.
The perfect pulled pork sandwich: toasted roll, great sauce, fantastic cole slaw, and the pulled pork was perfect. Sides: Mac & cheese and baked beans were awesome. Highly recommended.
(5)Angelina M.
Feels like I am at a big family reunion--in a good way! I have been to Eli's several times and they have consistent service and food. I usually order the barbeque turkey sandwich with a side of cornbread. The turkey is very juicy and the serving size is spot on for the price. The jalapeño cornbread is a bit spicy and sweet. The mac and cheese is ok, nothing to write home about. The baked beans are a tad spicy as well and have good flavor. The location is great for large groups, byob, and dog friendly. It gives the feeling of going to a casual cookout. Make sure you bring cash or check as they do not accept credit cards. I would say it is some of the best barbeque in Cincinnati--better than Montgomery Inn. However, I would like the option of a dry rub barbeque with sauce on the side, something similar to Kansas City style. In general Eli's is a nice casual place to go on a fall day with a large group and not feel pressured to leave your table.
(3)Madeline A.
Amazing!!! Following what all the Yelpers have said before! This is a MUST while in Cincinnati!! I ordered take out on a Saturday night. I arrived to see the line was out the door about 50-75 people long!! Pick up was quick and easy at a separate counter! Remember it's cash or check only! I got the pulled pork sandwich, Mac and cheese, and corn bread for $8! Definitely worth it!! It was all delicious!! They had awesome picnic tables outside and people were bringing their own drinks. Live music was getting set up as I was walking out! Overall, definitely try it out! You won't regret it!!
(5)Amanda H.
I really like the actual restaurant. There are some good features and some weird ones. the logistics of how it is set up is a little weird to me. A small 4 table dinning area in the front, then you walk to the side of the house and order, then go outside and eat on picnic tables. Its really cool for summer but I don't understand how it works for winter. My biggest problem with Elis is that you eat outside and there TONS of bees everywhere. My daughter was screaming and freaking out. They are everywhere, all over the food, the prep area where they give you the food, in your drink- EVERYWHERE! So if you are allergic- don't go here! I really like the BYOB aspect of Elis though. That is cool and I would definitely go back and drink/eat if it weren't for the bees. The food was pretty good. The pulled pork and brisket were awesome. I didn't care for the cracklins on everything. I wish I hadn't ordered them and I would have liked my meal a lot better. I also wish my bun wasn't toasted so much on my hot dogs and that pulled pork was on it. It was burnt and I had to tear some black pieces off. The ribs were WAY over cooked. They were tough to eat so Lauren wouldn't eat them. But all in all the food was decent, it just didn't live up the hype. I'll try it again though. My heart for BBQ still belongs to Walts BBQ though. I'd like to go back and get the pulled pork again; just not eat outside where all the bees are!
(3)Joe A.
Wow, was I impressed! Went to a bbq place and got the hot dog. No regrets. What a mouthful of flavor. The dog, the sticky bbq sauce, getting it served "dirty" ( the burt end goodness from the meats). Just yum. The side of jalapeño cheese grits served dirty was just unbelievable as well. Next time I visit Cincy, this will be a must stop.
(4)Nick H.
It's always busy and it is for a good reason the food here is amazing. Some of the best ribs I have ever had, they are even better than my mom's (but don't tell her that). Their macaroni and cheese is great as well all for a very reasonable price.
(5)Jordan T.
Thank you east end for giving life to Eli's. I have to say everything is tasty as can be at Eli's. Go with a large group or by yourself. For the ultimate Eli's experience go on a cold winter day when it doesn't take 1.5 hours to get your food. Bring some brew and some cash money (cash only). Trust me and order the smoked turkey sandwich and an all beef loaded dog. They are truly the underdogs on the menu and are sure to blow your gourd!
(4)Mike G.
This is definitely a hipster place in the fact that they have their vinyl records and don't take credit cards but they can make some awesome bbq and mac n cheese. And it's a cool summer set up. Bring some beer and sit out in the sun and eat some bbq. Sounds like a great day to me.
(5)Therese W.
LOVE!!! Have to go at least 1-2 times a month for my Eli's fix!!! Jalapeño cornbread and grits... YUM! Pulled pork out of this world!
(5)Rose K.
OBLIGATORY ELI'S REVIEW, because let's be real, it's amazing. I can't believe I hadn't had Eli's until just a few weeks ago. I have had it 3 times since and can't wait to go back and eat it again. The menu is as simple as it should be. The BBQ basics. Pulled pork or turkey? Pick a few classic sides and you are good to go! Want to be super daring? Add some bacon to just about anything! The meat is super smokey and moist, not dried out at all. They let you put the BBQ sauce on the meat which I love, because some places definitely over do it. For a great summer night, sitting outside on the picnic benches and enjoying the meal and good company is a winning decision. I love that it is BYOB because I often have plenty of beverages in my fridge at home and being able to bring those is definitely a money saver. Plus I can enjoy more beer for less money when I purchase the 6 pack at Kroger opposed to the restaurant. This is a plus for me. The food is a stellar value as well! I've never paid more than 10 dollars for any amount of food I've ordered which is wonderful. The only value that does not exist here is one for your time. I'm confused how you can order so quickly yet wait over an hour for food to be ready for you. Like it's BBQ staples so shouldn't the meat be smoked and prepared already? PRO TIP- Call ahead and order takeout for a specific time. Then go in, pay for your takeout, and sit on the benches with the beer you brought anyway. That's how I did it the last time I went and my food was just as fresh and tasty but I didn't have to sit around waiting for a whole hour. I would also imagine the Findlay location is less busy with less wait times, but I've never been before. Will have to report back!
(4)Anne R.
Customer service to perfection! Place an order for a dinner party of bbq and a single order of corn bread because I cannot resist it. When I arrived the young lady provided instruction on how to heat up. She also gave me an extra piece of cornbread! This local bbq is fantastic!
(5)Nick H.
Eli, Eli, Eli... Thank you for cutting through the fluffy barbecue crap and keeping it real. Your setting, service and food are undeniably worthy of the letters BBQ. My pulled pork sandwich was so good I nearly ate the silverware just to enjoy all the perfectly tangy sauce. The cornbread and grits were amazing as well - kind of like the cherry on a delicious sundae that is simply topping it off to let you know "yeah that just happened." No you are not dreaming. Eli's is really that good. Bring your friends and leave your diet plan at home.
(5)christina k.
Got carryout from the Findlay Market location for lunch and Eli's lived up to hype that I'd been hearing. It is cash or check only and if you choose to eat in, there are tables outside near the Findlay Market beer garden. There is no seating in the restaurant. Even arriving around 11 am, we still had a brief (10-15 minute) wait for lunch on a Thursday. Had the smoked turkey sandwich and mashed potatoes. The turkey was flavorful and served on a toasted bun with plenty of BBQ sauce. The mashed potatoes were fried on the grill so they were crispy outside, smooth and creamy inside, and even had a lightly smoky flavor. Jalapeno cornbread was also very good.
(5)Jessi G.
I love Eli's. I think they have the best BBQ in Cincinnati, hands down. I always get the pulled pork sandwich (slaw on top!), and my fiance always get the ribs. When you're getting the ribs, usually four is a pretty good portion size for a guy. Two ribs just doesn't seem like enough food. This place is BYOB, as many people have said, which is a great way to keep lunch/dinner here affordable. If you forget your drinks, you can buy them here, but they only have one type of beer (I can't remember what type...). The prices cannot be beat. I still can't believe how much food they give you for under $10! My favorite sides are the jalapeno cheddar grits and the corn bread. The grits are kind of spicy, so if spice isn't for you, you should check out the mac and cheese instead. The mac and cheese is like cheese to the extreme. It's is very creamy and delicious, but I don't normally get it because it's honestly too rich for me and I can't ever seem to finish a whole serving (I'm probably in the minority with that opinion). Outdoor seating is fantastic in the summer, but a lot of people forget about Eli's in the winter. You can always sit inside (they have a few small tables inside), and they heat their tents outside in the winter! The picnic tables in the heated tents really aren't so cold, and they are dog friendly! I always bring my puppy to Eli's. And in the winter your wait for food is much shorter than the summer, which makes it a good option if you want something quick or you have a big group. There's two reasons why this isn't a 5 star review. Number 1, they are cash only which is a real bummer if you don't normally carry cash on you (like me...who carries cash anymore??). Number 2, they may have the best BBQ in Cincinnati, but it's still not the best BBQ I've ever had. Granted, I am from Texas which is the home of BBQ brisket, so I have high standards. But their ribs and pulled pork are killer. Great job bringing good BBQ to Cincinnati, Eli's!
(4)Kara W.
What is there to say about Eli's that hasn't already been said? The pulled pork is amazing, the prices are great, and the grilled mashed potatoes are quite possibly my favorite. Something about that little bit of char just make them special. Glass bottled drinks, records playing inside, and a nice outdoor area that is covered and heated in winter. My only negatives? I wasn't impressed by the mac n cheese. I gave it a few shots, but the only way I really liked it was smothered in their bbq sauce. Lastly, cash only. I understand it's a small business, but cash is not the norm these days and they are definitely popular enough to afford Square or something like it.
(4)Gnarly G.
My favorite barbecue in Cincinnati. This is a fantastic place in the summer. Bring a few growlers of local beer, sit your butt in a chair and feast on some of my favorite pulled pork that I have ever eaten. This place brings an experience... Not just fantastic food.
(5)Jack S.
The food is absolutely phenomenal. There's no denying it. I won't go into detail because a thronging horde yelpers have already described it more than adequately. The reason I'm withholding the last two stars is that it is absolutely absurd that they don't take credit cards. There's really no excuse for it, it's the 21st century.
(3)Rachel C.
Pulled Pork Sandwich with mashed potatoes and cornbread. Yes yes yes. Be careful of suffering from a massive food coma post meal!
(4)Tiera A.
Finally, I made it to Eli's! After seeing this place pop up on "Must have" and "Best Of" lists for quite some time, I knew I needed to try this place and SOON! On a day like today, when I am really missing summertime, (it's currently 18 degrees outside as I'm writhing this) I figured some good ol bbq could put me in the right mood. As I've heard time and time again, that the food here is REALLY good! I'll be honest, it wasn't the best bbq I've ever had (I've spent some time in the south) but by far some of the best in Cincy. I ordered the smoked turkey sandwich and it was absolutely delicious. The turkey was smoked to perfection and the amount of sauce on the bun was just right. You know how some places put so much sauce on the bun that your sandwich completely falls apart? Well that didn't happen here. I was totally expecting it but nope, it was perfect! For my sides, I had baked beans and the jalapeño grits. The baked beans were good but THE JALAPEÑO GRITS CHANGED MY LIFE! My experience at Eli's was all that I could've asked for and they definitely lived up to all of the hype. I can't wait to go back when it's warm out with a group of friends and a couple of brews.
(4)Jonathan R.
Elis is one Barbecue joint I talk about a lot, let's start off like that, I Love This Place!!! While traveling I always look for the best BBQ in ever city I stop in, that's what I love to do. After eating great BBQ from all over, no matter what, Elis always comes to mind when I think of my favorite places to eat BBQ - barbecue I always get the BBQ pork sandwich and the small rib add-on with two sides and a drink for less the $15 The ribs have a rub on them that's so good you don't need sauce,, even tho I put a tad on in between bites most of the time, their sauce is on point! Amazing sauce!! Pork sandwich here is the absolute best in my mind, just give them a visit and enjoy for yourself, because this my friend, is some of the best BBQ in America!!!
(5)Jeff P.
Per usual I like to give a full review of the customer experience at the restaurant from the time you walk in to the time you leave and everything in between. Unfortunately Eli's is at a huge disadvantage with their set up on the inside. The space is narrow and the seating is limited ( about four seats per table with a total of 6 tables altogether). It was a good creative thought to have an ole school record player with some decent music. Once we ordered the cashier/waiter was giving off an impatient "I'm ready to go/please don't dine in vibe." It was close to the time for the restaurant to close so it was excused. Ironically, he turned out to be a decent guy. When it was time to pay the gentleman indicated that they do not accept debit/credit which was totally inconvenient given that no one warned us. I cannot understand why this is the case but maybe they should warn customers prior to entering the restaurant. Since I read the reviews prior to visiting I tried the pulled pork sandwich, "dirty" Mac and Cheese, cole slaw, and jalapeño cheesy grits. The BBQ was AWESOME! Probably the best in Cincinnati but the sides were a huge disappointment, HUGE. My family tried the mashed potatoes (gross) and the baked beans (ok). I hope to try the jalapeño cornbread, I hear it's great. Overall, I recommend this place because of the wonderful BBQ. Eli's need better sides and debit machines!
(3)Ashley M.
Second visit here, on a late Saturday afternoon, and my experience was fantastic. We were surprised to find a large crowd and a line out the door at 3pm but it moved relatively quickly. We ordered two ribs, a pork sandwich, and a side of macaroni and cheese and were told it would be 40 minutes before our food was ready. We sat under a tent and waited and our meals were called twenty minutes in. We ended up receiving an extra complimentary rib--score! Everything was seasoned perfectly and was incredibly delicious. I remember that on my previous visit here, I did not care for the mac and cheese and thought it didn't taste homemade. This time, it was very delicious. The meat was perfectly cooked and I even finished all the coleslaw even though I hate coleslaw. This is definitely one of my Cincinnati favorites and I cannot wait to eat here again. You can't go wrong with Eli's!
(5)Vicky N.
Yeah yeah, there are already so many reviews for Eli's BBQ, but I just have to say one thing: don't you dare slather the ribs with more barbecue sauce! This was a mistake I made the first time around, so the flavor of the rub didn't stand out to me. But damn, when I took that first bite sauce-less, I couldn't believe a piece of meat could have so much bang! It was the Golden Ratio of sweet to savory and ended with a kick of smokiness. I can't tell if I didn't notice this before from the bbq sauce overpowering the flavor of the rub the last time, or from a subtle change in the recipe this time around. Only one way to find out: come back again! P. S. Probably skip the mac n cheese next time, it sort of tastes like they use Velveeta. Mashed potatoes are still a hit though!
(5)Ivet V.
Coming from Texas was Kinda of disappointed they did not have brisket! The short ribs were okay. Was surprised they did not accept credit cards, disappointed more when I realized they didn't have an ATM inside the restaurant. Had to leave and come back with cash.
(3)Ashley C.
Love this place! So good, I went twice during my trip in Cincinnati! First of all, this place is BYOB which is great for summer days. Second, there's plenty of outdoor seating, great for groups. Lastly, best BBQ I've had and I'm not even a big fan of pork! $8 for a heavily stacked pulled pork sandwich and 2 generous sides is a steal! Everything was cooked perfectly and full of flavor. The waiting time isn't even that bad and even if it's 30-40 minutes, trust me, it's worth the wait. Make sure you bring cash, since they don't accept cards, and you'll be set to experience one of the best BBQ places Cincy has to offer!
(5)Marissa P.
Amazing BBQ restaurant, definitely a hidden gem! Their cornbread is so delicious. Seating is a bit tricky indoors but there is plenty of space outside under tents. BYOB so you can always have a fun night with friends if you bring the right drinks, people, and games. Loved the old atmosphere and classic music choices! Four stars only because they only take cash.
(4)Travis L.
They are much more organized! They have buzzers to inform you that your food is ready! Eli's listened! Food is great as always. If you come before noon, you are able to get your food in less than 30 minutes.
(5)Sarah B.
This place is SO urban. They truly did not want to be like any other restaurant, so they aren't. Who says you need cups? BYOB! The food is amazing and extremely reasonably priced. Not to mention, you are getting the environment for a STEAL! Furry friends are welcome, always a plus in my book The outdoor picnic area encourages community and makes for a great time meeting new friends. Eli himself is eccentric and amazing and just my kind of person. The Findlay Market location is just as amazing, being the first introduction I had to Eli's BBQ. You'll also find that same sense of community, live music (weekends) and amazing food at that location. P.s. - They also visit fountain square on Tuesdays, SCORE! Three amazing locations, three more reasons to love Cincinnati. As a side note: I just want to add that I have always hated grits, and always hated jalapeños. Hated. When my friend encouraged me on our first visit to try the jalapeño grits, I refused. She then insisted I try a bite of hers. Lets just say I am now a firm supporter of the jalapeño grit movement, and don't ever visit without a side of em!
(5)Ryan P.
There really isn't anything I can say about Eli's BBQ that hasn't been said hundreds of times before. This is far and away the best BBQ in the city and earned its spot on Yelps Top 100 restaurants in the country for a damned good reason. The pulled pork is incredible but if you get a chance to go back a second time get the hot dogs. They are out of this world.
(5)Chris B.
I'm a big fan of barbecue. So much so that I'll go out of the way to try something new. Like, really out of the way. I've tried BBQ all over the U.S.; my personal favorite is Kansas City style, the best of which I had out of a 15 foot pull behind smoker in Denver, Colorado. But I digress. Eli's was tempting. The smell of smoke as we rolled up was enticing. The atmosphere legit. The BBQ: Disappointing. It was dry. Really dry. As if it had been finished in an oven that was too hot. And no, BBQ should not be finished in an oven, nor should it be dry. I had the rib tips, my wife had pulled pork. She complained her's tasted as if it had been previously frozen. Not sure that was the case, but nevertheless, Eli's was subpar. It might be so highly rated in the community because of its proximity to Montgomery Inn, which is in every way the antithesis of a good BBQ experience. My search for BBQ nirvana (moist, smokey, well finished caramelization) in Cincinnati continues.
(2)Gretchen R.
People! I'm telling you right now, run do not walk to this place. I was passing through town with a friend and we googled great places to eat in Cincinnati and oh my gosh the raves and reviews about Eli's! Let me just say people do not lie. The atmosphere and the food and literally everything about Eli's is amazing. The food alone is so freaking good that makes you want to punch your own mother. We were ambitious and each got a dinner plate, One with the pork and one with the turkey, but also decided to get some of the rib tips and wow I'm mad my stomach was not bigger! it's some of the best barbecue I've ever had with incredible jalapeno cornbread and a great twist on mashed potatoes. Of course the mac & cheese was awesome and the sauce is so good I could drink it by the gallon. The price is ridiculously cheap, you feel like you're stealing and it's such good food. Go to Eli's, you will not be disappointed.
(5)Dani E.
This was our first time! Drove 40 minutes to try it out after hearing all the hype. We ordered and sat outside,with the threat of impending rain we ate under the tents. My husband and I got the pork sandwich, he put extra bbq sauce on his and I put coleslaw on mine. The food was delicious, so much meat you could easily make another sandwich with how much meat you get! My son got the ribs and he said they were great! He got the Mac and cheese and for a 9 year old he thought it was amazing, I tried it and would give it 3 stars. The baked beans and jalapeño cornbread was great too. We will have to make this a regular place and come back more often. My husband even asked the very next day if we could go again!
(5)Samantha F.
The atmosphere alone at Eli's is enough to visit. The BBQ just adds a million bonus points. The outside area is the perfect spot for dining outside and enjoying some BYOB. In the summer they have music performances and there is plenty of space for kids to run around. I whole-heartedly recommend the mac and cheese. It is classic Southern style that is defintely sticking to your insides but is worth every bite. The price is also attractive here. You can get a heaping pile of BBQ pulled pork on a sandwich bun and all the extra sauce you want for 5 bucks. If you haven't been.. go NOW
(5)Erin H.
Love, love, LOVE Eli's. If you are looking for a great outdoor eating experience and you have plenty of time to socialize this is the place for you. Eli's offers a very limited menu, but every item is equally delicious. BE AWARE: there are lots of things you need to know before you venture into an Eli's dining experience: 1. There are about 6 tables inside and all other seating is outside at picnic tables. There are two tents, but over 50% of the tables are not under cover. 2. It is BYOB. Feel free to bring a cooler of drinks. You could also bring dessert, but there is often a gelato truck there. (I also recommend bringing a table cloth or picnic blanket. Especially if you get there early and need seats for lots of people) 3. There is always a long line, there is always a long wait, it is always worth it. This is not the place to come if you are in a "if I don't eat in the next 5 minutes I will likely die" frame of mind. It was not overly crowded when we were there last night and we waited an hour for our food. 4. Parking is on the street. Be prepared to have to look for awhile and walk. 5. CASH ONLY. I repeat- cash only! If you come in knowing all of these things you will have a great time. This is definitely a dining experience. Bring a crowd, but get there early so you can all sit together.
(5)Tsyria T.
Love this place! I've only tried the pulled pork and baked beans with cornbread. I can't seem to try anything else because I just crave it when I walk into the restaurant! I'll definitely be back many times to check out the rest of the menu! Awesome vibe as well. The lines get pretty long on a nice day and there aren't many seats inside, but they have plenty of outside seating...though that fills up as well! Waited for one hour for food once, but it was worth it.
(5)Landa D.
A little slice of heaven... This is one place I'd go to again, and again, and AGAIN!! I know a li'l something about barbecue... I've had my share of ribs. I know good ribs. Oklahoma Joe's in Kansas City was my number one place to go for good barbecue. Was. That's the operative word. This barbecue joint LITERALLY made me forget the name Oklahoma Joes! It's true! When we left the restaurant, I had to google the name online. And even when I found it, it didn't sound familiar. I had to laugh out loud at that! I've eaten at Oklahoma Joe's about 20 times, bragged about it relentlessly, and this place made me forget the friggin name! Wow! I had the long ends (ribs). Tender and flavorful- with or without sauce. The jalapeño cornbread was light, fluffy and just good. Although initially skeptical, as I'm not a grits fan, the jalapeño grits were delicious! I didn't have the tips but were told they were excellent. My baby (the only non pork consumer of the group) had the turkey, of which I tasted, and it was moist and filled with flavor. The pulled pork was also tender and on point. Every person in our party spoke about the bbq for hours afterwards. It was THAT good. We stopped there at about noon and didn't eat another thing for the rest of the day. It was THAT FILLING AND SATISFYING. I have no complaints about the food. Everything was great. I can't give it five stars though, because most of the seating was outdoors. In that sticky heat? Uh, no thanks. Hot, humid, flies everywhere...ugh. So we opted to stalk the tables indoors until one of the five became available. Other than that, it was heaven on Earth! Damn right, I'll be back! Everytime I'm in the area. Heck, I might just take another road trip strictly for more Eli's bbq!! It's just that good.
(4)Vince J.
I actually own a BBQ restaurant. Was traveling and came across this gem! Great pulled pork! I like the idea of the smoker in the alley! Very cool! I wish they allowed that in Chicago! They have the classic propane or gas and wood smoker that you simply through meat in and let it cook. Nothing complex here. Sauce is on point - sweet, not vinegar. The menu is super small, nothing complexity here ( no brisket ). They do serve rib tips, which is def odd and they get major point for having these... Overall, I'm very hard to please, and they did a great job. Place has your typical BBQ "shack" vibe. Def make a stop if you are in the area!
(4)Kaitlyn W.
Very cool atmosphere. Decor is artsy and they only play vinyl. BYOB and that's fun. Outdoor seating when it's nice. Meat products- pretty good. We had the ribs and pulled pork. The pork is more stringy, not chunked or pulled. The toasted bun was a nice touch. I think there is only one kind of sauce bc that's all we were offered, but it's nothing but a normal bbq sauce. If you want brisket, you won't find it here which is just odd for a bbq place. They do have hotdogs though... ??? All of Eli's sides are extremely okay. Cole slaw is nothing special, M&C tastes like noodles and a cheese sauce from a pouch, beans weren't bad with a smokey flavor, corn bread was very dry, mashed potatoes taste instant. Eli's isn't bad, I just feel like it's overrated. If you are looking for a subpar BBQ joint, this is your place.
(3)Robbin B.
So I've revisited Eli's and I must say I am going there more often. I prefer the Findlay Market location. You can't eat in but I usually get take away anyway so that doesn't matter. There is a huge difference in the quality of the product between the two locations but I will forever go to the satellite location from now on. If it's nice outside and you want to sit to eat Findlay has outdoor seating and a beer garden so it's all good. I'm still not crazy about the sides. My current favorites are baked beans and cole slaw. The beans are too sweet and the slaw is still too vinegary. I mix them together and achieve a perfect balance. The pulled pork sandwich is really good and the jalapeño cornbread was okay.
(5)Nick T.
Awesome pulled pork and slaw sandwich. It gets real messy but so good. Eli's is super cheap - $8 for sandwich and 2 sides (Mac n cheese/jalapeño cornbread is the way to go). It's also BYOB so you can bring your own alcohol if you want. Lots of outdoor seating, but it does get crowded. Be prepared for the communal seating and to rub some elbows with others.
(4)Leslie R.
Drove specifically from Indy yesterday to try Eli's. It was well worth the drive. The place is perfect. I loved the interior... the records, simple decorations, chalkboard menu, clean tables. I had the pulled pork sandwich with slaw. Which was truly the most amazing sloppy mess of a sandwich. For sides I had the flat grilled mashed potatoes and the Mac & Cheese. The potatoes were amazing with grilled char. The Mac & Cheese was my least favorite part of the meal (I only took two bites..)... It quickly congealed into a cheesy un-eatable mass of noodles. I also enjoyed the pricing strategy.... No "ending in .99" prices here. Want a sandwich? $5. Wanna add sides? Another $3 for two. Wanna drink? It's a buck. For two people it was $19. $19 well spent for a great meal!!!! ps. This is a CASH ONLY establishment!!!!
(5)Beth F.
HOLY YUM SAUCE YELP PEEPS!!!! Good gravy this place is even better than I imagined. If Eli's were a person I'd compare them to the Duke's of Hazard driving their bad ass car yelling YEEEEEEE HAWWWWWWWWW!!!! and only then would you perhaps get a glimpse of how truly amazing Eli's is. I don't know what I expected honestly but all my expectations were destroyed, in a FANTASTIC way. Ok, here's how it went... My sweetie and I were feeling adventurous and decided to try something new. We had Eli's in the bookmarks and decided on the first warm day to check it out. As we drove to the other side of town, we got a bit lost looking for it and the river was WAAAAY up. We weren't sure if the water had reached the place or not so we were a bit concerned. We realized we had blown past the place initially and turned around to find our way. Then we saw the most amazing beacon in the sky, a pig on a sign. We knew we had found our slice of heaven. Parking was totally full up front so we took the next side street and were able to find a spot pretty quickly despite seeing a ton of people at Eli's. There were so many people outside sitting at picnic tables that I was a little confused at first. Is there a park back there with some type of outing? Do people live back there? What the??? We got out and walked to the front of the place and it was seriously the coolest thing I've seen in awhile. I lived in Charlotte for almost 2 years and Man, I tell you what for an instant I felt like I was back. It was nice. Eli's is not what I would call, your typical Cincy affair. We walked in through a rickety screen door to an open and small dark dining room with amazing handcrafted artwork gracing the walls. You could smell the delicious aroma all the way down the street. When we came in, it was like a gracious sucker punch to the face and stomach that I'd be happy to get beaten up by repeatedly. Seriously. An old record player was blaring some old tunes, and as we waited in line, the menu was visible and easy to read for us newbies. There is a cooler with bottled pop and water, so I went old school and grabbed an orange crush, while my love grabbed a bottle of Coke. The record went off midway through our wait, and I heard the girl ask her coworker to go flip the record. Now, that's not something you hear every day and it was awesome. Our turn to order came quickly, and we ordered 2 BBQ sandwiches 2 sides of mac and cheese, mashed potatoes and our 2 drinks. It was all right at $20. Amazing. We head outside and there were tents with picnic tables or just tables in the sun. We opted for the sunshine and looked around. People in large groups, people alone, people with their dogs, etc. Everyone just seemed to be happy. I noticed some people with alcohol and realized that this is a BYOB place! How cool is that? It did take a bit for our food to come out, but it was such a nice day and such a large crowd that I didn't mind. When your food is ready they yell your name, so pay attention! When it did come out, wow. WOW, wOw. The sandwich had pork piled on top of it and it was so tender and delectable. I am a lady who loves some pulled pork, and Eli's did not disappoint. The mac and cheese was ok, but a bit too cheesy for me and not my fave. My honey didn't eat all of his either, but the mashed potatoes were cool! They cook them on the grill so the top is almost like a hashbrown or something.. it had a nice crunch on the surface and the inside was salty and creamy. My only complaints, parking obviously can be an issue but it's worth it. The drinks go quickly when you're waiting, so you may want to order 2 of them. The 3rd thing is that they only have one container of BBQ sauce where you pick up your food. If you didn't put enough on when you grabbed it, you have to walk all the way back up there just to add more since they don't have it on the tables. I will definitely go back, even though it's all the way on the other side of town. it was worth every mile. YUM. I just can't say enough great things about the place.
(5)Lonnetta P.
The weather was so nice last week, that a BBQ lunch date was so appropriate. I've heard Cincinnatians rant and rave over how great this local BBQ spot is so my foodie friend and I had to check it out. While he kept his eyes on the road, I looked for the famous pig sign! Street parking wasn't too hard to find. As you walk into this TINY eatery, you will immediately notice the retro decor with just a few tables. You place your order at the counter in the back and pay with cash or check only. The menu is basic and a la carte. The two of us ate for less than $20 with drinks. I tried the smoked turkey sandwich, served with coleslaw on top. He tried the pulled pork sandwich served the same way and a side of Mac & cheese. I'd say that the BBQ was tender and had a good taste, although I've had better. The tables out back is where most of the crowd gathered to enjoy their BBQ under the tent. FYI: BYOB
(3)Adam D.
One of my favorite BBQ places. The turkey and baked beans are phenomenal. Nice evolution of traditional BBQ too; smoked, deep fried hot dogs on a grilled bun with bacon, pulled pork, and coleslaw. Yes. When in Cincinnati, avoid Montgomery Inn (and Skyline) and go to Eli's (and Graeters).
(5)Megan H.
4/5 Big Momma Bellies! We took a ride on the motorcycle from Columbus and our destination was solely to eat at Eli's BBQ. It was a beautiful day for a ride, however the temps soared into the 90's and by the time we arrived, I was burnt and sweaty. Would of loved to walk into air conditioning. However I felt nothing and only spotted a fan that another patron was keeping to herself cool. This is why the BBQ joint lost 1/2 a Big Momma Belly! It's 2015, customers should be able to come in on a cold day and warm up or on a hot day and cool off. Comfort is a huge deal when enjoying a meal. The other 1/2 was lost to the decor. Would of been fine had not every single picture be ruined with a card of where and how to buy the printed pics, yes every single pic had a the exact same card. Personally I just found it annoying. Let's start with the reason I gave Eli's 4/5 Big Momma Bellies!! We pulled up and the aroma, was surrounding the neighborhood, the lack of a place to park told me we was not the only one in search of eating from this place. We was walking up and families of 10-15 people are carrying coolers of beer and drinks for the littlest kiddos! This seems like tradition, I love that! We walk in and order, my boyfriend and I getting different foods so we can share! Ordered two bottles of the old fashioned Dr Pepper We sat down and the food came quickly after being told it could be 30 minutes, I'd say 10 minutes was our wait time. I received the Pulled Pork, Cole Slaw (which I immediately dumped on my sandwich),Macaroni & Cheese & Baked Beans. My first surprise was the bun was toasted, mmmmm!!!! I tried my first bite and was completely astounded, I knew immediately I didn't need to add BBQ sauce like A1 on a bad steak! I needed nothing but this sandwich! The flavor was intense, every bite juicy and savory. I can't express enough that this was the hands down best Pulled Pork I have ever had, and I am a foodie! I finished the sandwich and realized I had not tried my sides, I was already stuffed from the gigantic sandwich they served. I had to be fair, tried the Mac and cheese, it's the creamy kind and delicious. Next the baked beans, the flavor hit me like a brick wall. What was in this cup of beans?? Was it heaven my belly asked?? I was full I was miserable but I ate all of those beans. I finally take a breath and look up and my foodie BF is smiling and showing me his clean Rib bones He was impressed! It's harder to impress this man with ribs but he had that smile. He said the flavor was intense and I knew what he meant! He had the mashed potatoes which I never tried because I was unable to put any more food into my lil mouth ! He said they was amazing! So we ride home and a couple hours later we snuggled up and realized that we just had the best BBQ ever and didn't bother to bring any home? Was we in shock and didn't or couldn't think clearly? We are now planing another trip to the Best BBQ Joint in Ohio! Decor 1/2 Big Momma Belly Comfort 1/2 Big Momma Belly Presentation 1 Big Momma Belly Overall Taste 1 Big Momma Belly Price 1 Big Momma Belly
(4)Tim M.
My father-in-law insisted that we good by Eli's in Cincinnati. The food was great, but the location/parking needs to be improved. They had a great selection of items on the menu and the food had a great smokey taste. The BBQ sauces were outstanding. The location is problem. It is on a very busy street and the dirt (or muddy) parking lot is not appealing to me.
(4)Tiffany J.
I've been hearing soooo many good things about this place I was eager to try this place. So when my husband and I were picking a place for there was no debate we were going to Eli's! We got there a little after 12 and had a 40 minute wait. They have a great back patio that's byob it cant get any better than that! And the staff is super friendly. My husband and I had the loaded hot dogs which were so amazing toasted bun pork cracklins Cole slaw and sauce these we're just heavenly! I didn't even want to eat it all at once I needed to savor these flavors through out my day lol. I got Mac and cheese and the cheddar jalapeño grits he hot grits and baked beans. That Mac and cheese is definitely cheesy and comforting, it's a little different than I'm used to but so delicious. I can't even begin to tell you how unearthly amazing those grits were! Great family spot or hang out nice homey feel.
(5)Gus W.
This was some of the best BBQ I've had. Period. I went with the ribs, and they were cooked absolutely perfectly. My girlfriend had the pulled pork sandwich with a side of mac-n-cheese, and she really enjoyed her meal as well. I had a chance to taste the pork, and it was very good, but the ribs stole the show for me. Like any BBQ aficionado will tell you, good BBQ doesn't need sauce, and like everyone else has said, these ribs did not need it at all. Eli's does give you BBQ sauce on the side for to go orders, and the BBQ sauce was decent, nothing extraordinary, but I didn't really use it too much. The mac-n-cheese was okay, but I'm not really a huge mac-n-cheese person. I'd say it's pretty similar to the stuff Hot Chicken Takeover slings out here in Columbus but maybe not quite as good. The spot itself is just outside Cinci on the East side, and we were there right around dinner time on a Saturday night, so it was a bit hectic. The actual restaurant itself only has a few tables, but they have a bunch of tables outside inside tents. Most of the people sat out there. You order first and then go find a table, and they'll bring your meal out to you (Once again, for the Columbus HCT fans, it's the same setup, so you have an idea what you're doing). The place is BYOB as well and just about everyone was rolling in with coolers and six packs. Next time I'm in the 'Nati, I'll be back to try the rest of the menu!
(5)Jeffrey O.
Like Oprah's "The Secret" to Eli's: 2-4pm... Do this solo, show-up, order, eat (on the inside, enjoy vinyl Pink Floyd). Chill, chill some more... Stab your fork into another creamy bite of Mac n Cheese (this is why you are solo, don't judge me), drink your coleslaw... I don't care... Either does Eli, just enjoy. Seriously, a MUST stop in Cincy.
(5)Matt K.
Wow. That was just perfect. Walking up from the parking in the back, the smell of Pulled pork BBQ, fast, sides are excellent baked beans, Mac n cheese, jalap corn bread, mashed potatoes are all absolutely delicious. We sat outside at one of the picnic tables and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. I know where I'm going the next time I'm in Cinci.
(5)Jeff B.
Some of the best rib tips I've ever had! I've traveled to a lot of the BBQ Capitals of the country but I have to say the rib tips at Eli's BBQ are probably my favorite! They use a rub that has some sweetness to it which compliments the smoke so well, and their barbecue sauce is perfect for their meat. One of the tell-tale signs of barbecue quality is whether they slather it in sauce. To me that always seems like they're hiding something when that is done, but here they just have sauce on the counter and you can choose to use it or not! (Sometimes I don't, their meat and rub have that much flavor!) Their sides are also all pretty killer. I have not had anything here I wasn't completely happy with! This place also just has a cool atmosphere in general. Outdoor picnic tables and live music during the summer, or sit inside with the record player! It's also BYOB so a few times we have just brought a cooler along and spent the afternoon outside! It's cash or check only so don't forget to run by the ATM first!
(5)Todd H.
LISTEN!!!! This is probably the BEST ive EVER had... The ribs were so tender and well seasoned I didn't even need to use sauce. All the sides were phenomenal. I was here for the Cincy Music Fest and I'm glad yelp showed is this place. #SatisfiedCustomer
(5)Eli D.
I'm giving them 3.5 stars for their food, based on how I compare their BBQ to other BBQ I've had; Eli's is good, but is really nothing special. The pulled pork sandwich is usually pretty tasty, but is sometimes a bit too dry. Their ribs are hit or miss. They also do not have brisket / burnt ends on their menu. Minus the beef franks, it's strictly a pork BBQ joint. However, for the money, you cannot beat Eli's. You get a lot of decent food for less than $10. It may be one of the best deals in this city. So when a place like Senate tries to make you wait 1+ hours for a table before you eat a BS hotdog which is hilariously priced at $11, you can laugh in their faces, and walk over to Eli's new location near Findlay, get a decent pulled-pork sandwich (that'll taste better than any Senate hotdog, no matter how gourmet they try to spin it) and 2 sides, for the same price.
(4)Benjamin H.
The only BBQ that comes to mind when someone says "Where's the best BBQ in Cincy?" I'm always telling friends that have never been, to come down and go with me to Eli's. SOO good. The prices are right. The food is phenomenal. I've had the BBQ hotdogs and the pulled pork. Both are excellent. And the two hot dogs are easy to split with your significant other if you're not tooo hungry. The coleslaw, macncheese and mashed potatoes are my favorite sides. Simple but so tasty. It's a great summer hang out spot with BYOB picnic tables. If there is a negative to Eli's it would have to be the cash only aspect. As long you remember though it's not a big deal.
(5)Patrick D.
Went to Eli's for the first time yesterday and was very impressed. It is cash or check only folks so be aware. Small inside but very unique, they have an old record player with a very nice selection of music. There is a big tent and picnic area outside to eat if its not too hot. The menu is not very big but thats ok when what you are putting out is top notch. We both got the turkey sandwich platter to go. My sides were mashed potatoes and mac and cheese, she got the corn bread and baked beans. That turkey is 100% on point! I must admit that her sides were better than mine. The mashed potatoes lacked the flavor i was hoping for and the mac and cheese was just ok. Corn bread was fantastic and the baked beans had a unique flavor which i enjoyed. (got a big hint of chili powder) Overall will be back for sure. If you are in the area check them out.
(4)Eddie C.
I am Stuffed! Excellent BBQ! Cousin Drew does it up right! If anybody is ever in 200 miles of this place you need to eat here. Now I can't say it's better than our Alabama BBQ, that might get me shot upon my return. But it is good! Yall check this place out!!
(5)Marissa B.
Just go. Be prepared to wait, but really, GO! If you don't feel like standing in line for what could be quite a while, go on a week night, and call in your order ahead of time. Pulled pork sandwich is a must, and I LOVE the baked beans and Mac n cheese. The atmosphere is awesome!
(5)Stacy S.
My son and his fiancé invited all the parents to a casual dinner to celebrate their engagement!!! We had a great time! The atmosphere was so much fun! We went on a Saturday night when it was crazy! But that was part of the fun!!! I ordered the ribs and they were good, I got the cheesy grits they were good also! The kids ordered several hotdogs for us all to try bc they felt it was the best thing on the menu!!! THEY WERE RIGHT!! Dee-lishous!!! I recommend this place for a great casual night of good food and good company with friends!!!
(4)Eira T.
Yum! Finally checked this place out. The BBQ definitely lives up to the hype -- the pulled pork sandwich was very good. The day we went it was well-attended but not packed, so I can't compare this to what it's like when it's slammed. The coleslaw was fine, and I really liked my fiance's side of baked beans. I got the cheesy jalapeno grits which would have been stellar except it tasted a little... old. Like they made a gigantic tub and it was like the last serving they scooped out. Loved the dining room with some old-school Dolly Parton playing on vinyl, and some cool artwork on the walls. It's cash only, so be prepared!
(4)Rikki V.
The community this place thrives in is integrated into the restaurant, live events and music, picnic area, plus an amazing menu. Oh yeah, of course glass bottle pops!
(5)Adam D.
What can I say about Eli's that hasn't already been said in the hundreds of other reviews on Yelp? For BBQ in Cincinnati it is hard to beat, offering pulled pork, turkey, and ribs and delicious sides including my favorites jalapeno cheddar grits and grilled mashed potatoes. Eli's also is BYOB and has tons of outdoor seating for large groups. I also noticed on my last visit there that they now provide seating beepers when you order your food and wait which is nice, in the past you were required to listen for your name and when it is busy that sometimes proves difficult. The only thing I could add to Eli's is that I wish they had brisket as most BBQ do, but what they offer is great and it is a great place to have a good meal outside with a few drinks and a few friends.
(5)Ricky P.
Best environment in the city for BarBQ! Fromt he festivities to the delicious food, I love bringing my family here for an evening of delicious dinner and fun times. My children beg me to come here all the time.
(5)Jacob H.
Fantastic!!! Delicious barbecue. I had the smoked turkey sandwich, the rest of the family had pulled pork. Piled high and delicious! Nice selection of real-sugar sodas as well. And great service!
(5)Rachel K.
Prices are pretty good for the amount of food you get. I had their plate which included pulled pork sandwhich, jalapeño cornbread and Mac and cheese. Their barbecue sauce and the jalapeño cornbread were the best part. Not a fan of the Mac and cheese, it looked like it should be creamy and smooth, but it was just kinda chunky without any flavor. The pulled pork was decent and there was a lot of meat on the sandwich which was good. I didn't get one, but I like how they have bottled coke and other drinks.
(3)Bridget S.
Not typically a fan of barbecue, but I have to hand it to Eli's. Their pulled chicken sandwiches are delicious. I also love the Mac and cheese. This place can give the south a run for its money.
(4)James C.
The place to go to get BBQ in Cincinnati. The smoky flavor matches the upbeat feel. It's BYOB so feel free to tell all of your friends to join you for dinner
(5)Natalie R.
I really don't understand the hype. The sides are nothing to write home about, the buns used for the sandwiches are just blah and the mac n cheese tastes like Kraft. There are definitely better BBQ places in the city that go above and beyond with every item on the menu and that aren't just trendy. Do yourself a favor and try other places.
(2)Keith C.
All I can say about Eli's is "GREAT BBQ". I don't crave BBQ often but was in the mood for some today and decided to give Eli's a try for the first time. Prior to living in the Northern Kentucky region, I was lucky to live in areas that have spoiled me with high quality BBQ - still, I'd rank Eli's right in there with the best of a very small group. I also have been known to smoke my own pork in the past, and make my own sauces, so I tend to have a snobby palate. When I walked into the front door the first thing I noticed was how simple the menu was. There were only 3 or 4 protein items and 4 or 5 side items so I thought to myself "it better be good if they are this focused." I wasn't disappointed. I ordered the pulled pork plate. The sandwich came with the option of slaw on the side or directly on the sandwich (I ordered it with the slaw on the sandwich). The sandwich was visually appealing - the bun was toasted on the griddle, pork mixed well with both dry and wet pieces, Snow White creamy cole slaw and a tangy looking red BBQ sauce. I took my first bite and was amazed at the quality of the pork - it was juicy and had just the right amount of smoke flavor (not too over powering but you knew it was there). The quality of the pork itself win me over. but all the other components I mentioned just made the deal sweeter. My only desire would have been to have a more vinegar based BBQ sauce - many places have an alternative it two so they can cater to folks with different tastes - I was told Eli's only had one. I also ordered the baked beans and cheddar cheese jalapeño grits as my side items - both were delicious. The grits were something more unique that you can't find other places, so if recommend trying them if you like spicy dishes. Don't forget to bring cash for payment when you go - they don't accept credit cards. Also, feel free to bring your own drinks; they have a limited offering and don't mind if you bring them in (the ones they have aren't cheap). I'm looking forward to going back. It looks like an amazing place to take a crowd if friends or family (especially if they are loud like mine).
(5)Olwen C.
I love BBQ, and this place does it really good. I'm giving it 4 stars instead of 5 because of the side dish choices. And the fact that they only accept cash or check. Who pays with a check? Anyway, the smoked meats are good. The sides are your typical BBQ Joint sides: Mac and cheese, cornbread, grits, mashed potatoes (not so typical), etc. They do not have any green beans, or collard greens which are my favorites. I really wish they had a green veggie option. Not that I'm exactly looking for a healthy option at a BBQ place, but I really like collard greens with my BBQ. Next time I come here I plan on trying the hot dogs. You get 2 in an order and they look so good. I've only tried their pulled pork.
(4)Jarrad H.
They keep things pretty simple and straightforward here. That's exactly how I like my BBQ. Love this place. You might run into lines during peak hours, but it is worth the wait!
(5)Brian S.
Simply the best pulled pork sandwich in the world. I can say this because I have tried over 4 other pulled pork sandwiches from other places stretching the globe from downtown Cincinnati to Covington to Over the Rhine. The one thing I tell everyone- even if you think you don't like slaw, get the slaw on your sandwich. It is an absolute perfect pairing. Sides- get the Mac and cheese or the grits "dirty". Crispy pork bits from the griddle are like magic fairy dust from the pig. The outdoor picnic bench style encourages sharing tables with new friends. The wait can be long. Come a different day if you are in a hurry. Come prepared to relax and enjoy a great community restaurant.
(5)Shawna L.
Best BBQ I've ever had! I ordered the pulled pork sandwich and jalapeño cornbread - so delicious. The pork is the perfect combination of sweet and smokey and the bun has just the right amount of crisp. The cornbread was flavorful and not too spicy, and was definitely overshadowed by the awesomeness of the pork. The dining experience is really cool - you eat outside on picnic tables and its BYOB. So you can make an evening of it without having to pay a premium on drinks!
(5)David B.
BYOB. That's awesome. The jalapeño grits are top notch. The baked beans are also good. Pulled pork sandwich is delicious. I was a little disappointed with the ribs but I'll have to try them again. Great place. I wish it was closer to me.
(5)Julissa S.
Had the rib tips for the dinner special. They were really good. This place was really busy with a fun vibe.
(5)Sidra M.
I've traveled all over the place and tried bbq around the country, and nothing- I mean NOTHING- compares with Eli's. The smokiness and tenderness of the meat is perfect. The bbq sauce they use is has the perfect balance of sweetness and a touch of heat. The pulled pork and hot dog are my favorite meats. Their jalapeño cheddar grits are to die for. I also love their baked beans. Best bbq in the USA.
(5)Joe B.
OMG! My coworkers an I go out of pur way to try to swing down that way for some of the best Intergalact I c bbq! Great Job keep it up
(5)Chelsea G.
BEST.BBQ.EVER! I even highly recommend the dogs too! I just love this beautiful little gem in Cincinnati! That's right America, we know how to BBQ in little ole' Cincinnati and we're coming from ya! Makes me so proud, as a life long Nati' native, to have such a great establishment near by. Only down side to this restaurant, is the poor attitude and customer service that I've received from some of the female servers. Cheer up girls, you'll still get my money one way or another. Don't kill my foodie good vibes!
(5)Amy T.
What you need to know: Casual atmosphere. Americana vibe that makes you feel you stepped back in time to a roadside cafe. Amazing BBQ food. Get the "pork on a fork" with mashed potatoes and cole slaw. BYOB. Record player in the very small indoor dining room. Food is inexpensive. Did I mention BYOB? Old-timey looking sodas in a glass front fridge. Lots of outdoor seating; open air (very, very casual) when it's warm. Covered tents when it is cold.
(5)Megan K.
This place is INSANE! it's a dive-type place in a house setting with huge smokers in the back... That's when you know it's gonna be good! They also have outdoor picnic tables as well as a tent outdoors with heaters inside, in case it's chilly but you just aren't feeling sitting inside the dining room. You walk to the register to order and pay, then find yourself a place to sit down. They'll bring your food to you. The first time, I got a pulled pork sandwich with baked beans and mac-and-cheese. The second time, I skipped the baked beans and just got the pulled pork sandwich and mac-and-cheese. MAN OH MAN is this place fantastic!!!! The food is mind blowing. This is real deal pulled pork and will stick to your gut! The mac-and-cheese is the thickest I've ever had in my life and also the cheesiest. It's mind blowing! I got the beans on a recommendation from a friend, despite me not usually being a fan. They were delicious though! The best I've ever had. It's not an option people, you HAVE to check out Eli's!!
(5)Heather L.
Hands down the best BBQ in Cincy! I had the pulled pork with jalapeño cheddar grits and mashed potatoes (which are awesomely grilled!) All delicious! Very friendly and helpful staff. BYOB outside.
(5)Malcolm M.
I wanna write a thousand words. But like a photograph, food can also say a thousand words. With that said, I think Eli's could write a novel. A delicious novel. A Novel that-- that aromatic's remind you of your uncle Ted's house on a hot summers day with freshly squeezed lemonade in one hand, and your toes dipped into a crisply cool pool that is shimmering with refreshment, and barbeque in your other. Smearing thick and flavorful sauce all over your face as you demolish this tenderly cared for BBQ that's been smoked all morning. Resulting in you looking like you just had your face painted by your crazy aunt barbara, but instead, it's just barbeque sauce that makes you want to (almost) shamelessly drink the stuff. It's that kind of novel. The novel you wouldn't mind buying over, and over, and over.
(5)Isaiah F.
I honestly didn't know what to give Eli's BBQ. When I think BBQ, I imagine everything that Eli's provides including the outdoor atmosphere, drinking cold beers with your buds, and enjoying the sides as much as you enjoy the meats. The reason I had to question what to give them is because in comparison to other Cincy BBQ places (Montgomery Inn) it's easily the best. But when i compare it to the best BBQ I've ever had (Oklahoma Joe's) it's one rung below. This place has the intangibles though and that's why I will continue to return to Eli's.
(5)Stefanie F.
I've been eating Eli's about once a month for a few years now. This review is long overdue. Anything you order is guaranteed to be delicious. The pulled pork sandwich is my favorite but I would eat everything that comes out of this kitchen. Pure gold, all of it. The dining area is on the smaller side. In colder months, get your food to go. In warmer months, they have a huge outdoor area with picnic tables and lots of grass. BYOB! Cleveland needs Eli's. We have nothing like it.
(5)Stavro M.
I guess I don't really understand the furor over Eli's, besides the fact that it's a Cincinnati hipster-success story. I'm just trying to provide a slightly different take on the place, so if you're going be upset because one guys thinks the emperor is under-dressed, just skip this review and read the five-star-gushers. The pulled pork is of reasonable quality but the quality has pretty broad range from visit to visit. I've been there when it was moist, smoky, and lovely, but I've also had it dry and overly chewy. The sauce is fine, I suppose. But the sides are all decidedly sub-standard in quality and execution compared to most bbq and/or soul-food places where you might get similar items. The ribs are fine. But that's it, just run-of-the-mill-fine, meaty, dry rubbed, smoked ribs. Special? Maybe in Cincinnati. . .maybe (but not really), and don't think they'd even hit the radar in a more bbq-oriented city/state, no matter what Steven Raichlen might say. There are two primary things that make Eli's an untenable proposition for me. First, I've never, anywhere I've ever, eaten bbq put my order in and been told that I'd have to wait an hour to an hour and half for my food, as does happen at Eli's. I mean, there's a reasonable "slowth" to be associated with good pit bbq, but to me a 75 minute wait for food at 3:00 Saturday afternoon is more like evidence of bad management. The second thing is the "kids" who work there (and I realize this might just peg me as a curmudgeonly old fogey, and for that I'll apologize). But the fact is they're just uniformly downright rude, bordering on the nasty, and, frankly, haughty. Their attitude sort of reminds me of what you get from the sales staff working in the "hot" boutique retail. They're so in love with the coolness of the place that they think it must mean THEY'RE cool by association. In the end, if everything else was a good experience, I'd probably be OK popping by Eli's a couple of times a year when I wanted a different bbq experience, but on balance, Eli's is just not worth it.
(2)Winifred L.
Disclosure: I'm not a big BBQ girl, but Eli's always makes me reconsider. Eli's is a great neighborhood spot for relaxing, enjoying good weather and being BYO helps a ton. A girlfriend and I stopped by for dinner and beers last night, and Eli's did not disappoint. After a 45 minute wait, we both got rib bones, cheesy jalepeno grits, mac and cheese and jalepeno cornbread. The rib bones were delicious, with just the right amount of smokiness without being overwhelmed with ketchup-y sauce (though you can add more, if that's your thing). The sides were ok: think comfort food with the finesse of home cooking. The best part of Eli's is definitely hanging out enjoying the good weather, people watching and hearing the employees holler out ready orders. If you want a taste of Cincinnati at its truest, you should come here. Pros: eating outside on picnic tables, value (whole meal for $8), BYOB, and the ability to bring your pooch (or play with someone else's tagalong) Cons: parking, cash only
(3)Karen D.
This place is delicious! Our family went there on a Wednesday night in the summer and it was packed solid. We meant to take the food to go but ended up eating on a picnic table under their tent. The pulled pork sandwiches are the best in town and the cornbread is scrumptious. The only bad part is the long wait and cash only.
(4)Amy C.
Oh, yes, it is worth all the hype and accolades. The lack of a perfect review has nothing to do with their current menu. I only want them to serve brisket, which they don't. (They have pork, smoked turkey, ribs & hot dogs, plus sides.) Also, be aware, they only take cash or checks; no debit or credit cards...How often do you have cash or a checkbook?! I wish Yelp would allow a 4.5 stars as my grips are very minor. The food IS spectacular. My husband is a barbecue fanatic, so we try it all over the city & Eli's is definitely at the top overall. I eat their pork sandwich even without sauce it's so tender & juicy, with such depth of flavor. Their mashed potatoes are the best as they have a crisp edge from the grill top & the mac & cheese is super cheesy & delicious. Craving it all right now!
(4)Bianca J.
Make sure you bring cash or check! So delicious it's UNREAL. We called in an order, which I highly recommend! I hear there's usually a long wait, but MAN, it's worth the wait! A rack of ribs was great to split between me, my boyfriend, and our friend. It's a dry rub, but they give you plenty of BBQ sauce. You can't pass up the hot dog!! Get it loaded. They also do dirty mac and cheese (a bit too nacho cheesy for me).
(5)Melvin A.
BBQ is a specialty of NC. I was in Cincinatti for a few days and drove over to Eli's because of the reviews. The line wasn't long, the food came out fast, and it tasted AMAZING. Some of the best BBQ I've ever had.
(5)Damian M.
BBQ paradise! These smoked ribs are just amazing!!!! The best I ever had! And the pulled pork, heaven! I cannot even decide which I like more, both are out of this world. The dogs are amazing too, but if you are there, try the ribs and pulled pork! You will never go back! Yesterday there was a cool Who Dey moment, when Adam Jones picked up his dinner there! The place itself is very simple, but the food is exquisite!
(5)Jonathan E.
this, my friends, is some of the best BBQ in the city. though it's a long wait for your food (an hour in our case), there are plenty of picnic tables (and BYOB) to pass the time. great for a fun evening ... and tasty food! CASH ONLY. highly recommended. we will return!
(5)Randy D.
One of my favorite places to eat in the area, particularly if you are going to sit outside there with friends/family with a cooler of beers or your beverage of choice. The pulled pork sandwich is my go-to...the pork is usually perfect and I love their BBQ sauce. For sides, the Mac and Cheese is probably my favorite although it's definitely on the heavy side and might be made with processed cheese. Order it 'dirty' like others have mentioned and it comes with crispy Pork pieces on top and is amazing. I've had the jalapeno cheddar grits and wasn't crazy about those...mostly because I'm just not crazy about grits in general, they're bland and boring. The beans are very good, as is the cornbread.
(5)Ashley W.
My Lord this place is amazing! We went here five, yes 5 weekends in a row before we got burned out! I first had Eli's at Taste & Tunes for Sight. And ever since I had been having a taste for this stuff. We have had the turkey sandwich which was succulent and mouthwatering with the coleslaw on top. The hot dogs loaded with crackling and coleslaw which will make you smack somebody. The rib tips are plentiful and glazed perfectly, and somehow still melt in your mouth. And the pulled pork is shredded to perfection. The sides are equally pleasing. The jalapeno cheese grits are so smooth and creamy. The baked beans have the perfect amount of tanginess. The coleslaw is not to creamy or vinegary, it has a great balance especially for a none coleslaw fan like me. And lastly the mashed potatoes, they are ridiculously good being that they throw them on the griddle to give them a delectable crisp! You have to try this place, the prices are beyond reasonable, the staff are super friendly and helpful. Beware the wait can be long at times, but on a nice day have a seat outside and enjoy yourself.
(5)P J L.
What can you say about Eli's! Its definitely your nitchy BBQ shack down by the Ohio River. You can't beat the price of $8 for a humongous sandwich and choice of two sides. Bring your own drink b/c theirs are rather small & you'll tend to need more than one in order to wash down the meal. Above average pulled pork but it can been over salted by whoever back in the kitchen. Try the turkey! Darn good stuff. I wanna do the dogs but it seems kinda blasphemous. One day I will. The side cant be beat. One sauce that a tad spicy and very wet. If you get a 'to go" and need more, they charge an extra buck. Just go over to a table and squirt some into your box. Would love for them to add a nice sweet tease for desert like brownie or cookie.
(4)C W.
Get the hot dogs with everything, they were the star of the show. 2 Nathan's all beef smoked with slaw, bbq sauce and pork crisps. The ribs are weak. St. Louis rib some have a lot of meat and some just bone. If you want ribs get the tips they have a lot more meat. We get hotdogs all around and a order of rib tips to share. Baller style bring beer and a bag of grippos BBQ chips
(4)Priya S.
I'd say this is the best bbq place in the city. Their meat is cooked to perfection. The only issue is that now that I'm a vegetarian, this place isn't as feasible anymore since they don't have a great selection. Nonetheless, if u love bbq, this is the place for you
(5)Kyra W.
Not much to say here as there seems to be a general concensus of awesomeness. Great food, quick service, good music. We tried the pulled pork (dirty, of course), hot dogs, and forewent the sides in lieu of ribs. Seriously, the best bbq I have had in the region. Everything was cooked to perfection. I could easily see how the parking could be a huge pain in the butt when they're busy, but at 130 on a Friday afternoon we had no problems. We will definitely be back!
(5)Bill C.
Eli's is a great BBQ joint, but is becoming a victim of its own success. First off the good... the food is delicious. BBQ pulled pork sandwiches are always way overstuffed, and the meat is tender and flavorful. Be sure to get Cole slaw on top!! Sides are great also... mashed potatoes have a crispy brown top and are really good. I love the jalapeno cornbread too, never too dry. Prices are reasonable, and it's a great place to eat outside with friends. Now the bad... expect to wait at least 30 minutes during off times, and up to 2 hours during peak times. Unfortunately for me, nothing is worth that long a wait. Also don't forget to bring cash as they don't accept credit cards. In this day and age of the Square, there's really no excuse for that. And last time we ate there, my pork had some burned pieces... felt as though the crowds were causing quality to drop a bit. All in all not to be missed, but maybe not worth repeated visits.
(4)Matt M.
Finally ate at Eli's after hearing it was the best bbq in Cincinnati hands down. Maybe it was built up too much or maybe after having eaten more bbq than I could dream of in Memphis my standards are out of sorts but it was just underwhelming. The sauce was too sweet and mac and cheese wasn't as good as I expected. The prices are good though.
(3)Rich L.
Great BBQ, questionable business practices, paranoid use of social media. Earlier this month Eli's wrote a Facebook post announcing it was disassociating itself from a supplier due to unspecified violations of its "MORAL, code of conduct" [sic]. Many people, including yours truly, complained in the comment thread that it was unfair to hurl an allegation and leave it to readers' imaginations to determine the violation. As my comment got 27 likes, it struck a chord with other observers but evidently a nerve with Eli's; after a few halfhearted and unpersuasive rebuttals, they deleted my comment as well as those of other critics. If this bizarre episode is growing pains on their part, so be it. But they shouldn't be sliming other businesses in social media and then censoring the predictable and reasonable criticisms they receive.
(3)Dave M.
Best barbecue in town. Maybe not the best I have ever had, but tops Montgomery Inn and a few other for the Cincinnati crown. Not only the barbecue, but the atmosphere is great, especially for families with kids. There are only a few seats inside but hundreds out back at picnic tables, some covered under a huge tent, some not. There is also a great park/vacant lot that has a few picnic tables and is a great place for the kids to run around and burn off some energy. GET THERE EARLY! If you arrive later than 6 the lines start to get really long. Also, if going on a Friday or Saturday expect live music and possibly the Dojo Gelato truck.
(5)Xiaoheng P.
Went there for lunch today with a group of people. Ordered BBQ ribs, pulled pork sandwich, and slice pork with BBQ. Also got a couple sides. pork ribs were pretty good, it was smoked with BBQ sauce on the side. The ribs were rich in favors but not overwhelming so I like that aspect. Although I personally would like the ribs to be a little more tender. All in all, it's a great place to visit for lunch, definitely on similar level if not better then Montgomery inn. Since our company paid for the meal I didn't get to see much much it would cost.
(4)Stacey N.
Here's the thing: I love the food at Eli's. And that's coming from a vegetarian. I've been here literally countless times and I always come back for the sides and laid back environment. So why 2 stars ? Customer service. Honestly, it deserves 1 but I'm holding out hope that they can improve on this. As my dad would say: Eli's has simply gotten "too big for their britches." The last several times and several experiences I've had has made that plainly clear. The last few times I've gone, they'll announce how long it will be (usually a near 2 hour wait for food) and then cop an attitude and get rude that people still want to wait and eat there. Wait, you are upset that people are willing to wait THAT long for your food? You should be grateful! The last time I went, a gentlemen had a carry out order. He was told it'd be about an hour. He arrived within the hour and waited another 45 minutes before saying something. The cashier then handed him a box that had been sitting behind the counter for at least 30 minutes. He told her this and said that no one ever called his name or anything, they just set it there with no announcement. Her response? Oh well. Sucks to be you. His bill? Over $80 for 30 minute old BBQ and awful customer service. I also recently went to an event that Eli's catered. My friend called them about the event and she told them how many people were attending, etc and she ordered what they told her. This turned out to be waaayyyyy less food than what she needed (in fact, we suspect they shorted her) and they still tried to charge her an extra bill even though she paid everything in full with receipts to back it up. Their response when she complained? Blame her and became patronizing and rude. When she called them out, they finally took responsibility and offered to rectify it (which gave them one extra star in my review, with the hopes they are learning from their mistakes and recognizing customer service is important, though to date, it remains to be seen if they will actually make good on this) So Eli's, yes, your food is great but it's way more than good food and a following of hipsters to keep customers returning. After all, hipsters are flighty and will quickly move onto the next cool, before it was cool thing. Don't forget where you came from and how you started.
(2)Michael R.
Eli's is a great restaurant that has really stuck to what makes them successful. Their food is amazing. When you have people sitting outside in tents when it is 10 degrees it really says something for your food. I've been going since they opened and try to get food from them when they are at fountain square or findley market. Their food has never slacked in quality no matter where it is. I'm looking forward to the Findlay Market Location!
(5)Samantha M.
Amazing pulled pork and ribs! Great prices for a LOT of food!!
(5)Ryan H.
Hands down one of the best summertime restaurant experiences in the city. You can BYOB and sit outside under one of their tents, enjoying your beverages while you wait for your food. Be prepared for a long wait no matter when you go but it is well worth it! Personal favorites are the hot dogs and the Mac and cheese.
(5)Erik P.
Eli's BBQ offers a decent selection of meat/sandwich and platter combos, all for an affordable price. The platter combos come with your choice of two sides. If you order a pulled pork sandwich, you can either get slaw on your sandwich or on the side. So, if you were considering cole slaw as one of your two sides, it would be wise to get it on the side. This will afford you what essentially amounts to a third side, i.e., more variety with your meal. The place itself is small, but has a certain hip vibe to it. The walls of the dining area are adorned with drawings of various celebrities. You'll have fun trying to identify them all, during your brief wait for your grub. There is also a turntable and a small collection of vinyl LPs. A sign near the rack suggests that patrons are welcomed to spin their own selections, though an "employees only" sign closer to the phonograph seems to contradict this. Aspiring deejays, I would strongly suggest getting the skinny from management before commencing an impromptu cut 'n scratch wikki wikki session. The macaroni and cheese is the creamy/queso type. As a non-fan of liquid cheese, I evidently need to start inquiring about this upfront, as Cincinnati area restaurants seem to be obsessed with this approach to cheese fries, etc. Suggestion: shred it, then bake it. Golden brown and fused together is what 4 out of 5 dentists surveyed recommend for their patients who frown upon Cheez Whiz. The baked beans were more my speed. The biggest drawback of all is their "cash or check only" policy. I rarely carry cash on me and I honestly can't tell you the last time I wrote a check. Wait, yes I can. It was the counter check I cashed at Chase, in order to get the Benjamins to eat at this silly place, when their ATM was out of order. It's a debit card driven world, Eli. Let's get with the program. Your beverage options are limited to bottles. Coke products, which is always a plus, as well as local favorite Ale-8-One. The bottles include a fancy bar-coded sticker. However, they are not "retornable", according to their strange import print. So, please don't attempt to "retorn" them. Whatever the heck that means. Of course, bottled soda means no free refills. That said, outdoor dining is available, in and around the adjacent field out back. So, assuming you're there when the weather is pleasant, I'm sure you could bring your own ice chest full of Family Dollar Yoo-Hoo and make an amazing tailgating experience of the whole shebang. Just remember to stop at the bank. Otherwise, you'll be relegated to their award-winning aroma menu and that ain't as fun. All things considered, Eli's is a fine place to grab a bite, if you happen to be in the area. I wouldn't suggest making a special trip from the 'burbs. Their smokehouse barbecue is roughly on par with City, Famous Dave's or Dickey's, in my opinion. And without the sauce options of those more easily accessible chains. The few bucks you might save on dinner will inevitably be spent on gas and/or jumping through hoops. But it does manage to set itself apart in other ways and is definitely worth checking out.
(3)Erica H.
I had the pulled pork sandwich with grits and cornbread. Only $8! The sandwich was amazing. I couldn't have asked for anything better, which is saying a lot since I'm used to delicious Texan BBQ. The grits were also fantastic- just the right amount of cheese with a nice jalapeño kick. The cornbread was tasty but I felt the jalapeño in it could've been stronger. 5/5 stars! I literally just finished my sandwich and am already craving another. *sigh*
(5)Linsey G.
I never liked BBQ and, I'm not sure what it is, but in the past few months I've been really coming around to the taste. I must be growing up. Alas, when we were discussing places to meet my dad for Father's Day, I threw out the idea of Eli's thinking that it would be debunked due to its lack of proximity to everyone. But given its informal setting (order at the counter and take seats at picnic tables under large white tents) and its allegedly amazing food, I felt it would serve as a really great venue for my nearly-2-year-old nephew especially. Dad, Brother, Sister-in-law, and Date also really like pulled pork and BBQ, so I was pleasantly surprised that everyone was all in on the idea. Between the five of us adults, we got some kind of combination of pulled pork or smoked turkey sandwiches; macaroni and cheese; baked beans; cole slaw; jalapeno cornbread; and mashed potatoes. I'm happy to report that I got to try them all and YUM across the board. I was very impressed with everything I got to try and, although I got the smoked turkey, I think I will opt for the pulled pork next time. My favorites were the macaroni and cheese and jalapeno cornbread, but I even liked the baked beans, which I don't typically love. Truly everything was very good. Everyone else loved Eli's, too, and I'm really happy that it was such a hit. The food was delicious, it was reasonably inexpensive, and there was plenty of seating and a short wait for food when we got there at 11am (there was a line when we left around 11:45). All around a fantastic experience. I will absolutely be back.
(4)Keith L.
The original location is a must see in Cincinnati but if you just want the flavor without the wait, try the one at Findlay market. Great food. Good people!
(5)David K.
Great BBQ! interesting sides, very limited indoor seating but have an expansive outside section.
(4)Luke S.
I wish there were more restaurants like Eli's. They are the best at what they do...which is the most amazing BBQ I have ever eaten. You can tell they put love in everything on the menu. I've had everything here but I always go back to the pulled pork sandwich, mac and cheese, and mashed potatoes. The hot dogs are also on point as well as the ribs. There really isn't a bad choice on the menu. If you really want to give the middle finger to your diet make sure you ask for pork cracklings on your sides. Eli's should really be commended for not raising their prices and still allowing BYOB. I'm sure they could charge $3 to $5 more for everything and the customers would stay consistent. This is a restaurant that knows their audience and their market and are succeeding because of it. If you haven't been here you are missing out.
(5)Philip H.
Very small. Very loud. The food is good quality including sides. They only had hot dogs, pulled pork and turkey. No brisket and no full slabs of ribs. It's pretty far off the track for us. They charged for water. Service was fast. I still think for the price their competition in Sharonville win. Edit. It is also cash only!
(4)Dana C.
WOW!! 5 stars without a doubt. Had lunch here today, and nothing can beat this value!! For $8 you can get your dish with 2 sides and I was definitely full from that. 3 out of 4 of us got the ribs, while the 4th got the pulled pork sandwich. Nobody was disappointed. I don't get ribs very often because I'm not typically a fan of messy food... but I couldn't resist. All week, people kept telling me about Eli's ribs... and they weren't wrong. That dry rub is worth singing about. It's sweet, spicy, and savoury and the meat just falls off the bones. My uncle said the sandwich was delicious too, but I was too busy attacking my rubs to try a bite. I've heard that they get insanely busy and are lined up down the street a lot of the time, but we got there around 12:30 today and there was no line. Even if there was, it would be well worth it. I can't wait for my next trip here so I can get my hands on those ribs again...
(5)Ashley K.
This is one of the most fantastic places to eat in Cincinnati. My favorite wedding reception ever had an Eli's food buffet, that's how amazing it is! I've had their classic pulled pork sandwich, which is great, but as I'm trying to stay away from processed carbs, I've been eating more and more of their ribs. HOLY MOLY those ribs are tasty! And if one rib is small, they'll usually comp you with another small rib to make up for it. I highly recommend Eli's catering for Weddings or large parties, and also for just a fantastic afternoon/evening with friends! Remember to bring CASH!
(5)Christine M.
Excellent food and unassuming atmosphere. They even have a record player. Invited by my brother who lives down the street. He loves to find the unique, non-corporate eateries. I sense he spends a bit of time here. I only had the pulled pork sandwich-all I needed. I love BBQ and really appreciated that the meat wasn't over-saturated when I got it. They have a bottle of sauce on hand to let customers choose their own juiciness. I did do some fork wandering to my lunch mates plates (baskets actually). Tried the cheese grits-yum. The mac&cheese was pretty good. I can be a m&c snob. The piece of cornbread served was twice the size I expected to see and carried just a bit of jalapeño heat. I don't eat hot dogs but my brother shared his with my daughter. She swears she will have the double dogs (They serve 2 in an order) the next time she visits. Will definitely return!
(5)Joel B.
Eli's has earned it's reputation, but along with that reputation comes the long wait, loud dining areas, and difficulty parking. Good luck placing a telephone order, the staff is typically too busy to answer the phone, and the old school landline disconnects as often as not. All of that is forgivable though, because the food is really that good. But the one thing I can't over look? There's not a single green option. You want any type of vegetable that isn't a baked bean you have to bring it yourself - which they have no problem with by the way! I like to place an order, run up to Kroger and grab a bagged salad, and then when I get back they're either calling my name or just about to. I know it's bbq, I know we're not eating healthy, but I happen to like vegetables and lament their total absence from such an awesome place.
(4)Dawn B.
The food is good, but definitely not the stuff legends are made of. Its simple but not always the best in flavor. Sometimes the cornbread is dry, the mac n cheese is average at best and the cole slaw is just not my style at all. I always get the bbq turkey, which has been pretty consistent in flavor but sometimes lacks enough sauce to coat. Good thing they keep bottles of bbq sauce on the tables. Getting it to go? Ask for extra on the side. No worries. The service here is always, always great. They let you get comfortable, like you're at home. Its a great place for hanging out with a group of friends. If the weather is warm, bring a blanket and enjoy being outside on their lawn. So why the four stars? The atmosphere is what truly makes this place so great. And its also the reason why people, self included, keep coming back here.
(4)Amy B.
What can I say about Eli's that hasn't already been said? I'm not a big meat eater... BUT... I dream of Eli's pulled pork. When I finish my sandwich I immediately want another one. Although, I know my body couldn't handle that much awesomeness so I always leave wanting more. Helpful Hints: - Come hungry. - Come with cash. - Come with beer (BYOB). - Come here often.
(5)Stephen L.
Absolutely the best BBQ I have enjoyed in ages. Superb! The price is very reasonable. I order the BBQ sandwich and even the sides that came with it were amazing! I cannot wait to return. Loyal for life to this place!
(5)Ryan M.
I cannot say anything to actually draw a positive enough picture of this place. The food is amazing! The pulled pork is the best I have had and I'm a huge barbecue fan and eat it from all over. The atmosphere is laid back with a rural feeling inside of an urban area. BYOB enough said there. Live bands and gelato on weekends (maybe other nights but I'm not sure). If you go here understand this is a very popular place and the waits can be long! But get over it and enjoy a beer or two and the atmosphere and talk to the people around you. They have been learning how to be faster even though the line is ridiculously long and they will continue to get faster. So definitely go here and get the full experience.
(5)Younglan L.
Perhaps the best bang for the buck in Cincinnati. With a full meal under $10, Eli's has great bbq without the fuss of a typical restaurant experience. The simple layout and simpler dining experience place focus on the food. There's a variety of bbq options from ribs, pulled pork, rib tips, and beef dogs and a great variety of sides. Summertime is the time to go with open air picnic style seating and live bands on certain nights. You can bring your own sides or sauces to supplement the bbq or alcohol. I've seen people bring China and silverware to personalize their bbq dining. Anything goes but every comes for the food and relaxed atmosphere. Cash only with checks and Reds tickets as alternative payment options.
(5)B C.
Food is great, pulled pork and Jalapeno cornbread, yahtzee. will come back
(4)Devin R.
I am a huge Eli's fan. Never disappointed. They offer a fantastic value and you sure can't beat byob. The pulled pork is unbelievable especially when you slap on there tasty homemade BBQ. The mashed potatoes and baked beans are also a must. They cook the potatoes on the griddle to get a golden brown crust. I am very excited for their Findley Market location to open up. Eli's is uniquely Cincinnati and in a class of it's own.
(5)Joel L.
Cash only and there is a heated tent for outside seating. Eli's BBQ was excellent. The inside is small on the inside and food took a little longer than I'd hope but it was packed with people. The tables turned over quickly so it shouldn't be hard to find a seat. I highly recommend the Pulled Pork Sandwich. The Mac & Cheese tasted like something from a box. The Jalapeno Cornbread was very good and the Mashed Potatoes were fine. I had take-out but could tell the servers were very busy. I would plan to order quickly and not count on extra requests once you have left the ordering counter.
(4)Michael S.
The food was just okay. Nothing to write home about. I like the music, but you need more light so you can see what you are putting on your mouth. Now the BAD: the service was just bad, not very friendly or accommodating. I was by myself and cashier made me feel I was an inconvenience. She did even ask if I wanted something to drink. So I ate my dinner without a drink. I just moved to cincinnati and somebody recommend your place. Not sure I will return. Will look for my BBQ elsewhere.
(2)Evan W.
Awesome BBQ and outdoor atmosphere! Should look at expanding. The old BBQ review on Madison is available and would definitely be a good area. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu here.
(5)Witni S.
This place is amazing! Believe all of the review, it's legit. I'm a southern girl at heart. My family is from Carrollton, KY (pronounced car-l-tun). So, I'm no stranger to some southern barbecue and yummy comfort food. And this place does it right! My first experience here was last summer when we were having a going away party for some friends. Whoever picked the location for this place was a genius! When I talk about my friend group, I'm not talking a bunch of 20 and 30 somethings. Well, I am, except you have to add about 40-50 toddler-10yr old somethings because most of my friends are growing families with young kids. This place was amazing for our group! The set up is similar to a park scene because you have picnic benches and a large field for the kids to roam in. If you've ever tried to corral your kids while at a nice restaurant, trying hopelessly to keep them behaved and quiet, you know the angst. You don't have to do that here! Bring your own 6-pack (byob), and let the kids run around in the open field, coming to you for bites of deliciousness whenever they are ready. My vote as a MOM, 5 starts for Eli's! And I haven't even talked about the food. Delicious. Every meat I've had here has been fantastic, but I am also in love with the mac & cheese, jalapeno grits and baked beans. For the price, the fun, the casual atmosphere and the food, you can't go wrong! It's worthy of all the buzz.
(5)Zach D.
This place has really made a name for itself in Cincinnati, best BBQ I have ever had, the pulled pork sandwich basically melts in your mouth, the Mac n cheese and mashed potatoes is nothing short of perfection. The ribs are excellent, as well as the rib tips. The hot dog is also fantastic, the prices are reasonable as well, and it is worth every dime. Great atmosphere with having a record player in there too, and most importantly is the fact that you can bring your own booze! Great place to check out.
(5)Kaitlyn H.
At Eli's you will find a big taste of America! Although the BBQ is phenomenal, I usually make it through the sides first! The Mac and cheese will blow your mind...my mouth is watering just thinking about it. The portions are great, as is the price. Although it is small inside when the weather is nice the outside is open and equipped with tables, a dessert food truck, joy johns and lights to set the mood. You will also find a good crowd with same love of BBQ and chowing down as you. Remember it is BYOB (bring your own booze) and they will recycle the containers for you when you are done. Enjoy!! Cheers
(5)Mike T.
Just had to stop in here after reading the reviews when I passed through Cincinnati. Pulled pork sandwich was Excellent!! Bits of crispy pork with the slaw went well together. Only negatives: sides were sub-par: need to work on that guys!
(4)Andrew ß.
Must haves -Grits -Mac&cheese -Mashpotatos -Cornbread And you will not be disappointed with the pulled pork sandwich - !!!!!!Enjoy!!!!!! -
(5)King P.
Sometimes when I'm bored, I'll just look at their menu and drool on myself.
(5)Carlee T.
Best BBQ in town, and honestly some of the best I've had ever. I love the casual, outdoor atmosphere, and it's BYOB!
(5)J. David G.
NOTE: cash or check only! Can't add much that hasn't already been said. Simple menu. Fantastic pulled pork sandwich with 2 sides. Unbeatable price at $8. Pair with an Ale 8 and you've got the perfect $10 lunch or dinner.
(5)Haiku ?.
Really love pulled pork Indigestion every time Will be back again
(3)Nick G.
Eli's is easily one of the best BBQ joints I've experienced in Cincinnati. Don't be discouraged by the long, meandering line - as one nearly always exists. It is well worth the wait. As the line approaches the entrance to the small, office-like, ordering counter you'll often hear tunes from local old-timey folk bands that perform alongside the eager queue. Even on days when a band isn't present, the restaurant offers an extensive vinyl collection available for playing on their in-house record player. If this weren't fantastic enough, the restaurant allows BYOB to accompany the wait, your meal, or both. Once you've finally reached the point to order, be sure to have made up your mind. This shouldn't be hard, as everything is simple and delicious. My personal go-to $8 plate, typically includes the staple that is their pulled pork sandwich, accompanied by two of their 6 available sides. Normally I'll go with the grill-seared mashed potatoes along with their mac and cheese - as coleslaw is available on top of the sandwich. Even if you've brought a nice pale ale along to go with the BBQ, it's hard to pass up the bottled Ale-8 available. Whatever you decide, be sure to have cash available, as credit cards are not accepted. Decide, finally, whether to sit on picnic tables under tent or open air, have a beer, and wait for your name to be called. Desert food trucks on site afterward. It's hard to find a reason to complain about Eli's.
(5)Cindy G.
Ok I was holding off writing this review because of all the crazy attention that Eli's has been getting. I had had Eli's at almost every event in Cincinnati and honestly, I wasn't THAT impressed. The meat was sometimes dry and the sauce was cold so I didn't want to judge it until I could get to the actual location. Last night we had a mini family reunion at Eli's. We decided it was the perfect way to end the summer. We brought our blankets, and our puppies and sat on the awesome picnic area and watched the sun go down. It was pretty much the most amazing location ever. Now for the food--the only reason I am not giving them 5 stars is because I feel like the menu does not have great options. I am not a huge fan of pulled pork but I love pretty much any other kind of meat. Something about the texture weirds me out. So I begrudgingly ordered the pulled pork sammi for $5 bucks, the cornbread $2, and the mac and cheese for $2. The food came out hot, and the pork was as juicy as ever! Just as I suspected, fresh from the source this place is the bomb diggity. Everyone in our group enjoyed the flavor of the jalapeño cornbread as well and couldn't stop talking about it. This was one of the best memories our family could ever make. Great good, relaxing atmosphere, a cooler full of beer (BYOB btw) and our pups. I cannot wait to go back!
(4)Ian G.
Well. Having moved from South Carolina to Louisville, I've been on the lookout for some good BBQ - especially some mac n' cheese. While yelping (planning) a day in Cincinnati, I ran across this place getting some stellar reviews. Per my allegiance to finding good BBQ, we decided to give this place a shot! And good gosh am I glad we did. The pulled pork sandwich has a great, juicy, smoky flavor; the sauce balances savory and sweet. And the mac n' cheese - the mac n' cheese! - drowning in the stuff would be a glorious way to die. Truly. Sure, expect the ordeal to take awhile. Good BBQ should.
(5)Emily E.
Absolute favorite! So much so, my fiance and I changed our reception location so that we could have Eli's brought in for dinner the night of our wedding! ! ! My family is from Kansas, and Texas, and they are serious about their BBQ! I can't wait to share Eli's with them, and show them Cincy can play ball with the big boys!
(5)Josh K.
Nothing quite like it in town. Right by the river, picnic tables and tents. It is BYOB but, there is a beer truck that sells loose bottles. It is very reasonably priced and you can get a meal for under 8$. The portions are large and everything comes on Styrofoam cups and plates. The atmosphere is like a southern family reunion from a movie you recently watched. There are huge benches meant for sharing so either go in a large group or be prepared to have somebody you dont know sit down next to you. Easily the best coleslaw I have had in Cincinnati.
(5)Stephen P.
Really impressed. Great prices. Great place for lunch. Take your friends very informal but pleasant.
(5)Tom B.
The food is awesome ! My first review isaid I was disapointed because I've never been told about this restaurant sooner ! It was the BEST BBQ Ever! I will be back! Great place to eat BEST ribs I ever tasted!
(5)Robert P.
Best BBQ I've had in cinci. Pulled pork was super tender and great flavor. Got some ribs to share and same story, fall off the bone and perfectly cooked. Only one choice for BBQ sauce but that's all that's needed. Sweet and spiced without any burn for sensitive palets. Jalepeno corn bread was amazing as well. Mac n cheese was good, maybe just a touch to rich for me. Even liked the Cole slaw which I almost never like. BYOB was a great plus too, can't wait to come with friends during warmer weather and eat in the "picnic area".
(4)Audrey S.
Got the pulled pork sandwich "dirty" with coleslaw on top and the mashed potatoes. I've officially had the best pulled pork sandwich, coleslaw, and mashed potatoes of my life. And it was $5 for the sandwich!
(5)Alec D.
Eli's is a Cincinnati staple! The BBQ is out of this world. In addition to all of the great ribs, pulled pork and rib tips, their sides are fantastic as well. I've had the mac n cheese as well as the jalepeno cheese grits. I am always looking forward to going back to Eli's. Great thing about Eli's as well, is that they allow you to bring your own alcohol (they do not sell any). So you can grab some great BBQ, head out back to a table and toss back a couple of cold ones with your friends. A great spot for a very tasty meal on a summer day (or any day)!
(5)Anne W.
We came to Eli's on the recommendation of one of our good friends from Akron. My grandpa would absolutely love this place. The interior looks like his basement--in a good way. Big record collection, record player cranking out The Drifters...excellent ambiance. We ordered the pulled pork sandwich, rib tips, mac and cheese, baked beans, grits and two old fashioned Cokes. Place is cash or check only and your name is called once your order is ready. We elected to sit at the picnic tables outside since they have a festive atmosphere like you're at one big backyard party. Once our order was ready B decided we needed cornbread so we got some of that as well. As you can tell, we weren't super hungry. The pulled pork and rib tips were absolutely delicious. Didn't even need sauce (though we did indulge in a little sauce). Mac and cheese was perfectly creamy and cheesy. Baked beans tasty. Corn bread and grits smooth, delicious, and full of jalapeño spice. We loved eating at Eli's and I dare say it was the best barbecue we've ever had.
(5)Ryan M.
This place is awesome, amazing food at a reasonable price. Great hang out with good Cincinnatians. Cash only, BYOB
(5)Alicia A.
Cash only... BYOB... jalapeno cheese grits are sooooo good! We tried the dogs, pulled pork, & turkey... all were delicious! Mac-n-cheese & jalapeno cornbread were so-so. We'll be back for sure!
(4)Scott J.
Far & away the best barbecue I've had. Alot of places claim to have a smoky flavor but this place delivers. Great atmosphere with classic rock from the 60s & 70s. This place is a must in Cincinnati
(5)Matt U.
After my first visit i think I need to go to barbeque eaters annonymous! Seriously though...I am addicted. Everything about this place is simple except the amazing flavors! Even the sign out front does not say the name...it is just the outline of a pig so don't miss it when you are driving up. Then menu only has a small amount of choices, but it is simplicity at it's best and makes your decision that much easier. I tried the pulled pork sandwich and some ribs, which both alone have great flavor, especially the dry rub on the ribs. However, once you put their barbeque sauce on top talk about mind blowing! Ok I realize I'm ranting, but go here and try the food and then see if you still want to laugh at me. The restaurant is kind of like a small hole in the wall with limited seating, but in the warm months there is a huge outdoor space with tons of picnic tables (some covered) and the night I went there was a DJ playing music. Oh and you can bring your own drinks including beer, wine, pop, etc...BRING YOUR OWN ALCOHOL! The atmosphere is causual and comfortable and would be perfect to bring a group and a cooler to just hang out while waiting for your food and after you eat. I will definitely be back. Best barbeque I have had in the city thus far!
(5)Todd D.
Top drawer. Swung into Eli's for dinner on a hit-and-run to Cincinnati. Dude playing some slide guitar in the corner, great pulled pork sandwiches, excellent spicy slaw, and jalapeno grits. Can't say enough about the food at Eli's. You won't find better BBQ - and the laid back vibe is relaxing. Some blues guitar or they are spinning albums on the turntable. They only take cash or check, prepare.
(5)Michael G.
I've now been to Eli's twice now....in the past 4 days. I'd heard about the place several times from other people, but we finally made a trip over this past weekend, and it was definitely a scene. First, it's off the beaten path, and tucked away in a sleepy neighborhood along the river East of town. The first thing I noticed was that there was a ton of cars parked around just for this place, there were dozens of picnic tables packed with people, and a long line out the door. Well, we didn't drive all the way over there to get turned back for a silly line, but hey, a line that long means it must be good, right? Well, we were right. While it id take a long time to finally eat, and it was fantastic. I had the ribs, with my sides being jalapeno grits and mac 'n cheese. My girlfriend had the pulled pork sandwich, with beans and slaw. Every item that we both had was pretty darn good. My only complaint is that I like my ribs to fall off the bone, and these didn't. But...this might just be the cinncy style. All the sides were great as well, and you even have the added option to throw cracklins on them. We then went back today for their 2-for-1 rib tips deal, which they have every Monday. 3 pounds of rib tips for $8! As these are the best rib tips I've ever had, so we will definitely be coming back many many times. This is the only BBQ I've had in town so far, so maybe after trying some other places I'll find out this is the best place in town. If that's so, I'll update to 5 stars, cause they're straddling the line right now. Also, it's BYOB, sweeeeeet!
(4)Matthew W.
Great BBQ. Everything is outside seating at picnic tables so it's best on a warm day or night. It is great for kids because there is plenty of grass for them to play in. We had a group of 7 and it wasn't difficult to find seating, the tables are large. It is also BYOB which was great to have an awesome time with friends on very little expense. We also used it a pre dinner to a night out on the town so BYOB was fantastic. Be prepared to wait about an hour for your food because it gets very busy.
(4)Neil H.
There's not much i can add, other than piling on another 5 start review! The pulled pork is perfect...nice and tender with the right amount of smoke and seasoning. the ribs are amazing. teh hot dogs are some of the best you will have ever eaten. the turkey is pretty good, but its my least favorite thing on the menu. get there early or you will wait in one hell of a line! it's BYOB, just so you can plan. one note is that the bbq sauce is pretty peppery. I personally love it, but if you are bringing kids, get the sauce on the side.
(5)Magda C.
One of my top 3 food places in Cincy! The taste of pork and ribs is unbelievable. You have to try to believe! The portions are generous and always good. The quality and taste of meat has been consistent for the last 2 years of my visits. Nothing fancy, but for 8 bucks you get a little piece of heaven with mashed potatoes. Very family friendly! BYOB if you want. CHEERS TO ELI'S!
(5)Rikki T.
Delicious Mac n Cheese! Not many options for vegetarians though. :-(
(4)Tommy C.
My wife and I stopped here on our way to Charleston on our honeymoon. The god's of barbecue were smiling down on us that day because we basically picked the first place we saw on Yelp with a semi-decent review and made it happen because we were starving. Rarely when given the opportunity to eat something new does quality of food take a backseat to the strictly utilitarian function of eating to not starve, but after eight hours of driving I just needed to eat. Luckily for me I stumbled headlong in to one of the best barbecue experiences I've ever had. We got out of our car with wobbly legs and were greeted by a long-but-not-too-long line of Cincinnatians (is that a word?) eager to get some food. Many of the people were already familiar with the spot and were talking eagerly about what they were about to devour. It's always a good sign when you're in a place and you just hear people talking about the food. You never see people in some nasty ambiguous chain or some low-effort drunk food spot eagerly frothing from their mouths for whatever slop they just ordered because the food is never dynamic or interesting, Eli's was. We got macaroni and cheese which was good and the jalapeno cheese grits which were goddamn unforgettable. I also got a pulled pork sandwich with (for the first time in my life) cole slaw on it. I swear it was life altering. My life should be divided up in to two separate eras; BCOPP and ACOPP, Before and After Coleslaw On Pulled Pork respectively.. never going back. Plus to make everything all the more perfect we got to sit outside on a porch, and who doesn't love that? Whether you live in Cincy, are visiting or just passing through, eat at Eli's.
(5)Kari W.
Eli's is hands down the best BBQ in town but the portions are small so it's rather expensive. Great treat every now and then.
(5)Jason B.
Can't say enough good things about this place. Friendly staff, amazing food, reasonably priced. Tips: 1) Walk in the front door off Eastern. Order at the counter in the back. Cash only. Give them our first name (and last initial!) Go sit down and they'll yell for you to pick up. Sometimes with a bullhorn. 2) BYOB. Introduce yourself to the next table and negotiate a bottle trade. It's fun! 3) Come early, like happy hour. The wait will be more palatable and seating more plentiful. 4) Come on a sunny day. There is outdoor seating both immediately adjacent to the restaurant and across the alley in the park. If you have kids, head for the park! 5) One sandwich is enough to share between two. It is the size of your head. Don't skip on the sides, though - they're not generally big enough to share.
(5)Kat F.
my favorite bbq joint in cincinnati. the hot dogs are amazing, the pulled pork is amazing, but the ribs are mediocre. all the sides are good. take some beer and cash, and GO!! well worth the wait.
(5)Zachary H.
Ate at Eli's today for lunch on the tail end of a wedding weekend. It was delicious. I had a pulled pork sandwich and two spare ribs. As someone else mentioned don't forget to BYOB for the full experience. One more bathroom would be nice.
(5)Jennifer Z.
There was so much that I liked about the atmosphere of this place. First, let me say that you should call ahead and order your food. If you do this, your food will be waiting for you and you get to jump in front of the huuuuge line that will possibly be going all the way out the door. Otherwise, you wait on line forever and then go sit down and wait more for your name to be called. This seems to be a popular place filled with people of all kinds which i found to be very cool. There is limited seating inside but they have an awesome outdoor area setup with tons and tons of picnic tables. Some tables are under a pavilion as well. I noticed that some people appeared to be making a night of it since it's BYOB. The mac n cheese was similar to the mac n cheese you get in the box that comes with the packet of creamy cheese sauce. I personally like stretchy, cheesy mac n cheese if I'm going to order it at a restaurant. The baked beans were a tad spicy, my little one wouldn't eat them because of it, but they were still good. The coleslaw seemed a little more mayo flavor than what I was going for. I usually like the sweeter versions of slaw myself. The ribs were good, probably my favorite part of the meal and the jalapeño cornbread was super yummy. I'm picky about pulled pork so I will just say it was nothing to complain about. We fed five kids and two adults with leftovers for about $35 by getting a bulk order so overall we were pretty happy with the whole experience.
(4)Rebecca S.
Outstanding pulled pork and smoked turkey sandwiches! Fabulousity! Lots of people were there from out of town because the word is apparently getting out. Very interesting how it's run - long line to order, inside, with a few indoor tables... but the line moves quickly and is not a problem. Bring cash (or checks) because they don't take credit cards! If you just order a sandwich, it comes with a small cole slaw. Cornbread is a big piece and very good. Don't get the mac and cheese without trying it first (even the kids didn't like it). They don't have cups or free water, only drinks in bottles, but you are welcome to bring your own drinks - I'll bring a water bottle next time. You wait outside, about a half hour, for your food. There are tons of casual picnic tables outside, some covered. Very fun.
(4)Dan T.
Eli's is a local gem. It offers great portions at a better price ($8 for a sandwich and two sides) The atmosphere is perfect as you can sit inside or out. The patio area is great to relax for hours and consume your own beverages. (yes, you can bring your own beer!) The only negative is the wait for food, but it really is not any qorse than the big names downtown, and the experience is far better. I highly recommend Eli's!
(5)Kimberly K.
Great food, great prices. Huge portions. Fun and relaxing atmosphere. If you haven't gone yet you have to go! I've had it downtown on Fountain Square on Tuesdays at lunchtime and at Findlay Market on Fridays after 5 too. Always great!!
(5)Karl C.
After almost three months in this city, Eli's has become my favorite restaurant in Cincinnati. The ribs are high quality and dry-rubbed to a delicious finish. It's consistently been some of the best meat I've had in a long time -- and let me tell you: I have had my fair share of meat. Their Loaded Hot Dogs are absolutely amazing. They're two smoked dogs in a toasted bun topped with coleslaw, toasted pork shreds, and their signature barbecue sauce. Trust me, you'll wish you had more than two of those bad boys. I've tried their mashed potatoes, mac 'n' cheese, and jalapeno cornbread as sides and they have all been delicious. Eli's interior is very small and intimate. The lighting is dim and there's always good music flowing on their record player. If you're desperate for seating, they have heated tents outside. Although sitting out there alone and in the dark makes you feel like a 1920's carnival serial killer... Aside from the lack of physical space in the restaurant, the only major qualm I have is that they don't accept credit cards, and they don't have an on-site ATM so that can be a huge buzzkill. Having said that, the food more than makes up for it and then some. Of all the times I've been there, I was never disappointed. If you're looking for barbecue in Cincinnati, Eli's should be your only choice.
(5)Aly S.
Not sure if my review is even necessary; this place is just plain gold.
(5)Jessie T.
So this local barbecue joint has been the talk of the town for a while now and I FINALLY made my way down to try it. I personally am a huge fan of bbq and southern fix ins, so I was ready to see what the hype was all about. The restaurant itself was teeny tiny with just a few indoor tables and the ordering counter in the back. It was simple and small, with some retro accents. After we ordered, we went outside to find a table and that was where the whole crowd of people was! They had long picnic style tables and other tables scattered throughout the back like the style of your own backyard and it was very outdoorsy-cozy. There was also old jazz playing out there, which I absolutely loved. The food itself was deeeelicious. I ordered the rib tips with a side of mac & cheese and cole claw. The meat was very nicely smoked and had lots of flavor and their house bbq sauce was pretty much drinkable lol. The mac was sooo cheesy and delicious and had a nice thick, creamy texture that I prefer to runny sauces. The cole slaw was also great, and had just the right amount of tartness vs. sweetness. In the midst of eating, I looked back at the door of the restaurant and the line was 20 people out the door! I would say that it did a good job of living up to its hype and I wanna go back to try more : ).
(5)Caroline C.
I can't be mad at Eli's BBQ. There was an iffy time there for a bit where I was close, but smoked meat always prevails, doesn't it? To me, it usually doesn't get any better than the pulled pork sandwich which includes coleslaw on top. Except that time when they gave me a third rib after ordering two. RIB JACKPOT. I forgive you, Eli's for being closed on the day of the flying pig.
(4)Nathan H.
Went to Eli's based on RAVE reviews. I don't understand what makes this place so special. It is located in a house on a street that looks like it should be avoided. When you walk in, you are immediately confused. Nobody greets you, or informs you not to sit at a table (yet). You have to walk to the way-back and order your food. Then you must try your best to find a place to sit in this very-small indoor sitting area (and be prepared to clean your own table beforehand). Warning: they don't take credit card!? There are no drink refills. And the biggest disappointment? No brisket!?!?!? The pulled pork sandwich I got was sour and I was unable to finish it. The mac & cheese may have been the worst mac I have ever had. Worst than Velveeta. The jalapeño cornbread was fantastic though and was the only part of the meal I was able to complete. I brought a friend from out of town with me so he could partake in this highly-reviewed eatery - sadly, he may have hated the place more than I. I ended up having to buy him a few drinks later to make up for this meal. Maybe I got the place on a bad day? With this many good reviews, I will give it another shot. Let's hope I don't regret that decision.
(1)Caitlin B.
Rode our bikes out to Eli's from downtown the other night. LOVED the food, the families with their kids playing in the yard, the picnic tables, and it's actually cool that you must BYOB. Forgot the bug spray but did remember to bring our check book since it's only cash or check. We ordered 4 ribs (they gave us 5 :) and we each got a pulled pork sandwich, mac/cheese, jalapeno cornbread. The staff was very friendly. From the time we got there it only took 20-30 min for us to get our food. We will be back.
(4)Konstantin A.
My big picture thoughts on Eli's - I think the hype hurts the experience a little bit. Location: very good, there's an indoor space and an outdoor space. The outdoor space is essentially a covered picnic area so you can bring your pets. Sides: the sides we tried - baked beans, mac and cheese and coleslaw were just average unfortunately. That is, good but nothing special. The meat: we had a pulled pork sandwich and some of their rib bones with special rub. The meat was all excellent with or without their sauce. They could take their pulled pork sandwich to the next level by putting it on a nice bun (rather than the current run of the mill grocery store brand bun). Going back to the comment I started with, I unfortunately think this place is over-hyped. Worth checking out but not my favorite BBQ in Cincinnati. Tip: BYOB since they do not serve alcohol but allow you to bring your own. Can also bring your dog but has to stay outside.
(4)Alex G.
If you're new to Cincinnati or just visiting the city, Eli's BBQ should be at the top of the list when it comes to eating out. Eli's has an amazing outdoor set up, and you can bring your own beer and wine. The food is remarkably good and relatively inexpensive. Between myself and one other we ordered 4 ribs, "dirty" man n cheese, cornbread, baked beans, a pulled pork sandwich and 2 drinks for $20. All of the food was delicious. If you're planning on going to Eli's on the weekends, be prepared to wait. We waited 15 minutes to order and another 30 minutes for our food. But they have a great area outside to hangout with friends, drinks beers etc. so the wait really isn't an issue unless you're in a hurry. Also bring CASH because Eli's doesn't accept credit/debit cards.
(5)Devon C.
Holy BBQ! Since coming to Cincinnati a few months ago, many of my friends have raved about the BBQ found at Eli's, but it was only tonight that I traveled down the rabbit hole into this unassuming restaurant marked only by a hanging sign with a pig on it. The smell of barbecue, pork, and meat goodness immediately hit me in the face as I walked in. I knew I was home. Eli's is truly a down-to-earth summer barbecue picnic type place. Order from their chalkboard menu and prepare your mouth and body for a BBQ odyssey. Tonight I had the pulled pork sandwich, ribs, as well as the macaroni and cheese and jalapeno cornbread. The pork was succulent, the ribs were moist and had a delightful outer tangy and spicy char, and the sides were delicious. This will certainly be a place that I frequent. A few things to be aware of. First, they are BYOB and do not serve any alcoholic beverages, so bring your own brews! Second, they are cash/check only. Third, they have limited indoor seating, but ample outdoor seating, even with a covered and heated outdoor area for the winter.
(5)Bobbie C.
Some of the best BBQ I've ever had! The jalapeño grits and the cole slaw were amazing! (I don't like slaw but this was great) pulled pork was yummy! My husband and I visited the Findlay market and this place was there. Had to try and I will be back!
(5)Melissa W.
Best mashed potatoes on the planet! Seriously. The ribs were very good too. Cool, casual spot. Most seating is outdoors so it's best to go when it's not scorching temperatures. You can bring your own adult beverages. Crowd forms a line outside by 7 ( on a Monday!) so be prepared to wait a bit but well worth the wait!
(5)Cincinnati B.
There's no question that Eli's is among the best BBQ in Cincinnati. Unfortunately, they are so ragingly popular now that it's frequently very difficult to get BBQ inside of 45 minutes. Lines and wait times are long and seating is very limited. We're saddened by the fact that the crowds will discourage us from returning to Eli's for anything but take-out, and even that process is intimidating. But, it's nice to see a local business thriving.
(4)N. B.
We went early on a Saturday evening for the pulled pork sandwiches. The service left something to be desired...the cashiers seemed like you are somehow inconveniencing them by ordering (while placing my order, the cashier didn't even look at me). It's a tiny, busy place with almost no indoor seating. On the bright side, our food was good. I've had a lot of barbecue in my life, and I am not easily impressed, so you won't hear me ranting, but the meat was hot, tender, and moist, and the buns were very nicely toasted. The sauce is decent, and being able to bring your own beer is definitely a plus. Also, the sandwich is a good size: 1 filled me up, and satisfied my husband. Paid $2 for a coke, and $5 for a sandwich.
(3)Brad P.
Roll up your sleeves, bust out your cash, and get ready for a BBQ experience that meets all of your Hollywood-style road trip food fantasies. In a strange sense of BBQ irony, I've never experienced such a flawless example of casual BBQ in any established business in any state south of Ohio. You'd think Kentucky or Tennessee or Georgia would crush Eli's with their BBQ technique and this is just not so. The food is preposterously cheap. While many BBQ joints have turned themselves into upscale restaurants, Eli's sticks to the basics. If you can't fill yourself up for less than 10 dollars here, you are probably a monster. The sauces are good. The pulled pork sandwich is very good. The coleslaw is great. The ribs are cheap and great big. They have a record player and allow customers to select the music. I'm going to stop typing very soon, so just trust me when I say that if you're passing through Cincinatti, heading south, and you're looking for a great BBQ experience, stop here. The chances that you find something better as you continue on are very low.
(5)AJ D.
Some of the best BBQ in the city, and affordable to boot.
(4)Peter B.
My second favorite restaurant in Cincinnati. This is the best BBQ I've ever had and the prices are as good as the food! $5 for an amazingly tasty smoked turkey sandwich! With food this good for this price, I have a hard time convincing myself to try any other restaurants. There are two large tents setup year round outside. In the winter they attach canvas walls to the tent and put two large kerosene heaters inside each tent. So it's comfortable eating in the tent even in winter. Anytime family or friends visit from out of town, Eli's is always at the top of the list of things to do. Tip: Get the sandwich or hot dog Eli's way, that's with coleslaw on top of the meat. My wife is not a fan of coleslaw, but when combined with Eli's delicious meat, she loves it.
(5)April S.
There are so many reviews for Eli's, but since is was the only restaurant I had the chance to visit while in Cincinnati, I'll go ahead and add my two cents. I ordered the rib tips. I don't think many people would think to order tips, but I know better. Rib tips are the cheap, fatty "extra" usually removed and discarded. I adore rib tips... mostly because they are cheap and fatty! When tips are on the menu, I have a hard time ordering anything else, but I rarely see them offered. Eli's served up a generous portion of tips with slaw for 8 bucks! Charred on the outside and hot and juicy on the inside... yep, the tips hit the spot. The smoke infused flesh pared perfectly with the not-too-sweet, not-too-spicy dry rub seasoning. Highly recommended. Note: Parking is tricky. BYOB.
(4)C P.
Knock dead awesome! Had a pulled pork sandwich, ribs and rib tips plus sides (Mac and cheese was creamy delicious) which was more than enough for our table of three. All three were smokin' good. Second trip to Cincinnati. Last year, we went to Montgomery Inn (disaster food) for ribs - totally don't know how they stay in business with Eli's nearby. Love this place!!!
(5)Nick B.
DELICIOUS BBQ. This was the best BBQ I've had in Cincinnati. Their pulled pork was great, which is what I had, but everything else looked delicious too. I can't wait to be back!
(5)Michelle C.
This place is kind of perfect. Cheap, delicious barbecue in a super casual, very cute setting. The menu is scrawled in chalk and the walls are adorned with portraits of famous Southerns from yesteryear. A large collection of vinyl sits along one wall and patrons are welcome to play whatever they like on the record player. So. Freaking. Cute. The pulled pork sandwich ($5) and the ribs ($2.50 each) were both excellent. The sandwich came topped with really solid cole slaw and the barbecue sauce at the table was fantastic.My only regret is having eaten a bit before hand so I didn't have room to try any of their sides. If you are hungry in Cincinnati you have to go to Eli's. You have to. PROMISE ME. Oh also it's BYO and they have enclosed outdoor seating. SO CUTE.
(5)Zack R.
We went down to Cincinnati this past Saturday, on a sunny afternoon where we finally had a break from this insane winter. Thanks to Yelp for finding us one of the best BBQ joints we've ever been to. The food is all great: meaty nearly-fall-off-the-bone ribs, beans, jalepeno cornbread, beans, slaw. It's all great. The mac n cheese....well I'm sure the kids will like it. There was seating inside, which included a record player with tons of wax that you spin yourself. However, Saturday was was too nice a day to spend inside. We ate out on the picnic tables with tons of other locals who obviously know where the best food in town is. If you want to sauce up your food, there's one bottle, and it remains on a table near the entrance. Pretty funny. When we were leaving, we asked an employee if we could get a little sauce to go. He snuck a container out to us and told us that he's supposed to charge us, but to keep it quiet and run haha. He also said the one-bottle-o-sauce-remaining-on-the-table rule came about because everyone was stealing it. It's not hard to see why, it's damn tasty. So good, there's only one kind. I have to say, the ribs were so perfect, they didn't need any sauce. Though, go ahead and add a little just to set that stuff over the top. Insanely good!
(5)Tony S.
I am a big fan. Great food and sides. Corn bread is a must have. BYOB. Great hangout anytime. Get there early. There is always a line.
(5)Jason F.
Classic, classic place. Took the fam here after a long day at the game and the zoo. My little girl says: "Daddy, I need some BBQ...". "My response?? So do I sweetheart. To the van!" So, about 25 minutes later we arrived at the glorious tomb of all things swine and smoke. It was a great night out. Warm for December. The smokey goodness and smiles from the awesome staff encircled our hearts. And when they brought the pulled pork sandwiches to our table...the heavens parted. And lo the great Archangel Gabriel appeared and whispered into my ear where to find a Wonka Golden ticket. I put my arm around him and said..."make haste, sit and take part in the bounty"...he gladly accepted. OK, bottom line. Eli's blows everyone in Cincinnati out of the water. I won't make disparaging remarks about the other BBQ places in Cincinnati, but Eli's is doing it the way it should be. On top of that, I fed my whole family for $40...$40!!! Wow. I will invoke Stan Lee... 'nuff said.
(5)Tony D.
BBQ doesn't get any better than this in the Midwest! I'm totally unqualified to make that statement because of lack of experience, but I'll stand by it anyway because I can't imagine how Eli's can be beat. We got ribs and a pulled pork sandwich, and then promptly ordered another sandwich when we realized that it was too good to hold back on. Neither is anything fancy, but it is absolute bliss when sinking your teeth into either of the meats. Got a Mexican coke to go with all this and the meal was perfect. People were quite friendly as well, with one of the waitresses coming over to check on us while waiting for that second sandwich. Very classy atmosphere with all those old LPs playing in the background. I'd bet the outdoors seating would be awesome in the summer time as well.
(5)Bryan M.
This place was fantastic. Both my dad and I believe it's one of the best BBQ pork sandwiches we've ever had. The bun is crispy and buttery, the pork is well-cooked, and the price is just right. We came at 3 p.m. on a weekend and it was very busy even on that off-peak lunch time. Be ready to wait 20 to 30 minutes to receive your food. Two ways they could improve: 1) The mac & cheese wasn't that great. Maybe try a new recipe. 2) Cups of water are not offered: only bottled water is available. However, at $1 a bottle, the price is not unreasonable. Overall, this is a must-try in Cincinnati.
(5)Sara N.
I almost hate to post anything for the lines are long enough to wait in. But this was a great meal, went with my 3 kids (10,12, 14) for lunch and we all said it was the best we have had. My Husband is a chef so we get some good ribs, BBQ with out going out, this will be a new favorite place to bring in town guests and easy night out. My 2 cents to add on to menu in an easy way. Sweet Potato chips (like kettle chips) big basket for the table, Yumm. And something sweet just a nibble like garbage brownies (butterscotch, chocolate chip, coconut, on top of Scotty type brownie ) saran wrapped easy sell-(call me I'll be your Baker ;). Will be back probably way to often.
(5)Chris D.
Hands down - the BEST pulled pork in the area. You can smell the smoker before you arrive, and you can taste it after you leave. The pulled pork is moist, tender, and delicious. The side dishes are of equal quality - highly recommend the mac and cheese with the pork crispins! Indoor seating is limited and is sometimes loud due to music and close quarters, but not uncomfortable. Outdoors has plenty of picnic table space and is covered by tents on top of gravel. If the weather's nice, outside is the spot. Staff is always friendly and pricing is on point. No credit cards, though - so bring cash or check.
(5)Susanna B.
For outstanding BBQ, scrumptious sides, and good summer fun in Cincy, look no farther than Eli's BBQ. I've been here several times and thought it was about time I wrote a quick review. Everything on the menu is delicious - if you're really hungry, go for a plate of the thick, juicy ribs. For a leaner but still satisfying BBQ experience, the turkey (yes, turkey!) BBQ sandwich is out of this world. And of course the chopped pork just melts in your mouth. As far as sides go, the baked beans are spicy and flavorful and the mac and cheese is the perfect, rich, creamy foil to the sweet vinegary BBQ sauce. Before you go, there are two important things to remember: (1) Eli's is cash only. One of these days I'll remember before going, but I always forget, then have to run to the ATM. (2) Eli's is BYOB, so when you run to the ATM at the gas station down the street on Columbia Parkway, grab an ice cold 6-pack, get your BBQ and sides and camp out for the afternoon on one of the picnic tables outside, soak in the sunshine and live music on the weekends!
(5)Kristan H.
Eli's has always had good BBQ, but what impresses me most is the improvements they've made since my first visit over a year ago. (See previous review.) I've been several times now, and am more inclined to keep coming. Key changes: - Additional seating. Yes, it's outdoors, but it's tented, and there are heat lamps in the colder months. - Better mac and cheese, and new (or maybe just improved?) mashed potatoes with sort of a torched/crispy top layer. So, same great pulled pork, plus good prices, plus "funky homegrown ambiance," plus these little tweaks, equals a happy me. Tip: It's still hard to spot if you don't know it's there (just a pig sign hanging out from the building) and the parking is still limited to whatever's available out front or on the streets behind it. There can be a loooooong wait in nice weather, so I recommend going at off times/days, or just bringing a chatty friend or a good book. Oh, and it's cash-only!
(4)China F.
Amazing affordable BBQ in Cincinnati! The smoked turkey sandwich was delicious. The turkey was so moist and the slaw on top added that crunch factor to this sloppy sandwich. The baked beans were a perfect side to my meal. My boyfriend got the pulled pork sandwich with mac and cheese. He was in heaven. This definitely is a place you need to go to when in the Cincinnati area! Next time we will remember to BYOB!!!
(5)Vanessa K.
Wow. I ate here last week and have been dreaming of the bbq pork and mashed potatoes since. Great prices and outstanding service make this amazing food a perfect experience.
(5)Kate S.
The best place to go on summer evenings. Love getting a big group together, bringing some beers, and setting up in the outdoor area. On some nights they have a band playing outside. The inside is just as charming, with an old general store vibe. I'm not sure if they still let you do this, but they used to have a bunch of records to choose from stacked on a bench that you could put on the turntable. Regardless, the turntable is still there, and is a nice touch. As for the food, it's all about the pulled pork sandwich, jalapeno grits, and mac and cheese. Their barbeque sauce is smokey and delicious, and you'll definitely need wet naps to clean up after yourself (the opposite of an issue at a good BBQ place). The only criticism I have is that I wish they would try their hand at making collard greens as a side, but the other side selections they have are enough to make up for that. By far one of the best restaurants in the city.
(5)Mark M.
Great BBQ! Try the smoked turkey and the rib tips. Cash only. Love the record collection. Nice place to sit outside when the weather is decent.
(5)Alex N.
The hype is real and the food is great but not legendary as everyone says. I have been here several times for lunch with coworkers and friends. The atmosphere is very fun and on a nice day you cannot beat the outdoor sitting area. I have heard great things about the place from many people and it did not disappoint . You can often find them at local festivals also. I had the brisket and corn bread, the portions were generous but the wait is usually long. I would recommend it to a friend.
(4)Heidi F.
I love Eli's BBQ. Their pulled pork sandwich is delicious, they even top it with cole slaw (you can also ask for it to be left off). I've had most all of their sides and really enjoyed those too. My usual sides are the jalapeño cornbread and mac n cheese. A few friends swear by their baked beans, which are also really good, and definitely different from other baked beans. I've enjoyed their outdoor seating many times. Great for groups, and it's pretty affordable since you can BYOB. Some nights if it's nice out, the Dojo Gelato truck is parked by the picnic tables too... if you saved room for dessert! I recently just tried their Carry Out. I called ahead, placed my order of the phone and was told to pick it up in 15 minutes. By the time I got there (I was running a little late...) 20 minutes later, my food was ready and waiting. I got to skip the line, pay for my food and I was out the door in less than 5 minutes! (That's a new record for me at Eli's!)
(5)Barry L.
My son Thomas and I love going to Eli's Big Barby Que on Saturday afternoons and getting the pulled meat sandwiches and bread and the hot dogs are TO DIE FOR if you ask Thomas ha ha! I would go here every day if I could afford it, but it's not expensive at all for the amount of GRUB you get! I just can't afford to go eating at public eateries every night ha ha! I have a kid for gosh sake! 4/5 stars and a sunglasses man too if you want to be fun! 8) ,
(4)Carolyn B.
BEST. BBQ. EVER!! Both daughter and hubby had been there before and I have been dying to try it after seeing it so highly rated on Yelp. Well, yesterday was the day! Love the fact that an outline of a pig is their sign on the street and once you enter, you can tell that it is going to be a unique experience. At first glance, you think "hole in the wall", but as you look around, it becomes so much more than that. Could it be the real turntable with old albums that you can choose yourself and play? Man, that really brings me back to my heyday! Or the tin lunchbox, the truly antique corolla typewriter or the fact that when they tell you how long the wait is - you truly don't mind! Not much seating indoors, but there is lots more outside on wooden picnic tables surrounded by a tent and heaters on since it was a little chilly when we went. I could just imagine how packed this place must be in great weather! Hubby & son got a half slab of ribs each and my daughter & I went for the pulled pork sandwiches. Our sandwiches had such generous portions that you literally had to eat some of the meat from the center before you could lift it up for eating! Oh my gosh - this pork was tender, delicious and the very best that Cincinnati has to offer! The funny part of the evening was that I ordered jalapeno cheese grits as my side and daughter ordered mashed potatoes as hers. To tell the truth I was woefully disappointed in my side until my daughter said that she knew that she didn't order the grits but it was so delicious that she wanted to eat it anyway! So, that's where my grits went - luckily there was enough left for me to savor. I had gotten her mashed potatoes - they were only meh, especially when you are expecting them to be aforementioned grits. I'm from the south and I'm here to tell you that these were the best grits ever - right up there with shrimp n' grits from Charleston and this is north of the Mason-Dixon line! It's unbelievable how much flavor they have! Their mac n' cheese was comfort food done right with two different cheeses. What a value at $5/sandwich and for $3 extra you could get two sides! Be forewarned about two things - BYOB and no credit cards! As one of their workers was clearing our empty plates away, he asked if this was our first time. He implored us next time to "resist the temptation" to always go for the pork, then went on to describe other foods to try. First, their turkey sandwich is made from a young turkey breast marinated for over a day before they get smoked & grilled. Top it with their coleslaw & BBQ sauce - his description was making me drool. Apparently, their all-beef hot dogs are not to be missed as they, too, are smoked then served with coleslaw, sauce and pork crispins! Now, I'll be thinking about those two divine temptations until I can try them. Even though they only have one bathroom for everyone to use, when you enter it's like going back in time with the walls plastered in old newspapers, magazine articles and ads. Not neatly framed pieces - literally just plastered on the walls, but that just adds to the unique factor of this place. Gordon Ramsay is fond of saying to only do a few things, but do them extremely well. Eli's has taken this advice to heart much to their diner's delight!
(5)Roseann H.
GREAT barbecue! The sauce is amazing!!! I would plan for a long wait, come at off hours, or order ahead. With a little pre-knowledge/ planning it is sooooooooooooo worth it!
(4)Chris F.
Man, this place is great. Great atmosphere, customer service and EXCELLENT Turkey! I have went here a few times, each time opting for the Turkey, Mac and cole slaw. Their sauce is excellent, just the right sweetness and sour makes it perfect. If I was to own a small deli/restaurant, I would mimic, Eli's! The employees are so friendly. There was a guy walking away clearing trays and asking how everyone was doing(we were sitting outside). He said they use to have BBQ sauce on each table, but customers kept stealing it! Buy it folks, don't steal it. So they keep one bottle on a "community" table where you can go up and lather your grub. They said during the summer they go through 40 gallons a week! That's a lot of sauce. You can also, BYOB here. Great place to hang out on a lazy Sunday sitting out back with a 6 pack. Or, sit in side and chose from hundreds of vinyl's to play on their record player, this place is to cool! Place is always packed, and the location is perfect for it. You know they are doing something right when if you blink, you will miss them, but they generally have a packed house!
(5)Jason H.
Fantastic BBQ and a great feel inside and out. When you walk in you'll notice how small the inside is. Low ceilings and all. As you look back, you can see down through the kitchen where the magic happens. Eli's is a flurry of activity. From the servers flying in and out of the back to the flashes of the kitchen staff back and forth putting together the orders, these people never seem to slow down. The dining room is quite small but you can eat inside or out. In the dining room they have an older record player with a pretty sweet selection of music. When a record ends, get up and either flip it over or put another one on. Respect the records! Outside is a large tent and rows of picnic tables. You can sit under the tent which, I believe, is heated in the winter. Otherwise they usually have a few picnic tables out in the open. They have a small stage where live music occasionally plays. The Food: Wow! That just about covers it. I am more of a "sauce" ribs kind of guy. Eli's has one of the best "rubs" that I have ever tasted. The rub with their sauce creates a flavor that, from what I've heard, may possibly be illegal in some states. I am glad we're not in one of those states. The smoked turkey is also fantastic. Baked beans, slaw and corn bread on the side really round your plate off quite nicely. The beverages are bottles and cans of pop and you can BYOB as well. Keep in mind though, this food is made to order. I don't mean you have to wait hours and hours, but they are cranking out food like you wouldn't believe out of that little place. The downside is that sometimes you might have to wait 20 to 30 minutes for your food. I've waited longer for worse. The only complaint that someone who knows Eli's BBQ would have about that is that they have to wait a little longer than they'd like for the goods that they know they're about to receive. Always worth the wait. Would I go back? Yes. I would and I have and I will continue to do so. I drive about 45 minutes to get to Eli's. It has yet to disappoint. There is a lot of BBQ in Cincy. Eli's is more than worth checking out. Just remember how to get there. You will return.
(5)Leah A.
Everything about this place is perfection. It's low-key atmosphere creates picnic style dining like you're at a family backyard BBQ. The sometimes long wait out the door is worth it. I've eaten the turkey BBQ most of the time, and am obsessed. The pulled pork is the obvious go-to for most, and it doesn't disappoint. Even their buns are delicious. As for sides: can't go wrong with the jalepeno corn bread or the smashed potatoes. Don't forget to check them out at Fountain Square on Tuesdays, and now at Findlay Market.
(5)Andy R.
After having the pulled pork, I can see why this place has the collective attention of the city. The smoker is ALWAYS going, with a staff that functions around the clock. Parking can be a little difficult to find due to the buzz surrounding Eli's, but it is definitely worth the trip to the Columbia-Tusculum area. Although not my favorite BBQ place in Cincinnati, I would rank them in the top 5 for sure.
(4)Nick L.
If you live in Cincinnati and want the very best BBQ (pulled pork and spare ribs) this is the place. Absolute perfection. Gotta also try the Jalapeño cornbread and baked beans.
(5)Sherrie K.
FINALLY got to try Eli's at the Cincinnati Magazine Grilling and BBQ event last night. The pulled pork was our favorite out of about 15 vendors...tender, smokey and lean...delicious!! Looking forward to visiting their restaurant to sample more items.
(5)Christina M.
We love Eli's!!! Hard to get anything else since we are obsessed with the pulled pork...one day we will try everything else. Love ALL the sides! Mac and cheese, jalapeño cheddar grits, slaw....everything is amazing here.
(5)Lia V.
Okay Okay... I get to update this review... It really matters what you order here. This time around I got the pulled pork sandwich which was tender and delicious - definitely the right choice. They do it well. Don't mess around with ordering anything else. For sides we got the jalapeno cornbread and jalapeno cheesy grits both of which were fantastic. The ambiance is still wonderful. It's really what makes this place worth it. I don't see myself going here in the winter when you can't sit outside.
(4)Kristen G.
I called and got some take out. My only complaint from this whole experience is that you could hardly hear the person on the phone and you couldn't set a time for it to be ready, 10 minutes or nothing. I got the pulled pork and 2 sides. I heard the grits were amazing and they were. Everything was delicious.
(5)Linda A.
There are already well over 400 reviews for Eli's BBQ. Do I really need to add another? Do I actually have anything new to add? No. I don't. But I feel I still must go on the record saying that Eli's is fantastic, wonderful, delicious and something I should eat more often. Love the outdoor seating, too.
(5)Terry M.
A late February afternoon and a desire for the perfect pig sandwich equaled a road trip to Eli's. First, they were playing vinyl CCR Cosmo Factory on a old Marshall amp and speakers. It was time travel to late summer 1970 when all in the world could be made right with a pulled pork sandwich and CCR. Eli's IS the king of PIG in Cincinnati. All the rest are pretenders. Not many choices but what they make is made with love and quality. Have your plate served dirty and life is really good. I want to die holding this pulled pork sandwich. Sides on our visit were slaw, beans, jalapeno corn bread and mac n'cheese. All done right! I lived in NC and Va, have visited TX, OK and Ks and nobody, nobody has as good of smoky piggy delight.
(5)Kellan C.
One of those place that no matter how full you are, you will keep eating... Upon walking in, I knew I made a good choice today. Got the pulled pork sandwich with mashed potatoes and jalapeño corn bread on the side. Sanwhich: very messy the way it should be. Added some extra bbq and finished in seconds. Mashed potatoes and corn bread : I hate jalapeño corn bread. I saw this on there and knew I could trust Eli's to change my mind - they did just that. Mashed potatoes were also very good. I will be coming back and and back and back and I would recommend this to anyone and anyone who enjoys good bbq. P.s. Heard they have byob too. Haven't tested that yet...
(5)Michael S.
Some of the best BBQ I've ever had and definitely the best in Cincinnati. For one of the best deals in the city go on Monday for the 2-for-1 rib tips. Although my favorite things in the menu is the hot dog platter. Be sure to get crispins on the sides as the deep fried coating makes all of them better. To avoid the long wait during peak hours call ahead and by the time you get there the food will be ready. That way you don't have to wait outside when it's cold or try to fight for limited indoor and outdoor seating.
(5)lisa w.
ambiance: casual and inviting. americana curated with taste. the inside is pretty small, but no worries, there's plenty of tables outside (complete with music and heaters). perfect for any occasion, with any number of guests. food: over the top amazing bbq. i wanted more of everything. all sides are also amazing. i know because we made it a point to try every single item on the menu over a course of 3 visits. service. excellent. nothing fancy but certainly friendly, quick and knowledgeable. l there was a little fly issue outside the door, but i think that's kind of inevitable given the in and out food delivery
(5)Chris C.
Well, we expected to have to wait to order on a Friday night, and we did wait 30 minutes. What we didn't expect was that AFTER ordering it would take an HOUR to get our food! It's BYOB and we had only brought 2 beers each, and they were gone by the time we got our food :( so we had nothing to drink with our food (NOT waiting in line again). The food was good, but not worth the wait. Won't be back.
(3)Justin M.
I have had Eli's BBQ all over the city but have never specifically ordered it and eaten it from their base camp - which was a mistake. I've always loved Eli's food when I've eaten and now I love it even more getting it directly from the source. Just take every positive thing said about Eli's and insert here _______ because it is nothing but the truth. Eli's is without a doubt the best BBQ in the city, I don't care what you say. I speak the truth. Starting with the food. Pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw on top...NOM. Mac and Cheese - creamy, hot, and delectable...NOM. Jalapeno cornbread - moist, crumbly, rich...NOM. Rib - tender, sauced up, fall off the bone...NOM. What I am saying is there really isn't a WRONG option here. For drinks they don't have much. They offer bottled water, Coke, Diet Coke, etc. Oh, and Orange Crush in a glass bottle. Really the only way you should have Orange Crush. On to the experience. It is one in a million. The large outside patio/picnic area is a perfect setup for a BBQ restaurant. You are able to smell the smoker going while sitting under to large ceiling fan clad tents or on the lawn with a blanket picnic style. We chose to bring our dogs and let them hang out as we devoured Eli's luscious offerings. They also have Dojo Gelato hanging out in case you need a dessert after your belly satisfying meal. Because really, how can you not succumb to the pressure of enjoying a Dojo after your Eli's? At the end of the day Eli's BBQ is an experience more than anything. Cheap delicious food, outdoor dining area, BYOB, Dojo, time with family and friends. What else could you ask for - except maybe a stretcher to carry you out after you eat too much!
(5)Michael M.
Been coming to Eli's for over two years. Hands down the best BBQ in Cincy even over Mont Gom. Prices are great, environment is A+ and you cannot go wrong with BYOB! I would recommend this place to anyone. You will not be disappointed. From their bbq sauce to their cole slaw it is all unreal! Only down fall is cash only....
(5)Lauren J.
This is a place you eat at once and hope it'll be around forever. It's simple, order at the counter and then take your number to the table. Not much inside seating, which can be a pain- but they have plenty of tables outside. The BBQ is phenomenal and is one of those meals you think back on 2 days later. It's really that good. Try the cornbread.
(5)Mary N.
The food here is awesome. I always get the pulled pork sandwich and jalapeño cornbread. My only complaint is the wait sometimes. One time we were quoted 45mins-1 hour which turned into an hour and a half. Last time I tried to call ahead and their phone line never picked up. Will continue to come here when there's a reasonable wait, but I guess being busy isn't a bad thing, for them.
(4)Joey M.
This place is crazy good and it is BYOB! Come get drunk and make sure you order the grits.
(5)Kathryn D.
My boyfriend and I had waited a long time for it to be nice enough to eat outside here! We both got pulled pork ($5), plus a couple sides ($2 ea). The BBQ is a little spicy for me but still delicious (still some of the best)! The sides, not so much. Boyfriend got jalapeño grits, which we're alright. The mac and cheese, which was recommended, just tasted like American cheese and Velveeta to me- way too gluey and "artificial" tasting. Atmosphere is great! Live music, plenty of seating and plenty of shady spots. Parking wasn't too difficult for us either. Next time I'll remember to BYOB, though. You will definitely need more than a single bottle of water or a soda ($1 and $2).
(4)Ralph H.
The good: The pulled pork on the generic bun smamich was purdy dang good. The mac and cheese was same as you get at the store. The jalapeno corny-bread was purdy dang good. The bad: Why the fudge they gotta have all that loud-ass music blaring so damned loud for? They don't need that crap. Hell... people wanna talk to each other without having to hear all that junky junk already. The bad: No CC. Cash only. No fountain drinks. All bottle. That includes water. The ugly: Bees! Lots and lots of aggressive bees. Eat inside when you go there. So, if they'd take cards, get rid of the damned loud-ass music and the bees, hell, they'd be gettin' more stars now, wouldn't they? But damn.. the best pork smamich evar. Ain' no other bbq joint touch that smamich.
(3)Lisa M.
So, so good! The BBQ ribs were quite possibly some of the best I've ever eaten in my life. The dry rub was stellar. If I lived in Cincy, I'd probably be here at least once a week. A must try!
(5)Dana K.
This is definely the best pulled pork in the Cincinnati area. The baked beans are smokey flavored and are delicious . For $8 I got a HUGH sandwich, cole slaw and baked beans. Long lines at 4:30 tell the popularity of this place. Remember cash or check only..no credit cards.
(5)Amy W.
I feel a little silly leaving yet ANOTHER raving review of Eli's because it's pretty obvious how awesome this place is. The menu is small and everything tastes great, it's super reasonably priced, you can BYOB and play one of your old favorite records on the record player, so what else is there to say about Eli's? I have no clue. Eat there if you haven't already. At some point, you're going to be the only person in Cincinnati that hasn't eaten at the tastiest, most inexpensive, cool, BBQ place in town. What does that say about you?
(5)Marcia M.
Simple menu, great food, great atmosphere. Love the indoor/outdoor vibe. Parking could be a problem if busy but we had no trouble with that.
(5)Gerardo R.
I think these ribs are the best in town. But, I always prefer the rib tips, which are the best deal. Usually pick a side, Jalapeno Cheese Grits or Creamy Southern Coleslaw. Nice you can bring your own drink. Keep in mind it's only cash.
(5)Elaine W.
The consensus is that nowhere in town beats Eli's for some pulled pork lovin' (don't even mention Montgomery Inn). I have to say the pulled pork sandwich is fantastic. The pulled pork itself is so juicy, and the coleslaw complements the bbq sauce perfectly. Bun could be a little sturdier (with all the goodness inside it's somewhat mushy). All in all it's the perfect messy summer sandwich. Have also heard people rave about the hot dogs (best gourmet dogs in town?!) and the rib tips, which I'll have to try sometime. Don't be fooled into thinking you're making a healthy choice with the smoked turkey sandwich. Apparently the reason it's the best smoked turkey you ever had is because they smoke it right under the pork so that all the good fatty juices from the pork drizzle onto the turkey. YUM. Half the allure of the simple menu is the sides: best sweet/spicy baked beans ever, and I love the jalapeno cheesy grits! Sides are so good that you'd be a weirdo to only get a sandwich instead of the $8 plate. Some people even order more to bring home. As a result, the wait to order can be excruciating, plus another 40 min to get your food after ordering. Worst is probably Friday dinner when there's a live band. Best time for speedy service is weekday lunch hours (practically no wait). You can also call ahead to order and come pick up. But the experience of enjoying your BBQ with byob and music in the picnic area in the back on a summer night is worth the wait.
(5)Channon S.
I just don't get the hype. I ordered a pulled pork sandwich and it was just nothing special. Only one sauce to choose from, generic Kroger bun.... I....just.....don't.....get...it.
(2)Momo N.
It was ok. Nothing was really standing out compare to other bbq places around cincinnati.
(3)Johannah M.
The Best !!!! I was in taste bud heaven with the ribs! Melted in my mouth !!
(5)Ashley K.
Eli's is one of the few places that I actually get cravings for. I think I've had nearly everything on the menu and never been disappointed. My absolute guilty pleasure food is the "dirty" hotdogs (topped with coleslaw, BBQ sauce and crumbled bacon). Hands down one of the best things I've ever had. I'm betting that it's only a matter of time before Guy Fieri tries these on DDD!
(5)Brian G.
Amazing, craft BBQ. Went there on a whim and will definitely be a return trip.
(5)Kelsey H.
I went here for the first time ever and the BBQ was pretty tasty! It's probably the BEST BBQ I've had in Cincinnati. I had the smoked turkey sandwich (but only ate the turkey, no bun) and I thought it was super flavorful, especially smothered in the smokey rich sauce. A little bit too salty for my taste though. The baked beans were PHENOMENAL!! Probably the best baked beans I've ever had.. they were packed with flavor and they had a huge KICK! Definitely not for people who shy away from spicy foods. The place was busy for a Monday night in Cincinnati.. it seems like business is doing super well! Not much seating inside but they have a sizeable area outside. Don't forget: BYOB! They do have small cups, but bring your own cups if you need some.
(4)Kristen D.
My best friend lives in Cinci and hasn't stopped talking about this "cool BYOB BBQ place" that she always wants to go to. Finally had the chance to try it this weekend! The menu is so easy: choose your main dish (ribs, pulled pork, etc.). Then, choose two sides (grits, cornbread, mac & cheese, beans, etc.). Get all that for $8. It is seriously SO MUCH FOOD for a fantastic price. I'm still dreaming about the mac& cheese, and the BBQ sauce is addicting. Meat was to die for! Beans were slightly spicy. Everything else about Eli's absolutely rocks. It totally was nothing like I expected: you drive up to a bunch of tents and picnic tables where people are just hanging around waiting for their food. Walk into a small house that looks like it should be an apartment...there's a record playing in the corner, some tables inside, a small, one person bathroom, and a tiny counter where you place your order. They bring your food out to you when it's done, so grab a seat and enjoy all the awesomeness around you. One other thing I loved: they had a boombox attached to the top of the tent outside playing Johnny Cash on repeat. You'd never notice it if you weren't paying attention, but I loved this tiny detail. It helped me fall in love with this place even more. I can't wait to go back to Cinci again for the sole purpose of eating at Eli's. This place absolutely needs to be on a TV show!!
(5)Jes O.
This is the best BBQ in Cincinnati. Hands down. Or up. It doesn't matter, its that good. Even better is the BYOB. I mean come on, does it get any better than that? Grab your best friends and meet us at Elis!
(5)Mr And Mrs G.
MR says ... best BBQ!!! MRS says ... I can easily give this place a perfect score for several reasons: - great BBQ. they make it a little charred and crispy-licious. 4pcs ribs is plenty - sides are delicious and tasty. get the crispy pork toppings with mac&cheese and grits - get the corn bread, it's yummy!!! - open seating, picnic style BUT what's disappointing is ... they don't accept debit/credit cards!!! CA$H only please. I don't carry ca$h often and when I feel like stopping by ELI's ... usually, I don't have the CA$H so boooooo!!!! but sure love love love this place. and YES! I'm a FAN :)
(4)Laurie E.
I absolutely love this place. The atmosphere is cool and laid back. You eat outdoors in the summer and winter. It's kept really warm. The food is very affordable and delicious. The best BBQ in town for sure!
(5)Jann W.
The pulled pork and smoked turkey are the real deal. Jalapeno grits are amazing and quite spicy. Minimal advertising so watch for the pig sign on the front street. Park around back and enjoy your meal on wooden picnic benches outside behind the restaurant. In our opinion and having moved from Texas, this is the best barbecue in Cincinnati. And we love that it is a BYOB. Everyone was opening beer from their coolers outside and it's a fun atmosphere.
(5)Rachel T.
I love Eli's and it pains me to review them this way so I want to state that their food is great but do NOT cater with them! I was planning my wedding for months and from out of state. I'm from Cincy and moved back recently and got married here. The food order I placed with their online guides after speaking to someone about how much I should order for the picnic catering for my wedding. I wanted to ensure I ordered enough sides since my vegetarian friends love their sides too. I was told to use the web guide and I doubled what was suggested. After paying my deposit and the rest of the order and delivery, it arrived at my event and half way through the guests we totally ran out!!! This was so embarrassing and awful and after inquiring with them they pawned it as carelessness on my part after claiming I had remaining balance that they would cover for me that I had already paid! Insulting me further. This was a terrible experience I can never undo and unfortunately it was in what was supposed to be the greatest day of my life. After double checking my order to see if I was shorted to find it was an ordering oversight on their catering team, I reiterated how confusing their buying guide was for picnic orders urging them to revise so this wouldn't happen to anyone else and so far the suggestion hasn't been acknowledged or valued in any way. I got a generic ramble about essentially how careless I was about not asking the specific question "is this enough" after doubling what they advised! Ridiculous and terrible catering customer service. This could have totally been avoided and now there's no changing the disaster that happened. Please don't let them do this to you event too. Be very careful and deliberate! Now they're claiming that I owe them a deposit they cashed.
(1)Sarah D.
Well I am easily 10lbs heavier because I've my visit to Ohio and I blame it all on you Eli's!! You forced me to eat a pulled pork sandwich, order of ribs and two sides of mac and cheese. Just forced it down my throat!! This place is amazing - get there early since the wait is out of control busy in the evening. Took about an hour to get our food but totally worth the wait.
(5)Bob C.
Great bbq with a laid back Sunday afternoon atmosphere. Warm days bring a crowd so be prepared to wait a while for some of the best bbq in the city. Mac and cheese, mashed potatoes and bbq are favorites.
(4)Darrell M.
BBQ Pride of Cincinnati Eli's is right there on my short list of best food in Cincinnati. As we sit in the dead of winter, I can think of nothing more amazing than when this Spring rolls around and my wife and I can bring a six-pack of beer down to Eli's, sit outside at a picnic table and enjoy the best barbeque in the city... state... world! I have family in South Carolina who came with us to Eli's this fall and had no issue placing Eli's at or above what they'd had in the heart of Barbeque country. I love this place so much! Pulled pork is so good it's hard to even try anything else and the Cheese Grits, Mac and Cheese, Cornbread, and Baked Beans are all out of this world. We even brought a container of baked beans to my dad in Indiana because he'd been craving them even since we took him here last year. Writing this review has me thinking I'll be back to Eli's in the next week!
(5)Leo Y.
Expect an hour wait time for dinner. The line starts at the register, runs the whole length of the building, and then take a right out the door, stretching nearly the length of the property. This allows one to study the place from the outside, and the inside, in great detail. The decor is quite lovely, with a working record player, collection of records and a vintage amplifier providing the perfect soundtrack of eagles for the scene. After finally getting to the register, and paying for my food, I went outside to make a few phone calls on the lawn, while it was being prepared. About 15 minutes later, my name was called, I grabbed the to go bag, and headed to my car. Deciding to check the food in the car, I realized that it wasn't mine, and not in my favor. Walking back to the counter, I handed back my incorrect order, received an apology, and received my correct order, with an extra rib thrown in, roughly five minutes later. Once I finally received my food, found it to be a solid four stars. Nothing to change your life, and not the best BBQ that I've ever had, but a solid meal for a decent price.
(4)Eric S.
Went once with a group of friends and will DEFINITELY be going back! I walked up and noticed a table of friends chomping on a tray of deliciously smoked rip tips. I thought, "oh, they bought some kind of group deal." Observing a little further, I noticed my friend had a sweaty glow about him and was on the verge of uncomfortable. "Dude," he said, "please help me eat these!" Turns out, Eli's had a deal for 5 FREAKING POUNDS of rib tips for $8. Are you kidding me?!!!??? So, we obliged. My wife, and I, 2 kids, and a friend not only ate these for dinner, but enjoyed their deliciousness throughout the week. Other huge perks of Eli's - 1. BYOB - nuff said. 2. Outdoor seating - adjoining large field was perfect for young kids. You can eat great food here and not have to constantly shush the kids. They can play and have a blast, and come to the picnic tables to eat as needed. 3. Fun Atmosphere - everyone was having a good time, and they had a DJ 4. Great for families As for sides, the baked beans and jalapeno grits were a must. My wife devoured the cheesy goodness of the grits. As probably noted by others - you need CASH, check or Reds tickets. Funny story. Some of our friends didn't have cash. Guy behind them picks up their tab and gives them extra saying, "take your family to the movies." Who is it? None other than Dusty Baker! Very cool. Can't wait to go back and bring others to Eli's!
(5)Mort H.
Awesome food. The flavor was outstanding. I didn't know whether to keep eating and die happy, or save the goodness for later. So I ended up taking the remaining half of an order of the double order of rib tips home. That half order made for an excellent breakfast item. We dined in the early evening, so there was ample seating inside. The outside setup looked odd at first. However, knowing what I know now, I know I would sit outside for another chance to dine at this location. As mentioned in another review, I hope to be back several times to work my way down the menu.
(5)Martha C.
Came to Eli's with a few friends for some grub. Being that Eli's has been getting a lot of media lately for Best BBQ in the region (i.e. Food & Wine), we were glad to find a spot at one of the many picnic tables. The wait ended up being about 25 minutes for food, which for a nice Saturday evening, wasn't bad. We missed out on the BYOB, but now know for next time. As for the food, I thought it was OK. I ended up ordering the turkey, which might have been why I was happy with it, but not overly impressed. It wasn't dry or anything, it just wasn't fantastic. I added some extra BBQ sauce, and that seemed to help it out.....along with the cole slaw that they put on top of the sandwich. And, if you can't tell the cole slaw was awesome. The other sides seemed pretty good as well. One recommendation I have for Eli's would be for them to provide multiple sauces for you to put on yourself. I myself prefer a vinegar based BBQ sauce and one of the people I was with preferred a sweeter sauce. I think that would help make Eli's a little more unique and a little more for everyone.
(4)Melissa W.
I am not an easy judge of barbecue, but OMG, Eli's serves some amazing 'que! The hot dogs don't sound like a culinary explosion, but are they ever! Best ribs I have ever eaten outside my own grill. Turkey is way underserved in my opinion- Eli's turkey is the absolute bomb. And the pulled pork that started it all is smoky, fatty, crispy, awesomeness. The BYOB policy makes it so fun to park at a picnic table with a cooler, listen to some fun bluegrass tunes, and eat some fantastic food. Go! It is worth the wait, but if you want to avoid the crowds, go between 2 and 5 on Sunday.
(5)John B.
I've been back a couple times since my original review and I've gotta give credit where credit is due. I love their food and find it to be magically delicious comfort food. I'm glad that its warm enough to eat outside at the picnic tables. This place is a perfect meeting spot for a group of friends on a warm spring/summer night. So, grab some cold ones, bottles of wine, or go dry, but get out and support this place.
(5)Andy L.
Hidden BBQ gem east of town. Great lunch haunt. Ask for the crispins for a buck on your mac n cheese. Worth it!
(5)Paul K.
This is a party every time! Outdoor seating at picnic tables, covered and it has overhead fans so it's usually comfortable. Indoor seating is limited but fun. Bring your own beverages, don't be in a hurry...typical wait time on weekends is 1 hour and that's after you waited in line to place your order. Again, byob so who cares. Ok, now the important stuff...FOOD. Pulled pork sandwich comes with a bit of sauce and coleslaw unless you tell them to put it on the side. This is my favorite and...It's awesome, smokey, moist enough...perfect. I've had the smoked turkey sandwich and it's really good. The baked beans are killer, the cheddar jalapeño grits are great and I'm not a huge grit fan...I had the dirty dog which comes with slaw, BBQ sauce and pork cracklings...yep. Last and not least...I've had their ribs and these are perfect. Skip the mashed potatoes, they're not bad... It's just that everything else is superb. I take people here that are in from out of town and they love it. This place is a gem.
(5)Jamey B.
Ate here for lunch today. Had to try some Cincinnati BBQ and this place didn't disappoint. The food was cheap and ribs were excellent. I would highly recommend getting ribs, the best thing I ate. The pulled pork sandwich was good but not as great as the ribs. Also tried the naked beans, it was pretty good when you mix in their BBQ sauce. Also liked the fact you could sit outside in the tent area on the picnic tables to add to the feel of backyard BBQ
(4)Tom T.
This is a great place for smoked meats! Pulled pork is fantastic. I tried the Mac and Cheese and it was good but I have had better. Next time, I'll try a different side. Overall , I are lunch for $10 and it included a drink, pulled pork with slaw, Mac and cheese and a side of cornbread. Very good deal and the food was perfect. Can't wait to try the ribs or the smoked turkey next time. Almost forgot, their sauce was very tasty... Not too sweet with a slight kick. Next time I will bring down a few beers to wash my food down as they do not have a permit to sell alcohol yet. Byob and pulled pork.. A winning combo. Don't forget this is a cash only place!!!!
(5)Ryan P.
Finally, I've found amazing barbecue in Cincinnati! I've heard so much about Eli's, but just now got the chance to go there. I enjoyed a nice outdoor lunch with some coworkers, and we all left happy. I always use the pulled pork sandwich to test how good a barbecue place is, so I ordered one (slaw on top, yes please!) along with the jalapeno cornbread and jalapeno cheese grits (dirty style too, with crispy pork bits on top). The sandwich was amazing. The bun is nice and toasted, also not too big and not too small. The pork is super smoky, with lots of little burned bits. The sauce was nice and tangy, and they didn't use too much, like some lesser BBQ joints do. The slaw was creamy, delicious, and gave a nice crunch to the sandwich. The combination of everything came together perfectly to form the best pulled pork sandwich in the Queen City. My sides were amazing as well. The cornbread wasn't too sweet, and wasn't too spicy. I was worried that I didn't have any butter to put on it, but it didn't really need it, as it wasn't too dry. When I first tried the grits, I dug under the "dirty style" crispy pork bits to get a bite without those in it. The grits were creamy, super cheesy, and incredibly spicy (way much more so than the cornbread). After mixing the pork bits in, I didn't like them nearly as much. You couldn't taste the cheese and the true flavor of the grits, the burned smoke flavor and heat from the jalapenos overwhelmed them. I'll be sure to leave the dirty style option off next time. The decor of this place is great. There's a turntable and great record collection where you can spin whatever tunes you want. After placing your order at the counter in the back, if you can't find a seat at one of the 5-6 tables inside, there's a ton of picnic tables outside under a tent, and there's even a barefoot grass area. Parking is in a private lot behind the building off a side street, or there's spots up front on Riverside too. One thing that really brings this place from a 4 star to a 5 star is the price. It's only $8 for a sandwich and two sides. Sodas are $2 each, which isn't a good deal for the Ale-8 that I drink, but a really good deal for the Mexican Coke that my coworker got. I'll be sure to order one of those next time, or maybe I'll just bring some beer, as this place is BYOB. It's a hell of a value here, and the food is worth every penny and more. Come down and try it for yourself!
(5)Aaron Z.
This is now my 3rd five star review from Cincinnati, something is going on here.The only Q joints I know are Bay area , but this place blew all others away, by a wide margin. They should call the joint Pavlov's Q, 'cause you salivate as soon as you walk in the door, the massive force of nature smoker out back permeates the air inside. The menu and pricing is simple, but we all had the pulled pork. Creative sides like jalapeno cheese grits, and hot 'n spicy black beans along with the usual slaw and cornbread all excellent. You order, pay, head outside to one of the 20 or so picnic tables, then wait for your name to be called. It's all cash and BYOB which ensures your favorite beverage will be served .Pulled pork was the best I've had, hot , smoky, complex. perfectly balances with the slaw. I heard weekends the place jams with long lines and live music on the low wooden platform stage. This Monday was cool and laid back. Great way to chill thru a super satisfying dinner.For those in need of doing their 'bidness, there are unlit Port-O-Lets outside as well. Figure out your phones flashlight function before entering.
(5)Cindy Y.
The pulled pork bbq was excellent, it totally lived up to expectations. So excellent that it made me crave a true southern dessert, such as a cobbler or pecan pie. Nothing else would do. Not ice cream, not a chocolate bar from the store, not a cookie. But there is no dessert on the menu. A true southern dessert would be a great addition to the menu. Maybe a cobbler of the day?
(4)Soly Z.
Oh man, was this place ever good! Another hidden gem that we wouldn't have discovered if it weren't for Yelp. The turkey was so tender and the sauce was delicious. We ordered a sampling of the sides, including mac & cheese, cole slaw, the potatoes, and beans, and they were all equally delicious.
(5)Sarah F.
If for no other reason, I asked my friends to go to Eli's BBQ for lunch because it's been the #1 restaurant under "Best of Yelp" for a really long time now. I like BBQ but can't honestly call myself a BBQ enthusiast because I don't eat pork. So ordering at a BBQ restaurant sometimes feels like ordering a pecan pie, hold the pecans. Anyway, I digress. Eli had a meat option for me--a delicious smoked turkey sandwich and lots of heavenly (pork-free) sides so I was a happy camper. On a recent Saturday afternoon, the line was very long to order, but moved quickly. I selected the smoked turkey sandwich with a side of coleslaw and jalapeno cheese grits (upon one friend's effusive recommendation for the grits). That's unfortunately when the wait really started. While tempting smells wafted around us, we stood outside and waited for our food to come up for a looooong time--guessing it was 25-30 minutes, but it sure felt like longer. And that was really my only complaint. You can sit inside or outside under a large tent or at picnic tables in open air. It was a pretty nice day so we snagged a picnic table. It's kind of a strange setting because you're sitting in what feels like a vacant lot in a slightly run-down neighborhood, but it all fades into a distant background once you start eating. The smoked turkey was delicious and I would certainly order it again. The coleslaw was tasty, but I actually learned after I ordered that they will give you a small cup to put on your sandwich gratis, so would just go for that next time instead of a separate side. But the jalepeno cheese grits--oh my stars! My friends gave me strange looks when I started to eat because I was letting out involuntary groans of pleasure. Yes, they are that good. So I hope they find a way to move things along a little more efficiently in the kitchen because I would love to make this place a regular destination. At the very least, plan to arrive before you're really hungry because you'll certainly be ready to eat once the food comes!
(4)Karen D.
This is the place to be in Cincinnati Eli's BBQ! I went for lunch with a networking contact and we sat outside under one of the big tents, $5 sandwiches and $2 sides, plus they have ice cold Ale 8 food is served within minutes of ordering. Great value for lunch under $10 per person. As noted in previous reviews CASH only so come prepared.
(4)KC K.
Love the vibe here. Had the ribs and a pulled pork sandwich. Ribs: A++ meat was tender with flavor that was so intense you didn't need sauce. If you are expecting fall off the bone meat here, think again. They don't pressure cook the crap out of it and hide the flaws with a metric ass ton of sauce. The dry rub on these puppies are as close to a religious experience as I have had with BBQ. Tried all of the sides which were all equally good but not great. The pulled pork was average. I really wanted to love it but my experience with world class Eastern NC BBQ wouldn't let me do it. (If you're in NC try Parker's or Pete Jones) Maybe adding some more skin in the pulled pork would up the flavor? Just my take. In conclusion, go for the ribs, skip the pulled pork.
(4)Crystal M.
I did take-out with Eli's bbq since we were in a rush. The drive back home was torturous since the food smelled so good! 1) There are large tents set up in the back along with long benches for you to eat on. Since we went in the winter, there was no one there and space wasn't an issue. The inside of the restaurant is pretty small. 2) Pulled pork sandwich with side of mac and cheese: Mac and cheese was super cheesy and very thick, but I'm someone who LOVES cheese, so that wasn't an issue. The sandwich itself was pretty tasty. I usually find that pulled pork is too dry in most restaurants, but I liked it here. It was pretty moist and tender, but I will say it was slightly dry. 3) Ribs: I love ribs and I HATE restaurants who serve dry ribs where the meat doesn't fall off the bone. Not an issue here! The meat is soft and tender. I'm sure it would've tasted even better if I hadn't done take-out and ate it right at the restaurant. The bbq sauce for the ribs and the pulled pork are the same. I really liked their sauce. It's sweet with a little kick, and not too overwhelming with the bbq flavor. 4) Jalapeno cornbread: Really enjoyed this! Your typical cornbread with a little twist. At first bite you don't get the jalapeno flavor, but wait a second or two and you feel the jalapeno spice. Just enough to remind you that this isn't your typical cornbread. Just remember that this place is CASH or check only! I split a 6 rib and pulled pork sandwich with 2 sides meal with someone else and it was pretty filling. Everything came out to less than $25 dollars, which is pretty good. Did I also mention that I'm from texas? Anyways, I 'll probably come back in the summer time.
(4)Shawn A.
Lives up to the hype. Staff also great. I accidentally made a mistake on my order, entirely my fault, staff redid it no questions asked.
(5)Rob S.
Great place for anyone to go including families. Bring a football or a frisbee and toss it around. Sit outside at the picnic tables and be sure to BYOB. The pulled pork sandwich was ordered by multiple people in our party and everyone loved it. We also had the rib tips and the ribs which were excellent. Be sure to try the jalapeño grits and baked beans as your sides. We did have to wait 50minutes for our food, but we were told before hand it would take this long. This gave us a chance to have a few drinks.
(5)Michele G.
I love BBQ and this is one of the best I have ever had. It is the best for Cincinnati. I always over eat when I am here. Everything is awesome. I don't even think I like grits but I like theirs. I of course took my foodie daughter and she loved the pulled pork sandwich and cole slaw. The fact that they smoke the pork you know it's going to be good!
(5)Celeste W.
Food is cheap and taste is absolutely awesome! I had their pulled pork sandwich and also their ribs, absolutely delicious and cooked to perfect! Definitely recommend this place!
(5)Whitney H.
This place delivers the best looking/tasting hot dog in the whole world! 2 hot dogs with BBQ sauce, crispy pork, and cole slaw? I died and went to heaven! I will always order these hot dogs. It's a small joint with great service and a cute little pig sign out front! I dream of the day when I can live in the same city as Eli's!
(5)Kyle B.
Eli's doesn't need another review - it is well established as the best BBQ joint in the area. If you are a local and haven't made the effort to try it by now, please just stay home - or go to Montgomery Inn - the lines are already long enough.
(5)Renee S.
Went here for dinner with a few friends and LOVED it! We all got the Pulled Pork sandwich with either baked beans or the Mac & cheese. The beans were spicy, but delicious. The Mac & cheese was very cheesy, so if you like cheesy, you will be in cheese heaven. It's obvious this is a favorite of the locals. The atmosphere creates a warm and interesting feel. Not a first date place, more like a "me and my best friend wanna feast our faces off" type of place. Limited menu, but great BBQ food. Cash or check only! Another plus is that it's BYOB! I would definitely recommend it to friends who are driving through Cincinnati.
(5)Michelle G.
Food was good, grits excellent, but aftwr a 30 minute wait in line to order, then they tell me 1 more hour until food BUT after 1.5 hour I still had NO FOOD. I asked and got read the riot act. Sorry. But the food was good, not great, and the attitude was Really poor.
(2)Jen B.
My favorite BBQ of all time! All of the sides are amazing as well! I don't even notice the wait because the environment is so fun! The pulled pork sandwich, baked beans and Mac and cheese are my favorite!
(5)Marie A.
FOOD ROCKS! They only take cash, so plan ahead. Great food, decor, and very quick during lunch. Love this place...Try them out at local festivals as well. They also are generous supports to local non profits like the YMCA. Class act! Thanks Eli's!
(5)Sarah B.
My husband and I are from Kansas City and definitely enjoy some good, cheap BBQ. You will get that with Eli's and more. If you don't like the outdoors you can stay in and listen to record on the record player or venture outside to listen to live music on select nights. There is always a crowd so call ahead to order if you can. Pulled pork with coleslaw is heaven with mac and cheese on the side.
(5)Jason H.
Great weekday lunch option if you want to avoid the crazy weekend crowds, especially in nice weather.
(4)Brittany S.
The food is great but they only take cash (and don't have an atm). Large portions don't allow you to try multiple sides (tip: share with friends).
(4)Caitlin M.
This is the best dinner I have had in...forever. I think my total meal cost $9 including a tip and I was absolutely stuffed and satisfied. The BBQ sandwich topped with cole slaw...PERFECTION. I got the mac n cheese and jalapeño cheddar biscuit on the side. The mac n cheese was that "so good it's bad for you" kind...swimming in cheese. The biscuit was great too because it wasn't too spice, just a perfect amount of kick. Please do yourself a favor and eat here the next chance you get!
(5)Emily S.
Love this place. Pulled pork sammy, mac n' cheese and the cornbread are the bomb. Be sure to bring CASH!!
(5)Laura A.
Excellent food. The pulled pork was very tasty. Rivals anything you can get in Memphis. The baked beans were good but a bit Spicy for my taste. The building is not much to look at but that adds to the charm. It was packed and seats were hard to come by. It is definetly a repeat destination
(5)Kaitlyn F.
Pulled pork and mac and cheese is amazing! Eli's is a great place to go with friends on a nice summer day. You can sit outside, BYOB, eat great inexpensive food, and in the summer there's sometimes an ice cream truck outside.
(5)Megan B.
This place is AWESOME!! If you're new to or a native of Cincinnati and you think that other place by the river has good BBQ then you are crazy! Eli's is the real deal - their food is mouthwatering and well worth the wait that often comes with eating there. You can't go wrong with ribs or pulled pork. It's BYOB, cash only, and very hard to find with only a small swinging pig sign out front. It's also PACKED most of the time but again - totally worth it! I've lived in many states and have had BBQ all over the U.S. and I think that Eli's is maybe the best BBQ I've ever had. I think they also have a food truck on Fountain Square once the weather warms up - maybe on Thursday afternoons? Go get you some BBQ!
(5)Sophia B.
So delicious! I love their cheesy jalapeno grits!
(5)Liz C.
I have had dreams of this place! Succulent and flavorful barbeque , graced by a divine nectar of the gods sauce. Wonderful outside atmosphere and a friendly staff on top of everything. A must try in cincinnati.
(5)Alyssa R.
Eli's is a must-go in Cincinnati. Absolutely incredible barbecue. Just make sure you bring cash and a few beers!
(5)Pete L.
What a great find this was for me while I was in town for work. The mac and cheese was very cheesy and one of the top 10 I have ever had. The grits were easily the best grits I have ever had in my life, and I am a grit lover! The coleslaw had a great creamy taste, and I got it on the side instead of on the pork bbq sandwich. The pork was cooked to perfection, the sauce was the perfect level of sweet and bbq and the bun was warm and did not fall apart. You MUST go here!
(5)Jeff L.
This is a nice place to kick back, relax, and enjoy some tasty bbq. Between three of us, we ordered 3 bbq pork sandwiches, 6 ribs, and three sides (mac & cheese, jalapeno cheese grits, and jalapeno cornbread)... BBQ PORK SANDWICHES: Tasty, prefer cole slaw on the side. The bread is nothing special, and the meat itself was perhaps a little too salty. But it's filling and otherwise pretty good for $5 each. SIDES: The mac n' cheese was composed of chewy macaroni noodles and oozing, delicious liquid cheese. Jalapeno cheese grits were also good--reminded me of the grits version of a certain flavor of Combos (remember that snack?). Jalapeno cornbread was nothing to write home about, but there wasn't much to complain about. RIBS: This was the star of the show. They had an excellent dry rub + smoke-permeated flavor. No need for any additional sauce. About as good as it gets! This place seems to get pretty busy, so be prepared for time to park and wait in line.
(4)Katherine M.
MMMM!!!! I saw this opened on Yelp's new in Cincinnati page and had been stalking it, even though I live 8 hours away. On my day and a half in Cincinnati, this was my 'I need to try this' place. So I convinced my parents to come with me, and boy, were we all glad. First, the place is pretty cute and has off street parking - although it's gravel and kinda hard to get into - I appreciate anywhere with parking. It's a little off the path in Columbia Tusculum. There is an amazingly shaggy dog next door. The interior is decorated with a bunch of antiques and has a record player and a bunch of records so you can pick your songs. It's a small place, but has a nice homey feel. You go up to a counter and order where the menu is also on a big blackboard. I ordered the pulled pork sandwich (sans coleslaw) with the jalapeno cornbread and mac and cheese. Oh my gosh. The pork was well smoked, juicy, and perfectly made. The sauce was sweet with a good kick - one of the better sauces I have ever had. They toast and butter the buns - which is the best! But I did prefer eating my pork with the jalapeno cornbread and actually ate the pork with the cornbread - which was incredibly delicious. The mac and cheese was your typical BBQ place mac and cheese - it was good, but nothing to write home about. Overall, I was incredibly satisfied, as were my parents. My mom had the same meal as I did, and my dad had the 2 hot dogs, which he raved about because they put 'pulled pork crisps' on, which are like the little burnt pieces of the pork, and they put coleslaw and BBQ sauce on too. My dad LOVED it and said the combination of flavors was just great. They serve Coke in the bottles and diet Coke in the can, which is a downside for me. Couldn't tell if it was BYOB or they had beer, but people were drinking. I seriously just miss the Classy Pig, though, but this is a good enough replacement.
(4)Joni S.
Loved Eli's when it was a tent on Fountain Square and still love it today. Pulled pork and baked beans are simply delicious, add in the cole slaw and you just can't eat enough. Forever a fan & customer. Remember CASH only!
(5)shannon B.
After hearing much talk of this place, I finally tried it for myself. Parking is very challenging. There is no parking lot and parking is only allowed on one side of Riverside Drive. Upon arrival to the restaurant, the line to order food was out the door - always a good sign. We ordered the pulled pork sandwich plates. Unfortunately, our orders took over a half an hour to be called, one of the orders was wrong, and by the time my food arrived, my bottle of Coca-Cola (no cups, no ice) was warm. The music playing outside was deafening. We couldn't hear ourselves talking. The outdoor atmosphere is fun. It feels like a 1950s picnic grove but the use and location of the port-a-potties could be better thought-out. When there is a wind shift, you can smell it. Eli's doesn't offer ANY vegetable sides. I understand the BBQ theme, but they could at least offer green beans or corn on the cob which are as traditional with BBQ as mac and cheese. Carb overload. The pulled pork sandwich was delicious and overflowing but all in all, I would say they need to make some changes for it to be rated a 5 star experience.
(3)Amsul K.
Damn! This is some good bbq. I would give it 4 1/2 stars if I could for sure. I got the pulled pork sandwich plate and it was absolutely delicious. Got mac and cheese and jalapeno cornbread as the sides, both equally satisfying. I tried some of the wing tips that my friend had gotten and the piece I got was very juicy and very good. They know what they are doing with their bbq. The sauce was amazing as well (I was craving a lil bit of spice in my bbq sauce so maybe a spicy bbq sauce would be a great addition too). The cole slaw was creamy and went well with the sandwich. Cash only - so make sure you have that with you
(4)Nicholas T.
I felt like I was treated like George from Seinfeld's soup nazi episode- the cashier was rude and we left feeling embarrassed and angry. The food was awesome but we will not be back
(2)Lewis W.
Excellent barbecue and sides served up by a truly friendly crew. Ribs are dry-rubbed (sauce is available if you must). Mashed potatoes are nicely griddled for a change of pace, jalapeno-cheddar grits are tasty and just a bit spicy, baked beans are zesty and delicious (although the sauce could be a little thicker). Plates come with two sides and a little bit of creamy cole slaw. You can eat inside at a few tables or outside at picnic tables in a tent (mercifully heated in winter). No alcohol for sale, but you can bring your own. Otherwise, go for the Ale-8. Honestly, some of the best BBQ I've had outside of Texas. Can't wait to go back and try the pulled pork sandwich, which looked amazing.
(5)Lynnette H.
Absolutely delicious. Heard about this place on 700 WLW. My husband and I went down for lunch. 10 bones, between the two of us, Mac-and-cheese, baked beans, cheesy grits and coleslaw. The ribs were amazing, the cheesy grits-wow and yum, the baked beans-the best ever, coleslaw-fresh, spices and wonderful. The Mac-and-cheese was just ok. I can't wait to go back!! There's something about warm weather and BBQ. Love the fact you can eat inside or outside.
(5)Holly A.
LOVE Eli's BBQ! I generally go for the pulled pork sandwich with coleslaw and mac'n'cheese...tried the ribs last week and was anything but disappointed. The meat fell right off the bone and I didn't even need sauce the flavor was so good. I am also a huge fan of the BYOB aspect and outdoor picnic style dining. It is the perfect escape from my desk for a weekday lunch in the fresh air, just have to be sure I have the willpower to go back to work. *My French Bulldog Winston is also a lover of Eli's...just remember our 4 legged friends cannot go inside the building, but may enjoy the outdoor area. :)
(5)Shawn W.
Small menu (sadly, no beef brisket), but delicious. I ordered a couple of bones extra because I was afraid that a sandwich would not be enough. Wrong. The sandwich had to be a half-pound of pulled pork. The atmosphere screamed "Hipster" shabby-chic, but the people were extremely friendly and fast. Try it. Seriously!
(4)Javi M.
One of the best BBQ joints I've ever been to. Very home-y, no frills, very simple menu, cash only. Pulled pork sandwich was delicious. Not usually a fan of coleslaw, but theirs is seriously amazing. Get the sandwich with slaw on; the crunch it adds to the sandwich is worth the flavor risk. Place is BYOB, and has a spacious patio out back, sometimes invite some cool folk bands to play live. Jalapeño cornbread had great taste, but was a little dry. Mac&cheese was delicious, VERY cheesy. (I happen to like that, but it's not for everyone.) The restaurant is pretty popular right now, so be sure to time your visit right. Otherwise, be ready for a 30+ min line out the door (quite literally, the place is tiny).
(5)Brett B.
A group of us visited Eli's for the first time on Friday night. Very cool atmosphere, we even ran into Emilio Estevez which was a pretty cool experience. We arrived around 8 and were told it would be about an hour and 20 minute wait before our food would be ready. It ended up being about three hours. It was completely packed, but the fact that its BYOB and you can sit outside and hang out made it tolerable. My wife and I each had the pulled pork sandwich which was one of the best I've had. She had the mac & cheese as a side and really liked it. I had the coleslaw. It was ok. I'm just more into vinegar slaw than the creamy kind. We also tried a couple bones of ribs, which were not good at all. They were very chewy and not tender at all. I think we had a bad rack or something. The cost of dinner for us both was $23 which was pretty inexpensive. I'd definitely like to go back.
(4)Andy S.
First time at Eli's on Riverside. Great pulled pork sandwich, but the mac and cheese was way too creamy and rich. Please dial it back a bit! Noodles got lost. Overall, fun place to go.
(4)Adolfo N.
BBQ so good it's gonna make you slap your momma. Where have you been Eli...? catching them at Findlay is sometimes erratic, and I never tried them because there are always other yummy things calling my name. But we finally came here and boy was it worth it. The hot dogs were mind numbing good, the pulled pork is a game changer. The sides were simple, but hearty, add some bbq sauce to the mashed potatoes and mac and cheese. and BOOM. I'm a fan.
(5)Amanda B.
Eli's is an absolute favorite of mine and I find myself craving it all of the time! The toasted bun with smoked pulled pork, topped with slaw is amazing! I play softball at Schmidt Fields and would frequent Eli's either before or after our game. I hear they might be moving, I can understand why. This location is pretty small and doesn't offer much room for seating. But maybe they're just opening a second location in OTR instead of just their Findlay Market booth. Wishful thinking? I do agree with another poster about their sides. Unfortunately none are to die for and I wish they would offer up a simple side salad or veggy option. The sizes of the sides are pretty small and the mac and cheese is pretty bland and generic. I do really like the jalepeno grits and jalepeno cornbread, but still just wish they would offer side salad or something healthier. All this aside, the sandwiches alone speak for Eli's bbq and they mastered the perfectly slow cooked, smoked, pork sandwich! Now I want one...
(4)Brian E.
Wish I could give this place 5 stars, maybe after reading the reviews I was expecting Heaven on a bun. The sandwiches were good, they just weren't great. The way the smokers were going out back I thought the smoke flavor would be more prominent but it was lacking. Would love to go back to give a second try but it just wasn't good enough to take the extra time off the interstate.
(3)Jessica T.
Always amazingly delicious!
(5)S. H.
Yummy! At Eli's the BBQ is great and certainly the highlight. The sides are solid, but in this yelpe'rs opinion the sides are not as outstanding as the BBQ. The outdoor seating is fun and a great way to meet new people, as long as its not too cold. Eli's is worth the trip, but don't forget to bring cash, I do not think they accept credit cards & don't be impatient- good things come to those who sometimes have to wait.
(5)Stephanie H.
Ridiculously amazing BBQ, fantastic sides - must try the jalapeno grits. I'm not a grit fan, but these are a different story. The atmosphere is awesome - sit at a picnic table, inside if it's cold, or bring your own blanket and sit in the grass. And best of all BYOB. Cheap. Chill. and Delicious. What more could ya want.
(5)Steve C.
Food is outstanding. Register person could have been a little nicer on Sunday That's the only thing that could slow that place down. The people. Food is great.
(4)Kelly R.
BBQ just like I like it, not slathered in Cincinnati-style sweet sauce :( Keep up the good work!
(5)Joshua R.
Our friends came out of town to check out this "highly rated" restaurant. We were given a 1.5 hr wait time. However after 2.75 hrs later and no food we left. If you want to wast half your evening I am sure this is the place to go.
(1)Chuck D.
Visited around 2 PM on a weekday. No crowd at this time. Waited about 10 Minutes for our order. Great food. Rib tips were phenomenal. Sides were good, especially the beans (somewhat spicy). We will definitely return.
(5)Jessica M.
I absolutely love Eli's and I must admit I crave it more often than I would like. It's inexpensive--you can get an entire meal for 8 bucks! But come prepared it's BYOB and cash only. Enjoy!
(5)Daniel H.
Everything you have heard or read is true. Marvelous food. I wonder about what it's going to be like when it's too cold to sit at the picnic tables, but then, I can always eat in the car.
(5)Michael S.
Eli's BBQ is fantastic. I have tasted many of the great BBQ's across the country: Texas, Carolina, Kansas City, and I place Eli's at the top. The puled pork is so juicy and tender, but also has the perfect sweet crust to it. Truly some of the best BBQ in the country.
(5)Erin K.
Yum Yum Yum Pulled Pork in my tum! I tried Eli's for the first time at Midpoint Music Festival, so I didn't actually go to the restaurant - I tried one of the sandwiches at their little food truck station. That being said, I feel like I can't fully review how delicious the food could possibly be, having only had the sandwich. The sandwich in and of itself was very deserving of 4.5 stars, I'd give it 5 but I wish mine had a little bit more meat on it (but maybe they were being kind of scrimpy because of location and limited supply?) Anywho, definitely plan on visiting the restaurant. Rumor has it that they're opening a location downtown soon-ish!! Yay for cheap, delicious, expanded workday lunch options!
(4)Crystal G.
This place is absolutely fantastic! The BBQ is amazing, and if there is a wait, it's absolutely worth it!
(5)Dr. E.
I chuckled a bit when reading the 5 star reviews. "These people need to go to Philadelphia to understand what a 5 star pulled pork sandwich tastes like." I was wrong. This was the best pulled pork sandwich I've ever had. Maybe the best meat sandwich. These must be upstream color pigs or the pigs from animal farm cause they taste smart. I considered eating the carton the sandwich came in. A surprising mega success.
(5)Roth M.
Oh man, should I even write this review? Once the word gets out (if it isn't already), I might not be able to get my new love. Wow, seriously one of the best pulled pork sandwiches I've ever had, and I went to school in South Carolina. The smokey-ness is fantastic, and it was melt in your mouth tender. I usually drown my sandwich in Carolina mustard BBQ sauce if I can find it, or really any kind of sauce. I used very little here, which is saying a lot for me, simply because the meat had SO much great smokey flavor. I've been on a BarBQuest around town to find a good Cue, and usually there is not a lot to offer. Eli's is a game-changer, people. Their sides were also great, Mac n Cheese was firm and rich, as I like it, and the BBQ Beans were peppery and a great compliment to the feast. I plan on eating my way through their menu. Soon. BYOB, FYI.
(5)Travis P.
Hands down best BBQ is this part of the country! Hurry in before 11:30am, or you'll be waiting on a line that goes down the block. Food has a nice smoking char taste and is extremely fresh.
(5)Nora C.
Get here early to grab a seat! Love that's its byob, hard to find around here. Definitely go for something BBQ and some Mac and cheese!
(4)Elizabeth C.
I ate at Eli's BBQ tonight with a few friends. We all ordered a pulled pork BBQ sandwich with BBQ sauce. Mine was excellent, it wasn't too dry And their sauce was a perfect fit. This restaurant is BYOB and has a really cute outdoor venue. Imagine reception style tents with fans and lights covering the rows of picnic tables with shade and a much welcomed breeze. It makes you feel really at home like a family reunion. The wait was about 30 minutes which from what I have heard (and seen) can be quite usual at an establishment so welcoming and delicious that it is always packed full of patrons Considering how busy the night was I was impressed with the staff, each employee was friendly timely and professional. We were even greeted by an employee to see how our food was and if we had decided to get anything else. Eat at Eli's BBQ I am sure you will have a great experience and keep coming back for more, I know we will! P.s. currently cash only!
(5)Joe K.
The food is outstanding, but it can be tough to get a seat. Definitely bring some beer and plan to hang out a while. The wait is worth it, and its always a fun crowd.
(5)Tiffany P.
Get the cornbread and macaroni!! trust MEEEEE!!!!
(5)Jewels B.
Loved the pork tips and the price! Not a fan of pricey sides, although tasty..2 bucks for a slice of cornbread is just too much. FILL UP ON RIBS!
(4)Mike P.
Eli's BBQ is great. The atmosphere is awesome, especially outside, and be sure to BYOB. Try to go on a day when there is live music. Is it worth a two hour wait? It depends on how hungry you are. If you don't mind the wait and are willing to wait in line and then about an hour to get your food then by all means do it.
(4)Bobby B.
Super great quality bbq for good value! Food tastes great, the environment is chill and relaxed. I always go for the pulled pork sandwich. I guess the only disappointment are the sides. I wouldn't say the bean and mac n'cheese are that great. But the ribs and pulled pork is an A+
(4)Jessica N.
Went back to Eli's this weekend, and even though it was crowded on a Friday night, it was still awesome. This time, I went for the turkey bbq and the jalapeno cheddar grits and was not disappointed. I had never had turkey bbq before and will definitely be getting it again! I may like it even more than the pulled pork. The jalapeno cheddar grits were a better choice than the mac n' cheese, IMHO. And, of course, I got an Ale 81 soda. I have some family coming in town this weekend and am thinking Eli's is the perfect place to bring them for a meal.
(5)Annie R.
Amazingly good! Best pulled pork I've ever had--tender and flavorful. Mashed potatoes and jalapeño cornbread were delicious, too. Drink in a glass bottle was a nice touch!
(5)David B.
Food is AWESOME. It's very cheap and the atmosphere is great. A+. Love this place. Hot Dogs rock. BYOB.
(5)Giselle T.
One of my favorite places to eat in Cincinnati. The BBQ sauce is delicious and the pulled pork sandwich is amazing. My favorite are the hotdogs and mac n' cheese. Place can get really full so if you are hungry call 20 minunutes to anhour ahead (on weekends) Make sure you have cash and oh yeah, its BYOB. Very nice outdoor area in the summer.
(5)Adam B.
Eli's was good. We stopped by on a Monday afternoon for lunch. The weather was great and allowed us to sit outside (which, other than a LOT of bees, was nice). We all had pulled pork sandwiches. I like the crispiness they get on their buns. It's a nice contrast with all the sauce. The pork was moist and flavorful. As for the sides, it was a mixed bag. Cheesy grits and jalapeno cornbread was good. Mac and cheese and cole slaw only so so. You can get the $8 sandwich and two sides, which is a hell of a deal for lunch. And, it's BYOB so bring some beer! (like I did)
(4)Karen C.
Oh Eli's - talk about a gem hidden in the back pocket of the Queen City. I'm pretty notoriously hard to please, but Eli's blew my mind and my taste buds. It restored my faith and hope in the culinary scene in Cincinnati. When you first get to Eli's, it's literally like walking into someone's kitchen. Talk about a homey experience. While you're waiting in line (and there's ALWAYS a line), peruse the milk crate of albums to your right. If you eat inside, you can DJ your own meal. The menu is fairly limited though - or discerning, if you want a positive spin. You can choose from the pulled pork, smoked turkey sandwich, or hot dog a la carte for $5 or as a platter which comes with either of the above and two sides for $8. The pulled pork is phenomenal. It is smoky and has just the right amount of BBQ sauce. The sauce is not too sweet and is full of spices, making every bite a really bold and flavorful experience. The ribs are delicious - those you have to purchase a la carte. They are moist and you just know they've been cooking low and slow all day, just waiting for you to come eat it. Now let's talk sides. I always get the jalapeño cornbread and the jalapeño grits. I have never been disappointed. The cornbread is moist and complements my pulled pork oh so well. Though I'm not normally a fan of grits, the grits at Eli's are smooth, creamy, and have a slight kick from the jalapeños. There's not even a morsel left over when I'm done with it. I'm also not a big fan of Mac-n-cheese but I'd happily eat a whole tub of it if it were made at Eli's. The Mac is not overcooked and limp, and there isn't so much cheese you'll get a coronary just looking at it. Don't get me wrong. It's still cheesy but it's not too ridiculously rich, just ridiculously good. What other praises could I sing of Eli's? The outside seating is basically benches at a backyard BBQ, as if you were just attending a good friend cookout. So it's a really down home and unpretentious experience. Oh and did I mention it's BYO? I don't know why you're still reading this review. Hurry up and go get yourself some Eli's. I'll probably see you in line.
(5)Alex H.
Best BBQ in Cincinnati.
(5)Noah G.
I like all types of barbecue. I've eaten my way around the country, and usually enjoy a good local barbecue joint the most. This place gets a +1 for being the best I've found local, fairly priced, and BYOB friendly. Eli's is good BBQ. A local joint that does what they do well. I'm in love with the pulled pork, and their sauce (even though I'm partial to vinegar based), is SPOT ON. Each sandwich is toasted, and has the perfect mix of bark, smoke, and flavor. The spare ribs are good, tender with the right amount of chew, and good smokeyness. I usually rotate between the cheesy jalapeno grits, the cornbread, and the mac & cheese. Don't forget to scoop up any pulled pork that fell off your sandwich, which your favorite side, bonus! So throw you're favorite brews in a cooler, relax with some friends, and enjoy your BBQ!
(5)Abigail M.
I am a huge fan of their pulled pork and mashed potatoes. The mashed potatoes are put on the grittle before serving for a little crunch.
(4)Megan K.
Definitely one of my top 5 favorite places to dine in Cincinnati. Great place to spend a Saturday afternoon. Backyard picnic atmosphere and BYOB. Never been disappointed by their food.
(5)Kerry P.
Bring a cooler of beer and plan on camping out for a while--maybe pack a deck of cards as well. Definitely a chill, convivial atmosphere. I was there on a Saturday in June and I waited about 30 minutes in line and then about an hour for my food after I ordered. The food was well worth the wait, though. I inhaled my pulled pork and then made room for mac & cheese and mashed potatoes. It was fantastic.
(5)vickki c.
so darn good...the barbecue is the best in town. Wish the place was easier to get service as this place has become so popular that we have driven there twice (from KY) and had to turn around. but if you do wait in the LONG line, it is well worth it..take your food to outside covered area, BYOB and enjoy the great food and relaxation!
(5)Felecia G.
The Best BBQ in Cincinnati. The pulled pork, jalapeno cornbread and grits were AMAZING. It was the bomb dot com... I will for sure definitely be back for more.
(5)Katie D.
I love Eli's Barbeque! The loaded beef dogs are my absolute favorite. The price is cheap and I love the byob policy. Be prepared to wait a little while as it is a favorite of many. I also love the record player and outdoor space. It's casual and oh so right for a summer lunch get together.
(5)Joe S.
Eli's is a simple place, It's counter ordering and zero frills (plastic-ware, eat on picnic tables). For my first time I tried the pulled pork sandwich as recommended by the girl at the counter. It was a very good that did not rely on the sauce to taste good. I would eat there again. Not having been there before we were lucky it was still a nice enough day to sit outside, I'd likely not come here in inclement weather, the inside is very small. You can also bring your own drink, soda/water/beer/etc.
(4)Lynne S.
This is one of my favorite places. Everything is reasonably priced - and delicious. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the album collection eclectic. Just thinking about it probably means I'll go there tomorrow!
(5)B K.
Best BBQ in town. Everything on the menu is great. I really enjoy the hotdogs. You get two smoked, deep fried hotdogs with pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and slaw on them. The sauce is sweet and delicious. I could drink it. For sides I get the jalapeño cheese grits, dirty (the burnt ends of the pork on top), and the Mac and cheese, dirty. Bring cash and come early if you want ribs. BYOB, with seating inside and out.
(5)Laura V.
Heard about this place from an acquaintance, and almost got turned around looking for it. There's no sign that says "Eli's"; just keep an eye out for the simple, rustic sign above the door with the outline of a pig. Very generous portions of excellent pulled pork. Not too sweet, not too tangy, just enough of each to keep you coming back for more. The dining room is as simple as the menu; no big frills, just enough to make you feel like you're in someone's home, enjoying a delicious meal accompanied by the sounds from an equally solid selection of vinyl.
(5)David D.
They have excellent BBQ and an awesome atmosphere! The place is BYOB which is also a win. The only downside, or note, is that it is cash or check only. I definitely recommend the loaded dogs over any other BBQ, crazy I know! I also recommend the baked beans side if you like it spicy.
(4)C B.
Must have if you like BBQ!
(5)Doug S.
Eli's has become one of my favorite restaurants in Cincinnati now, if not #1. Just wanted to update that the smoked turkey sandwich is actually better than the pork sandwich! Super tender. Also, the ribs are ridiculously good. Tried the rib tips and while they were ok, they were just a bit too tough when compared to the actual ribs. Keep up the great work!!
(5)Sarah P.
Turkey sandwich was so good! Oh wait then there's the Mac n cheese and coleslaw which were also amazing!!!! Nom nom
(5)Karen C.
I really like the atmosphere of this place. Fun outdoor hang out. I went here with a large group and we had no problem finding seats together. There is quite a long wait for the food, but not so bad that i won't go back. I was disappointed by the ribs- not consistent- my first one was really tough, the next was more tender. I had better ribs at Wildflower Cafe in Mason. The mac n cheese and baked beans were delicious. I tried a bite of turkey sandwich and pulled pork sandwich which were both tasty. I look forward to going back and having a sandwich or hot dogs next time.
(4)J S.
Fun atmosphere, great pulled pork, baked beans and cornbread. Parking is a challenge.
(4)Brian B.
Eli's bbq is the best bbq in town - hands down. Flavor is fantastic, reasonably priced, and is really a "good people" type experience. It's BYOB so feel free to take advantage of that, but as mentioned below, is cash only. Tons of outdoor seating as well - obviously would recommend it to anyone.
(5)Charlie V.
Montgomery who? Wish I had more stars to give. Best ribs I've ever had. One of the very few restaurants in Cincinnati doing BBQ the right way. Eli's is extremely popular, so if you plan to go on a Friday or Saturday, you're best bet is to get there before 5:30 pm.
(5)Gordon L.
I know there are quite a few positive reviews but I am perplexed as to how do many people think this place is good. I have spend two and a half decades traveling and have sampled barbecue from all parts of this county and after my fourth trip to Eli's I can say with certainty that what they offer is mediocre at best and includes some pretty awful elements. Here is the breakdown as to why they don't offer a good dining experience: The cash/check thing is silly, the location is cool but a major pain in the butt with a handful of tables inside or sitting outside with propane heaters and an ordering system that is confusing, inconvenient and overall quite horrible. I feel bad for the people that work there because it makes their jobs almost impossible to move around efficiently. Now for the food. Ribs are St. Louis style which usually means a fair amount of fat and cartilage and with these, not much meat. They are properly cooked and the dry rub is decent. That is about the only good thing. The pulled pork had a sour off flavor so bad both my girlfriend and I took one bite each and have up, it had no pleasing smoky juicy flavor, just sour weirdness. I made sure it was just the meat and not any strange sauce. The sides weren't any better. Mashed potatoes to them are a 3" x 3/4" patty of pan fried mashed potatoes that had a thick grilled crust, coleslaw that was much to sour and not sweet and cheddar grits "soup" that needed to be eaten with a spoon. The flavor of the grits was good but impossible to eat with a fork. I need to mention this meal was a redo from a carry out order from a few weeks ago where we didn't get most of our sides. The options they gave me then was generous in an effort to get us to try again and that's what we did today... #4 and out. I never jump to conclusions with restaurants and always give them the benefit of the doubt about having a bad day but don't kid yourself, Eli's is nothing special. Now if they could fix the location, sides, pulled pork and the cash only silliness then I would give them try #5 but i doubt that will happen.
(2)Kayla R.
You can't go wrong at Eli's BBQ. The smoked turkey and jalapeno cheddar grits will change your life.
(5)Jessica L.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this place. The BBQ is mouthwatering-ly good. Best BBQ in Cincinnati. I always get the pulled pork sandwich and play around with the sides - and everything has been great so far. My favorites are the baked beans and grits. This place is BYOB and they do NOT provide cups. I learned this the hard way when I brought a lovely bottle of wine that I wound up drinking out of their condiment cups. There is seating inside, complete with record player and old school vinyl records. There is also a tent outside that they heat when it is cool and plenty of grass to put down a blanket. This is cash or check only so be prepared!
(5)Will H.
Honestly, I was not very impressed. Though the prices may be off the charts and a great place to bring a group, I can't get over the fact that eating here is a 90 minute to 2 hour ordeal. It's incredible the amount of business this place brings in, and it should be expanding - it needs at least a parking lot. I would likely eat here again, but it would not be my first choice.
(3)Mark F.
For what this is it is the best BBQ in the city. The high end Montgomery Inn is all show and low flavor and Newtown's hole on the wall is a shyster zone shadow of this place. This had great ambiance and flavor. You sit on benches but you BYOB. So it is a unique and flavorful deal!!! Prepare and enjoy.
(5)Susan D.
Whoa! I don't think I've ever had BBQ this good! Ever! To back up a little bit, my brother Paul and I were in town from Pittsburgh for the Americanarama Music Festival. I found out about this place on a Yelp Talk thread and as it's only a few miles away from the Riverbend Music Center, we gave Eli's a try. Beats the heck out of eating $5.00 boiled hotdogs and $8.00 steamtray warmed cheeseburgers at the venue, dont'cha think? I went for what's got to be their signature dish, the Eli's Pulled Pork Sandwich. Now this bad boy is slow cooked pork that is so tender, it just melts in your mouth. The homemade barbecue sauce is heavenly, but it doesn't overpower the sandwich. This is food you don't wolf down--you've got to savor every last bite. Paul went for the BBQ hickory smoked turkey sandwich that looked really good, but sorry Bro! The way I see it, when you're havin' BBQ, it's gotta come from either a pig or a cow.
(5)Quyet L.
The food was great with a unique atmosphere. Pricy was cheap and easy. Simple menu but tasteful food. Would love to come back when I'm in Cincy.
(5)R L.
Food is absolutely terrific. Everything is fresh and it's terribly clear that ALOT of attention to detail went into the preparation of each component of my meal. However, I am appalled that they absolutely refuse to take credit cards. It's inconceivable that a restaurant with this acclaim refuses to allow me to pay via credit. Please, it's 2013. Allow me to pay for my meal and the meals of my friends with a credit card.
(4)Divya D.
The pulled pork sandwich is OUT OF THE WORLD !! and for 10 bucks you get the best dinner money can buy !!
(5)Kelly V.
Perfect place to come with a group of friends, family, a date, or alone!! Eli's BBQ is easily the best BBQ in Cincinnati and one of my favorite places to hang out at on the weekend. Live music, great atmosphere, delicious food. And it's an added plus that Dojo Gelato brings their gelato truck so you can add more deliciousness to your meal. Favorite sides are definitely the Mac n cheese and baked beans. Weekends are packed and it feels like a big community picnic!
(5)Thomas H.
Not bad, had the pulled pork sammie on Fountain Square.
(3)Samantha H.
I am going to want to go back every time I visit Cinci. We went on a Friday evening so the line was out the door plus about an hour wait for food once ordered. But it was all fine because we brought our own cooler of beer. So we saved a lot of money by doing that plus the food is so cheap. There was a real record player and picnic tables and people brought blankets and were finding a place to eat at least down the whole block. Then we got the food and it was fantastic. I especially loved the cheddar jalapeno grits. A manager came around asking if we needed anything and they had forgotten my mac n cheese so I told him and it was brought out fast. Very cool little place.
(5)F D.
I dont eat pork, so this review pertains to their beef / turkey entres The beef hotdogs are great and so is the smoked turkey. They have fun outdoor seating, which makes it a good place for large groups. Its byob, but there is mexican coke! Its very popular so seating can be an issue at times. My friends claim that they have the best pork ribs in Cincinnati.
(4)Jen L.
I'm not even a pulled pork fan and their pulled pork is to DIE for. They smoke it and then crisp it up on a flat top I believe so it has that all day cooked tenderness but also a little texture. Holy crap is this place good. I am also a giant advocate of their jalapeno grits and tell whoever will listen to go try them. Their turkey sandwich is also amazing. It's also a byob. So bring a cold one and enjoy :)
(5)Lisa H.
My family of 4 ate here for $21, a remarkable feat in and of itself. The more amazing aspect is that the food was heavenly. The pulled pork sandwich was delicious, best BBQ I've had since moving to Cincinnati from Texas 7 years ago. The sides were terrific as well...the baked beans were probably my favorite but the jalapeno cheddar grits were a close second. My kids devoured the mac and cheese, but of course, they're kids so that probably doesn't say much. I loved the whole vibe of this place...laid back, cash only, and now that I know its BYOB we'll back very soon. With summer coming up, I can just picture myself sipping a cold one on that porch and stuffing my face with porky goodness...mmm!
(5)Ryan Z.
I love this place! I missed true smoked bbq so much since leaving FL and I've finally found an authentic place. Is it 5 stars in the same sense that the Precinct is? Of course not... but, for the price, this is some dang good food. And it's BYOB! Try the rib tip basket... it's incredible. I'm getting hungry just writing this review.
(5)Brandon C.
The only reasons I'm giving four stars is because of the parking and the cash only policy. The food was excellent. I had the pulled pork sandwich with a side of macaroni with cheese and coleslaw, topped with a bottle of Mexican Coke. The sandwich had a toasted bun and a more than generous helping of meat. The Mac n' cheese was some of the best I've ever had.
(4)Trevor F.
By far the best BBQ in the city. They are cash only and byob. Bring $10 and your own 6pack and go home with money in your pocket and full as a tick!
(5)Jason C.
Walking into Eli's, I knew this was my kind of place. The smell of bbq wafts at you as you open the door. You immediately become aware that this is a BYOB place as you see all six and twelve packs of beer on the tables - a definite plus. You have to place your order at the counter where you have a choice of a sandwich or a plate. The plate comes with a sandwich and two sides. Be aware that the place is cash only...no credit cards. All of us went with the smoked turkey sandwich, which was absolutely devine. The meat was tender and juicy with just the right amount of smoke flavor. It was served on a buttered toasted bun with just a smattering of their sweet BBQ sauce. I had the cole slaw as a side, which was a bit too creamy for my taste, but I am more of a vinegar based cole slaw man myself. My wife got the mac and cheese, which was amazing. The cheese sauce was incredibly creamy and just sharp enough to get your attention. The atmosphere was extremely welcoming with now pretension. We sat there for 2 hours with out any attitude from the staff. With the BYOB policy, you could spend the whole night there. We were extremely with this find as will be back in greater numbers. A definite hidden gem on the East side!
(5)Paige M.
Simply the best BBQ you will find in Cincinnati. I first tried Eli's at their booth at Findlay Market. Shortly after, their restaurant opened up in the East End. The storefront is easy to miss, especially if you're driving after dark. It's a small, simple place amongst rows of houses. The parking lot is a gravel pit accessible from a side road. Don't try to turn in from the street; its blocked off by a fence and railroad ties. Once inside, you'll be greeted by a warm country feel of hardwood, old nostalgia hanging on the walls, and a record player where you can pick your own tunes. Up at the counter, a chalk board gives your four choices of dinners as well as a list of sides. The pulled pork sandwich is the flagship item; a must for anyone visiting for the first time. Looking for something different? Try the BBQ dogs: two beef franks with BBQ sauce and coleslaw. For sides, the jalepeno cornbread will light your tastebuds on fire, and the mac n' cheese is full of down-home goodness. Pricing is simple: $5.00 for mains, $2.00 for sides and drinks. Build your own order. During our visit, we had a group of 13 which means we filled up half of the tiny dining room. Kiri, our server, went above and beyond to accommodate us. She let us push the tables together, gave us cups for our wine (Eli's is BYOB), and delivered all of our orders promptly and piping hot. She even smiled as our friends played DJ and sifted through record after record on the turn table. If you're in the mood for some tender, juicy pork, skip the big name chain and chow down at Eli's. Price per person: $10.00 CASH ONLY.
(5)Katie M.
This place is fantastic! I'm bummed I don't live near Cincinnati so I can't go often. I had the hot dogs with coleslaw, BBQ sauce and pork crispins and they were perfect. I also had the jalapeno cornbread, which was delicious. We were there on a warm summer night so we sat outside with friends under the canopies. I imagine that in the winter it's hard for Eli's to accommodate the same size crowd as the inside is pretty small.
(5)Kevin B.
Cash only, BYOB, and my favorite BBQ around. When it is cold, they have a heated tent for everyone. When it is warm, you can sit on the park benches outside to make up for the 8 or 10 tables inside. They have a record player inside to play old music. Choose your favorites to entertain everyone. The food is some of the best. I've never like grits until I had their jalapeno grits. The spice just makes it all come together. The pulled pork is delicious on the slightly toasted bun. Try it with the cole slaw on top of it. If you don't like cole slaw on your sandwich, say yes anyways and you have a free side of slaw. The ribs aren't fall of the bone tendor, but thats just because of how they make them... I think. They have a dry rub with sugar (maybe brown sugar) that tastes so good. The sauce is great and not overly sweet like some other local BBQ restaurants. Price wise, a BBQ sandwich, two ribs, and two sides will run you about $12. No cups of water, everything is bottled. Unique ambiance with some of the best food makes this place a must go.
(5)Rachel R.
they can do nothing wrong. I love eating at one of the picnic tables in the back in the summer, spring and fall. Especially love bringing my own beer and kicking it with friends while enjoying their down home food. Their corn bread is so moist and terrific.
(5)Johnny B.
Excellent! Very good bbq.
(4)Christiaan T.
This place is CASH only BBQ very tender and mouth watering Jalapeño cheese grits are awesome. Dining room is small but they have a tent outside with picnic tables. We sat outside. Wish they could do something about the gnats.
(4)Lydia B.
We learned about Eli's from Yelp, being new to the area. We were so happy with both the food and the atmosphere. We tried the baked beans, macaroni and cheese, jalapeno corn bread, turkey, and the pulled pork. The turkey sandwich and the baked beans were highlights. The macaroni and cheese was unobjectionable but fairly bland and heavy. We also loved that everyone was outside sitting on picnic tables or on the lawn on blankets and drinking beer from coolers. BYOB is great. Relaxing setting and great food! Highly recommend for BBQ.
(5)Jeremy C.
Excellent BBQ and even better atmosphere. Bring your own beer or wine and even a table cloth got the picnic table if it's nice out! CASH ONLY.
(5)Sandra F.
Great dive restarurant! My husband and I got the Sandwich platter which you can choose two sides. We both got the smoked turkey and sides- mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese. I absolutely love the turkey! So delicious and not dry. The mash potatoes were okay (alittle bland), but loved the macaroni and cheese. I liked the fact that they put the barbeque sauce on the side, because I hate it when the sauce is oozing out of the sandwich that it gets too messy to eat. Staff was friendly and pricing is reasonable. Great comfort food!!!
(4)Scott M.
If you blink, you'll miss it You kind of have to drive past it, turn down a no outlet street, turn down another no outlet street and park in the back. When you enter you'll find a small seating area. This is the only seating area. You will be greeted by a record player that's hooked up to an amplifier. It's a little bit of a jenky set up, but it kind of has this awesome retro feel, like some teenager was trapped at grandma's and was in dire need of some tunage, so he just made due. The employees sort of hide off in the kitchen at back, so you have to get their attention if you want some grub. This is one of those places where you have to go up and order and then they will bring you your food, but you wouldn't know that unless someone told you. I imagine a younger version of me sitting down in the front area and getting steamed that no one had yet to serve me. I ordered the pulled pork sandwich upon my first visit and was not disappointed. I love BBQ and this was definitely up to snuff. The sauce is smokey and sweet with the slightest bit of kick (maybe not spicy enough for some). They do not provide adult beverages, but you can bring your own. I would totally come back. Fair Warning: Cash or Check only.
(4)Rachael G.
This place is ah-mazing. I knew everyone had said Eli's was awesome, but I couldn't do barbeque when its 30° and snowing. I took my daughter here on a beautiful, warm and sunny day, and it was well worth waiting for. I honestly can't think of anything negative about this place. I got the pulled pork sandwich (coleslaw on the side) and the jalapeno cornbread. The only reason I even got the coleslaw was because everyone on Yelp said to do so. Yet again, thanks, Yelpers, you were right! I actually despise coleslaw, but this is not your average coleslaw and it was heavenly on the pulled pork. The sandwich was enormous and I definitely felt like I had a solid mass of something just sitting in my stomach for the rest of the afternoon, but it was soooo worth it. You can eat inside at Eli's (loved the kitschy decor and the record player complete with a great vinyl collection) or outside at their covered picnic benches. They also have a lawn and I think next time I'm going to bring a blanket and picnic it up. It's also BYOB, so I have grand visions of sitting on a blanket, eating pulled pork and coleslaw and drinking a beer. My mouth is already watering.
(5)Anita W.
This is the perfect place to get your comfort food fix at an affordable price. Though the menu options are limited, they're all quite delicious. My go to meal is the Pulled Pork sandwich (coleslaw on top!) with mac and cheese (SO CREAMY AND DELICIOUS) and jalapeño cornbread. I find myself needing an Eli's fix every so often. Luckily I live close enough to satisfy that craving and the prices aren't so high as to make me feel guilty about eating out. It's not blatantly clear where the restaurant is when first going there. The only sign out front is a picture of a pig, but the smoky bbq smells as you get nearer will let you know you've arrived. Eli's is cash only so remember to bring the dolla dolla bills. Also, BYOB. Water costs $1. My only dissatisfaction with the restaurant. This place can get really packed and sometimes the wait to get food can be well over an hour. It's good to call ahead just to check on the wait, especially on a weekend.
(5)Pamela F.
Intensely smoky, tangy sweet barbecue. Perhaps the best outside of Orlando. Great kitschy vibe: old timey bottled sodas, blues LPs spinning on turntable, duo tone music legend art, Beadboard, tents with festival style seating. Creamy cheese grits with jalapeño eye watering hot, coarse creamy cole slaw, a pulled pork sandwich $8. BYOB. Be prepared to wait an hour once your order is in weekends.
(4)Alex S.
The first time I had Eli's, it was at their little stand in Findlay Market. There, they made only one thing, a "life changing" pulled pork sandwich, and it was indeed so good that my life changed a little bit. When I found out they had opened up a real store, then I knew I must go. Eli's is in the middle of nowhere (right near gas stations and a water treatment plant.) When you get there, you may miss the house turned restaurant, but double back. There is also parking but you have to go around the street, down a dirt road and then into the unpaved lot. Have I mentioned before that I love BBQ when it's served in a real BBQ joint? Where everything feels a little gritty and unpolished. Because I freakin' do! I was expecting more of this rough around the edges feeling inside, but there I was pleasantly surprised. It was clean, with bright white painted walls and really inviting wooden tables. Yet, it still felt like a down-home BBQ joint, like you were sitting in some southern living room, waiting for a plate of meat. You order at the counter then sit at the table and wait for your food. They also, and let me point out how awesome this is, had music coming from a record player and piles of records you could go through and put something on. Oh yes. The food? My god, the food, still one of the best pulled pork sandwiches I've ever eaten. Juicy, flavorful, with coleslaw on top and all between two toasted buns. Mmm. Prices are great, it's $5 for a sandwich or $8 for a sandwich and two sides. (I was told that next time, I need to get the hot dogs which are out of this world ... next time for sure) It is cash or check only, so watch out. This was a great time. But as always, that fifth coveted star comes from a surprise factor. Something that makes me stop and go, "Woah." It did it for me all over at Eli's - from the charming little BBQ hut atmosphere to the friendly staff to the fact that if you don't have cash or check and they know you, you can start a tab (not sure how long that's going to last, but what!) It was just great all around. Absolutely recommended. Get there as soon as you can for some tasty BBQ.
(5)Andrea H.
Eli's was a spiritual experience for me and my friends. We were all nearly in tears over how happy this food made us. Comment from one in my group as we took a moment to stop eating to breathe: "This is the best moment of my entire life." Absolutely life-changing. The buns: toasted and buttery. The BBQ: perfectly seasoned. The cornbread: invaded with a delectable amount of jalapenos. The mashed potatoes: FRIED?! I have no idea how you mastered that one, Eli's. Not only was the food the best I've ever had (really, not exaggerating), the atmosphere was so much fun. Record player with a large amount of vinyls let customers create their own ambiance. Tons of picnic tables outside offer loads of seating in an otherwise crowded spot. I'm entirely sure that next time I visit Cincinnati, this will be the first place I stop. Just remember to bring cash. And BYOB.
(5)Aubrey C.
Not a big BBQ girl, but YUM! Have only been once, but will absolutely be back!
(5)Katie F.
The most delicious pulled pork sandwich I'd ever had, and with such a fun atmosphere. It also makes for great catering food! Plain and simple... this place rocks.
(5)Jimmy W.
I guess I'm going to seem like a heretic but I try to be honest in my reviews. I am not a big fan of the BBQ at Eli's. I've had it a few times and met a friend for lunch today. I had the pulled pork sandwich with Mac and cheese and mashed potatoes as a side. The pulled pork was overcooked and it was the same the last 2 times I had it. It was very dry and too crunchy for what I consider a scrumptious pulled pork sandwich. I had to drown the pork in sauce just so I didn't have to take a sip of my water every time I took a bite. Now the sides were a completely different story. The Mac and cheese was creamy, delicious, and everything I could ask for and then some; even dipped the finger in the bowl to not let any of cheese go to waste. I also like how they cook their mashed potatoes. It's hard on the outside (almost like they sear it) and then underneath it is the soft goodness one expects from mashed potatoes. I like what has been going on at Eli's and want to support them but I just can't go out of my way for the pulled pork when Cincy has so many great rib/pork places (NO, not Montgomery inn...smaller mom/pop places that need to sought out and found!). The customer service is always outstanding and the also have good prices on their soda/water. Just remember it is cash only because they do not have an ATM on sight and the closet one is a few minutes drive up the street.
(3)Jess B.
This place is pretty kick ass. My family is in town for the weekend and wanted a real "Cincinnati meal". After eliminating Skyline (had it the night before), LaRosa's (barf), and Pompilios (meh), we remembered the awesome BBQ sandwich we had at Findlay Market and marched down to this joint. Aside from the fact that we almost passed it by (I am pretty sure the only sign they have has a big pig logo on it), we quickly feel in love with everything Eli's has to offer. The restaurant is really laid back, nothing fancy, but really different and fun. But by far, this is the best BBQ I've had since we've parked in Cincinnati...and what a price. For $8, I had the pulled pork sandwich with mac and cheese and mashed potatoes (comes out looking like a potato cake of some sort). The cheese jalapeno grits were great and so was the cornbread. This place is a definite must-try. Two words of advice. You MUST have cash (or check) and be careful when hitting this place at prime eating times. There are only about 10 indoor tables and, while there is plenty of outdoor seating, you obviously cannot do so when it's raining, cold, or hot as heck out. But you can always get take out!
(5)Andy C.
Amazing BBQ!! I love everything here and it's easy to to select from their menu! Always great service and fast too!
(4)Aaron S.
They absolutely nailed it - this is the place if you love BBQ, period. I've tried it all over the country, including Kansas City, San Antonio, Salt Lake City, Austin, New Orleans, Carolinas, and Georgia. I'd say it is hard to beat Texas's and KC's best, but this is the best BBQ _by far_ in the city of Cincinnati, including (overrated) Montgomery Inn!! This is not some corporatized watered-down version of Americana - it is the authentic, smoked over a real wood fire deal. For real BBQ you've got to respect the meat and put in the time! Rib tips, pulled pork, and turkey are wonderful. And the sides are great, some different takes on common options like cornbread and baked beans. the Jalapeno grits are awesome. Kind of a smallish, funky, rustic, down-home, authentic retro-styled place. Has outdoor seating at plain old picnic tables for nice days. Has a garden out back where it looks like they grow the herbs. On weekday lunches, and weekend eves this place fills up super fast, but you can do takeout. Last time I went they had no liquor license, so it is byob which I think is actually a plus. I love the turntable and vinyl record collection in the dining area - very cool. You'll see a wide variety of people here, including the mayor. I agree with another reviewer that it would be nice if they took credit cards, but the food is worth the hassle. AAAA+++!
(5)Leisa W.
CASH ONLY. CASH ONLY. CASH ONLY. I write this three times, because they lost a star for this. Not for BEING cash only, but for not making it clear. This is the best BBQ in Cincinnati, by far. I am from Alabama so I have authority to make these types of pronouncements. I'll get to the food in a minute, but I need to say again CASH ONLY. When I went, I was in a huge hurry, I was picking up lunch for the crew at a photo shoot and before I left I had searched the website AND the facebook page for hours and prices. Nothing said they were cash only. We are in a postmodern world, people--if you are cash only then you need to let people know. Who carries cash anymore? Not me. So I had to place my order, drive a couple miles away to an ATM, and then come back. Not good, and incredibly frustrating. Now to the food: Well--it's amazing. NO ONE frustrates me as much as I was on this day, and still gets four stars. No one, but Eli's, that is. I haven't even been able to venture into the land of ribs, which is one of my favorite lands...because I'm stuck on the pulled pork sandwich. It comes with slaw, which you MUST get. Listen to me: I HATE coleslaw. Never eat it. Would NEVER order it. But I'm telling you, you must get the coleslaw on your sandwich. Not on the side...ON the sandwich. And you will be transported, afterwards, to heaven. Bliss. I have heard they are moving to OTR in a permanent location (not only in Findlay Market), and that will be absolutely amazing. I can't wait. Until then, Riverside Drive isn't too far. But for the love of God, bring cash!
(4)Amanda C.
This BBQ joint reminds me of BBQ I've had in Georgia, which is to say, AWESOME. It's no-frills but friendly, with a sprawling outdoor eating area complete with picnic tables and yard designated for picnic blankets (Bring Your Own Blanket?). The food is cheap, hearty and delicious. They only have one BBQ sauce, but it's yummy. There's all the BBQ favorites: pulled pork and ribs. The sides are all vegetarian, which is surprising but welcome. Let the smell of the smoker lead you to Eli's... you will be glad you did.
(5)Tom J.
Lunch at Eli's is something I look forward to each week. It is in our rotation and sometimes we hit it a couple of times. The staff is the best. All are friendly and willing to help you out. You also usually catch Eli walking around talking . I like the music selection. Very WNKUish. The new photos are great. They are some of Eli's favorite musicians or people from the 1880s. It is a collaboration with an artist in the area. Sorry I cannot remember his name. Last but certainly not least is the food. I have had it all. The turkey and tips are the best. The sides are just that. A great compliment to the main dish. They are not overwhelming but the perfect partner to the entree. It is cash only. But they will also accept Reds tickets.
(5)Brett B.
It is a "dive" restaurant. That would be ok, if the food was fantastic. However, we did not have a good experience. The pulled pork sandwiches we had were very dry. The cole slaw was like soup.
(2)Timothy C.
Passing through Cincinnati on my way to Louisville from Columbus. Stopped by Eli's BBQ for lunch and it was well worth the stop. They're cash only and the inside of the place is decorated with portraits (for sale) of a bunch of Cincinnati Red's players. They have a record player with a record collection for the patrons to pick their own music. Neat setup. Service is cash only, and the smell of BBQ teases you while you make your order. I had a Pulled Pork Sandwich (with coleslaw), Mac and Cheese, and Baked Beans. Everything was delicious! The pulled pork had a fantastic smokey flavour, though slightly on the dry side for me. I would have added a bit of BBQ sauce but I didn't want to mask the smokey flavour. The Mac was cooked firm and the cheese was gooey. The Baked Beans had a nice consistency and a tiny kick to them. I ordered a "Ale 8 One" (Pronounced "A Late One") which is a Sprite/Ginger Ale mix. Something I've never had before so it added to the charm of this place. I planned to swing by again on my way back to Columbus but drove through on Easter Sunday, so they weren't open (Though they're normally open on Sundays).
(4)Mike B.
This is the spot. Great food, awesome music system, and good service.
(5)Daniel O.
Eli's BBQ is a wonder. Simply put, this is one of, if not the, best sandwiches I have ever eaten. I can't go to Findlay Market on a weekend without getting a sandwich, and their permanent location has even more to offer. The tender, hickory-smoked pulled pork is served drizzled with a fantastic sauce, under a pile of delicious (and I believe homemade) cole slaw, all on a toasted bun. Its vintage-rustic aesthetic, complete with vinyl record player, completes the experience. With a sandwich for only $5 and a plate (with two sides) for just $8, the value is incredible. I cannot recommend this restaurant highly enough. Oh, and they cater too. My wife and I love it so much we chose it for our rehearsal dinner.
(5)TJ I.
This place is on another level. Support the little guys.
(4)Rick C.
Great food as always. We love this place. Best BBQ in Cincinnati! If you haven't tried the hot dogs and grits its a must. Happy eating!
(5)Todd M.
Eli is a cool guy and loves to chat. BBQ sauce is good. I like "wet" sandwiches so the bottles on the table are a plus. Baked beans have a great flavor. Cost is more than reasonable. I hope they can add an outdoor space this summer.
(5)Eric M.
The best BBQ in the city period. The only thing I would say that it lacks is that their menu is somewhat limited but they have mastered all of the things that they offer and they only accept cash or Red's tickets (not sure exactly how they barter with your tickets). You can BYOB, eat outside on their picnic benches, and play music on their record player. This is a great place to bring out of towners who are BBQ fans.
(5)Joel S.
What is there to say about Eli's that hasn't already been said in one of their 200+ reviews? Nothing. Just go there and eat, you won't regret it. Get the jalapeno cheese grits.
(5)Brian R.
No other BBQ like this in the city...
(5)Ryan B.
a million times, yes.
(5)Andrew W.
I love this place. The food is amazing, some of the greatest BBQ I've ever had. Staff is usually quite happy and happenin and engaged. The ONLY down side is the place is very small and has become quite popular. BYOB! or don't. They offer bottled and canned soda.
(5)Marie E.
Great place to have a picnic! Sure you could go to Ault park or one of the other parks around town but then you would have to prepare food and you wouldn't get to bring any alcohol for fear of getting a ticket. Why not just go to Eli's where they provide picnic tables, a restroom that is always open, allow you to BYO, and provide a tent to keep you dry if it rains. There is a big open grassy area where your kids can run around (granted you do have to watch them because it it right by the road unless you move in towards the non-tented area). The food it cheap too. $16 was our bill (not including the alcohol we brought) for a delicious pulled pork sandwich, ribs and sides. If you aren't sure you are up for it take a drive by the place any night and you will smell the BBQ cooking up for the next day. There is some indoor seating but really why would you sit inside when there are picnic tables and grass. Bring a light source of some kind if you go at night. We used IPhone flashlights under a bottle of wine which actually worked really well. Well Done Eli's!
(5)Julianne K.
The absolute best BBQ in Cinncinati! I crave it more than I care to admit. I compare all other BBQ in Cincinnati to it and it can't be beat. The pulled pork and smoked turkey are perfectly smoked and are so good, you don't even need to use sauce. But the sauce is so good!!!! Each bite is a dilemma - with or without sauce! The sides are amazing too. For the longest time, I would only eat my family's recipe for baked beans but then Eli's changed that. The jalepeno cheddar grits is so good and so is the cornbread and then there's the coleslaw! It's so cheap too! $8 for a sandwich and 2 sides - crazy! I have just made myself hungry and must go to Eli's now.
(5)David V.
Big bones...got the four bone rib plate...was plenty...beware...only take cash and check...one one kind of sauce available on the table...
(4)B Q.
Mmmmm...a Cincinnati fave...they're hot dogs are so good. Although I was skeptical of all the toppings (I usually don't even allow mustard on my dogs), it was soooooo good. BYOB to wash it down! The baked beans were some of the best I've had. I like the cornbread, but it's a little too spicy for me. Great record collection!
(5)Becky A.
OMG I love Eli's. I thought my husband was being bowled over by their hipster decor, but their food is actually really good. I grew up eating a lot of barbeque, and this stacks up. Their pulled pork sandwiches are AMAZING. The ribs are good. The sides are hit and miss. The mac and cheese is gross (seriously, how do people like it? It's like processed cheese and soft noodles) but their jalapeno cheddar grits are good, and I'm down with pretty much any cornbread if I can smother it in honey and butter. All in all, a great spot.
(5)Tanya P.
So much better than BBQ Revue. This place has spicy BBQ! Oh so good! The texture of the meat is very important. I need to be able to chew the meat, I can't eat mush. It is tender but not overcooked. There are a bunch of alcohol choices even though they aren't advertised, at least visibly. I went with my kids and it was my first time, I was there solely for the BBQ. It was wonderful. I expected more from the mac n cheese I heard so much about, it tasted like stouffers. I LOVE mac n cheese, but homemade beats all others! The price is really a plus. The lower the price, the more customers, the better the profit, that's my philosophy. The atmosphere here made this place a gem for me. It's a small hole hole in the wall labeled by a pig sign hanging out front. There's indoor and outdoor seating, picnic tables out back so you feel like your at a backyard picnic with friends only you don't have to do the cooking. The indoor dining room is small and fills up quickly. They have a record player with tons of albums available for customers to play as long as they take care of them. This was a plus for my children who have never seen an album. I was one of the few who listened to albums when I was young. I am glad my children had a chance to experience this place. I am sure we will be returning there many more times. This place feels like home. Two more tips, bring cash or a check and two parking is not a problem, there is plenty of it around back. They close at 9 which I think is too early.
(4)Oyler G.
Highly recommend. Love this place! Food is really really good. Grits are incredible. Love that I can pack my own six-pack! Best place for a play date where the parents still get to have fun. Tons of picnic tables and an ice cream truck and lots of space to run and play.
(5)Grant S.
The only barbeque youll ever need in Cincinnati. BYOB!
(5)Adam B.
This is now deemed as "Cincinnati Style" bbq. Everyone must try. Love the BBQ dogs and baked beans
(5)Eric W.
We just recently moved to Cincinnati and were told by many that we had to check out Eli's BBQ. We have now been there twice. The first time we made the mistake of ordering there... 2 hours later we had our food. I have never waited that long for food in my life, so I was thinking this better be delicious... And it was! The meat is clearly the selling point at this restaurant. It was the best turkey sandwich I've ever had, and the pulled pork was also very good! The sides were good, but not great. The macaroni and cheese has a good taste, but it is extremely thick. The jalapeño cornbread also is pretty good, but a little dry. They also have a cool picnic area to eat outside where you can bring your own drinks. Overall, I would definitely give this place a try, if not just for the meats. But remember to call ahead and place your order unless you are willing to wait a couple hours for your food.
(4)Jason O.
Get the smoked dogs, they are amazing. Everything at Elis is good but the dogs are where its at for me. The Cheesey Mac and the Jalapeño Grits are to die for! Do it! Cash only or Reds tickets if you have those lying around.
(5)Chris G.
After seriously yearning for good BBQ for the longest time, I finally made it to Eli's. This joint has come very highly recommended, and for good reason. It's got charm... AND delicious BBQ! I came to visit Eli's with a large group, perhaps 15 or so, and we all sat outside in one of the tented areas. I ordered just about everything, as I am a share-er. Although I was disappointed not to see any chicken on the menu, I more than made due with both the roasted turkey sandwich and the pulled pork sandwich. Though slaw on the meat is a traditionally southern method of eating BBQ (from NC), I chose to remain a northerner at heart and eat slaw separately. The slaw, was some of the best I've had north of the Ohio river. The pulled pork was tender and rich. I prefer mine with a big of rubbed in spice like you might find in Memphis or Little Rock, but this pulled pork hit the spot easily. The roast turkey was ok. It wasn't very "interesting." I think that's the only way to put it. It really was just roast turkey, on a bun with a little sauce that didn't mismatch or stand out. I ordered plenty of sides. First was the jalapeño cornbread. This stuff was awesome. I think I'd order up a bunch of the stuff to take to the next Reds game and chow down. SO tasty! The jalapeño grits were also delicious. These cheesy, spicy grits aren't the normal flavorless depressing grits you find just about everywhere. These grits were a wonderful side to an awesome pulled pork sammie. Then, there's THE BEANS! I happen to love beans. They're tasty, versatile and filling. What's not to love? These though, probably some of the best BBQ beans I've ever had. Spicy, with a peppery kick and a flare for making me want a whole pot of the stuff. A definite pleaser for me. And finally, I'm no lame-o. Who could order BBQ and NOT get the mac & cheese? Certainly that's not me. I LOVE mac & cheese. And these were the mac & cheesiest! I love a good cafeteria style mac as much as the next guy, but this was like buttah it was so good. I'll be back. With friends in tow. *A quick word of caution though, Eli's is CASH ONLY!!!
(4)Unknown C.
As my dog Steve and I travel the country and sample BBQ joints, you wouldn't expect such a gem in Cincinnati. I want to tell people to stay away!!! But that would be selfish because when I want it I don't want to wait in line. Steve says I need therapy. Eli's is great in taste quality price. Try the hotdogs or rib tips or EVERYTHING. I guess I'll wait in line.
(5)Anna S.
I've made it my goal to try as many BBQ restaurants in TN while I am assigned the state for work. Each business travel (which is weekly) I try 1-2 BBQ restaurants. While some are amazing and might offer a better side item, or a protein like brisket etc., I'm very proud and happy to report back that Cincinnati's Eli's has yet to be dethroned as my #1 fave bbq joint.
(5)Robert L.
Absolutely amazing BBQ and at a great price! There is typically a long line and wait time. The solution then is to go on days when you are not pressed for time. Go there with friends and sit under the tents on a nice day with your beverage (Its BYOB). Have fun with your friends and socializing, then when your food is ready, its time to eat!
(5)Justin K.
I have lived in Cincinnati my whole life and Tuesday was my first time ever eating here. Which is good and bad. First the good: The food that I had was definitely delicious! I had the Hickory Smoked Turkey Sandwich and my significant other and I shared the Cheese Macaroni and Jalapeño Corn Bread side options. They definitely did not skimp on the meat. The Turkey had a perfect combination of smoked flavor and was very tender and the Bar-B-Q sauce was quite complimentary to the sandwich. I have often found that my biggest complaint in these types of restaurants is the Bar-B-Q sauce. The Cheese Macaroni was good, not earth shattering but solid and pretty standard for this cuisine. The Jalapeño Corn Bread was like the Cheese Macaroni, solid but not earth shattering. It was nice that it was BYOB because we went to Rhinegeist before hand and got a Growler to take with us. On to the bad... It really has nothing to do with Eli's personally, it's more so with the immense bar that people have set for the place. It has been talked up so much that unless you're Jeff Ruby's, odds are you're not going to meet expectations. Don't get me wrong, it was great, but not the best Bar-B-Q I have had. Also, the last star was not achieved due to the fact that they do not have Brisket. How is that possible? All in all I will definitely be back and would recommend it to others, but with a little less hype than I was given over the years.
(4)Nic M.
Excellent BBQ. The baked beans and Mac and Cheese were great. Casual atmosphere. Quick service. We sat inside which was great but then as we left saw 2 large canopies with more people sitting outside. It's a BYOB place. Did not know that until we got there. Gladly will go back.
(5)Katie F.
Caution: Do not attempt to eat here on a Saturday night unless you want to be badgered about a 1.5 hour wait. Long story short-we arrived at 8, and did not get our food until 9:30. The funny thing is, when the servers yelled at the line waiting to order about the wait time, they genuinely seemed perturbed by our very presence, like, "WHY ARE YOU STILL HERE? GO SOMEWHERE ELSE!" As yummy as the food might be, it is really not 1.5 hour wait yummy. So maybe my view is influenced by the time of day, but at least for a Saturday evening dinner, the food does not match the hype.
(3)Heather W.
SO GOOD. We have tried bbq at a number of other places and in other states and we still love elis. I love the pork sandwich without a bun and the mashed potato cake and jalapeño grits. The beans are peppery and sweet and the turkey breast is also great. My fiancé raves about the hot dogs but I could never pass on their pork sandwich to try much else. You can get a sandwich and 2 sides for $8 and an ale81 or coke old school in the glass bottle. Plus. It's bring your own beer. Elis can do no wrong.
(5)Hannah C.
Eli sure knows what he is doing when it comes to BBQ. Admittedly, I've eaten Eli's BBQ two times in a week, and it never grows tiresome. The atmosphere at Eli's is reminiscent of a huge backyard cookout. There's almost always a line out the door and around the corner of the restaurant, but the "BYOB" standard makes waiting in line (with a beer) much more tolerable. There's usually some variant of banjo-pickin' music echoing from the outside speakers, and the banquet-style picnic tables make you feel like you're sitting down with old friends for some good ol' BBQ. The pulled pork sandwich is absolutely heavenly. The buns are lightly grilled, buttery, soft and forgiving. The pork itself is rich, smokey, and meaty, slathered in Eli's signature BBQ sauce. The occasional crunch of cracklin' lets you know it's authentic. The baked beans are always served steaming hot and a little on the spicy side (cumin maybe?). The macaroni and cheese is smooth and rich. Each plate comes with a small side of coleslaw (or plopped directly on the sandwich, per your request). The slaw itself is the perfect compliment to everything else on the plate - crunchy, zesty, and fresh. Eli's takes cash or check only, so come prepared. Bring your favorite 6-pack, a cooler, a tablecloth if you wish, and an appetite.
(5)Jake V.
The pulled pork is amazing! So tender and perfectly smoked. The Mac and cheese is also stupendous! It is a great place to take a group of family and friends too!
(5)Mela R.
The best BBQ I've ever had!!!! I had the smoked turkey it was tender, juicy, moist, and had a great smokey flavor. No need for the bun. Add some BBQ sauce and savor. The jalapeño cornbread had just enough to add some heat and flavor. Oh the mac and cheeeeeeese. It was the cheesiest Mac I've ever eaten. It's tasted like a standard cheddar Mac if they added some guyere or provolone it would be mactastic. The baked beans were good they seemed to have a bit of a BBQ kick which was unexpected. I prefer typical baked beans with a maple so the change was new. The price is unbeatable. We purchased 4 meals with sides for under...$40. And it's worth twice that, for BBQ. Then to top it off you can sit outside at a picnic table AND it's BYOB.
(5)Mike M.
Legit BBQ. The pulled pork is amazing. Jalapeno grits are amazing. Bring a 6-pack and chill under the tents. Be prepared to wait. This is how BBQ should be.
(5)Ludwig T.
Eli's is a great BBQ place with good food and a fun atmosphere. You can sit outside at one of their many picnic tables and bring your own drinks. I've even seen people with their own birthday cakes. Prices are reasonable, and the combination of their pulled pork and cole slaw is a real treat. When the weather is nice and you are sitting outside with people laughing and kids running around it reminds me of a big family picnic. The last time I went we got our food in about 15 minutes, although it can take as long as 45. The biggest obstacle is finding the place for the first time. You have to keep your eyes peeled for the little pig sign out front, but it is well worth the trip!
(4)Patrick E.
Love this place! Best food in town. Price has the best BBQ in Cincinnati, Ohio at a great price. I would recommend this place to anyone.
(5)Carol J.
excellent bbq!
(5)Mark S.
The best BBQ in town. The mega rib place in town is the best of the 1970's (it was Bob Hope's favorite rib place) crossed with a Wal*Mart. Eli's is small, quirky and cash only ... the food outstanding. Don't bring your CCC friends, there are no linen napkins; this is real food. Try the rib bones, dry rubbed and smoked. Baked beans are spicy, cole slaw has too much mayo. Ale8 is the drink to have. Take a blanket and eat out on the grass. The record player is total throwback; find the Springsteen disks and rock out.
(5)Alan O.
I know good BBQ, and this BBQ is excellent. The sauce is perfectly spiced and is well balanced by the cole slaw. However, last time I went my girlfriend ordered the hot dogs. I am not exaggerating when I tell you that Eli's hot dogs are the best I have ever had. It's cash only, but you can bring your own booze. Seriously, you need to go.
(5)Carla G.
Easily the best BBQ in the Cincinnati area. Just wish they had more space in their dining room. Very happy to see that they're improving their parking lot. We'll be back often.
(5)Todd S.
Phenomenally smoked BBQ, in a perfectly dive-y outdoor environment. BBQ doesn't get any better in Cincinnati.
(5)J K.
While the menu is relatively small, the food here is solid, and that's enough to keep me coming back to Eli's. There have been a couple of hiccups that prevent me from being a head-over heels fan though. The first time I went to the new location, the restaurant wasn't opened yet, even though there were already reviews online. Odd. But whatever. The owners were kind. They apologized, showed us the space, and even offered us free sandwiches when we returned. In the two subsequent times I went there I have tried the rib tips, pulled pork sandwich, the jalepeno corn bread, and mac n cheese, all of which were above expectation. However, there seems to be a good amount of variation in what they serve. For instance, some of the rib tips were soft and juicy while others were burnt to an inedible crisp. The sides of mac n cheese were larger in our first visit than our second. While these things weren't totally off putting, it did make question what you were really ordering. Oh, and even though the owners recognized our group, we didn't get the free sandwiches were were promised. ah well. I apologize for such a downer review, but it's the summation of these little gripes prevent me from being fanatic about Eli's. Don't get me wrong though, I still recommend it!
(4)Dawna G.
I have been to this place three times now. The barbecue is the best I've had so far in Cincinnati (compared to Pit-to-Plate, Montgomery Inn, and Smoq'd). The menu is limited but I like what I've had. I usually get the pulled pork sandwich which is well-seasoned pork great BBQ sauce and baked beans (very good as well). No salt or seasoning needed--perfect as is! I also get the mashed potatoes which taste more like a cross between potato pancakes and mashed potatoes--which is weird, but I like potatoes so it's fine. It also has a bit of a fly problem (when I've been there), maybe because of the bbq sauce not fully/immediately cleaned from the tables, and that bothered my boyfriend. Reminds me of a cookout, tho. As long as they don't land on my food... I'm good. Overall, the food is great and very affordably priced. The service, when I've been there and it wasn't packed by the way, was quick and the staff will ask you how the food is.
(4)Alex V.
If you are looking for excellent Bar BQ sandwiches, excellent sides, excellent atmosphere, excellent service, and BYOB ... this is the place. It's small but energetic. They have a great staff. The food is spot on. It's reasonable whether you enjoy a few pops or not. But if you have a cooler of cold ones it's a steal. Well done Eli's!
(5)James G.
Awesome! Get the pulled pork and the beans. Great atmosphere, great food. An excellent experience. Highly recommended.
(5)Harold L.
The BBQ here isn't bad, but far from the best in Cincinnati. Ollie's Trolley and Walt's immediately come to mind as pulled pork that would beat Eli's in a blind taste test, hands down. Eli's is a better atmosphere though, and is BYOB. So if you can bear the 45 minute plus waits for pre-cooked food in the name of being at a cool place that you can bring your own beer to, then go for it.
(2)Gary H.
Hole in the wall BBQ place with awesome food. No credit cards are accepted so bring cash or checks. The food deserves a five star review but the young lady behind the counter taking our order was very rude and short with us. We were doing a larger order for 9 people and there was no one behind us yet she rushed us to order. Once we got home we realized they had shorted us two side dishes that we paid for. Overall the food was incredible so if you can call ahead and check your order before you go you will have a great dinner.
(4)Travis P.
This is a great new addition to bar b Que in and around Cincinnati. My first trip was a great success. I ordered the hot dogs with brisket and Cole slaw on top and it was amazing. The combination was perfect with the salty-ness from the hot dog, the creamy Cole slaw and the sweet and tangy bbq sauce. The sides are great as well. The mashed potatoes were excellent, they seemed the be fried just a little bit too which added a crisp to them. The jalapeno corn bread was a great combination to everything as well. I will definitely be going back to taste some of the other items on the menu.
(5)Beverly C.
Our first time here! Food was excellent, service was with a smile! Great little venue with outside picnic tables under some big trees, plenty of off street parking and the inside is very clean with a vintage feel. Only missed 5 stars from me because the menu is missing some good "greens".
(4)Karly B.
Such an amazing BBQ restaurant. Special thank you to Brian Jackson, who I dealt with for our "picnic" order for a get together we had at our house this weekend. The BBQ was a huge hit, and everything was delicious as always!! And seriously the best Mac n Cheese in the world!
(5)Tom C.
wow! best hot dog i ever ate.... dont short yourself order 4 of them you can eat em.
(5)Tamara S.
Eli's BBQ is the real deal. The food and atmosphere are both top notch at an extremely affordable price. Love the smoked Turkey and Pulled Pork. Both sandwiches come on a toasted bun with a choice of two sides for a mere $8; it's one of the best bargains in town. I am a fan of the coleslaw and jalapeno corn bread but can't say I'm a huge fan of the other sides. They just don't have the same Wow of the main entrees. I would love to see Eli's offer greens or green bean option along with the other sides. I'm so glad we finally have a viable barbecue option in the city. During the summer months, Eli's also runs a stand a Findlay market. Can't wait until May so I can get some BBQ in my 'hood!
(4)Jon M.
Eli's is addictive. I started going here two weeks ago after some coworkers went and raved about it. I'm pretty skeptical when someone raves about a cincinnati restaurant, because I've been disappointed so many times. BUT, Eli's is legit. This place exudes a cool vibe without making you feel like you're not cool enough to be there. The BBQ is far above any I've had in Cincinnati and the people who work there are extremely nice; they even try to remember your name. So, in the past two weeks, I've eaten there four times. I've never gone this many times to the same restaurant in this short of time. So, I must be addicted. Hmmm... maybe they smoke their meats in crack. I've tried the smoked pork sandwich, the smoked turkey sandwich, the hot dogs, the Mac and cheese, and the baked beans. They have all been great. It's obvious they take great pride in their food and it shows.
(5)Jack R.
Without question, 100% the best pulled pork that I've had in Cincinnati or beyond. Cannot say enough good things about this restaurant--- awesome decor and vibe, amazing food. Location is a little off the beaten path, but easy to reach from any of the Eastern suburbs or downtown (Columbia Parkway to Delta to Riverside). Important: bring cash, as they do not accept credit cards BYOB
(5)Ben C.
Cincinnati is a better city for having Eli's. The food is phenomenal. The pulled pork and baked beans were the best I've ever had, and the ribs, mac and cheese, and grits were great as well. The atmosphere is welcoming and laid back, with a crowd controlled record player in the dining room, BYOB, outdoor picnic seating and a friendly, eager to please staff. I can't wait to go back with a six pack when the weather will permit lounging outside to enjoy friends, family and the smell of the pit. I will absolutely be back!
(5)Tony N.
Stopped in for a late lunch and had a great experience. Very good pulled pork sandwich with very tasty sause. Great sides, mac and cheese and jalapeno cheese grits. Very reasonably priced, friendly staff, plain but comfortable seating. They have some great vinyl in the dining room....the Monkees Greatest Hits were on while I ate...good food good tunes!
(4)Richard H.
Picked up food to go 4/26/2012. I walk into most restaurants (and write my reviews) with an idea of where I am going and the type of environment, service, food I am going to get. So if you walk into Eli's expecting the Montgomery Inn you will be in for a big surprise. Eli's at its core is a simple BBQ joint and doesn't try to be anymore than that. I had the pulled pork sandwich with cole slaw on top and a side of mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese. The mashed potatoes had a seared edge that I enjoyed and the mac and cheese was outrageously cheesy. It was a beautiful day, and many people lined the picnic tables out back. I hear it is byob and per the cashier, that is not expected to change anytime soon.
(5)Chelsea F.
Eli's BBQ is some of the best grubb you can find in Cincinnati, it is so unique and different from many of the restaurants located throughout the city. You can't go wrong with any menu item, I usually can't stray away from the pulled pork or the delicious black peppered baked beans - drool. Whether you want to take the whole family or just bring a case of your favorite brew and have a little picnic in the blanket only area, it has a little something for everyone. Definitely a point of interest if you are visiting the city.
(5)Hannah P.
Y'all, I don't even dig on swine, but this place rules. Their East End location is adorable, from the bathtub planters out front to the no-frills record player spinning Blues and Honky Tonk standards and the staff's friendly, laid-back attitude. The prices are reasonable for pulled pork that gets rave reviews. Myself, I like to get a bunch of sides, and build my own little mountain of jalapeno-cheddar cornbread, mac 'n cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw. It's picnic food at its finest and just about the best thing I can think of after a sweaty, rowdy softball game. (Eli's flanks Schmidt Softball Complex.) I love that their BYOB policy lets you pick your poison, and though I've yet to sit barefoot in the designated picnic area, it's only a matter of time before I do, and I bet it'll be great, too. Eli's is good food and good summertime fun. Can't wait to check out the vibe at their new location on Vine St. when it opens!
(5)Pamela D.
Was Good.....Real good BBQ.
(5)Colin G.
Awesome spot for great fast and affordable BBQ. Great vibe and love the tunes. Pulled pork, Mac and cheese (w some BBQ sauce mixed in) and jalapeño cornbread are must haves!
(5)Greer B.
We love this place! BYOB, plenty of room for kids to run and play outside. The BBQ is the best in Ohio. It also doesn't hurt that it is cheap eats as well...
(5)Hagatha C.
As wonderful as Eli's BBQ is, it is NOT worth an hour and a half wait, as it was tonight. I suspect they had to go out and first catch the pig, then butcher it, then cook it. Yes the place was crowded, but the staff should have warned people about the anticipated wait time. Clearly their production capacity can't meet the demand. The least they can do is be honest and tell people up front, before they take their money, how long they will have to wait for their food.
(3)Peggy Z.
In this small, unremarkable, lonely building along the side of the road is the Best BBQ in town! Unbelievable pulled pork and great side dishes! Even the buns are terrific! My daughter had the hot dog and she loved it. It even looked and smelled great to me and I don't like hot dogs. Heads up -- if you would like an adult beverage with your meal, it's BYOB.
(5)Shauna W.
Really delicious!
(5)Hillary k.
Eli's is AWESOME! Every single one of these reviews says that. I'm going to tell everyone a little secret about Eli's BBQ......get the hot dogs!!!!! They are amazing and totally different. The smoked turkey is super delicious as well. The first time you go there get the pulled pork, then try other things as you become addicted...you will become addicted.
(5)nicholas y.
Excellent BBQ and a great location! The pulled pork is definitely the best in Cincinnati. Not only do they have a neat rustic southern feel but the service is A+ and they even DELIVER!!! We are a local resident and local small business owner and will definitely be eating at Eli's on a regular basis. Keep up the great work guys!
(5)Matt P.
Had this barbecue downtown during lunch in the summer. My family is from the south where there is fantastic barbecue, and this place is amazing! Best barbecue I've had north of Tennessee!
(5)Andrew A.
Best pulled pork sandwich I've ever had. Great baked bean and slaw. Rest of sides good too. Would be nice to have cups for beverages.
(4)Ryan H.
There is nothing wrong with this place, it is perfect. I always want to eat here. I love bringing my own beer, I love playing and listening to the records, I love the hot dogs, I love the baked beans, I love the location. Eli is exceedingly nice and came by to clear our table when he noticed we were finished, I liked that. You have to have a pretty bad attitude to not enjoy this place. I love parking my truck in the mud behind the restaurant after it rains, I love smelling the smoker as I walk up, I love the nice ladies at the counter, I love the rotary phone, everything is awesome all the time and I can't wait to eat there again. Oh, I'll tell you what I don't like, negative reviews about this place.
(5)Steve S.
This place is dank! Went with my main bros Bernt and Cargo here a couple weekends ago but haven't been able to find my computer since then to write a review. I got the turkey sandwich and the pulled pork, along with the loaded mashed potatoes and mac and cheese and all of it was amazing. Bernt got the hot dogs, because he always does, and he loved them too. Eli's rocks!
(5)Nicholas W.
Cash Only--I've eaten here many times and always get the pulled pork sandwich, which ranges from good to very good, the sides are pretty average but you get 2 for $3 so you might as well get them. If your looking for a good BBQ sandwich this is a good place to start.
(4)Jen S.
If you want BBQ, this place is awesome. Eating here earned Cincinnati some extra stars in my book. This spot just has the kitschy feel of an underground place that just sprung up. No real sign, other than their logo on the building, cash or check only, byob and picnick tables out back, a record player in the front. Love it so much I've ate here twice in the last two days! And I NEVER do that. Oh, and did I mention that on top of the fun atmosphere, the BBQ is ridiculously delicious?
(5)Nick B.
Eli's is a great addition to the area. Outdoor seating is offered at tables and at a special "barefoot and blankets" section of lawn. You can bring your own beer in and pick records to play from their extensive vinyl collection. Eli's has the best pulled pork in the city and the jalapeno grits are not to be missed. I've started coming here on a weekly basis as it's on my regular commute to UC.
(5)Michael W.
Hands down, best BBQ I've had in Cincinnati. Love the atmosphere, prices and most of all, the food. Highly recommend!
(5)Liz D.
DELICIOUS!!! Cheap and fantastic dinner. BYOB too and very close to mt lookout.
(5)Kathy W.
Just went for our second visit to make sure the first visit was repeatable. Without question the best pulled pork BBQ sandwich ever. Toasty bun, incredible pork with just the right amount of crispy meat. The sauce is fantastic. I thought I would need more but this is truly a place where you want to fully taste the meat. I think the coleslaw on the sandwich provides just the right amount of creaminess and balance. Just order the sandwich and forget about the sides. It is perfection.
(5)Hyme R.
Good BBQ worth checking out. The ribs had a good smoke ring and where well seasoned. They where fresh as well, most ribs in southern rib places sit around and get soggy waiting for customers. These tasted right out of one of the 3 smokers in the back. The sauce was middle of the road. Love the coke in the bottles. Here are a few suggestions for improvements: offer a half or full slab regardless of the price. The rib meal had two bones- WTF. I wanted about 10 of them. Also, put some work into the sauce. You need a few of them, spicy and South Carolina would be great. I like that you can bring beer in but I'd prefer an upscale beer menu, but that's just me. Check them out.
(3)Eric B.
I don't want to be dramatic but BBQ doesn't get better than this. They do it right plain and simple. I would suggest going now and saying you did before this place blows up. I'm a KC native and have lived in Cincy for 3 years and this rivals Arthur Bryant's, Oklahoma Joes, & Gates as my favorite BBQ restaurants. This joint is an expanded menu away from the big time.
(5)David M.
I can't imagine that I have much to add here after all the hype, but Eli's was just too good for me to not leave at least a short review. My friends and I got lucky and found parking right in front of this hole-in-the-wall but I can imagine that parking may be challenging. Absolutely loved the pulled pork sandwich, even though I come from a Carolina tradition of vinegar-based sauces (the cole slaw on top was on point thouhg). Also, if you get the mac and cheese, do not forget to get it "dirty" because that was also delicious. Other than that, don't forget to BYOB to really get the most out of the Eli's experience. Finally, don't let the outdoor seating- cold weather combo intimidate you. Eli's now has a tent set up outside over some of the picnic tables with heaters and it is perfectly warm in there. I will definitely be back to Eli's very soon!
(5)Marzina R.
I come here almost every Monday for their rib tip special. I love this place! Byob (no fee) and great outdoor seating. We sit across the back small road in the grass and my kids love to run around. You stand in a decent line Mondays (15 min) and then they call your name to pick the order up (another 15 min). I have seen other guests bring corn hole to play as well. Just a super cool vibe and delicious food. The Mac n cheese is very thick and cheesy. I love it. The pulled pork sandwich is my favorite. I love eveything about this little gem. Cash only! Don't forget to leave a tip after ordering!
(5)Julia C.
Eli's is great. The BBQ sandwiches are fantastic (I suggest getting the slaw on top). The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is because the seating isn't great. They are always busy, but there are only a few tables, so if those are full you're on your own - there were several people standing around holding food, waiting for tables to open up when I was there.
(4)James A.
Best bar-b-q in Clifton
(4)Brandon V.
Best BBQ in the Queen City, hands down. The pulled pork sandwich is the way to go, huge serving and it's only $5. Sides are delicious and cheap as well. Perhaps the best $10 I've ever spent in my life. I recommend this to anyone, the outside seating is great for kids too. If you are coming from out of town, skip Montgomery inn and go here, you won't regret it.
(5)Kim W.
Rude person on the phone would not let is ace an order to go for 15 people. Said they would only accommodate 10 of us with food?! Seriously!!!??! I called to place the order at 2pm. They cannot be too busy to fill the order this time of day. Am I to assume if the 15 of us went into the restaurant to order they would treat us the same way?! Clearly, they don't want our business. Looks like I will never be trying their food. I hate rude people working in customer service environments.
(1)Paul D.
Had the Pulled Pork sandwich with Jalapeño Cheddar Grits and Dirty Mac and Cheese. It was all pretty good. The sandwich was better than the sides. Service was fast and the environment was nice!
(4)Alison R.
This food is delicious! We moved away to Dayton and still have to make a trip to Cincinnati to get it every now and again. As of now, the place is still cash only (or check) so make sure to make an ATM pitstop before you attend.
(5)Ann L.
Love the photo of a pig, not the name, on the sign. Walked in and all the tables taken. They did have outdoor tent seating. Reminded me of a family or church get together. Wooden picnic tables. Ours was dirty. Food was reasonable. I love the small menu. Makes me feel like they'll have fresh food and that they know what they do well. Ordered the pulled pork, jalapeño cornbread, and mashed potatoes. The pulled pork was Mouth watering, tender, juicy, and delicious. Potatoes were good too. They laid them on a griddle for a moment. Loved that tasty layer. The only issue was way too many gnats. But hey, can you really blame the little buggers for wanting a bite of good food?!
(4)Michael S.
This place is easily the best BBQ place in Cincinnati and is comparable to any good BBQ place in the US. It's very reasonably priced and their jalapeno cornbread is pretty awesome. I don't have a lot to add to the previous reviews, but it can be a long wait and Eli's is cash-only. I would probably tack fifty cents onto everything and just go with the card, but what do I know. Parking can be a little bit tricky as well. My recommendation would be to go at off hours, maybe before a Reds game or something.
(4)Jonathan M.
Only had carryout but I really enjoyed the pulled pork and mac & cheese. Need to come back and sample some of the other menu offerings.
(4)Kyle W.
If you are looking for a nice place to relax and enjoy good food, this is the spot. The food is delicious and the atmosphere is very unique for the Cincinnati restaurant scene. Not only is the BBQ wonderful, it also is a BYOB establishment. You can swing by one of the local craft breweries before you head to Eli's and call it an evening. Go fill your growler and check this place out. You may want to bring a few extra during the weekend, as there may be a long line. However, it is definitely worth it.
(5)Hannah P.
I've been to Eli's once now and can't wait for my next taste! The restaurant is small inside and the menu is just the basics. I like that about this place; they do 10 items very well and don't mess around with hundreds of menu items. There were a couple large heated tents outside with tables but it was way too cold for that. I had the pulled pork sandwich, mac and cheese and jalapeno cornbread. It was all amazing!! Make sure to get your side "dirty" with the crispy pork toppings. The mac heated up great as leftovers. They don't sell alcohol but you can BYOB.
(5)Jamie B.
So good. Pretty busy, well worth the wait. Inside/Outside seating. Parking gets to be a hassle sometimes, but the food is just so good, it's worth the walk if you have to park down the street.
(4)Russell A.
This place is great but be prepared to walk a ways before you can eat. Very busy.
(5)Victoria S.
I grew up with Ikes Bbq in Evanston. And I mean old school Ikes before it closed down and opened again then closed and opened and closed. This doesn't taste like Ikes but its as good as Ikes. Ribs slow smoked and flavorful. Perfectly tender, but not in that boiled/baked first kind of way. Pulled pork has just the right balance of tender and crispy burntness. The sauce doesn't taste that phenomenal on its own but complements the meat perfectly. Amazing. Worth the visit and the wait. We has to wait 45 min this first time but as I said, definitely worth it.
(5)Sal R.
This place was way better than I expected. Casual. Cheap. Bring your own beer. Tons of outdoor seating. That makes it a perfect place for big groups. Grab a cooler of beer/wine. Order at the counter, then sit outside at a picnic table with your beer. Options are limited for a vegetarian, but that wasn't a surprise. The cornbread, though, was amazing.
(4)Marie N.
Move over Kansas City! Hello Cincinnati. Bbq has finally arrived. Pulled pork, jalapeño grits, and ribs so authentic slow cooked you can taste the love. Look for the pig sign and ask for Eli-BQ!
(5)A-Aron G.
This is my favorite BBQ spot in Cincinnati. On a beautiful day, its a great place to bring my dog and a 6 pack of beer. Plan on waiting for a while since there is usually a long line!
(5)Emma F.
Only has their catering, but its great. The food is a crowd pleaser - you can't go wrong. I've only tried the pulled pork and its some of the best I've had!
(5)