Buster's has been around for what seems like forever. They are so solid when it comes to that smokey deliciousness. The menu hasn't changed and I rarely get anything beside the Brisket dinner. But when I do go off grid, the baby backs fall off the bone and there's healthy dose of meat on the big ribs. This is NOT one of those places that hide dry meat under sauce. Your choices of sauce are sweet, mild, hot and chipotle. If there's not enough kick for you, add a dash or two of tobasco. That'll do the trick. Your pick of sides are standard issue stuff such as creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, rice pilaf, bbq beans and a salad. But the focus is on the BBQ and that is always good. Reasonable prices, take-out and room for bigger crowds to get together makes this place good enough to keeping coming back to.
(4)
Nate K.
Excellent smoked meats here! They are very consistent in the meat that comes out of their smokers so you always know what you are going to get. The brisket is probably the best around. The lean cuts or the "flat" of the brisket can sometimes be a a little dry but i always order the "point" cut and its always perfectly juicy! The smoked sausage is really good as well as the baby back ribs. I have literally tried all their meats several times and have never had a bad meal here. BBQ sauces are really good also, try mixing the hot with the sweet. Also the house made croutons for the brisket meat salad I order are the best anywhere.
(5)
Jeff J.
Sauces are great, esp the chipotle BBQ!!! Brisket was dry, but revitalized after dipped into the chipotle sauce...ribs had good flavor on top...cold jalapeño slices with cold shredded cheese on top was interesting but easily edible...pulled pork was ok too made better with chipotle hehe...I never been to this location before, but I remember Busters being better in Tigard and Vancouver locations back in the day.....this wasn't the best, but certainly not the worst...I'd probably return again if in the area, but not go out of my way to come
(3)
Hunter H.
Consistent, tasty, and pretty much damn near perfect. Can't go wrong with the brisket. I love the inside of the place too. A little dark with great pics hanging up.
(5)
Aaron L.
This is a go-to spot for me and my wife. The baby back ribs are amazing, especially the dry rub they use. Kirsten always gets the brisket and I think it can sometimes be a bit dry, but there's always their great spicy BBQ sauce if you need it. The sides are tasty; I'm particularly fond of the pinto beans. Plus, as many have said, the super quick service and big portions are a real big plus when you're hungry for some good old-fashioned comfort food.
(4)
Rowland A.
Been several years since I've been to Oregon...came straight here after landing...IT STILL ROCKS! Two meat po boy with brisket and tender loin is mmmmmm mmmmmmm good! (I like the spicy bbq sauce to dip it in.) The girly had the ribs and said they were good too. I don't know why but there fries are really good, they look like normal crinkle fries but they are always delicious.
(5)
Kyle A.
I should really give it 5 stars but four works. My meal cost $12 bucks. Two meat po-boy meat sandwich, BBQ beans and fries. They have four different BBQ sauces, toppings for your sandwich if you want it. Good customer service - the fries are always hot and I just love this place. They smoke the meat and boy- its tasty and so so good.
(4)
vi a.
There's not much to say about this restaurant. The food is mediocre to say the least and over priced. My daughter even said... "this bbq place is the worst ever" and " I can cook better ribs". The rub on the ribs taste aweful even with their bbq sauce... it was still aweful. The bbq sauce got too much paprika, it seemed like and the seasoning didn't seem to mesh together. Overall... I have to say, there are better bbq restaurants out there like Famous Daves. Even Safeway grocery store can make a better tasting bbq ribs. Skip this one if you can.
This place was not very good at all. I am from out of town and Busters was recommended to me from the RV dealership sales folks up the street. The line was long to get to the service counter but I thought,"hey if it's great BBQ then I'll wait for 20 minutes in line." Man, was I so disappointed! My chicken and spare ribs were so dry I had to dump a lot of bbq sauce on my lunch just to be able to chew it. The coleslaw has bland, bland, bland. My beans were okay and my Mac & Cheese tasted like Hungarian mush. I really wanted to ask for my money back but I didn't. Most of us know that good BBQ comes from the heart & soul of it's creator and if the chef is not into making great BBQ then he might as well stay home. Whoever cooked the BBQ on the day I was there should have stayed home because it was by far the very worst BBQ I ever did pay for. I'm not comin' back to this joint again, life is too short.
(1)
Dawn C.
First time here, I brought my 6 year old daughter and we split the 6 pork ribs and two sides of mac & cheese and baked potato. The ribs were very dry but flavorful with great spices and the sauces that we selected were delicious. (Ribs come dry then you dip them in sauces you select). There was plenty of food for both of us, but definitely overpriced at $18 for the ribs, sides and a child's size drink. The atmosphere was dated like something out of the 1970s, and just dark and neglected. This is a one-time-only trip for us due to the high price and depressing atmosphere.
(2)
Leilani C.
This is, quite frankly, the worst bbq I've ever had. Walking in, the entire restaurant smelled rancid. I almost turned right back around and walked out but it's been highly recommended by friends so I at least felt obligated to give the food a fair shot. Whoa. I'm pretty sure my 9 year old could grill up some chicken thighs with some Kraft BBQ sauce smothered on it and it would taste like a good ole Southern meal compared to Buster's flavorless and dry brisket. Honestly I've never had worse. The sauces were mediocre and the he restaurant not only smelled awful, it was filthy dirty. Do yourself a favor and head over to Famous Dave's or better yet, Hog Wild BBQ in Clackamas. At least their food won't leave you feeling like you just ate skunky mystery meat grilled on their dirty smelly BBQ.
(1)
Michael N.
This place is awesome. I've eaten here many times, as recently as December 2014, and I've never been disappointed. My favorite menu item is their beef ribs. They offer up great sides, and you get your food fast as you walk through the line cafeteria style unless you eat in the bar area which will take you a little longer to get your food as the wait staff will bring it to you in there. No complaints about this place and I've been eating there for over a decade. Best ris in town.
(5)
Kristine Y.
Had the short ribs with 2 meats (comes w/ 2 sides) for the 2 of us. No shortage of meat and food!! My better half was no too fond of things, he had added on a set of beef ribs.... Which we really don't enjoy, but wanted to try anyway. The mac n cheese good, coleslaw was nice with the beef brisket. I was quite fond of the ribs and taste of brisket and pork loin. They gave us 2 slices of bread and this made a delightful little open face sandwich. The sauces are really quite and nice and I will keep in mind this as a Christmas gift idea! All in all, we had a ton of food and 2 beers for $35. This is a good old boys club, but clean, well stocked and will likely return!! I told my better half to cater this at my funeral!! :-)
(5)
Derek O.
This place was a shock. I was expecting mediocre at best. What we got was way better. We walked in and they serve cafeteria style. No problem but we had never seen that. We got our food and our sides and sat down. My sister had the chicken which was good. My sister's man toy had the same as me...brisket, chicken, and pork ribs. All of the food was good. Their hot and medium sauces were good solid sauces. Thei Chipotle was outstanding. Well that and the bark on the brisket. This was a good solid bbq place. Nothing really fancy but for a person that wants to hit the spot...this is it. It will never be a Brewbque but we were headed North.
(4)
Rian S.
Baby back ribs....always the best choice in my opinion :) pulled pork is also great. Staff it depends what day you come. I have been going here for 6 years and seen a lot of employees come in and out, had friends work here. They have all loved it which means must have a good manager and owner. Parking is large. Has a good feel inside. Lots of seating. Can't say anything bad about it :) fat guy heaven if he loves BBQ
(5)
Nick H.
It seems like everyone has a BBQ place they like a little (or lot) more than Buster's. Okay, I'll grant that. What I like about Buster's is their consistency. If you like the food here, you will never be dissapointed.The other places I've been to more then thrice in PDX tend to fluctuate more than I like. 'Scuse me for being old and set in my ways. The chicken is good, the ribs are okay, the brisket tends to be dry, the links are fine, slaw is good, potato salad just fair, same with the beans, I like the sauces enough to use at home and I never have room for dessert. Any questions?
(3)
Jennifer B.
I've been going to Buster's since I was a kid. I live in San Diego now and nothing even compares. The meat is smoked perfect, the seasoning is just right and the cuts are amazing. The best potato salad and BBQ beans! I'm driving to Portland on Thursday and leaving first thing in the morning so I can be here before they close! This is reeaall BBQ. Done.
(5)
Ryan Y.
I'm a Texas transplant and this is legitimate Texas BBQ. I had the brisket and pulled pork. Both were great and the spicy BBQ sauce was perfect. If this place had a nicer dining area and was located in town it would be packed all day. I'm begrudgingly taking 1 star off because it really is a little overpriced. But even so I will be back.
(4)
Holly D.
Haven't been to Buster's in honestly 15 years..Do NOT ask me why! But family visiting from the across the pond wanted bbq and Buster's was in the right place at the right time. It did not disappoint anyone...just as yummy as I remember, turkey, ribs, pulled pork, brisket was all great. Only thing strange..we didn't bus our own table. .they still do it.
(5)
Kory C.
Used to go here 1-2 times a week. The same order everytime. Had to take busters off my places to eat list because they kept F'n up my sandwich with fries and Ranch order. How many times do you give a restaraunt forgetting to put ranch in with the order, and sometimes even forgetting the bbq sauce. In a 10 month period they forgot to put Ranch in with my order 7 times. So everytime I would have to drive back up there to get the f'n ranch. After 7 times of this, I will no longer spend my money at this restaurant.
(2)
Sarah C.
Busters is as Texan as any BBQ I've tried since moving to this beautiful state. I spent the first 25 years of my life in Texas, and was reminded of my homeland as soon as we saw the gun shop and propane dealer on the approach to Busters. But the sights and smells that hit you when you walk\ through the front door are an instant transport to the Lone Star State. This place isn't small-shack-off-a-dirt-road-with-only-family-Âsized-portions-served-on-butcher-paper-and-tea-as-Âthe-only-beverage-BBQ (the REAL deal), but it IS equivalent to the kind of delicious, pit-smoked BBQ you can find in every Texas city. So good! -particularly the sausage and brisket covered in hot or mild sauce (no Texan would ever use a sweet sauce). And the sides are terrific too - especially the slaw, potato salad and beans. I am thrilled to have found this place - the BBQ craving is finally satiated!
(5)
M B.
The place operates cafeteria style (grab your tray and silverware when you walk in the door) and has kind of a run-down feel to it. The food is only so-so. The prices are outrageous. For the amount that you pay for the meal, you get very small portions. A side of potato salad, for example, equals one spoonful in a tiny bowl. Next time I will save my money and not waste my time with this place.
(2)
Shelley M.
Great sothern type food, fresh meat cut right in front of you. The sides are delish, and there is a salad bar, which i love,
(5)
Darron N.
if your looking for Beef Ribs, look no farther. I like the atmosphere, it has that rustic, down to bbq business kind of feel, keeping the focus on the wonderful smoked meats. Bottom line is the Beef Ribs are my thing, I started with the other common items such as brisket, chicken, pork ect. but this place is all about the Beef Ribs for me.
(5)
Joyce G.
Not sure why I am so generous to give them any stars. OK, the place was clean, though rundown. I asked for a recommendation of meats cuz I'm gluten intolerant & he suggested that baby backs were very popular. So he cut 3 ribs from the end of a new rack--that means the ones I got were small. The salad was a tiny bowl of mostly iceberg & a little romaine; nothing else. Then I asked for a glass of Cabernet & was served an airplane-sized bottle of the worst wine I have ever tasted. The audacity of them to charge me &12.75 for that mess! The whole setup is like a cafeteria line, where you take a tray & ask for foods that have been sitting around in the open air for who knows how long? Never again will I step foot in that place!!
(1)
Chris O.
I'm not sure how the other reviewers gave this place such high marks. I am also posting photos. * Beef ribs: I have had an easier time with beef jerky. DRY! * Brisket: DRY, I have posted photos. * Potato salad: better off with the gallon tub from Costco. * Beans: Get a can of the cheapest beans at the supermarket. * Coleslaw: Seemed fresh and crispy. White slaw with dressing. Simple and bland. So, if you like neon cactuses and shoe leather, this place is for you. P.S. If you want a standard of comparison, visit Podnah's Pit Barbecue, Smokehouse 21, Leroy's Familiar Vittles or one of the many BBQ restaurants available around you..
(2)
Carl T.
Smokey Hot Yummy Goodness! This place is always spotless. The food is ALWAYS great! Consistent consistent wonderfulness. The best BBQ beef ribs EVER!
(5)
Bill R.
Best brisket in Portland. Ribs, smoked turkey and sides are also great. Little known - eat in the bar and they will serve you off the menu.
(5)
Gary L.
Didn't really do it for me. Place was pretty run down in a 'step back in time' kinda way, grab a tray and get served cafeteria style. I had a pulled pork sandwich ($11.75) as it was an early lunch. Not bad, not great and a little pricy for what it was. If you have the time I'd keep driving and look elsewhere but it'll do if you're short on time.
(2)
W B.
Good Texas BBQ. My dad's favorite and we come here everytime I'm in town. He always gets the Spare Ribs and they are well done, dry and add your own sauce. The spicy sauce is ok for me, a little runny and vinegary for my tastes. I had the pulled pork sandwich this trip and it was good but not excellent. The Po'Boy bread was very good and the meat was cooked well, but there was sauce added already and soaked in. I like the taste of pork without sauce and add to taste. I had the BBQ Beans and they were pretty good. I would stick to Beef, the brisket looked great and the Spare ribs are always great.
(4)
Robert X.
Let me get into a time machine and go back to the late 70's when this style of restaurant was popular and this review may still be the same! THIS WAS ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE IN EVERY WAY! The star of the show, the MEAT, is dry and tasteless. BBQ?? Serve it yourself from the salad bar and call it ketchup. The sides are college dorm kitchen style, out of a can, and barely warm. The people are not even slightly pleasant unless they are talking to themselves. The atmosphere is dark and I can say a least it appeared to be clean, but it was dark. You never can tell until you shine a light on it. Now lets talk price. For a BBQ place the pricing is accurate, but here, you will be filled with regret at first bite. The only thing I liked was my soda pop and I'll sum it up that it was a $17 soda and call it a day. DON'T GO THERE! TAKE YOUR MONEY AND GO ELSEWHERE!!!!!!!!
(1)
Samuel H.
OMG. It was HORRIBLE. I had a craving for brisket so I decided to try a new place. Buster's does not know BBQ. All of their meats were dry and bland. Their brisket was dry and had NO sauce. It wasn't cooked in anything. The only BBQ sauce to be found was in vats on the SALAD BAR. That's right, I had to but the sauce in a bowel and dip my dry, tasteless meat into it. Their mac -n- cheese is a bar of glue and the mashed potatoes taste like they come from a box, much like their brown gravy. Avoid Buster's. You will be disappointed.
(1)
Chris W.
Average barbecue. No more no less. The portions are a little small for the side orders.
(3)
John M.
Brisket sandwich at lunchtime is incredible. I wish they served it during dinner time, but they don't. Very simple atmosphere, with cafeteria style trays and inexpensive cutlery.. But the BBQ is terrific, and never fails to please. The best in the area, by far.
(4)
Thee I.
Let's get down to it. Busters is good. Great selection of meats they carve right there for you. They trim the fat off the brisket which is fairly lean. Great selection of sides too. I recommend the 2 meat brisket and hot links. The spicy sauce is killer! It doesnt look like you get a lot of food, but by the end, you're full. I've had BBQ all over the U.S. Busters isn't the best, but its pretty good and worth the trip.
(4)
Jezus C.
The meat was dry and tasteless. The food was luke warm at best. The people who work there are the only good thing about this place of eating because it shouldn't be called a restaurant. The one time I wanted my money back. Save your time and money.
(2)
Mcqueen C.
I love coming to this place. Food is always great, clean and service is good too. Never have to wait to eat because everything is prepared and ready to eat when you come in. Huge portions and a lot of sides to choose from. I recommend the brisket dinner.
(4)
Martin F.
Good bbq, good service, good prices, clean and warm. What else is there? It's a friendly place - with several meat choices it's easy to find something for everyone. The quick service (walk up and get your food as you come in), comfortable overstuffed chairs makes for a great combination. You should try it, you'll like it.
(4)
Jennifer M.
Amazing BBQ. Love the baby backs, brisket and spicy sausage. Don't forget to grab some Beef Jerky to go.
(5)
James H.
I truly enjoy the food here especially the fatty brisket. It is so smokey good and flavorful. The reason I went four instead of five stars is actually for two reasons. I am not a big fan of cafeteria style service and I am not a big fan of the all day heat tables containing the sauces. I will always recommend this resteraunt for people who like good barbecue.
(4)
Sean S.
I use to come here for the beef ribs all the time. This last time was a major disappointment, it's always a bad sign when they bring the ribs out upside down on your plate... They weren't meaty in the slightest, they were mostly bone, and the meat on them wasn't that flavored and was dry. What a disappointment, isn't there anywhere in PDX area with good beef ribs anymore?? I regret not taking a picture of the sad looking ribs so I could show...
(2)
Nicole S.
Busters a great ol standby with consistently great bbq and sides plus a great lounge, brisket pork ribs and hot links are a must, best spicy bbq sauce in Portland area and I have been everywhere :)
(5)
Troy L.
Wide selection of meats. The brisket was dry and overcooked. not even sauce would help. The spareribs were hard and inedible. There are better places for BBQ in Southeast Portland. As for their sauce, it was nothing special
(1)
Michael B.
Prices are inexpesive as noted in other reviews but the portions are small, the potato salad tasted as if it were left over from the previous week and the ribs were dry. Also they don't offer any of the sauces they sell by the bottle to put on the ribs when you dine-in. Won't return or recommend
(2)
Eric L.
Granted, I haven't gone to some of the boutique BBQ joints in the trendy areas of town...but of the 10 different places I've checked out Buster's is the most consistently good. Usually good flavor on the brisket, usually done about right, not too dry not too soggy. Not what I would call moderately priced but not incredibly expensive either. I rarely have something here that I wouldn't consider good. Every 8th-10th time I might end up with brisket that's overdone like tree bark. But's that's still a better success ratio than any other place I've found. Brisket - best I've found. Baby Backs - top notch. Pulled pork - very good. Sausage - heavy, greasy and very good. BBQ chicken - average. Beef ribs - just OK. Sides - coleslaw is about the best around, fries are pretty good too although I realize they're just Ore-Ida fries.
(5)
Kevin S.
This is my favorite barbecue restaurant on the face of the planet. I'm in the military and move every year or two, and I always seek out the local bbq places to eat. Having grown up in the PDX area, I always look forward to coming back to Busters when I come home to visit my parents. I went to Busters for dinner tonight and I wasn't disappointed. This is the type of place where you grab a tray and order from the employees in the serving line, pick out your side dishes, desserts, drinks, and end up at the cash register at the end of the counter. Take your tray to a table of your liking and enjoy your meal. The service at the counter is friendly and professional. It's clean. The atmosphere is cowboy-esque with stirrups, saddles, branding irons, cowbells, etc on the walls. They have some funny artwork throughout the place that looks like it's cowboy / western themed, but look carefully and you'll note something else all the paintings share in common. I truly try to limit which restaurants I award 5-stars as the best-of-the-best, and I truly believe Busters deserves it.
(5)
Jeff N.
Love this place. Best BBQ in the NW. However i did ask to reserve a large table for 20 for a family holiday lunch, and they didn't help with tables or offer any type of options. We all were was less then impressed with that service.
(4)
Tim M.
The 'Que here is good, not great but good. The chicken is really the bright spot, very well done. Pork Ribs, brisket and beef ribs are just ok. They tend to be too dry for me. Coleslaw is good and potato salad is below average. Sauce options are above average and because the meat tends to be on the dry side, sauce I think is really needed. This is probably the reason I don't go all gaga over this place, i prefer my 'Que without sauce or very little sauce. To each his own I guess.
(3)
Andrew S.
Pretty good spot. Ribs are cooked well, more the dry rub style. 3 types of BBQ Sauce Po-Boy is good. BBQ Beans are nice. Spicy Link was tasty, so is the chili no beans. Service is always good and polite.
(4)
Heather S.
Really good! The BBQ sauces are full of flavor.. I had the pulled pork sandwich and BBQ baked beans.. Delicious! The baked beans have a little kick to them.. Definitely delicious and will go back..
(4)
Michelle A.
Busters on McLoughlin is fantastic! The service is ALWAYS wonderful. They have great sauces to customize your meal. I prefer a mix of the sweet and hot BBQ. Their crinkle fries are old school and always fresh and hot. The best part is the meat. The turkey is great if you are trying to be healthy. The brisket is the best I have ever had. I always ask for a lean cut and they are always happy to cut the fat off for me. I just discovered that they have an affordable happy hour as well. $2 drinks from 3-6 and tons of appetizers for $3. If you are a meat lover, you must try. However, like they say it's "A vegetarians worst nightmare".
(5)
Abby B.
Mild sausage links on onion roll: sausage was good but cold, the roll was alright but too thick for the meat. Chopped beef on onion roll : my husband loved it and thought it was a lot of food. We got the green beans, mashed potatoes with gravy and bbq beans. The green beans were decent, potatoes were really garlic tasting, and personally I prefer baked beans to their bbq beans. Overall it was only okay. Being from Texas we were hoping for something from home but it wasn't exactly right. Most importantly, you have to have fried okra to really be a southern style bbq joint.
(2)
Holy-foo' X.
As the Late Greg Giraldo once plaintively yowled to Larry the Cable Guy: "WHY are you so popular?!?" Years and years ago, way before the proliferation currently seen of BBQ joints/carts/carry-outs in Portland, there was Buster's, which had the distinction of being practically the only game in town. That, and they allowed customers to dress up their meals, and order a la cart, al dente, and just about any ole way they pleased. Then along came Mel Renfro's joint. And Doris'. And Czaba's--- oh thank heaven, there was Czaba's! Folks in the '97 to the 203' area code no longer had to drive long distances for bbq. They could get it authentic, and much closer to home. It's a testament to their business savvy--- and obvious widespread appeal-- that Buster's has thrived through the latent surge of so many different BBQ eateries, as noted above. So what's to like about it? It's cheap, relatively. It's already prepared, so virtually NO wait time. There's good variety in meat, and you sauce it as you so please. There's also the bar, which many of the competitor's lack... At this point in the game, there's too much superior bbq closer to home to go out of my way as in the old days, for Buster's. Nowadays if I "happen" to be in the area, and with someone that is gung ho about Buster's, fine, I'll go back. I've never had a terrible dining experience @ a Buster's, but what ya gonna do? I've traveled quite a bit both domestic and international, and am grateful for how those experiences have influenced and enriched my No-Po palate. So. As every chic in the universe has oh-so sincerely said to at least one guy she's ditched, It's not you, Buster's darling, it's me....
(2)
Kenny H.
Been coming here for about two decades now. Used to come with my family as a kid and I still come here to this very day. The food is excellent, and the price has remained pretty steady over the years; as many restaurants get popular or well-known, the price tends to escalate accordingly. Busters seems to only have adjusted for inflation. Additionally, it's a place that the entire family can enjoy. The only gripe that's even worth mentioning (since I want to give a fair review) is that the service has occasionally made me want to sigh (and I hate sighing), 9.9/10 your experience will be pleasant.
(4)
Bryan F.
I have been eating here since I was a little kid, sometimes twice a day... Best BBQ place in the area as far as I am concerned. My two favorites are the Turkey and Brisket dinners. All the meats are good, and the people are great. Most of the sides are good, after 5 p.m. they have baked potatoes. The only thing I would avoid are the mashed potatoes, they taste like they may be from a box. Texas Rice and the crinkle-cut fries are always a good choice. Vegetarians beware.
(4)
Raim R.
Good food. Being from Texas and driving through I thought "if you're using Texas and BBQ in the name, it better be good.". And it was. Good sauce, good ribs. The brisket was a little dry but had good flavor. I would recommend stopping by when you're in town.
(3)
Jill H.
Brisket, sauce, and iced tea are great. Mashed potatoes were creamy. Beans were blah and needed doctoring with jalepenos, which the condiment bar was lacking. But I'll forgive y'all for that, Buster's. I'll be back and I'm bringing friends.
(4)
John B.
As a lifetime aficianado of barbeque all over Dixie (running joke; my expense reports were not complete without at least one drop of barbeque sauce), please don't think I fib when I say Buster's is THE BEST. The one failing is their 'garlic toast' - everything else is perfect. They also cater, and really 'make' a party or picnic!
(5)
Aaron B.
Great food & cheap drinks! Get the pulled pork on the po-boy (it's the softest bread they have!) it's amazing! Happy hour all day on Saturday & Sunday! Cheap drinks and good deals on apps. The brisket can be hit & miss, but I think that's due to the variation in the cut thickness. It's better than no brisket! Be sure to check out the spicy BBQ sauce, I love it and never eat BBQ sauce other than this. They also have a spicy mustard chipotle you can get that's amazing! Great kinda divvy little bar (meant as a compliment, dark woods, low lights) off the min restaurant, but there are windows too so it feels nice. 4 TV's so you can catch whatever sporting event is on as well. So, in a nutshell, this place has a lot going for it.. All the pieces are in place!
(5)
Lisa Marie G.
I found Busters through Yelp and was satisfied with the results! Their sweet sauce was a bit more hot than sweet but the meat was most and delicious. We had take out but I think I will dine in next time. My mom ordered ribs and went totally carnal on it~
(4)
Aleasha G.
Well this was my round two for Busters. This time with my partner in crime at my side, ready to do some damage (to our stomaches that is). My favorite moment was when we drove up & saw their reader board "A VEGETARIANS WORST NIGHTMARE" HAHAHAHA...clever. This got my lovely carnivore even more excited since his every meal consists of meat, meat, meat and a side of other necessary foods other than meat. I got the lunch special beef sandwich. A basic bun with some sauce filled beef in the center. He ended up getting a two meat sandwich. When we sat down, with a wide array of sauces covering our table we began to dig in. Bite after bite, I was overwhelmed by the intensely drown-in-sauce meat. It tasted good, but was quite overpowering. My hubby however, had two slabs of EXTREMELLY dry meat that he had to drench in sauce just to give it enough moisture to become edible again. Overall we were full, and I can see why this place is a favorite haunt for so many. Personally the tasty dipping sauce is probably not enought to get me to return. There were a few large awesome looking indoor fire pits, but when they aren't lit up, they just sit there looking fake & tacky. (And business was busy enough to justify lighting it.) I have also never been much of a buffet style dining fan. The dirty factor of buffets tends to put me off, so unless the food is so exceptional I forget its a buffet, it doesn't make the food go down easier :) Not my thing, but if you love meat, and you love sauce, its definately worth a try!
(3)
Veggie L.
Husband picked up take out... Best dry rub ribs i have had. I usually love my saucy bbq drenched ribs but these ribs made me change my mind. Great flavor... A little sweet and a little spice. Bbq beans and coleslaw was nothing special but dang these ribs are worth going back for!
(4)
Jason K.
Whenever I pass through I have a hard time not stopping here and getting some BBQ to take home. The pulled pork is where it's at, nice and smoky with surprisingly little in terms of fat. That's what I like! The sausages are good as well, as is the smoked turkey. The sauces offered are all good, buy I'm a stickler for the spicy. Pretty much the closest thing I can find out here to the BBQ I had growing up in the midwest.
(5)
K W.
Smoked turkey is moist, tasty perfect. Pork ribs are amazing. Brisket is spot on. Chicken is a little dry for my tastes: stick with any of the ribs and turkey. Great cheap lunch: the 'chopped meat' sandwich is the leftover pieces of meat and is a scrumptious bargain. The whole family loves the meats. But the sides leave a lot to be desired: cold, crinkle-cut fries, very plain salads in tiny bowls, pork and beans that are a bit too sweet. Still, you simply can't beat the BBQ here. Don't forget to add a little bit of that hot BBQ sauce too - yum!
(5)
Rachelle f.
They have the best ham hands down, great choice of sides and the bbq sauce is amazing
(4)
Beverly M.
I couldn't believe it when I realized the Milwaukie Location had not been reviewed! I've been eating here for years. The staff is always wonderful. Some of the same faces all these years, but it seems the new hires are always great too! I've tried many of the different meats and dishes, but once you find your favorite, it's hard to order anything else. My favorite is the Brisket Po Boy Sandwich. I always order the basket of fries rather than the 2 sides, because the basket is enough fries for all of us! The meat is so tasty and tender. They trim the fat off nicely. I like having the buffet style fixin's to finish my sandwich preparing myself. Lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, bowl of hot sauce mixed with mild sauce, bowl of ranch dressing to dip my fries in, and a cold bottle of beer pulled right out of the ice. Mmmmmm. This is heaven. Busters has been satisfying my cravings through pregnancies, menopause, divorces, singlhood and dating, fatness and thiness. It's always been there for me. I've used them to cater golf tournaments and company picnics. They've never done me wrong. This place has survived many economic times. They are just plain GOOD!
(4)
Andy B.
Loving the BBQ great happy hour don't change a thing
(4)
Scott L.
I grew up in Portland, and to this day every time I visit my family I go to Buster's. Prompt service, great decor, and delicious food does it every time for me. The dinners are pretty big, so come with an appetite, but if you want to eat less or are just in for lunch, get your favorite meat on a Po'Boy. I recommend the Hot Link Sausage. Also, never use the ketchup. Just get the mild BBQ sauce for a great dipping sauce for the bread with your dinner, your fries, your meat, or your sandwich!
(5)
Mike L.
I went here on a week night and absolutely loved it. The bbq ribs I had were excellent. The atmosphere was very western 80 style and there was old school country music playing. They had a good selection of beers and everything was great. I'll definitely go back.
(4)
Scott H.
Pretty much my favorite restaurant in the world. If you're looking for something to try, give it a shot and you wont be disappointed. Quality is always good and I particularly recommend the baby back ribs
(5)
Joe M.
This has been one of my favorite restaurants for the past 20 years!! I usually only come back to Portland for about a week and a half a year. In that time, I usually try to eat at Busters at least a couple of times. The meat is always of highest quality and you always have the opportunity to QC your meal because they slice it right in front of you while you make your way down a cafeteria inspired line with your tray and silverware. I usually go for the combo Po Boy with ham and sausage. The interplay of the hint-of-orange glazed ham with the spicy sausage link mixed with my BBQ sauce concoction is absolutely amazing and really cannot be described in words. Although after the first couple of bites, you think you could eat a couple of these sandwiches they are so good, by the time you finish one, you can't eat another bite. Although it has been a while since I have had the ribs, they were always really good. Maybe not the best I have ever had, but definitely worth getting. The brisket has always been very good too. Very tasty and lean. Although I have never tried it, I know a lot of people think very highly of the turkey also. For my side dish, I always get the french fries. They are a medium sized crinkle cut variety that almost is as much of an attraction as the entrees. They almost always are fresh right out of the fryer because they go so fast and are served in a generous sized basket which is probably enough for two to share (although I would not recommend). I am not a huge bbq bean person, but do really enjoy them here as well. A regular dining companion of mine enjoys the pinto style. They also have a bunch of other standard type sides (coleslaw, potato salad, garden salad, rice, baked potato, ect) which I have never experienced. Overall if you are hungry and feel like BBQ, this is the place to go in Portland. The meats are always delicious and plentiful and delivered with a consistency that you can always count on. The food also is great to get to-go if you want to take it back home. The sandwiches are around $6-$9 depending on how many meats you get and if you want a side or not. I think the sliced meat dinners start around $11 or $12 (and also come with the world's best Texas Toast). If I had to come up with something negative to say about this place, I guess it would be that Busters is just about the food: You stand in line, get your food, eat, and leave. Not really a place you would go to have a nice relaxing dinning experience. I have also eaten at the Tigard location dozens of times. Although I have no problem eating at the Tigard one, and can't point to anything specific, I believe the original Gladstone/Milwaukee restaurant to be the more superior. Either way, you can't go wrong getting your BBQ at Busters unless you: 1. Are a vegetarian, but they warn you on the sign out front 2. Prefer a sterile, over-priced, bland tasting chain food environment of a Famous Dave's or equivalent
(5)
Calista H.
Good happy hour food and prices, but horrible drinks!! This is the one place that successfully makes one nasty drink after another. If your looking for a good drink don't go here. If your looking for good food do go here. I'm not normally in to Texas bbq (I prefer TN style), but this place is good! Good food. Bad drinks.
(3)
Don S.
Better than Famous Daves, but mediocre compared to real BBQ. Very skimpy on the meat.
(2)
Eric L.
Granted, I haven't gone to some of the boutique BBQ joints in the trendy areas of town...but of the 10 different places I've checked out Buster's is the most consistently good. Usually good flavor on the brisket, usually done about right, not too dry not too soggy. Not what I would call moderately priced but not incredibly expensive either. I rarely have something here that I wouldn't consider good. Every 8th-10th time I might end up with brisket that's overdone like tree bark. But's that's still a better success ratio than any other place I've found. Brisket - best I've found. Baby Backs - top notch. Pulled pork - very good. Sausage - heavy, greasy and very good. BBQ chicken - average. Beef ribs - just OK. Sides - coleslaw is about the best around, fries are pretty good too although I realize they're just Ore-Ida fries.
(5)
Kevin S.
This is my favorite barbecue restaurant on the face of the planet. I'm in the military and move every year or two, and I always seek out the local bbq places to eat. Having grown up in the PDX area, I always look forward to coming back to Busters when I come home to visit my parents. I went to Busters for dinner tonight and I wasn't disappointed. This is the type of place where you grab a tray and order from the employees in the serving line, pick out your side dishes, desserts, drinks, and end up at the cash register at the end of the counter. Take your tray to a table of your liking and enjoy your meal. The service at the counter is friendly and professional. It's clean. The atmosphere is cowboy-esque with stirrups, saddles, branding irons, cowbells, etc on the walls. They have some funny artwork throughout the place that looks like it's cowboy / western themed, but look carefully and you'll note something else all the paintings share in common. I truly try to limit which restaurants I award 5-stars as the best-of-the-best, and I truly believe Busters deserves it.
(5)
Jeff N.
Love this place. Best BBQ in the NW. However i did ask to reserve a large table for 20 for a family holiday lunch, and they didn't help with tables or offer any type of options. We all were was less then impressed with that service.
(4)
Tim M.
The 'Que here is good, not great but good. The chicken is really the bright spot, very well done. Pork Ribs, brisket and beef ribs are just ok. They tend to be too dry for me. Coleslaw is good and potato salad is below average. Sauce options are above average and because the meat tends to be on the dry side, sauce I think is really needed. This is probably the reason I don't go all gaga over this place, i prefer my 'Que without sauce or very little sauce. To each his own I guess.
(3)
Andrew S.
Pretty good spot. Ribs are cooked well, more the dry rub style. 3 types of BBQ Sauce Po-Boy is good. BBQ Beans are nice. Spicy Link was tasty, so is the chili no beans. Service is always good and polite.
(4)
Heather S.
Really good! The BBQ sauces are full of flavor.. I had the pulled pork sandwich and BBQ baked beans.. Delicious! The baked beans have a little kick to them.. Definitely delicious and will go back..
(4)
Delilah K.
Buster's has been around for what seems like forever. They are so solid when it comes to that smokey deliciousness. The menu hasn't changed and I rarely get anything beside the Brisket dinner. But when I do go off grid, the baby backs fall off the bone and there's healthy dose of meat on the big ribs. This is NOT one of those places that hide dry meat under sauce. Your choices of sauce are sweet, mild, hot and chipotle. If there's not enough kick for you, add a dash or two of tobasco. That'll do the trick. Your pick of sides are standard issue stuff such as creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, rice pilaf, bbq beans and a salad. But the focus is on the BBQ and that is always good. Reasonable prices, take-out and room for bigger crowds to get together makes this place good enough to keeping coming back to.
(4)
Nate K.
Excellent smoked meats here! They are very consistent in the meat that comes out of their smokers so you always know what you are going to get. The brisket is probably the best around. The lean cuts or the "flat" of the brisket can sometimes be a a little dry but i always order the "point" cut and its always perfectly juicy! The smoked sausage is really good as well as the baby back ribs. I have literally tried all their meats several times and have never had a bad meal here. BBQ sauces are really good also, try mixing the hot with the sweet. Also the house made croutons for the brisket meat salad I order are the best anywhere.
(5)
Jeff J.
Sauces are great, esp the chipotle BBQ!!! Brisket was dry, but revitalized after dipped into the chipotle sauce...ribs had good flavor on top...cold jalapeño slices with cold shredded cheese on top was interesting but easily edible...pulled pork was ok too made better with chipotle hehe...I never been to this location before, but I remember Busters being better in Tigard and Vancouver locations back in the day.....this wasn't the best, but certainly not the worst...I'd probably return again if in the area, but not go out of my way to come
(3)
Hunter H.
Consistent, tasty, and pretty much damn near perfect. Can't go wrong with the brisket. I love the inside of the place too. A little dark with great pics hanging up.
(5)
Aaron L.
This is a go-to spot for me and my wife. The baby back ribs are amazing, especially the dry rub they use. Kirsten always gets the brisket and I think it can sometimes be a bit dry, but there's always their great spicy BBQ sauce if you need it. The sides are tasty; I'm particularly fond of the pinto beans. Plus, as many have said, the super quick service and big portions are a real big plus when you're hungry for some good old-fashioned comfort food.
(4)
Michelle A.
Busters on McLoughlin is fantastic! The service is ALWAYS wonderful. They have great sauces to customize your meal. I prefer a mix of the sweet and hot BBQ. Their crinkle fries are old school and always fresh and hot. The best part is the meat. The turkey is great if you are trying to be healthy. The brisket is the best I have ever had. I always ask for a lean cut and they are always happy to cut the fat off for me. I just discovered that they have an affordable happy hour as well. $2 drinks from 3-6 and tons of appetizers for $3. If you are a meat lover, you must try. However, like they say it's "A vegetarians worst nightmare".
(5)
Abby B.
Mild sausage links on onion roll: sausage was good but cold, the roll was alright but too thick for the meat. Chopped beef on onion roll : my husband loved it and thought it was a lot of food. We got the green beans, mashed potatoes with gravy and bbq beans. The green beans were decent, potatoes were really garlic tasting, and personally I prefer baked beans to their bbq beans. Overall it was only okay. Being from Texas we were hoping for something from home but it wasn't exactly right. Most importantly, you have to have fried okra to really be a southern style bbq joint.
(2)
Holy-foo' X.
As the Late Greg Giraldo once plaintively yowled to Larry the Cable Guy: "WHY are you so popular?!?" Years and years ago, way before the proliferation currently seen of BBQ joints/carts/carry-outs in Portland, there was Buster's, which had the distinction of being practically the only game in town. That, and they allowed customers to dress up their meals, and order a la cart, al dente, and just about any ole way they pleased. Then along came Mel Renfro's joint. And Doris'. And Czaba's--- oh thank heaven, there was Czaba's! Folks in the '97 to the 203' area code no longer had to drive long distances for bbq. They could get it authentic, and much closer to home. It's a testament to their business savvy--- and obvious widespread appeal-- that Buster's has thrived through the latent surge of so many different BBQ eateries, as noted above. So what's to like about it? It's cheap, relatively. It's already prepared, so virtually NO wait time. There's good variety in meat, and you sauce it as you so please. There's also the bar, which many of the competitor's lack... At this point in the game, there's too much superior bbq closer to home to go out of my way as in the old days, for Buster's. Nowadays if I "happen" to be in the area, and with someone that is gung ho about Buster's, fine, I'll go back. I've never had a terrible dining experience @ a Buster's, but what ya gonna do? I've traveled quite a bit both domestic and international, and am grateful for how those experiences have influenced and enriched my No-Po palate. So. As every chic in the universe has oh-so sincerely said to at least one guy she's ditched, It's not you, Buster's darling, it's me....
(2)
Kenny H.
Been coming here for about two decades now. Used to come with my family as a kid and I still come here to this very day. The food is excellent, and the price has remained pretty steady over the years; as many restaurants get popular or well-known, the price tends to escalate accordingly. Busters seems to only have adjusted for inflation. Additionally, it's a place that the entire family can enjoy. The only gripe that's even worth mentioning (since I want to give a fair review) is that the service has occasionally made me want to sigh (and I hate sighing), 9.9/10 your experience will be pleasant.
(4)
Bryan F.
I have been eating here since I was a little kid, sometimes twice a day... Best BBQ place in the area as far as I am concerned. My two favorites are the Turkey and Brisket dinners. All the meats are good, and the people are great. Most of the sides are good, after 5 p.m. they have baked potatoes. The only thing I would avoid are the mashed potatoes, they taste like they may be from a box. Texas Rice and the crinkle-cut fries are always a good choice. Vegetarians beware.
(4)
Raim R.
Good food. Being from Texas and driving through I thought "if you're using Texas and BBQ in the name, it better be good.". And it was. Good sauce, good ribs. The brisket was a little dry but had good flavor. I would recommend stopping by when you're in town.
(3)
Jill H.
Brisket, sauce, and iced tea are great. Mashed potatoes were creamy. Beans were blah and needed doctoring with jalepenos, which the condiment bar was lacking. But I'll forgive y'all for that, Buster's. I'll be back and I'm bringing friends.
(4)
John B.
As a lifetime aficianado of barbeque all over Dixie (running joke; my expense reports were not complete without at least one drop of barbeque sauce), please don't think I fib when I say Buster's is THE BEST. The one failing is their 'garlic toast' - everything else is perfect. They also cater, and really 'make' a party or picnic!
(5)
Aaron B.
Great food & cheap drinks! Get the pulled pork on the po-boy (it's the softest bread they have!) it's amazing! Happy hour all day on Saturday & Sunday! Cheap drinks and good deals on apps. The brisket can be hit & miss, but I think that's due to the variation in the cut thickness. It's better than no brisket! Be sure to check out the spicy BBQ sauce, I love it and never eat BBQ sauce other than this. They also have a spicy mustard chipotle you can get that's amazing! Great kinda divvy little bar (meant as a compliment, dark woods, low lights) off the min restaurant, but there are windows too so it feels nice. 4 TV's so you can catch whatever sporting event is on as well. So, in a nutshell, this place has a lot going for it.. All the pieces are in place!
(5)
Lisa Marie G.
I found Busters through Yelp and was satisfied with the results! Their sweet sauce was a bit more hot than sweet but the meat was most and delicious. We had take out but I think I will dine in next time. My mom ordered ribs and went totally carnal on it~
(4)
Aleasha G.
Well this was my round two for Busters. This time with my partner in crime at my side, ready to do some damage (to our stomaches that is). My favorite moment was when we drove up & saw their reader board "A VEGETARIANS WORST NIGHTMARE" HAHAHAHA...clever. This got my lovely carnivore even more excited since his every meal consists of meat, meat, meat and a side of other necessary foods other than meat. I got the lunch special beef sandwich. A basic bun with some sauce filled beef in the center. He ended up getting a two meat sandwich. When we sat down, with a wide array of sauces covering our table we began to dig in. Bite after bite, I was overwhelmed by the intensely drown-in-sauce meat. It tasted good, but was quite overpowering. My hubby however, had two slabs of EXTREMELLY dry meat that he had to drench in sauce just to give it enough moisture to become edible again. Overall we were full, and I can see why this place is a favorite haunt for so many. Personally the tasty dipping sauce is probably not enought to get me to return. There were a few large awesome looking indoor fire pits, but when they aren't lit up, they just sit there looking fake & tacky. (And business was busy enough to justify lighting it.) I have also never been much of a buffet style dining fan. The dirty factor of buffets tends to put me off, so unless the food is so exceptional I forget its a buffet, it doesn't make the food go down easier :) Not my thing, but if you love meat, and you love sauce, its definately worth a try!
(3)
Veggie L.
Husband picked up take out... Best dry rub ribs i have had. I usually love my saucy bbq drenched ribs but these ribs made me change my mind. Great flavor... A little sweet and a little spice. Bbq beans and coleslaw was nothing special but dang these ribs are worth going back for!
(4)
Jason K.
Whenever I pass through I have a hard time not stopping here and getting some BBQ to take home. The pulled pork is where it's at, nice and smoky with surprisingly little in terms of fat. That's what I like! The sausages are good as well, as is the smoked turkey. The sauces offered are all good, buy I'm a stickler for the spicy. Pretty much the closest thing I can find out here to the BBQ I had growing up in the midwest.
(5)
K W.
Smoked turkey is moist, tasty perfect. Pork ribs are amazing. Brisket is spot on. Chicken is a little dry for my tastes: stick with any of the ribs and turkey. Great cheap lunch: the 'chopped meat' sandwich is the leftover pieces of meat and is a scrumptious bargain. The whole family loves the meats. But the sides leave a lot to be desired: cold, crinkle-cut fries, very plain salads in tiny bowls, pork and beans that are a bit too sweet. Still, you simply can't beat the BBQ here. Don't forget to add a little bit of that hot BBQ sauce too - yum!
(5)
Rachelle f.
They have the best ham hands down, great choice of sides and the bbq sauce is amazing
(4)
Beverly M.
I couldn't believe it when I realized the Milwaukie Location had not been reviewed! I've been eating here for years. The staff is always wonderful. Some of the same faces all these years, but it seems the new hires are always great too! I've tried many of the different meats and dishes, but once you find your favorite, it's hard to order anything else. My favorite is the Brisket Po Boy Sandwich. I always order the basket of fries rather than the 2 sides, because the basket is enough fries for all of us! The meat is so tasty and tender. They trim the fat off nicely. I like having the buffet style fixin's to finish my sandwich preparing myself. Lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, bowl of hot sauce mixed with mild sauce, bowl of ranch dressing to dip my fries in, and a cold bottle of beer pulled right out of the ice. Mmmmmm. This is heaven. Busters has been satisfying my cravings through pregnancies, menopause, divorces, singlhood and dating, fatness and thiness. It's always been there for me. I've used them to cater golf tournaments and company picnics. They've never done me wrong. This place has survived many economic times. They are just plain GOOD!
(4)
Andy B.
Loving the BBQ great happy hour don't change a thing
(4)
Scott L.
I grew up in Portland, and to this day every time I visit my family I go to Buster's. Prompt service, great decor, and delicious food does it every time for me. The dinners are pretty big, so come with an appetite, but if you want to eat less or are just in for lunch, get your favorite meat on a Po'Boy. I recommend the Hot Link Sausage. Also, never use the ketchup. Just get the mild BBQ sauce for a great dipping sauce for the bread with your dinner, your fries, your meat, or your sandwich!
(5)
Mike L.
I went here on a week night and absolutely loved it. The bbq ribs I had were excellent. The atmosphere was very western 80 style and there was old school country music playing. They had a good selection of beers and everything was great. I'll definitely go back.
(4)
Scott H.
Pretty much my favorite restaurant in the world. If you're looking for something to try, give it a shot and you wont be disappointed. Quality is always good and I particularly recommend the baby back ribs
(5)
Joe M.
This has been one of my favorite restaurants for the past 20 years!! I usually only come back to Portland for about a week and a half a year. In that time, I usually try to eat at Busters at least a couple of times. The meat is always of highest quality and you always have the opportunity to QC your meal because they slice it right in front of you while you make your way down a cafeteria inspired line with your tray and silverware. I usually go for the combo Po Boy with ham and sausage. The interplay of the hint-of-orange glazed ham with the spicy sausage link mixed with my BBQ sauce concoction is absolutely amazing and really cannot be described in words. Although after the first couple of bites, you think you could eat a couple of these sandwiches they are so good, by the time you finish one, you can't eat another bite. Although it has been a while since I have had the ribs, they were always really good. Maybe not the best I have ever had, but definitely worth getting. The brisket has always been very good too. Very tasty and lean. Although I have never tried it, I know a lot of people think very highly of the turkey also. For my side dish, I always get the french fries. They are a medium sized crinkle cut variety that almost is as much of an attraction as the entrees. They almost always are fresh right out of the fryer because they go so fast and are served in a generous sized basket which is probably enough for two to share (although I would not recommend). I am not a huge bbq bean person, but do really enjoy them here as well. A regular dining companion of mine enjoys the pinto style. They also have a bunch of other standard type sides (coleslaw, potato salad, garden salad, rice, baked potato, ect) which I have never experienced. Overall if you are hungry and feel like BBQ, this is the place to go in Portland. The meats are always delicious and plentiful and delivered with a consistency that you can always count on. The food also is great to get to-go if you want to take it back home. The sandwiches are around $6-$9 depending on how many meats you get and if you want a side or not. I think the sliced meat dinners start around $11 or $12 (and also come with the world's best Texas Toast). If I had to come up with something negative to say about this place, I guess it would be that Busters is just about the food: You stand in line, get your food, eat, and leave. Not really a place you would go to have a nice relaxing dinning experience. I have also eaten at the Tigard location dozens of times. Although I have no problem eating at the Tigard one, and can't point to anything specific, I believe the original Gladstone/Milwaukee restaurant to be the more superior. Either way, you can't go wrong getting your BBQ at Busters unless you: 1. Are a vegetarian, but they warn you on the sign out front 2. Prefer a sterile, over-priced, bland tasting chain food environment of a Famous Dave's or equivalent
(5)
Calista H.
Good happy hour food and prices, but horrible drinks!! This is the one place that successfully makes one nasty drink after another. If your looking for a good drink don't go here. If your looking for good food do go here. I'm not normally in to Texas bbq (I prefer TN style), but this place is good! Good food. Bad drinks.
(3)
Don S.
Better than Famous Daves, but mediocre compared to real BBQ. Very skimpy on the meat.
(2)
Rowland A.
Been several years since I've been to Oregon...came straight here after landing...IT STILL ROCKS! Two meat po boy with brisket and tender loin is mmmmmm mmmmmmm good! (I like the spicy bbq sauce to dip it in.) The girly had the ribs and said they were good too. I don't know why but there fries are really good, they look like normal crinkle fries but they are always delicious.
This place was not very good at all. I am from out of town and Busters was recommended to me from the RV dealership sales folks up the street. The line was long to get to the service counter but I thought,"hey if it's great BBQ then I'll wait for 20 minutes in line." Man, was I so disappointed! My chicken and spare ribs were so dry I had to dump a lot of bbq sauce on my lunch just to be able to chew it. The coleslaw has bland, bland, bland. My beans were okay and my Mac & Cheese tasted like Hungarian mush. I really wanted to ask for my money back but I didn't. Most of us know that good BBQ comes from the heart & soul of it's creator and if the chef is not into making great BBQ then he might as well stay home. Whoever cooked the BBQ on the day I was there should have stayed home because it was by far the very worst BBQ I ever did pay for. I'm not comin' back to this joint again, life is too short.
(1)
Dawn C.
First time here, I brought my 6 year old daughter and we split the 6 pork ribs and two sides of mac & cheese and baked potato. The ribs were very dry but flavorful with great spices and the sauces that we selected were delicious. (Ribs come dry then you dip them in sauces you select). There was plenty of food for both of us, but definitely overpriced at $18 for the ribs, sides and a child's size drink. The atmosphere was dated like something out of the 1970s, and just dark and neglected. This is a one-time-only trip for us due to the high price and depressing atmosphere.
(2)
Derek O.
This place was a shock. I was expecting mediocre at best. What we got was way better. We walked in and they serve cafeteria style. No problem but we had never seen that. We got our food and our sides and sat down. My sister had the chicken which was good. My sister's man toy had the same as me...brisket, chicken, and pork ribs. All of the food was good. Their hot and medium sauces were good solid sauces. Thei Chipotle was outstanding. Well that and the bark on the brisket. This was a good solid bbq place. Nothing really fancy but for a person that wants to hit the spot...this is it. It will never be a Brewbque but we were headed North.
(4)
Leilani C.
This is, quite frankly, the worst bbq I've ever had. Walking in, the entire restaurant smelled rancid. I almost turned right back around and walked out but it's been highly recommended by friends so I at least felt obligated to give the food a fair shot. Whoa. I'm pretty sure my 9 year old could grill up some chicken thighs with some Kraft BBQ sauce smothered on it and it would taste like a good ole Southern meal compared to Buster's flavorless and dry brisket. Honestly I've never had worse. The sauces were mediocre and the he restaurant not only smelled awful, it was filthy dirty. Do yourself a favor and head over to Famous Dave's or better yet, Hog Wild BBQ in Clackamas. At least their food won't leave you feeling like you just ate skunky mystery meat grilled on their dirty smelly BBQ.
(1)
Kyle A.
I should really give it 5 stars but four works. My meal cost $12 bucks. Two meat po-boy meat sandwich, BBQ beans and fries. They have four different BBQ sauces, toppings for your sandwich if you want it. Good customer service - the fries are always hot and I just love this place. They smoke the meat and boy- its tasty and so so good.
(4)
vi a.
There's not much to say about this restaurant. The food is mediocre to say the least and over priced. My daughter even said... "this bbq place is the worst ever" and " I can cook better ribs". The rub on the ribs taste aweful even with their bbq sauce... it was still aweful. The bbq sauce got too much paprika, it seemed like and the seasoning didn't seem to mesh together. Overall... I have to say, there are better bbq restaurants out there like Famous Daves. Even Safeway grocery store can make a better tasting bbq ribs. Skip this one if you can.
(1)
Michael N.
This place is awesome. I've eaten here many times, as recently as December 2014, and I've never been disappointed. My favorite menu item is their beef ribs. They offer up great sides, and you get your food fast as you walk through the line cafeteria style unless you eat in the bar area which will take you a little longer to get your food as the wait staff will bring it to you in there. No complaints about this place and I've been eating there for over a decade. Best ris in town.
(5)
Kristine Y.
Had the short ribs with 2 meats (comes w/ 2 sides) for the 2 of us. No shortage of meat and food!! My better half was no too fond of things, he had added on a set of beef ribs.... Which we really don't enjoy, but wanted to try anyway. The mac n cheese good, coleslaw was nice with the beef brisket. I was quite fond of the ribs and taste of brisket and pork loin. They gave us 2 slices of bread and this made a delightful little open face sandwich. The sauces are really quite and nice and I will keep in mind this as a Christmas gift idea! All in all, we had a ton of food and 2 beers for $35. This is a good old boys club, but clean, well stocked and will likely return!! I told my better half to cater this at my funeral!! :-)
(5)
Rian S.
Baby back ribs....always the best choice in my opinion :) pulled pork is also great. Staff it depends what day you come. I have been going here for 6 years and seen a lot of employees come in and out, had friends work here. They have all loved it which means must have a good manager and owner. Parking is large. Has a good feel inside. Lots of seating. Can't say anything bad about it :) fat guy heaven if he loves BBQ
(5)
Nick H.
It seems like everyone has a BBQ place they like a little (or lot) more than Buster's. Okay, I'll grant that. What I like about Buster's is their consistency. If you like the food here, you will never be dissapointed.The other places I've been to more then thrice in PDX tend to fluctuate more than I like. 'Scuse me for being old and set in my ways. The chicken is good, the ribs are okay, the brisket tends to be dry, the links are fine, slaw is good, potato salad just fair, same with the beans, I like the sauces enough to use at home and I never have room for dessert. Any questions?
(3)
Jennifer B.
I've been going to Buster's since I was a kid. I live in San Diego now and nothing even compares. The meat is smoked perfect, the seasoning is just right and the cuts are amazing. The best potato salad and BBQ beans! I'm driving to Portland on Thursday and leaving first thing in the morning so I can be here before they close! This is reeaall BBQ. Done.
(5)
Ryan Y.
I'm a Texas transplant and this is legitimate Texas BBQ. I had the brisket and pulled pork. Both were great and the spicy BBQ sauce was perfect. If this place had a nicer dining area and was located in town it would be packed all day. I'm begrudgingly taking 1 star off because it really is a little overpriced. But even so I will be back.
(4)
Holly D.
Haven't been to Buster's in honestly 15 years..Do NOT ask me why! But family visiting from the across the pond wanted bbq and Buster's was in the right place at the right time. It did not disappoint anyone...just as yummy as I remember, turkey, ribs, pulled pork, brisket was all great. Only thing strange..we didn't bus our own table. .they still do it.
(5)
Kory C.
Used to go here 1-2 times a week. The same order everytime. Had to take busters off my places to eat list because they kept F'n up my sandwich with fries and Ranch order. How many times do you give a restaraunt forgetting to put ranch in with the order, and sometimes even forgetting the bbq sauce. In a 10 month period they forgot to put Ranch in with my order 7 times. So everytime I would have to drive back up there to get the f'n ranch. After 7 times of this, I will no longer spend my money at this restaurant.
(2)
Sarah C.
Busters is as Texan as any BBQ I've tried since moving to this beautiful state. I spent the first 25 years of my life in Texas, and was reminded of my homeland as soon as we saw the gun shop and propane dealer on the approach to Busters. But the sights and smells that hit you when you walk\ through the front door are an instant transport to the Lone Star State. This place isn't small-shack-off-a-dirt-road-with-only-family-Âsized-portions-served-on-butcher-paper-and-tea-as-Âthe-only-beverage-BBQ (the REAL deal), but it IS equivalent to the kind of delicious, pit-smoked BBQ you can find in every Texas city. So good! -particularly the sausage and brisket covered in hot or mild sauce (no Texan would ever use a sweet sauce). And the sides are terrific too - especially the slaw, potato salad and beans. I am thrilled to have found this place - the BBQ craving is finally satiated!
(5)
M B.
The place operates cafeteria style (grab your tray and silverware when you walk in the door) and has kind of a run-down feel to it. The food is only so-so. The prices are outrageous. For the amount that you pay for the meal, you get very small portions. A side of potato salad, for example, equals one spoonful in a tiny bowl. Next time I will save my money and not waste my time with this place.
(2)
Shelley M.
Great sothern type food, fresh meat cut right in front of you. The sides are delish, and there is a salad bar, which i love,
(5)
Darron N.
if your looking for Beef Ribs, look no farther. I like the atmosphere, it has that rustic, down to bbq business kind of feel, keeping the focus on the wonderful smoked meats. Bottom line is the Beef Ribs are my thing, I started with the other common items such as brisket, chicken, pork ect. but this place is all about the Beef Ribs for me.
(5)
Joyce G.
Not sure why I am so generous to give them any stars. OK, the place was clean, though rundown. I asked for a recommendation of meats cuz I'm gluten intolerant & he suggested that baby backs were very popular. So he cut 3 ribs from the end of a new rack--that means the ones I got were small. The salad was a tiny bowl of mostly iceberg & a little romaine; nothing else. Then I asked for a glass of Cabernet & was served an airplane-sized bottle of the worst wine I have ever tasted. The audacity of them to charge me &12.75 for that mess! The whole setup is like a cafeteria line, where you take a tray & ask for foods that have been sitting around in the open air for who knows how long? Never again will I step foot in that place!!
(1)
Chris O.
I'm not sure how the other reviewers gave this place such high marks. I am also posting photos. * Beef ribs: I have had an easier time with beef jerky. DRY! * Brisket: DRY, I have posted photos. * Potato salad: better off with the gallon tub from Costco. * Beans: Get a can of the cheapest beans at the supermarket. * Coleslaw: Seemed fresh and crispy. White slaw with dressing. Simple and bland. So, if you like neon cactuses and shoe leather, this place is for you. P.S. If you want a standard of comparison, visit Podnah's Pit Barbecue, Smokehouse 21, Leroy's Familiar Vittles or one of the many BBQ restaurants available around you..
(2)
Carl T.
Smokey Hot Yummy Goodness! This place is always spotless. The food is ALWAYS great! Consistent consistent wonderfulness. The best BBQ beef ribs EVER!
(5)
Bill R.
Best brisket in Portland. Ribs, smoked turkey and sides are also great. Little known - eat in the bar and they will serve you off the menu.
(5)
Gary L.
Didn't really do it for me. Place was pretty run down in a 'step back in time' kinda way, grab a tray and get served cafeteria style. I had a pulled pork sandwich ($11.75) as it was an early lunch. Not bad, not great and a little pricy for what it was. If you have the time I'd keep driving and look elsewhere but it'll do if you're short on time.
(2)
W B.
Good Texas BBQ. My dad's favorite and we come here everytime I'm in town. He always gets the Spare Ribs and they are well done, dry and add your own sauce. The spicy sauce is ok for me, a little runny and vinegary for my tastes. I had the pulled pork sandwich this trip and it was good but not excellent. The Po'Boy bread was very good and the meat was cooked well, but there was sauce added already and soaked in. I like the taste of pork without sauce and add to taste. I had the BBQ Beans and they were pretty good. I would stick to Beef, the brisket looked great and the Spare ribs are always great.
(4)
Robert X.
Let me get into a time machine and go back to the late 70's when this style of restaurant was popular and this review may still be the same! THIS WAS ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE IN EVERY WAY! The star of the show, the MEAT, is dry and tasteless. BBQ?? Serve it yourself from the salad bar and call it ketchup. The sides are college dorm kitchen style, out of a can, and barely warm. The people are not even slightly pleasant unless they are talking to themselves. The atmosphere is dark and I can say a least it appeared to be clean, but it was dark. You never can tell until you shine a light on it. Now lets talk price. For a BBQ place the pricing is accurate, but here, you will be filled with regret at first bite. The only thing I liked was my soda pop and I'll sum it up that it was a $17 soda and call it a day. DON'T GO THERE! TAKE YOUR MONEY AND GO ELSEWHERE!!!!!!!!
(1)
Samuel H.
OMG. It was HORRIBLE. I had a craving for brisket so I decided to try a new place. Buster's does not know BBQ. All of their meats were dry and bland. Their brisket was dry and had NO sauce. It wasn't cooked in anything. The only BBQ sauce to be found was in vats on the SALAD BAR. That's right, I had to but the sauce in a bowel and dip my dry, tasteless meat into it. Their mac -n- cheese is a bar of glue and the mashed potatoes taste like they come from a box, much like their brown gravy. Avoid Buster's. You will be disappointed.
(1)
Chris W.
Average barbecue. No more no less. The portions are a little small for the side orders.
(3)
John M.
Brisket sandwich at lunchtime is incredible. I wish they served it during dinner time, but they don't. Very simple atmosphere, with cafeteria style trays and inexpensive cutlery.. But the BBQ is terrific, and never fails to please. The best in the area, by far.
(4)
Thee I.
Let's get down to it. Busters is good. Great selection of meats they carve right there for you. They trim the fat off the brisket which is fairly lean. Great selection of sides too. I recommend the 2 meat brisket and hot links. The spicy sauce is killer! It doesnt look like you get a lot of food, but by the end, you're full. I've had BBQ all over the U.S. Busters isn't the best, but its pretty good and worth the trip.
(4)
Jezus C.
The meat was dry and tasteless. The food was luke warm at best. The people who work there are the only good thing about this place of eating because it shouldn't be called a restaurant. The one time I wanted my money back. Save your time and money.
(2)
Mcqueen C.
I love coming to this place. Food is always great, clean and service is good too. Never have to wait to eat because everything is prepared and ready to eat when you come in. Huge portions and a lot of sides to choose from. I recommend the brisket dinner.
(4)
Martin F.
Good bbq, good service, good prices, clean and warm. What else is there? It's a friendly place - with several meat choices it's easy to find something for everyone. The quick service (walk up and get your food as you come in), comfortable overstuffed chairs makes for a great combination. You should try it, you'll like it.
(4)
Jennifer M.
Amazing BBQ. Love the baby backs, brisket and spicy sausage. Don't forget to grab some Beef Jerky to go.
(5)
James H.
I truly enjoy the food here especially the fatty brisket. It is so smokey good and flavorful. The reason I went four instead of five stars is actually for two reasons. I am not a big fan of cafeteria style service and I am not a big fan of the all day heat tables containing the sauces. I will always recommend this resteraunt for people who like good barbecue.
(4)
Sean S.
I use to come here for the beef ribs all the time. This last time was a major disappointment, it's always a bad sign when they bring the ribs out upside down on your plate... They weren't meaty in the slightest, they were mostly bone, and the meat on them wasn't that flavored and was dry. What a disappointment, isn't there anywhere in PDX area with good beef ribs anymore?? I regret not taking a picture of the sad looking ribs so I could show...
(2)
Nicole S.
Busters a great ol standby with consistently great bbq and sides plus a great lounge, brisket pork ribs and hot links are a must, best spicy bbq sauce in Portland area and I have been everywhere :)
(5)
Troy L.
Wide selection of meats. The brisket was dry and overcooked. not even sauce would help. The spareribs were hard and inedible. There are better places for BBQ in Southeast Portland. As for their sauce, it was nothing special
(1)
Michael B.
Prices are inexpesive as noted in other reviews but the portions are small, the potato salad tasted as if it were left over from the previous week and the ribs were dry. Also they don't offer any of the sauces they sell by the bottle to put on the ribs when you dine-in. Won't return or recommend
(2)
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Address :17883 SE McLoughlin Blvd
Portland, OR, 97267
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : No Caters : Yes
Delilah K.
Buster's has been around for what seems like forever. They are so solid when it comes to that smokey deliciousness. The menu hasn't changed and I rarely get anything beside the Brisket dinner. But when I do go off grid, the baby backs fall off the bone and there's healthy dose of meat on the big ribs. This is NOT one of those places that hide dry meat under sauce. Your choices of sauce are sweet, mild, hot and chipotle. If there's not enough kick for you, add a dash or two of tobasco. That'll do the trick. Your pick of sides are standard issue stuff such as creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, rice pilaf, bbq beans and a salad. But the focus is on the BBQ and that is always good. Reasonable prices, take-out and room for bigger crowds to get together makes this place good enough to keeping coming back to.
(4)Nate K.
Excellent smoked meats here! They are very consistent in the meat that comes out of their smokers so you always know what you are going to get. The brisket is probably the best around. The lean cuts or the "flat" of the brisket can sometimes be a a little dry but i always order the "point" cut and its always perfectly juicy! The smoked sausage is really good as well as the baby back ribs. I have literally tried all their meats several times and have never had a bad meal here. BBQ sauces are really good also, try mixing the hot with the sweet. Also the house made croutons for the brisket meat salad I order are the best anywhere.
(5)Jeff J.
Sauces are great, esp the chipotle BBQ!!! Brisket was dry, but revitalized after dipped into the chipotle sauce...ribs had good flavor on top...cold jalapeño slices with cold shredded cheese on top was interesting but easily edible...pulled pork was ok too made better with chipotle hehe...I never been to this location before, but I remember Busters being better in Tigard and Vancouver locations back in the day.....this wasn't the best, but certainly not the worst...I'd probably return again if in the area, but not go out of my way to come
(3)Hunter H.
Consistent, tasty, and pretty much damn near perfect. Can't go wrong with the brisket. I love the inside of the place too. A little dark with great pics hanging up.
(5)Aaron L.
This is a go-to spot for me and my wife. The baby back ribs are amazing, especially the dry rub they use. Kirsten always gets the brisket and I think it can sometimes be a bit dry, but there's always their great spicy BBQ sauce if you need it. The sides are tasty; I'm particularly fond of the pinto beans. Plus, as many have said, the super quick service and big portions are a real big plus when you're hungry for some good old-fashioned comfort food.
(4)Rowland A.
Been several years since I've been to Oregon...came straight here after landing...IT STILL ROCKS! Two meat po boy with brisket and tender loin is mmmmmm mmmmmmm good! (I like the spicy bbq sauce to dip it in.) The girly had the ribs and said they were good too. I don't know why but there fries are really good, they look like normal crinkle fries but they are always delicious.
(5)Kyle A.
I should really give it 5 stars but four works. My meal cost $12 bucks. Two meat po-boy meat sandwich, BBQ beans and fries. They have four different BBQ sauces, toppings for your sandwich if you want it. Good customer service - the fries are always hot and I just love this place. They smoke the meat and boy- its tasty and so so good.
(4)vi a.
There's not much to say about this restaurant. The food is mediocre to say the least and over priced. My daughter even said... "this bbq place is the worst ever" and " I can cook better ribs". The rub on the ribs taste aweful even with their bbq sauce... it was still aweful. The bbq sauce got too much paprika, it seemed like and the seasoning didn't seem to mesh together. Overall... I have to say, there are better bbq restaurants out there like Famous Daves. Even Safeway grocery store can make a better tasting bbq ribs. Skip this one if you can.
(1)Bill O.
The food is good but a but overpriced. I went here with my fiancé and we both had a two meat meal. The Quality was good with the portion being a good size and nice and tender meat seasoned well. This was my first time in although I've been in the area most of my life. I had cole slaw and baked beans as a side. The beans were tasty and the slaw was so so. The inside was a bit dated but not too horrid, reminded me of eating out in the 80's with my family. We spent almost $19.00 ea and while I did leave full I was not overly hungry when I went in. I know many places I could have had a large steak dinner for that price. Not sure if I'll be back because of the price everything else was good.
(3)John M.
This place was not very good at all. I am from out of town and Busters was recommended to me from the RV dealership sales folks up the street. The line was long to get to the service counter but I thought,"hey if it's great BBQ then I'll wait for 20 minutes in line." Man, was I so disappointed! My chicken and spare ribs were so dry I had to dump a lot of bbq sauce on my lunch just to be able to chew it. The coleslaw has bland, bland, bland. My beans were okay and my Mac & Cheese tasted like Hungarian mush. I really wanted to ask for my money back but I didn't. Most of us know that good BBQ comes from the heart & soul of it's creator and if the chef is not into making great BBQ then he might as well stay home. Whoever cooked the BBQ on the day I was there should have stayed home because it was by far the very worst BBQ I ever did pay for. I'm not comin' back to this joint again, life is too short.
(1)Dawn C.
First time here, I brought my 6 year old daughter and we split the 6 pork ribs and two sides of mac & cheese and baked potato. The ribs were very dry but flavorful with great spices and the sauces that we selected were delicious. (Ribs come dry then you dip them in sauces you select). There was plenty of food for both of us, but definitely overpriced at $18 for the ribs, sides and a child's size drink. The atmosphere was dated like something out of the 1970s, and just dark and neglected. This is a one-time-only trip for us due to the high price and depressing atmosphere.
(2)Leilani C.
This is, quite frankly, the worst bbq I've ever had. Walking in, the entire restaurant smelled rancid. I almost turned right back around and walked out but it's been highly recommended by friends so I at least felt obligated to give the food a fair shot. Whoa. I'm pretty sure my 9 year old could grill up some chicken thighs with some Kraft BBQ sauce smothered on it and it would taste like a good ole Southern meal compared to Buster's flavorless and dry brisket. Honestly I've never had worse. The sauces were mediocre and the he restaurant not only smelled awful, it was filthy dirty. Do yourself a favor and head over to Famous Dave's or better yet, Hog Wild BBQ in Clackamas. At least their food won't leave you feeling like you just ate skunky mystery meat grilled on their dirty smelly BBQ.
(1)Michael N.
This place is awesome. I've eaten here many times, as recently as December 2014, and I've never been disappointed. My favorite menu item is their beef ribs. They offer up great sides, and you get your food fast as you walk through the line cafeteria style unless you eat in the bar area which will take you a little longer to get your food as the wait staff will bring it to you in there. No complaints about this place and I've been eating there for over a decade. Best ris in town.
(5)Kristine Y.
Had the short ribs with 2 meats (comes w/ 2 sides) for the 2 of us. No shortage of meat and food!! My better half was no too fond of things, he had added on a set of beef ribs.... Which we really don't enjoy, but wanted to try anyway. The mac n cheese good, coleslaw was nice with the beef brisket. I was quite fond of the ribs and taste of brisket and pork loin. They gave us 2 slices of bread and this made a delightful little open face sandwich. The sauces are really quite and nice and I will keep in mind this as a Christmas gift idea! All in all, we had a ton of food and 2 beers for $35. This is a good old boys club, but clean, well stocked and will likely return!! I told my better half to cater this at my funeral!! :-)
(5)Derek O.
This place was a shock. I was expecting mediocre at best. What we got was way better. We walked in and they serve cafeteria style. No problem but we had never seen that. We got our food and our sides and sat down. My sister had the chicken which was good. My sister's man toy had the same as me...brisket, chicken, and pork ribs. All of the food was good. Their hot and medium sauces were good solid sauces. Thei Chipotle was outstanding. Well that and the bark on the brisket. This was a good solid bbq place. Nothing really fancy but for a person that wants to hit the spot...this is it. It will never be a Brewbque but we were headed North.
(4)Rian S.
Baby back ribs....always the best choice in my opinion :) pulled pork is also great. Staff it depends what day you come. I have been going here for 6 years and seen a lot of employees come in and out, had friends work here. They have all loved it which means must have a good manager and owner. Parking is large. Has a good feel inside. Lots of seating. Can't say anything bad about it :) fat guy heaven if he loves BBQ
(5)Nick H.
It seems like everyone has a BBQ place they like a little (or lot) more than Buster's. Okay, I'll grant that. What I like about Buster's is their consistency. If you like the food here, you will never be dissapointed.The other places I've been to more then thrice in PDX tend to fluctuate more than I like. 'Scuse me for being old and set in my ways. The chicken is good, the ribs are okay, the brisket tends to be dry, the links are fine, slaw is good, potato salad just fair, same with the beans, I like the sauces enough to use at home and I never have room for dessert. Any questions?
(3)Jennifer B.
I've been going to Buster's since I was a kid. I live in San Diego now and nothing even compares. The meat is smoked perfect, the seasoning is just right and the cuts are amazing. The best potato salad and BBQ beans! I'm driving to Portland on Thursday and leaving first thing in the morning so I can be here before they close! This is reeaall BBQ. Done.
(5)Ryan Y.
I'm a Texas transplant and this is legitimate Texas BBQ. I had the brisket and pulled pork. Both were great and the spicy BBQ sauce was perfect. If this place had a nicer dining area and was located in town it would be packed all day. I'm begrudgingly taking 1 star off because it really is a little overpriced. But even so I will be back.
(4)Holly D.
Haven't been to Buster's in honestly 15 years..Do NOT ask me why! But family visiting from the across the pond wanted bbq and Buster's was in the right place at the right time. It did not disappoint anyone...just as yummy as I remember, turkey, ribs, pulled pork, brisket was all great. Only thing strange..we didn't bus our own table. .they still do it.
(5)Kory C.
Used to go here 1-2 times a week. The same order everytime. Had to take busters off my places to eat list because they kept F'n up my sandwich with fries and Ranch order. How many times do you give a restaraunt forgetting to put ranch in with the order, and sometimes even forgetting the bbq sauce. In a 10 month period they forgot to put Ranch in with my order 7 times. So everytime I would have to drive back up there to get the f'n ranch. After 7 times of this, I will no longer spend my money at this restaurant.
(2)Sarah C.
Busters is as Texan as any BBQ I've tried since moving to this beautiful state. I spent the first 25 years of my life in Texas, and was reminded of my homeland as soon as we saw the gun shop and propane dealer on the approach to Busters. But the sights and smells that hit you when you walk\ through the front door are an instant transport to the Lone Star State. This place isn't small-shack-off-a-dirt-road-with-only-family-Âsized-portions-served-on-butcher-paper-and-tea-as-Âthe-only-beverage-BBQ (the REAL deal), but it IS equivalent to the kind of delicious, pit-smoked BBQ you can find in every Texas city. So good! -particularly the sausage and brisket covered in hot or mild sauce (no Texan would ever use a sweet sauce). And the sides are terrific too - especially the slaw, potato salad and beans. I am thrilled to have found this place - the BBQ craving is finally satiated!
(5)M B.
The place operates cafeteria style (grab your tray and silverware when you walk in the door) and has kind of a run-down feel to it. The food is only so-so. The prices are outrageous. For the amount that you pay for the meal, you get very small portions. A side of potato salad, for example, equals one spoonful in a tiny bowl. Next time I will save my money and not waste my time with this place.
(2)Shelley M.
Great sothern type food, fresh meat cut right in front of you. The sides are delish, and there is a salad bar, which i love,
(5)Darron N.
if your looking for Beef Ribs, look no farther. I like the atmosphere, it has that rustic, down to bbq business kind of feel, keeping the focus on the wonderful smoked meats. Bottom line is the Beef Ribs are my thing, I started with the other common items such as brisket, chicken, pork ect. but this place is all about the Beef Ribs for me.
(5)Joyce G.
Not sure why I am so generous to give them any stars. OK, the place was clean, though rundown. I asked for a recommendation of meats cuz I'm gluten intolerant & he suggested that baby backs were very popular. So he cut 3 ribs from the end of a new rack--that means the ones I got were small. The salad was a tiny bowl of mostly iceberg & a little romaine; nothing else. Then I asked for a glass of Cabernet & was served an airplane-sized bottle of the worst wine I have ever tasted. The audacity of them to charge me &12.75 for that mess! The whole setup is like a cafeteria line, where you take a tray & ask for foods that have been sitting around in the open air for who knows how long? Never again will I step foot in that place!!
(1)Chris O.
I'm not sure how the other reviewers gave this place such high marks. I am also posting photos. * Beef ribs: I have had an easier time with beef jerky. DRY! * Brisket: DRY, I have posted photos. * Potato salad: better off with the gallon tub from Costco. * Beans: Get a can of the cheapest beans at the supermarket. * Coleslaw: Seemed fresh and crispy. White slaw with dressing. Simple and bland. So, if you like neon cactuses and shoe leather, this place is for you. P.S. If you want a standard of comparison, visit Podnah's Pit Barbecue, Smokehouse 21, Leroy's Familiar Vittles or one of the many BBQ restaurants available around you..
(2)Carl T.
Smokey Hot Yummy Goodness! This place is always spotless. The food is ALWAYS great! Consistent consistent wonderfulness. The best BBQ beef ribs EVER!
(5)Bill R.
Best brisket in Portland. Ribs, smoked turkey and sides are also great. Little known - eat in the bar and they will serve you off the menu.
(5)Gary L.
Didn't really do it for me. Place was pretty run down in a 'step back in time' kinda way, grab a tray and get served cafeteria style. I had a pulled pork sandwich ($11.75) as it was an early lunch. Not bad, not great and a little pricy for what it was. If you have the time I'd keep driving and look elsewhere but it'll do if you're short on time.
(2)W B.
Good Texas BBQ. My dad's favorite and we come here everytime I'm in town. He always gets the Spare Ribs and they are well done, dry and add your own sauce. The spicy sauce is ok for me, a little runny and vinegary for my tastes. I had the pulled pork sandwich this trip and it was good but not excellent. The Po'Boy bread was very good and the meat was cooked well, but there was sauce added already and soaked in. I like the taste of pork without sauce and add to taste. I had the BBQ Beans and they were pretty good. I would stick to Beef, the brisket looked great and the Spare ribs are always great.
(4)Robert X.
Let me get into a time machine and go back to the late 70's when this style of restaurant was popular and this review may still be the same! THIS WAS ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE IN EVERY WAY! The star of the show, the MEAT, is dry and tasteless. BBQ?? Serve it yourself from the salad bar and call it ketchup. The sides are college dorm kitchen style, out of a can, and barely warm. The people are not even slightly pleasant unless they are talking to themselves. The atmosphere is dark and I can say a least it appeared to be clean, but it was dark. You never can tell until you shine a light on it. Now lets talk price. For a BBQ place the pricing is accurate, but here, you will be filled with regret at first bite. The only thing I liked was my soda pop and I'll sum it up that it was a $17 soda and call it a day. DON'T GO THERE! TAKE YOUR MONEY AND GO ELSEWHERE!!!!!!!!
(1)Samuel H.
OMG. It was HORRIBLE. I had a craving for brisket so I decided to try a new place. Buster's does not know BBQ. All of their meats were dry and bland. Their brisket was dry and had NO sauce. It wasn't cooked in anything. The only BBQ sauce to be found was in vats on the SALAD BAR. That's right, I had to but the sauce in a bowel and dip my dry, tasteless meat into it. Their mac -n- cheese is a bar of glue and the mashed potatoes taste like they come from a box, much like their brown gravy. Avoid Buster's. You will be disappointed.
(1)Chris W.
Average barbecue. No more no less. The portions are a little small for the side orders.
(3)John M.
Brisket sandwich at lunchtime is incredible. I wish they served it during dinner time, but they don't. Very simple atmosphere, with cafeteria style trays and inexpensive cutlery.. But the BBQ is terrific, and never fails to please. The best in the area, by far.
(4)Thee I.
Let's get down to it. Busters is good. Great selection of meats they carve right there for you. They trim the fat off the brisket which is fairly lean. Great selection of sides too. I recommend the 2 meat brisket and hot links. The spicy sauce is killer! It doesnt look like you get a lot of food, but by the end, you're full. I've had BBQ all over the U.S. Busters isn't the best, but its pretty good and worth the trip.
(4)Jezus C.
The meat was dry and tasteless. The food was luke warm at best. The people who work there are the only good thing about this place of eating because it shouldn't be called a restaurant. The one time I wanted my money back. Save your time and money.
(2)Mcqueen C.
I love coming to this place. Food is always great, clean and service is good too. Never have to wait to eat because everything is prepared and ready to eat when you come in. Huge portions and a lot of sides to choose from. I recommend the brisket dinner.
(4)Martin F.
Good bbq, good service, good prices, clean and warm. What else is there? It's a friendly place - with several meat choices it's easy to find something for everyone. The quick service (walk up and get your food as you come in), comfortable overstuffed chairs makes for a great combination. You should try it, you'll like it.
(4)Jennifer M.
Amazing BBQ. Love the baby backs, brisket and spicy sausage. Don't forget to grab some Beef Jerky to go.
(5)James H.
I truly enjoy the food here especially the fatty brisket. It is so smokey good and flavorful. The reason I went four instead of five stars is actually for two reasons. I am not a big fan of cafeteria style service and I am not a big fan of the all day heat tables containing the sauces. I will always recommend this resteraunt for people who like good barbecue.
(4)Sean S.
I use to come here for the beef ribs all the time. This last time was a major disappointment, it's always a bad sign when they bring the ribs out upside down on your plate... They weren't meaty in the slightest, they were mostly bone, and the meat on them wasn't that flavored and was dry. What a disappointment, isn't there anywhere in PDX area with good beef ribs anymore?? I regret not taking a picture of the sad looking ribs so I could show...
(2)Nicole S.
Busters a great ol standby with consistently great bbq and sides plus a great lounge, brisket pork ribs and hot links are a must, best spicy bbq sauce in Portland area and I have been everywhere :)
(5)Troy L.
Wide selection of meats. The brisket was dry and overcooked. not even sauce would help. The spareribs were hard and inedible. There are better places for BBQ in Southeast Portland. As for their sauce, it was nothing special
(1)Michael B.
Prices are inexpesive as noted in other reviews but the portions are small, the potato salad tasted as if it were left over from the previous week and the ribs were dry. Also they don't offer any of the sauces they sell by the bottle to put on the ribs when you dine-in. Won't return or recommend
(2)Eric L.
Granted, I haven't gone to some of the boutique BBQ joints in the trendy areas of town...but of the 10 different places I've checked out Buster's is the most consistently good. Usually good flavor on the brisket, usually done about right, not too dry not too soggy. Not what I would call moderately priced but not incredibly expensive either. I rarely have something here that I wouldn't consider good. Every 8th-10th time I might end up with brisket that's overdone like tree bark. But's that's still a better success ratio than any other place I've found. Brisket - best I've found. Baby Backs - top notch. Pulled pork - very good. Sausage - heavy, greasy and very good. BBQ chicken - average. Beef ribs - just OK. Sides - coleslaw is about the best around, fries are pretty good too although I realize they're just Ore-Ida fries.
(5)Kevin S.
This is my favorite barbecue restaurant on the face of the planet. I'm in the military and move every year or two, and I always seek out the local bbq places to eat. Having grown up in the PDX area, I always look forward to coming back to Busters when I come home to visit my parents. I went to Busters for dinner tonight and I wasn't disappointed. This is the type of place where you grab a tray and order from the employees in the serving line, pick out your side dishes, desserts, drinks, and end up at the cash register at the end of the counter. Take your tray to a table of your liking and enjoy your meal. The service at the counter is friendly and professional. It's clean. The atmosphere is cowboy-esque with stirrups, saddles, branding irons, cowbells, etc on the walls. They have some funny artwork throughout the place that looks like it's cowboy / western themed, but look carefully and you'll note something else all the paintings share in common. I truly try to limit which restaurants I award 5-stars as the best-of-the-best, and I truly believe Busters deserves it.
(5)Jeff N.
Love this place. Best BBQ in the NW. However i did ask to reserve a large table for 20 for a family holiday lunch, and they didn't help with tables or offer any type of options. We all were was less then impressed with that service.
(4)Tim M.
The 'Que here is good, not great but good. The chicken is really the bright spot, very well done. Pork Ribs, brisket and beef ribs are just ok. They tend to be too dry for me. Coleslaw is good and potato salad is below average. Sauce options are above average and because the meat tends to be on the dry side, sauce I think is really needed. This is probably the reason I don't go all gaga over this place, i prefer my 'Que without sauce or very little sauce. To each his own I guess.
(3)Andrew S.
Pretty good spot. Ribs are cooked well, more the dry rub style. 3 types of BBQ Sauce Po-Boy is good. BBQ Beans are nice. Spicy Link was tasty, so is the chili no beans. Service is always good and polite.
(4)Heather S.
Really good! The BBQ sauces are full of flavor.. I had the pulled pork sandwich and BBQ baked beans.. Delicious! The baked beans have a little kick to them.. Definitely delicious and will go back..
(4)Michelle A.
Busters on McLoughlin is fantastic! The service is ALWAYS wonderful. They have great sauces to customize your meal. I prefer a mix of the sweet and hot BBQ. Their crinkle fries are old school and always fresh and hot. The best part is the meat. The turkey is great if you are trying to be healthy. The brisket is the best I have ever had. I always ask for a lean cut and they are always happy to cut the fat off for me. I just discovered that they have an affordable happy hour as well. $2 drinks from 3-6 and tons of appetizers for $3. If you are a meat lover, you must try. However, like they say it's "A vegetarians worst nightmare".
(5)Abby B.
Mild sausage links on onion roll: sausage was good but cold, the roll was alright but too thick for the meat. Chopped beef on onion roll : my husband loved it and thought it was a lot of food. We got the green beans, mashed potatoes with gravy and bbq beans. The green beans were decent, potatoes were really garlic tasting, and personally I prefer baked beans to their bbq beans. Overall it was only okay. Being from Texas we were hoping for something from home but it wasn't exactly right. Most importantly, you have to have fried okra to really be a southern style bbq joint.
(2)Holy-foo' X.
As the Late Greg Giraldo once plaintively yowled to Larry the Cable Guy: "WHY are you so popular?!?" Years and years ago, way before the proliferation currently seen of BBQ joints/carts/carry-outs in Portland, there was Buster's, which had the distinction of being practically the only game in town. That, and they allowed customers to dress up their meals, and order a la cart, al dente, and just about any ole way they pleased. Then along came Mel Renfro's joint. And Doris'. And Czaba's--- oh thank heaven, there was Czaba's! Folks in the '97 to the 203' area code no longer had to drive long distances for bbq. They could get it authentic, and much closer to home. It's a testament to their business savvy--- and obvious widespread appeal-- that Buster's has thrived through the latent surge of so many different BBQ eateries, as noted above. So what's to like about it? It's cheap, relatively. It's already prepared, so virtually NO wait time. There's good variety in meat, and you sauce it as you so please. There's also the bar, which many of the competitor's lack... At this point in the game, there's too much superior bbq closer to home to go out of my way as in the old days, for Buster's. Nowadays if I "happen" to be in the area, and with someone that is gung ho about Buster's, fine, I'll go back. I've never had a terrible dining experience @ a Buster's, but what ya gonna do? I've traveled quite a bit both domestic and international, and am grateful for how those experiences have influenced and enriched my No-Po palate. So. As every chic in the universe has oh-so sincerely said to at least one guy she's ditched, It's not you, Buster's darling, it's me....
(2)Kenny H.
Been coming here for about two decades now. Used to come with my family as a kid and I still come here to this very day. The food is excellent, and the price has remained pretty steady over the years; as many restaurants get popular or well-known, the price tends to escalate accordingly. Busters seems to only have adjusted for inflation. Additionally, it's a place that the entire family can enjoy. The only gripe that's even worth mentioning (since I want to give a fair review) is that the service has occasionally made me want to sigh (and I hate sighing), 9.9/10 your experience will be pleasant.
(4)Bryan F.
I have been eating here since I was a little kid, sometimes twice a day... Best BBQ place in the area as far as I am concerned. My two favorites are the Turkey and Brisket dinners. All the meats are good, and the people are great. Most of the sides are good, after 5 p.m. they have baked potatoes. The only thing I would avoid are the mashed potatoes, they taste like they may be from a box. Texas Rice and the crinkle-cut fries are always a good choice. Vegetarians beware.
(4)Raim R.
Good food. Being from Texas and driving through I thought "if you're using Texas and BBQ in the name, it better be good.". And it was. Good sauce, good ribs. The brisket was a little dry but had good flavor. I would recommend stopping by when you're in town.
(3)Jill H.
Brisket, sauce, and iced tea are great. Mashed potatoes were creamy. Beans were blah and needed doctoring with jalepenos, which the condiment bar was lacking. But I'll forgive y'all for that, Buster's. I'll be back and I'm bringing friends.
(4)John B.
As a lifetime aficianado of barbeque all over Dixie (running joke; my expense reports were not complete without at least one drop of barbeque sauce), please don't think I fib when I say Buster's is THE BEST. The one failing is their 'garlic toast' - everything else is perfect. They also cater, and really 'make' a party or picnic!
(5)Aaron B.
Great food & cheap drinks! Get the pulled pork on the po-boy (it's the softest bread they have!) it's amazing! Happy hour all day on Saturday & Sunday! Cheap drinks and good deals on apps. The brisket can be hit & miss, but I think that's due to the variation in the cut thickness. It's better than no brisket! Be sure to check out the spicy BBQ sauce, I love it and never eat BBQ sauce other than this. They also have a spicy mustard chipotle you can get that's amazing! Great kinda divvy little bar (meant as a compliment, dark woods, low lights) off the min restaurant, but there are windows too so it feels nice. 4 TV's so you can catch whatever sporting event is on as well. So, in a nutshell, this place has a lot going for it.. All the pieces are in place!
(5)Lisa Marie G.
I found Busters through Yelp and was satisfied with the results! Their sweet sauce was a bit more hot than sweet but the meat was most and delicious. We had take out but I think I will dine in next time. My mom ordered ribs and went totally carnal on it~
(4)Aleasha G.
Well this was my round two for Busters. This time with my partner in crime at my side, ready to do some damage (to our stomaches that is). My favorite moment was when we drove up & saw their reader board "A VEGETARIANS WORST NIGHTMARE" HAHAHAHA...clever. This got my lovely carnivore even more excited since his every meal consists of meat, meat, meat and a side of other necessary foods other than meat. I got the lunch special beef sandwich. A basic bun with some sauce filled beef in the center. He ended up getting a two meat sandwich. When we sat down, with a wide array of sauces covering our table we began to dig in. Bite after bite, I was overwhelmed by the intensely drown-in-sauce meat. It tasted good, but was quite overpowering. My hubby however, had two slabs of EXTREMELLY dry meat that he had to drench in sauce just to give it enough moisture to become edible again. Overall we were full, and I can see why this place is a favorite haunt for so many. Personally the tasty dipping sauce is probably not enought to get me to return. There were a few large awesome looking indoor fire pits, but when they aren't lit up, they just sit there looking fake & tacky. (And business was busy enough to justify lighting it.) I have also never been much of a buffet style dining fan. The dirty factor of buffets tends to put me off, so unless the food is so exceptional I forget its a buffet, it doesn't make the food go down easier :) Not my thing, but if you love meat, and you love sauce, its definately worth a try!
(3)Veggie L.
Husband picked up take out... Best dry rub ribs i have had. I usually love my saucy bbq drenched ribs but these ribs made me change my mind. Great flavor... A little sweet and a little spice. Bbq beans and coleslaw was nothing special but dang these ribs are worth going back for!
(4)Jason K.
Whenever I pass through I have a hard time not stopping here and getting some BBQ to take home. The pulled pork is where it's at, nice and smoky with surprisingly little in terms of fat. That's what I like! The sausages are good as well, as is the smoked turkey. The sauces offered are all good, buy I'm a stickler for the spicy. Pretty much the closest thing I can find out here to the BBQ I had growing up in the midwest.
(5)K W.
Smoked turkey is moist, tasty perfect. Pork ribs are amazing. Brisket is spot on. Chicken is a little dry for my tastes: stick with any of the ribs and turkey. Great cheap lunch: the 'chopped meat' sandwich is the leftover pieces of meat and is a scrumptious bargain. The whole family loves the meats. But the sides leave a lot to be desired: cold, crinkle-cut fries, very plain salads in tiny bowls, pork and beans that are a bit too sweet. Still, you simply can't beat the BBQ here. Don't forget to add a little bit of that hot BBQ sauce too - yum!
(5)Rachelle f.
They have the best ham hands down, great choice of sides and the bbq sauce is amazing
(4)Beverly M.
I couldn't believe it when I realized the Milwaukie Location had not been reviewed! I've been eating here for years. The staff is always wonderful. Some of the same faces all these years, but it seems the new hires are always great too! I've tried many of the different meats and dishes, but once you find your favorite, it's hard to order anything else. My favorite is the Brisket Po Boy Sandwich. I always order the basket of fries rather than the 2 sides, because the basket is enough fries for all of us! The meat is so tasty and tender. They trim the fat off nicely. I like having the buffet style fixin's to finish my sandwich preparing myself. Lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, bowl of hot sauce mixed with mild sauce, bowl of ranch dressing to dip my fries in, and a cold bottle of beer pulled right out of the ice. Mmmmmm. This is heaven. Busters has been satisfying my cravings through pregnancies, menopause, divorces, singlhood and dating, fatness and thiness. It's always been there for me. I've used them to cater golf tournaments and company picnics. They've never done me wrong. This place has survived many economic times. They are just plain GOOD!
(4)Andy B.
Loving the BBQ great happy hour don't change a thing
(4)Scott L.
I grew up in Portland, and to this day every time I visit my family I go to Buster's. Prompt service, great decor, and delicious food does it every time for me. The dinners are pretty big, so come with an appetite, but if you want to eat less or are just in for lunch, get your favorite meat on a Po'Boy. I recommend the Hot Link Sausage. Also, never use the ketchup. Just get the mild BBQ sauce for a great dipping sauce for the bread with your dinner, your fries, your meat, or your sandwich!
(5)Mike L.
I went here on a week night and absolutely loved it. The bbq ribs I had were excellent. The atmosphere was very western 80 style and there was old school country music playing. They had a good selection of beers and everything was great. I'll definitely go back.
(4)Scott H.
Pretty much my favorite restaurant in the world. If you're looking for something to try, give it a shot and you wont be disappointed. Quality is always good and I particularly recommend the baby back ribs
(5)Joe M.
This has been one of my favorite restaurants for the past 20 years!! I usually only come back to Portland for about a week and a half a year. In that time, I usually try to eat at Busters at least a couple of times. The meat is always of highest quality and you always have the opportunity to QC your meal because they slice it right in front of you while you make your way down a cafeteria inspired line with your tray and silverware. I usually go for the combo Po Boy with ham and sausage. The interplay of the hint-of-orange glazed ham with the spicy sausage link mixed with my BBQ sauce concoction is absolutely amazing and really cannot be described in words. Although after the first couple of bites, you think you could eat a couple of these sandwiches they are so good, by the time you finish one, you can't eat another bite. Although it has been a while since I have had the ribs, they were always really good. Maybe not the best I have ever had, but definitely worth getting. The brisket has always been very good too. Very tasty and lean. Although I have never tried it, I know a lot of people think very highly of the turkey also. For my side dish, I always get the french fries. They are a medium sized crinkle cut variety that almost is as much of an attraction as the entrees. They almost always are fresh right out of the fryer because they go so fast and are served in a generous sized basket which is probably enough for two to share (although I would not recommend). I am not a huge bbq bean person, but do really enjoy them here as well. A regular dining companion of mine enjoys the pinto style. They also have a bunch of other standard type sides (coleslaw, potato salad, garden salad, rice, baked potato, ect) which I have never experienced. Overall if you are hungry and feel like BBQ, this is the place to go in Portland. The meats are always delicious and plentiful and delivered with a consistency that you can always count on. The food also is great to get to-go if you want to take it back home. The sandwiches are around $6-$9 depending on how many meats you get and if you want a side or not. I think the sliced meat dinners start around $11 or $12 (and also come with the world's best Texas Toast). If I had to come up with something negative to say about this place, I guess it would be that Busters is just about the food: You stand in line, get your food, eat, and leave. Not really a place you would go to have a nice relaxing dinning experience. I have also eaten at the Tigard location dozens of times. Although I have no problem eating at the Tigard one, and can't point to anything specific, I believe the original Gladstone/Milwaukee restaurant to be the more superior. Either way, you can't go wrong getting your BBQ at Busters unless you: 1. Are a vegetarian, but they warn you on the sign out front 2. Prefer a sterile, over-priced, bland tasting chain food environment of a Famous Dave's or equivalent
(5)Calista H.
Good happy hour food and prices, but horrible drinks!! This is the one place that successfully makes one nasty drink after another. If your looking for a good drink don't go here. If your looking for good food do go here. I'm not normally in to Texas bbq (I prefer TN style), but this place is good! Good food. Bad drinks.
(3)Don S.
Better than Famous Daves, but mediocre compared to real BBQ. Very skimpy on the meat.
(2)Eric L.
Granted, I haven't gone to some of the boutique BBQ joints in the trendy areas of town...but of the 10 different places I've checked out Buster's is the most consistently good. Usually good flavor on the brisket, usually done about right, not too dry not too soggy. Not what I would call moderately priced but not incredibly expensive either. I rarely have something here that I wouldn't consider good. Every 8th-10th time I might end up with brisket that's overdone like tree bark. But's that's still a better success ratio than any other place I've found. Brisket - best I've found. Baby Backs - top notch. Pulled pork - very good. Sausage - heavy, greasy and very good. BBQ chicken - average. Beef ribs - just OK. Sides - coleslaw is about the best around, fries are pretty good too although I realize they're just Ore-Ida fries.
(5)Kevin S.
This is my favorite barbecue restaurant on the face of the planet. I'm in the military and move every year or two, and I always seek out the local bbq places to eat. Having grown up in the PDX area, I always look forward to coming back to Busters when I come home to visit my parents. I went to Busters for dinner tonight and I wasn't disappointed. This is the type of place where you grab a tray and order from the employees in the serving line, pick out your side dishes, desserts, drinks, and end up at the cash register at the end of the counter. Take your tray to a table of your liking and enjoy your meal. The service at the counter is friendly and professional. It's clean. The atmosphere is cowboy-esque with stirrups, saddles, branding irons, cowbells, etc on the walls. They have some funny artwork throughout the place that looks like it's cowboy / western themed, but look carefully and you'll note something else all the paintings share in common. I truly try to limit which restaurants I award 5-stars as the best-of-the-best, and I truly believe Busters deserves it.
(5)Jeff N.
Love this place. Best BBQ in the NW. However i did ask to reserve a large table for 20 for a family holiday lunch, and they didn't help with tables or offer any type of options. We all were was less then impressed with that service.
(4)Tim M.
The 'Que here is good, not great but good. The chicken is really the bright spot, very well done. Pork Ribs, brisket and beef ribs are just ok. They tend to be too dry for me. Coleslaw is good and potato salad is below average. Sauce options are above average and because the meat tends to be on the dry side, sauce I think is really needed. This is probably the reason I don't go all gaga over this place, i prefer my 'Que without sauce or very little sauce. To each his own I guess.
(3)Andrew S.
Pretty good spot. Ribs are cooked well, more the dry rub style. 3 types of BBQ Sauce Po-Boy is good. BBQ Beans are nice. Spicy Link was tasty, so is the chili no beans. Service is always good and polite.
(4)Heather S.
Really good! The BBQ sauces are full of flavor.. I had the pulled pork sandwich and BBQ baked beans.. Delicious! The baked beans have a little kick to them.. Definitely delicious and will go back..
(4)Delilah K.
Buster's has been around for what seems like forever. They are so solid when it comes to that smokey deliciousness. The menu hasn't changed and I rarely get anything beside the Brisket dinner. But when I do go off grid, the baby backs fall off the bone and there's healthy dose of meat on the big ribs. This is NOT one of those places that hide dry meat under sauce. Your choices of sauce are sweet, mild, hot and chipotle. If there's not enough kick for you, add a dash or two of tobasco. That'll do the trick. Your pick of sides are standard issue stuff such as creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, rice pilaf, bbq beans and a salad. But the focus is on the BBQ and that is always good. Reasonable prices, take-out and room for bigger crowds to get together makes this place good enough to keeping coming back to.
(4)Nate K.
Excellent smoked meats here! They are very consistent in the meat that comes out of their smokers so you always know what you are going to get. The brisket is probably the best around. The lean cuts or the "flat" of the brisket can sometimes be a a little dry but i always order the "point" cut and its always perfectly juicy! The smoked sausage is really good as well as the baby back ribs. I have literally tried all their meats several times and have never had a bad meal here. BBQ sauces are really good also, try mixing the hot with the sweet. Also the house made croutons for the brisket meat salad I order are the best anywhere.
(5)Jeff J.
Sauces are great, esp the chipotle BBQ!!! Brisket was dry, but revitalized after dipped into the chipotle sauce...ribs had good flavor on top...cold jalapeño slices with cold shredded cheese on top was interesting but easily edible...pulled pork was ok too made better with chipotle hehe...I never been to this location before, but I remember Busters being better in Tigard and Vancouver locations back in the day.....this wasn't the best, but certainly not the worst...I'd probably return again if in the area, but not go out of my way to come
(3)Hunter H.
Consistent, tasty, and pretty much damn near perfect. Can't go wrong with the brisket. I love the inside of the place too. A little dark with great pics hanging up.
(5)Aaron L.
This is a go-to spot for me and my wife. The baby back ribs are amazing, especially the dry rub they use. Kirsten always gets the brisket and I think it can sometimes be a bit dry, but there's always their great spicy BBQ sauce if you need it. The sides are tasty; I'm particularly fond of the pinto beans. Plus, as many have said, the super quick service and big portions are a real big plus when you're hungry for some good old-fashioned comfort food.
(4)Michelle A.
Busters on McLoughlin is fantastic! The service is ALWAYS wonderful. They have great sauces to customize your meal. I prefer a mix of the sweet and hot BBQ. Their crinkle fries are old school and always fresh and hot. The best part is the meat. The turkey is great if you are trying to be healthy. The brisket is the best I have ever had. I always ask for a lean cut and they are always happy to cut the fat off for me. I just discovered that they have an affordable happy hour as well. $2 drinks from 3-6 and tons of appetizers for $3. If you are a meat lover, you must try. However, like they say it's "A vegetarians worst nightmare".
(5)Abby B.
Mild sausage links on onion roll: sausage was good but cold, the roll was alright but too thick for the meat. Chopped beef on onion roll : my husband loved it and thought it was a lot of food. We got the green beans, mashed potatoes with gravy and bbq beans. The green beans were decent, potatoes were really garlic tasting, and personally I prefer baked beans to their bbq beans. Overall it was only okay. Being from Texas we were hoping for something from home but it wasn't exactly right. Most importantly, you have to have fried okra to really be a southern style bbq joint.
(2)Holy-foo' X.
As the Late Greg Giraldo once plaintively yowled to Larry the Cable Guy: "WHY are you so popular?!?" Years and years ago, way before the proliferation currently seen of BBQ joints/carts/carry-outs in Portland, there was Buster's, which had the distinction of being practically the only game in town. That, and they allowed customers to dress up their meals, and order a la cart, al dente, and just about any ole way they pleased. Then along came Mel Renfro's joint. And Doris'. And Czaba's--- oh thank heaven, there was Czaba's! Folks in the '97 to the 203' area code no longer had to drive long distances for bbq. They could get it authentic, and much closer to home. It's a testament to their business savvy--- and obvious widespread appeal-- that Buster's has thrived through the latent surge of so many different BBQ eateries, as noted above. So what's to like about it? It's cheap, relatively. It's already prepared, so virtually NO wait time. There's good variety in meat, and you sauce it as you so please. There's also the bar, which many of the competitor's lack... At this point in the game, there's too much superior bbq closer to home to go out of my way as in the old days, for Buster's. Nowadays if I "happen" to be in the area, and with someone that is gung ho about Buster's, fine, I'll go back. I've never had a terrible dining experience @ a Buster's, but what ya gonna do? I've traveled quite a bit both domestic and international, and am grateful for how those experiences have influenced and enriched my No-Po palate. So. As every chic in the universe has oh-so sincerely said to at least one guy she's ditched, It's not you, Buster's darling, it's me....
(2)Kenny H.
Been coming here for about two decades now. Used to come with my family as a kid and I still come here to this very day. The food is excellent, and the price has remained pretty steady over the years; as many restaurants get popular or well-known, the price tends to escalate accordingly. Busters seems to only have adjusted for inflation. Additionally, it's a place that the entire family can enjoy. The only gripe that's even worth mentioning (since I want to give a fair review) is that the service has occasionally made me want to sigh (and I hate sighing), 9.9/10 your experience will be pleasant.
(4)Bryan F.
I have been eating here since I was a little kid, sometimes twice a day... Best BBQ place in the area as far as I am concerned. My two favorites are the Turkey and Brisket dinners. All the meats are good, and the people are great. Most of the sides are good, after 5 p.m. they have baked potatoes. The only thing I would avoid are the mashed potatoes, they taste like they may be from a box. Texas Rice and the crinkle-cut fries are always a good choice. Vegetarians beware.
(4)Raim R.
Good food. Being from Texas and driving through I thought "if you're using Texas and BBQ in the name, it better be good.". And it was. Good sauce, good ribs. The brisket was a little dry but had good flavor. I would recommend stopping by when you're in town.
(3)Jill H.
Brisket, sauce, and iced tea are great. Mashed potatoes were creamy. Beans were blah and needed doctoring with jalepenos, which the condiment bar was lacking. But I'll forgive y'all for that, Buster's. I'll be back and I'm bringing friends.
(4)John B.
As a lifetime aficianado of barbeque all over Dixie (running joke; my expense reports were not complete without at least one drop of barbeque sauce), please don't think I fib when I say Buster's is THE BEST. The one failing is their 'garlic toast' - everything else is perfect. They also cater, and really 'make' a party or picnic!
(5)Aaron B.
Great food & cheap drinks! Get the pulled pork on the po-boy (it's the softest bread they have!) it's amazing! Happy hour all day on Saturday & Sunday! Cheap drinks and good deals on apps. The brisket can be hit & miss, but I think that's due to the variation in the cut thickness. It's better than no brisket! Be sure to check out the spicy BBQ sauce, I love it and never eat BBQ sauce other than this. They also have a spicy mustard chipotle you can get that's amazing! Great kinda divvy little bar (meant as a compliment, dark woods, low lights) off the min restaurant, but there are windows too so it feels nice. 4 TV's so you can catch whatever sporting event is on as well. So, in a nutshell, this place has a lot going for it.. All the pieces are in place!
(5)Lisa Marie G.
I found Busters through Yelp and was satisfied with the results! Their sweet sauce was a bit more hot than sweet but the meat was most and delicious. We had take out but I think I will dine in next time. My mom ordered ribs and went totally carnal on it~
(4)Aleasha G.
Well this was my round two for Busters. This time with my partner in crime at my side, ready to do some damage (to our stomaches that is). My favorite moment was when we drove up & saw their reader board "A VEGETARIANS WORST NIGHTMARE" HAHAHAHA...clever. This got my lovely carnivore even more excited since his every meal consists of meat, meat, meat and a side of other necessary foods other than meat. I got the lunch special beef sandwich. A basic bun with some sauce filled beef in the center. He ended up getting a two meat sandwich. When we sat down, with a wide array of sauces covering our table we began to dig in. Bite after bite, I was overwhelmed by the intensely drown-in-sauce meat. It tasted good, but was quite overpowering. My hubby however, had two slabs of EXTREMELLY dry meat that he had to drench in sauce just to give it enough moisture to become edible again. Overall we were full, and I can see why this place is a favorite haunt for so many. Personally the tasty dipping sauce is probably not enought to get me to return. There were a few large awesome looking indoor fire pits, but when they aren't lit up, they just sit there looking fake & tacky. (And business was busy enough to justify lighting it.) I have also never been much of a buffet style dining fan. The dirty factor of buffets tends to put me off, so unless the food is so exceptional I forget its a buffet, it doesn't make the food go down easier :) Not my thing, but if you love meat, and you love sauce, its definately worth a try!
(3)Veggie L.
Husband picked up take out... Best dry rub ribs i have had. I usually love my saucy bbq drenched ribs but these ribs made me change my mind. Great flavor... A little sweet and a little spice. Bbq beans and coleslaw was nothing special but dang these ribs are worth going back for!
(4)Jason K.
Whenever I pass through I have a hard time not stopping here and getting some BBQ to take home. The pulled pork is where it's at, nice and smoky with surprisingly little in terms of fat. That's what I like! The sausages are good as well, as is the smoked turkey. The sauces offered are all good, buy I'm a stickler for the spicy. Pretty much the closest thing I can find out here to the BBQ I had growing up in the midwest.
(5)K W.
Smoked turkey is moist, tasty perfect. Pork ribs are amazing. Brisket is spot on. Chicken is a little dry for my tastes: stick with any of the ribs and turkey. Great cheap lunch: the 'chopped meat' sandwich is the leftover pieces of meat and is a scrumptious bargain. The whole family loves the meats. But the sides leave a lot to be desired: cold, crinkle-cut fries, very plain salads in tiny bowls, pork and beans that are a bit too sweet. Still, you simply can't beat the BBQ here. Don't forget to add a little bit of that hot BBQ sauce too - yum!
(5)Rachelle f.
They have the best ham hands down, great choice of sides and the bbq sauce is amazing
(4)Beverly M.
I couldn't believe it when I realized the Milwaukie Location had not been reviewed! I've been eating here for years. The staff is always wonderful. Some of the same faces all these years, but it seems the new hires are always great too! I've tried many of the different meats and dishes, but once you find your favorite, it's hard to order anything else. My favorite is the Brisket Po Boy Sandwich. I always order the basket of fries rather than the 2 sides, because the basket is enough fries for all of us! The meat is so tasty and tender. They trim the fat off nicely. I like having the buffet style fixin's to finish my sandwich preparing myself. Lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, bowl of hot sauce mixed with mild sauce, bowl of ranch dressing to dip my fries in, and a cold bottle of beer pulled right out of the ice. Mmmmmm. This is heaven. Busters has been satisfying my cravings through pregnancies, menopause, divorces, singlhood and dating, fatness and thiness. It's always been there for me. I've used them to cater golf tournaments and company picnics. They've never done me wrong. This place has survived many economic times. They are just plain GOOD!
(4)Andy B.
Loving the BBQ great happy hour don't change a thing
(4)Scott L.
I grew up in Portland, and to this day every time I visit my family I go to Buster's. Prompt service, great decor, and delicious food does it every time for me. The dinners are pretty big, so come with an appetite, but if you want to eat less or are just in for lunch, get your favorite meat on a Po'Boy. I recommend the Hot Link Sausage. Also, never use the ketchup. Just get the mild BBQ sauce for a great dipping sauce for the bread with your dinner, your fries, your meat, or your sandwich!
(5)Mike L.
I went here on a week night and absolutely loved it. The bbq ribs I had were excellent. The atmosphere was very western 80 style and there was old school country music playing. They had a good selection of beers and everything was great. I'll definitely go back.
(4)Scott H.
Pretty much my favorite restaurant in the world. If you're looking for something to try, give it a shot and you wont be disappointed. Quality is always good and I particularly recommend the baby back ribs
(5)Joe M.
This has been one of my favorite restaurants for the past 20 years!! I usually only come back to Portland for about a week and a half a year. In that time, I usually try to eat at Busters at least a couple of times. The meat is always of highest quality and you always have the opportunity to QC your meal because they slice it right in front of you while you make your way down a cafeteria inspired line with your tray and silverware. I usually go for the combo Po Boy with ham and sausage. The interplay of the hint-of-orange glazed ham with the spicy sausage link mixed with my BBQ sauce concoction is absolutely amazing and really cannot be described in words. Although after the first couple of bites, you think you could eat a couple of these sandwiches they are so good, by the time you finish one, you can't eat another bite. Although it has been a while since I have had the ribs, they were always really good. Maybe not the best I have ever had, but definitely worth getting. The brisket has always been very good too. Very tasty and lean. Although I have never tried it, I know a lot of people think very highly of the turkey also. For my side dish, I always get the french fries. They are a medium sized crinkle cut variety that almost is as much of an attraction as the entrees. They almost always are fresh right out of the fryer because they go so fast and are served in a generous sized basket which is probably enough for two to share (although I would not recommend). I am not a huge bbq bean person, but do really enjoy them here as well. A regular dining companion of mine enjoys the pinto style. They also have a bunch of other standard type sides (coleslaw, potato salad, garden salad, rice, baked potato, ect) which I have never experienced. Overall if you are hungry and feel like BBQ, this is the place to go in Portland. The meats are always delicious and plentiful and delivered with a consistency that you can always count on. The food also is great to get to-go if you want to take it back home. The sandwiches are around $6-$9 depending on how many meats you get and if you want a side or not. I think the sliced meat dinners start around $11 or $12 (and also come with the world's best Texas Toast). If I had to come up with something negative to say about this place, I guess it would be that Busters is just about the food: You stand in line, get your food, eat, and leave. Not really a place you would go to have a nice relaxing dinning experience. I have also eaten at the Tigard location dozens of times. Although I have no problem eating at the Tigard one, and can't point to anything specific, I believe the original Gladstone/Milwaukee restaurant to be the more superior. Either way, you can't go wrong getting your BBQ at Busters unless you: 1. Are a vegetarian, but they warn you on the sign out front 2. Prefer a sterile, over-priced, bland tasting chain food environment of a Famous Dave's or equivalent
(5)Calista H.
Good happy hour food and prices, but horrible drinks!! This is the one place that successfully makes one nasty drink after another. If your looking for a good drink don't go here. If your looking for good food do go here. I'm not normally in to Texas bbq (I prefer TN style), but this place is good! Good food. Bad drinks.
(3)Don S.
Better than Famous Daves, but mediocre compared to real BBQ. Very skimpy on the meat.
(2)Rowland A.
Been several years since I've been to Oregon...came straight here after landing...IT STILL ROCKS! Two meat po boy with brisket and tender loin is mmmmmm mmmmmmm good! (I like the spicy bbq sauce to dip it in.) The girly had the ribs and said they were good too. I don't know why but there fries are really good, they look like normal crinkle fries but they are always delicious.
(5)Bill O.
The food is good but a but overpriced. I went here with my fiancé and we both had a two meat meal. The Quality was good with the portion being a good size and nice and tender meat seasoned well. This was my first time in although I've been in the area most of my life. I had cole slaw and baked beans as a side. The beans were tasty and the slaw was so so. The inside was a bit dated but not too horrid, reminded me of eating out in the 80's with my family. We spent almost $19.00 ea and while I did leave full I was not overly hungry when I went in. I know many places I could have had a large steak dinner for that price. Not sure if I'll be back because of the price everything else was good.
(3)John M.
This place was not very good at all. I am from out of town and Busters was recommended to me from the RV dealership sales folks up the street. The line was long to get to the service counter but I thought,"hey if it's great BBQ then I'll wait for 20 minutes in line." Man, was I so disappointed! My chicken and spare ribs were so dry I had to dump a lot of bbq sauce on my lunch just to be able to chew it. The coleslaw has bland, bland, bland. My beans were okay and my Mac & Cheese tasted like Hungarian mush. I really wanted to ask for my money back but I didn't. Most of us know that good BBQ comes from the heart & soul of it's creator and if the chef is not into making great BBQ then he might as well stay home. Whoever cooked the BBQ on the day I was there should have stayed home because it was by far the very worst BBQ I ever did pay for. I'm not comin' back to this joint again, life is too short.
(1)Dawn C.
First time here, I brought my 6 year old daughter and we split the 6 pork ribs and two sides of mac & cheese and baked potato. The ribs were very dry but flavorful with great spices and the sauces that we selected were delicious. (Ribs come dry then you dip them in sauces you select). There was plenty of food for both of us, but definitely overpriced at $18 for the ribs, sides and a child's size drink. The atmosphere was dated like something out of the 1970s, and just dark and neglected. This is a one-time-only trip for us due to the high price and depressing atmosphere.
(2)Derek O.
This place was a shock. I was expecting mediocre at best. What we got was way better. We walked in and they serve cafeteria style. No problem but we had never seen that. We got our food and our sides and sat down. My sister had the chicken which was good. My sister's man toy had the same as me...brisket, chicken, and pork ribs. All of the food was good. Their hot and medium sauces were good solid sauces. Thei Chipotle was outstanding. Well that and the bark on the brisket. This was a good solid bbq place. Nothing really fancy but for a person that wants to hit the spot...this is it. It will never be a Brewbque but we were headed North.
(4)Leilani C.
This is, quite frankly, the worst bbq I've ever had. Walking in, the entire restaurant smelled rancid. I almost turned right back around and walked out but it's been highly recommended by friends so I at least felt obligated to give the food a fair shot. Whoa. I'm pretty sure my 9 year old could grill up some chicken thighs with some Kraft BBQ sauce smothered on it and it would taste like a good ole Southern meal compared to Buster's flavorless and dry brisket. Honestly I've never had worse. The sauces were mediocre and the he restaurant not only smelled awful, it was filthy dirty. Do yourself a favor and head over to Famous Dave's or better yet, Hog Wild BBQ in Clackamas. At least their food won't leave you feeling like you just ate skunky mystery meat grilled on their dirty smelly BBQ.
(1)Kyle A.
I should really give it 5 stars but four works. My meal cost $12 bucks. Two meat po-boy meat sandwich, BBQ beans and fries. They have four different BBQ sauces, toppings for your sandwich if you want it. Good customer service - the fries are always hot and I just love this place. They smoke the meat and boy- its tasty and so so good.
(4)vi a.
There's not much to say about this restaurant. The food is mediocre to say the least and over priced. My daughter even said... "this bbq place is the worst ever" and " I can cook better ribs". The rub on the ribs taste aweful even with their bbq sauce... it was still aweful. The bbq sauce got too much paprika, it seemed like and the seasoning didn't seem to mesh together. Overall... I have to say, there are better bbq restaurants out there like Famous Daves. Even Safeway grocery store can make a better tasting bbq ribs. Skip this one if you can.
(1)Michael N.
This place is awesome. I've eaten here many times, as recently as December 2014, and I've never been disappointed. My favorite menu item is their beef ribs. They offer up great sides, and you get your food fast as you walk through the line cafeteria style unless you eat in the bar area which will take you a little longer to get your food as the wait staff will bring it to you in there. No complaints about this place and I've been eating there for over a decade. Best ris in town.
(5)Kristine Y.
Had the short ribs with 2 meats (comes w/ 2 sides) for the 2 of us. No shortage of meat and food!! My better half was no too fond of things, he had added on a set of beef ribs.... Which we really don't enjoy, but wanted to try anyway. The mac n cheese good, coleslaw was nice with the beef brisket. I was quite fond of the ribs and taste of brisket and pork loin. They gave us 2 slices of bread and this made a delightful little open face sandwich. The sauces are really quite and nice and I will keep in mind this as a Christmas gift idea! All in all, we had a ton of food and 2 beers for $35. This is a good old boys club, but clean, well stocked and will likely return!! I told my better half to cater this at my funeral!! :-)
(5)Rian S.
Baby back ribs....always the best choice in my opinion :) pulled pork is also great. Staff it depends what day you come. I have been going here for 6 years and seen a lot of employees come in and out, had friends work here. They have all loved it which means must have a good manager and owner. Parking is large. Has a good feel inside. Lots of seating. Can't say anything bad about it :) fat guy heaven if he loves BBQ
(5)Nick H.
It seems like everyone has a BBQ place they like a little (or lot) more than Buster's. Okay, I'll grant that. What I like about Buster's is their consistency. If you like the food here, you will never be dissapointed.The other places I've been to more then thrice in PDX tend to fluctuate more than I like. 'Scuse me for being old and set in my ways. The chicken is good, the ribs are okay, the brisket tends to be dry, the links are fine, slaw is good, potato salad just fair, same with the beans, I like the sauces enough to use at home and I never have room for dessert. Any questions?
(3)Jennifer B.
I've been going to Buster's since I was a kid. I live in San Diego now and nothing even compares. The meat is smoked perfect, the seasoning is just right and the cuts are amazing. The best potato salad and BBQ beans! I'm driving to Portland on Thursday and leaving first thing in the morning so I can be here before they close! This is reeaall BBQ. Done.
(5)Ryan Y.
I'm a Texas transplant and this is legitimate Texas BBQ. I had the brisket and pulled pork. Both were great and the spicy BBQ sauce was perfect. If this place had a nicer dining area and was located in town it would be packed all day. I'm begrudgingly taking 1 star off because it really is a little overpriced. But even so I will be back.
(4)Holly D.
Haven't been to Buster's in honestly 15 years..Do NOT ask me why! But family visiting from the across the pond wanted bbq and Buster's was in the right place at the right time. It did not disappoint anyone...just as yummy as I remember, turkey, ribs, pulled pork, brisket was all great. Only thing strange..we didn't bus our own table. .they still do it.
(5)Kory C.
Used to go here 1-2 times a week. The same order everytime. Had to take busters off my places to eat list because they kept F'n up my sandwich with fries and Ranch order. How many times do you give a restaraunt forgetting to put ranch in with the order, and sometimes even forgetting the bbq sauce. In a 10 month period they forgot to put Ranch in with my order 7 times. So everytime I would have to drive back up there to get the f'n ranch. After 7 times of this, I will no longer spend my money at this restaurant.
(2)Sarah C.
Busters is as Texan as any BBQ I've tried since moving to this beautiful state. I spent the first 25 years of my life in Texas, and was reminded of my homeland as soon as we saw the gun shop and propane dealer on the approach to Busters. But the sights and smells that hit you when you walk\ through the front door are an instant transport to the Lone Star State. This place isn't small-shack-off-a-dirt-road-with-only-family-Âsized-portions-served-on-butcher-paper-and-tea-as-Âthe-only-beverage-BBQ (the REAL deal), but it IS equivalent to the kind of delicious, pit-smoked BBQ you can find in every Texas city. So good! -particularly the sausage and brisket covered in hot or mild sauce (no Texan would ever use a sweet sauce). And the sides are terrific too - especially the slaw, potato salad and beans. I am thrilled to have found this place - the BBQ craving is finally satiated!
(5)M B.
The place operates cafeteria style (grab your tray and silverware when you walk in the door) and has kind of a run-down feel to it. The food is only so-so. The prices are outrageous. For the amount that you pay for the meal, you get very small portions. A side of potato salad, for example, equals one spoonful in a tiny bowl. Next time I will save my money and not waste my time with this place.
(2)Shelley M.
Great sothern type food, fresh meat cut right in front of you. The sides are delish, and there is a salad bar, which i love,
(5)Darron N.
if your looking for Beef Ribs, look no farther. I like the atmosphere, it has that rustic, down to bbq business kind of feel, keeping the focus on the wonderful smoked meats. Bottom line is the Beef Ribs are my thing, I started with the other common items such as brisket, chicken, pork ect. but this place is all about the Beef Ribs for me.
(5)Joyce G.
Not sure why I am so generous to give them any stars. OK, the place was clean, though rundown. I asked for a recommendation of meats cuz I'm gluten intolerant & he suggested that baby backs were very popular. So he cut 3 ribs from the end of a new rack--that means the ones I got were small. The salad was a tiny bowl of mostly iceberg & a little romaine; nothing else. Then I asked for a glass of Cabernet & was served an airplane-sized bottle of the worst wine I have ever tasted. The audacity of them to charge me &12.75 for that mess! The whole setup is like a cafeteria line, where you take a tray & ask for foods that have been sitting around in the open air for who knows how long? Never again will I step foot in that place!!
(1)Chris O.
I'm not sure how the other reviewers gave this place such high marks. I am also posting photos. * Beef ribs: I have had an easier time with beef jerky. DRY! * Brisket: DRY, I have posted photos. * Potato salad: better off with the gallon tub from Costco. * Beans: Get a can of the cheapest beans at the supermarket. * Coleslaw: Seemed fresh and crispy. White slaw with dressing. Simple and bland. So, if you like neon cactuses and shoe leather, this place is for you. P.S. If you want a standard of comparison, visit Podnah's Pit Barbecue, Smokehouse 21, Leroy's Familiar Vittles or one of the many BBQ restaurants available around you..
(2)Carl T.
Smokey Hot Yummy Goodness! This place is always spotless. The food is ALWAYS great! Consistent consistent wonderfulness. The best BBQ beef ribs EVER!
(5)Bill R.
Best brisket in Portland. Ribs, smoked turkey and sides are also great. Little known - eat in the bar and they will serve you off the menu.
(5)Gary L.
Didn't really do it for me. Place was pretty run down in a 'step back in time' kinda way, grab a tray and get served cafeteria style. I had a pulled pork sandwich ($11.75) as it was an early lunch. Not bad, not great and a little pricy for what it was. If you have the time I'd keep driving and look elsewhere but it'll do if you're short on time.
(2)W B.
Good Texas BBQ. My dad's favorite and we come here everytime I'm in town. He always gets the Spare Ribs and they are well done, dry and add your own sauce. The spicy sauce is ok for me, a little runny and vinegary for my tastes. I had the pulled pork sandwich this trip and it was good but not excellent. The Po'Boy bread was very good and the meat was cooked well, but there was sauce added already and soaked in. I like the taste of pork without sauce and add to taste. I had the BBQ Beans and they were pretty good. I would stick to Beef, the brisket looked great and the Spare ribs are always great.
(4)Robert X.
Let me get into a time machine and go back to the late 70's when this style of restaurant was popular and this review may still be the same! THIS WAS ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE IN EVERY WAY! The star of the show, the MEAT, is dry and tasteless. BBQ?? Serve it yourself from the salad bar and call it ketchup. The sides are college dorm kitchen style, out of a can, and barely warm. The people are not even slightly pleasant unless they are talking to themselves. The atmosphere is dark and I can say a least it appeared to be clean, but it was dark. You never can tell until you shine a light on it. Now lets talk price. For a BBQ place the pricing is accurate, but here, you will be filled with regret at first bite. The only thing I liked was my soda pop and I'll sum it up that it was a $17 soda and call it a day. DON'T GO THERE! TAKE YOUR MONEY AND GO ELSEWHERE!!!!!!!!
(1)Samuel H.
OMG. It was HORRIBLE. I had a craving for brisket so I decided to try a new place. Buster's does not know BBQ. All of their meats were dry and bland. Their brisket was dry and had NO sauce. It wasn't cooked in anything. The only BBQ sauce to be found was in vats on the SALAD BAR. That's right, I had to but the sauce in a bowel and dip my dry, tasteless meat into it. Their mac -n- cheese is a bar of glue and the mashed potatoes taste like they come from a box, much like their brown gravy. Avoid Buster's. You will be disappointed.
(1)Chris W.
Average barbecue. No more no less. The portions are a little small for the side orders.
(3)John M.
Brisket sandwich at lunchtime is incredible. I wish they served it during dinner time, but they don't. Very simple atmosphere, with cafeteria style trays and inexpensive cutlery.. But the BBQ is terrific, and never fails to please. The best in the area, by far.
(4)Thee I.
Let's get down to it. Busters is good. Great selection of meats they carve right there for you. They trim the fat off the brisket which is fairly lean. Great selection of sides too. I recommend the 2 meat brisket and hot links. The spicy sauce is killer! It doesnt look like you get a lot of food, but by the end, you're full. I've had BBQ all over the U.S. Busters isn't the best, but its pretty good and worth the trip.
(4)Jezus C.
The meat was dry and tasteless. The food was luke warm at best. The people who work there are the only good thing about this place of eating because it shouldn't be called a restaurant. The one time I wanted my money back. Save your time and money.
(2)Mcqueen C.
I love coming to this place. Food is always great, clean and service is good too. Never have to wait to eat because everything is prepared and ready to eat when you come in. Huge portions and a lot of sides to choose from. I recommend the brisket dinner.
(4)Martin F.
Good bbq, good service, good prices, clean and warm. What else is there? It's a friendly place - with several meat choices it's easy to find something for everyone. The quick service (walk up and get your food as you come in), comfortable overstuffed chairs makes for a great combination. You should try it, you'll like it.
(4)Jennifer M.
Amazing BBQ. Love the baby backs, brisket and spicy sausage. Don't forget to grab some Beef Jerky to go.
(5)James H.
I truly enjoy the food here especially the fatty brisket. It is so smokey good and flavorful. The reason I went four instead of five stars is actually for two reasons. I am not a big fan of cafeteria style service and I am not a big fan of the all day heat tables containing the sauces. I will always recommend this resteraunt for people who like good barbecue.
(4)Sean S.
I use to come here for the beef ribs all the time. This last time was a major disappointment, it's always a bad sign when they bring the ribs out upside down on your plate... They weren't meaty in the slightest, they were mostly bone, and the meat on them wasn't that flavored and was dry. What a disappointment, isn't there anywhere in PDX area with good beef ribs anymore?? I regret not taking a picture of the sad looking ribs so I could show...
(2)Nicole S.
Busters a great ol standby with consistently great bbq and sides plus a great lounge, brisket pork ribs and hot links are a must, best spicy bbq sauce in Portland area and I have been everywhere :)
(5)Troy L.
Wide selection of meats. The brisket was dry and overcooked. not even sauce would help. The spareribs were hard and inedible. There are better places for BBQ in Southeast Portland. As for their sauce, it was nothing special
(1)Michael B.
Prices are inexpesive as noted in other reviews but the portions are small, the potato salad tasted as if it were left over from the previous week and the ribs were dry. Also they don't offer any of the sauces they sell by the bottle to put on the ribs when you dine-in. Won't return or recommend
(2)