LJ's BBQ

Doesn't Recommend

CyberDyneSystems

Joined 4 years ago

Nothing special I'm afraid. We had an off night perhaps?. Located next to The Garden Grill, LJ's is an interesting juxtaposition to the Vegetarian only fare. We had high hopes of enjoying a restaurant that would suit my own carnivore desires, while including some Vegetarian options for Liz.

We went on a very cold Saturday Night in February to find the place empty.

I recall asking if the kitchen was still open thinking maybe it was one of those family places that shuts down very early (it was approx 8:00pm)

We were assured that the kitchen was going strong and were seated.

The menu looked great, with all of the classic barbecue options and a full page of Burgers all of which could be substituted with a Veggy "Boka" patty.

I ordered the half and half ribs (Baby back and St. Louis style) with mashed potatoes and fresh green beans.

Liz ordered one of the many Boka burger options.

It was around the time of ordering that we frist began to be given hints of the establishemnt waiting for us to leave so they coudl close and go home,.. sweeping, closing blinds, etc. all this and even references to placing any desert orders or changes to our orders before closing the kitchen and sending staff home persisted for the duration of our meal.

The meal itself was a mixed bag.

Mine was fine, a good barbecue with excellent fresh green beans and decent potatoes, but only fine. I had a hard time discerning any difference between the St. Louis Style a baby backs. There are a number of better Rib joints in the area. This was nothing special at all.

Liz's "burger" on the other hand was really bad. a sloppy wet mass that was over spiced. A frozen prepackaged patty was used (many carnivore centric restaurants in Providence take the time to make there own veggy patties very successfully)

Price would be good if the meal and service were better. The worst part is I think the owner was the one pushing us out the door.

For passable barbecue, it's not a bad choice. Go earlier than 8:00pm, and DON'T bring your Veggy girlfriend!

Recommends

Contributor

Joined 10 years ago

Editorial Review by Christy Buena. Barbecue restaurant serves appetizers, sandwiches, brunch and offers an extensive wine selection.

Recommends

musicfan76

Joined 7 years ago

A hidden gem!. A lot more people are getting to know LJ's and rightfully so - this is some really good barbecue. I'm a certfied BBQ judge (Kansas City Barbecue Judge) and have known the folks at LJ's for a while - their new location is not only safer, cleaner and more upscale, but the food has only gotten better. The pork is chopped and caramelized with their delicious BBQ sauce, the ribs are consistently great and the brisket is always tender and moist. Add in some great wings and a nice beer list and you've got a real winner!