Great pulled pork, selection of different style sauces, cash discount. Perfect BBQ joint. Nice!

I walked into this restaurant excited to support a local business. I left feeling humiliated, disrespected, targeted, and completely unwelcome. My colleagues frequent this establishment and spoke highly of the BBQ, so I decided to try it for myself. I had never eaten there before and knew nothing about the sides. After tasting a small piece of meat that an employee gave me, I was impressed and ordered the turkey tips and rib-tip lunch special. When the cashier asked which sides I wanted, I politely asked one simple question: "Do you allow customers to sample the sides?" I was told no. I accepted the answer. I did not demand anything. I did not argue. I did not become disrespectful. I simply said it was difficult to choose because I had never tried their sides before. I was STILL going to purchase my meal. That should have been the end of the conversation. Instead, the interaction became unnecessarily hostile. The manager, Veronica, stepped forward with what I experienced as a nasty, condescending tone and said words to the effect of, "You can't just go to a restaurant and ask them to sample sides. We don't do that!" I turned to MY COLLEAGUE and mentioned that I had been to restaurants in other cities where customers were allowed to sample sides. My colleague mentioned Chicago. We were speaking TO EACH OTHER. The employee cutting the meat suddenly yelled across the counter: "THIS IS NOT CHICAGO!" Completely unnecessary. We told him we were having a private conversation and that his response was rude and unprofessional. That is when everything escalated. Instead of management stepping in to calm the situation, Veronica and several employees became increasingly confrontational. I stated that I did not appreciate the way we were being treated and that I might leave a review about my experience. Apparently, that was enough for professionalism to disappear entirely. Veronica instructed the staff NOT TO SERVE ME. She then began cursing at me. I was told to "get the f*** out." I was called a "b****." There was yelling, screaming, and multiple employees confronting two women who originally walked into the restaurant simply to have LUNCH. Let me repeat that. This entire situation began because I asked if I could sample a SIDE DISH. I was told no. I accepted the answer. Yet somehow it escalated to being cursed at, called outside of my name, refused service, and ordered out of the restaurant. My colleague had already PAID for her meal. During the confrontation, her bag of food was shoved toward her so aggressively that some of the food fell onto the floor. After enduring degrading comments, I tossed the small brown paper tray I had been holding back across the counter. The cashier then threw it back toward me. At that point, my colleague asked for her money back because she no longer wanted the food after witnessing how we were being treated. We were initially told: "WE DON'T GIVE REFUNDS." Another gentleman eventually attempted to process her refund, while approximately four or five employees were involved in yelling and confronting us. Then the police were called. Yes. The POLICE. Over an interaction that began with a polite question about sampling a side dish. When officers arrived, we explained what happened. The manager reportedly stated that she wanted us prohibited from returning. Trust me, there is absolutely NO reason I would ever return to an establishment where I was cursed at, called degrading names, yelled at, refused service, surrounded by employees, and treated as though I had committed some serious offense simply because I asked a question about food I was preparing to BUY. What troubles me most is how quickly the interaction escalated. As an African-American woman, I cannot ignore how this experience made me feel. Afterward, I spoke with people from different backgrounds who said they have asked restaurants for samples before and were not treated anything like this. Based on MY EXPERIENCE, this encounter left me seriously questioning whether racial bias or profiling played a role in how aggressively and disproportionately I was treated. I cannot tell anyone what was in another person's heart. But I absolutely know what happened to me. And the treatment was degrading. The most frustrating part is that I actually LIKED the food I tasted. I was ready to spend my money. I accepted their no-sampling policy. There was never a reason for any of this to happen. Good customer service could have been as simple as: "Unfortunately, we don't offer samples, but our most popular sides are..." Done. Instead, management turned a routine customer interaction into an aggressive, humiliating spectacle. So let me be very clear: I am NOT leaving this review because they would not let me sample a side. I am leaving this review because of the DISRESPECT, PROFANITY, NAME-CALLING, HOSTILITY, AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR, LACK OF DE-ESCALATION, and Bad customer service. read more

Holy freaking cow! I just unhinged my jaw and inhaled their brisket like a T. rex. That was, without a doubt, the best darn brisket I've ever had in my entire life. Tender, juicy, full of flavor. So perfect it doesn't even need sauce! I've traveled all over the country and am a bit of a bbq snob. This place is one in a million. Worth every penny. It can only be described in one word, which is a word I just made up.... MEATGASM! I took it to go. I'm sure all the "oh my gawds, and oh yums!" Coming from my office probably raised a few eyebrows but I can't help it. Holy crap that was delicious! Also, try it with the Alabama sauce. (Chefs kiss) perfection!!! read more

Fat Cap - Best 1/2 lb. Beef Brisket I've ever had in my entire life! - Barbeque Near Me - South Bend, Indiana

Fat Cap turned up in a random search for a nearby lunch on Yelp - my extremely good fortune! Memphis is my second home town and I'm a total BBQ nerd. I was a certified Memphis BBQ Network judge and also held that credential with the KC BBQ Society. My BBQ consumption regularly lands me in hot water with my PPC on a number of issues; it is what it is. So imagine my surprise when I drove into the parking lot and saw a big pile of real hardwood stacked in the back. I was optimistic. And I wasn't disappointed. My original plan was to have some brisket (woefully largely missing from the local Memphis scene) but when the proprietor offered the option of a brisket and rib combo, I jumped on it. Here's the deal: this guy knows what he's doing smoking meats. The ribs were as good as my Memphis favorites at Cozy Corner and I've never said that about ribs anywhere in Memphis or elsewhere. The brisket a perfect 10 - perfectly seasoned, beautiful smoke ring and juicy without being fatty. Neither the ribs nor the brisket wanted for any sauce, but the two I sampled should be bottle and sold at Amazon. That's enough, you should get the point (and the flat and the ribs!!). Bon appetite read more

Fat Cap - Photo doesn't do the juicy brisket justice, but it was perfect! Ribs were top shelf, too....a perfect 10 of 10 - Barbeque Near Me - South Bend, Indiana

Good BBQ with fair prices. Many sauce choices. No frills but good. I like the pork belly

Damn good pork. Nice tables. Great counter service. They have a varied selection of chilled BBQ sauces for your tasting pleasure.

The brisket is awesome, I'm from Texas and this brisket is as close to Arron Franklins brisket in Auston Tx that I have had since leaving Texas. $15 for a half pound is well worth it. We come up here about once a month and Fat Cap will be a stopping point going forward. read more

Cozy atmosphere with reasonable priced food, 4 types of bbq sauce, great tasting meats had rib tips and turkey tips, fries are crisp and flavored, corn bread moist and a sweetness that goes good with meats covered in Kansas City bbq sauce, staff friendly with fast service. Sauce on the side, but they will give you plenty read more

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The ribs were soft, sauce plain, sides balanced. Overall fine but not exciting, a fair three-star review. read more

Fat Cap - Barbeque Near Me - South Bend, Indiana

Jesus Mary & Joseph! These were the best wings I've ever had, and I'm old. The sauces were amazing too. I can't wait to have their briskit. read more

Had the pulled pork sandwich and the baked beans. Served-up quickly, and with a generous portion of both. The pork was tender and tasty with a good smoky flavor. The beans were in a very thick and rich sauce which, to me, was a little overwhelming tomato- based. Staff was friendly and responsive and wasn't real busy for a Saturday evening. I'll def be back. read more

Our second time here in 3 weeks. Came up from Illinois. Totally worth it. Staff super nice. Food is 10/10. read more

Fat Cap - Rib tips, collard greens,mac and cheese and pork and beans - Barbeque Near Me - South Bend, Indiana

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The food was excellent!! I am gluten free and they were very helpful in letting me know what did not have gluten. Since they smoke their own meat and salads they offered me a nice variety. The service was from the counter and they were very friendly and helpful. The ambiance is like a BBQ place with long wooden picnic tables. read more

"I've been going to Fat Cap for a few years and have always had good customer service. Unfortunately, my most recent experience was very disappointing. I placed my order and clearly explained how I wanted my food prepared. After driving about 30 minutes to get there, I noticed the meat was overcooked. I called the restaurant to share my concern, and the person who answered -- a woman who said she was the owner, and then a man who also identified himself as the owner -- did not listen or attempt to help. Instead of acknowledging my concern, they became defensive and raised their voices at me. As a therapist, I tried to remain calm and communicate clearly, but I felt attacked and disrespected. I was told they would not remake my order or offer a refund. This was upsetting because I have supported this business for years and did not expect that kind of treatment. I hope they improve their customer service so loyal customers don't have to go through this in the future." read more

The food is to die for !!! The beef so dang moist & tender. AND the corn bread just like Granny use to make . Now if we could get some nice ol cushions on them picnic tables , read more

My dad and I visited here on our way to Cedar Point and it was delicious. I recently moved to the midwest but I was born and raised in georgia. So coming from a southern girl, it was good! We got a little of everything and everything was great!!! The only thing that was okay was the pork. It was slightly dry but that happens pretty often with pork. The brisket and chicken were amazing! and the side were delicious! The staff were super kind and helpful!! read more

excellent smoked meats. very nice staff. very fast and convenient. they even have a drive through!

Amazing portions and tasty tasty meats. Can't go wrong with anything over here! Nice people and energy

First, the food. We went as a group of three. One got the turkey tips. One got the pulled pork sandwich, and one got regular rib tips. All three were outstanding. Perfectly prepared meat. They have 4 BBQ sauces to choose from. I only tried the Kansas City version, but it was amazing. The guy that runs the place and does the cooking was the one that served us, and he was very personable and friendly. If you opt to dine in, it is what I would call family style seating.....a bunch of picnic tables pushed together. Which is fine with me, but be prepared that you might end up sitting next to someone you don't know when you're eating. The dining area's one draw back is that it needs more lighting. A few LED light fixtures would greatly improve the atmosphere. Overall, this has become our lunch group's go-to for BBQ read more

Hands down best brisket sandwich I have ever had! They make their own BBQ sauces that are so delicious!! Some of the best smoked brisket and bbq sauce I've ever had. Cornbread was good! Mac and cheese was alright it needs some more flavor or breadcrumbs. 5/5 overall and really friendly service!! read more

Fat Cap - Brisket Sandwich - Barbeque Near Me - South Bend, Indiana

This Carolina girl heartily approves of the brisket sandwich, potato salad and cornbread. Who would guess with these delicious flavors I was no longer in the South? The brisket sandwich comes topped with a spread of pimento cheese, pickled jalapeños and their South Carolina sauce. It was absolutely delicious! read more

I got food poisoning from them i'll never eat that crap Fat crap again I think they sold me spoiled burnt ends gross

the food is delicious ! had to take a pause after the first bite just to take it in on top of how amazing it tasted, the service was (chefs kiss) unmatched. we ordered to go & got back home and realized the box we thought contained our rib tips was actually just sauces , so i called to see if we would be able to come back later when we went out again to grab a refund - not only did he remember who i was but also told me when we came back for the refund that we would get some rib tips too. got there, and he recognized us again, immediately got to work on getting us the refund and rib tips, an extra bit of brisket , and sent us on our way! i'm pretty sure the guy helping us was the owner, he gave the vibe. whoever it was, he was so kind, so helpful, apologetic, and makes some fan-fxxxing-tasting meats. definitely gonna be back here at least once a week read more

Apparently they serve people that skip the line and ignore you mid order. Lost a customer. Mission BBQ came in clutch, much better service. Suggest looking them up if you don't want to get skipped up read more

The pork was very flavorful on its own but I love that you could try every sauce on it. Comes with bread. Service is always extremely friendly here and quick. Meat is chopped right in front of you so you know it's fresh. Casual picnic vibes inside and out. read more

Fat Cap - 1/2 lb. Pulled Pork - Barbeque Near Me - South Bend, Indiana

Food is great. The male owner will ask questions and take care of you. His wife is okay but doesn't go out of her way for anything. Oh I forgot to say. The credit card or debt card machine asks for a tip. I was at four stars now I'll probably go down to two or three. Why do places shame you into tipping them for just putting food in box. I wasn't there for two minutes before they were taking my money and machine asking for a 15 percent tip min. read more

We wanted a quick and budget friendly dinner, I saw this place sells the meat by the half pound. Decided we would get a pound of pulled pork and figure out something to do with it. When I picked up, the smells were amazing. The staff was friendly. I couldn't leave the parking lot without trying a bite of the pork. AMAZING. Very Smokey, the crust was delicious and the meat was tender. We got home, cooked some quick mac n cheese, threw the pork on top of it with bbq and man was it delicious. Threw some onion in it, and put it all on top of the bread they give you. The meat was still tender, hot, and juicy by the time we got home and cooked the mac. It was so good, it was very budget friendly, and I will absolutely be back many more times. Highly suggest! read more

Wonderful food I can't express how good their brisket is and my wife raves about the turkey. . The people were nice. We will use them for our catering. read more

The BBQ is legit, I recommend the pulled pork and the dry brisket. The folks that work there have always been pleasant. I usually get my food to go, since this is one of my go-to places for when I'm working. read more

When it comes to BBQ, especially good BBQ most people think of the southern states. Which is why I am somewhat sketchy to venture to different BBQ establishments in Michiana. I am selective and have reasonable but somewhat steep expectations for good BBQ. When I rate BBQ, I rate more so on authenticity pertaining to taste, cooking methods, quality of meat, and seasonings . Usually not factoring the atmosphere of different BBQ joints since many of them are routinely the no-frills types. Yet there was one day, when I had a BBQ craving. Just wanting some comfort food and decided to try Fat Cap out. Fat Cap has both a drive-through as well as indoor dinning, with their dine-in option still being available. Which I have yet to do. Now when it comes to BBQ, I'm a tips kinda girl, over ribs any day. In the recent past especially when I visited for the first time, I viewed their menu, and they have a pretty decent selection. From ribs and tips, pulled pork sandwiches, grilled chicken, mac'n cheese, corn bread and their cake called dirt cake and so on. They also have flexible options for ordering such as a person can order ribs/meat only or a typical meal with a side. Which I like because many BBQ establishments require ordering an entire meal if you want their BBQ. Thus far I've mainly ordered just their tips to-go. Surprisingly, when I opened up my to-go box I was somewhat disappointed, because of the meager amount of BBQ I received. Typically, many BBQ restaurants especially mom-and-pop one's, give generous BBQ portions. Giving you nearly the whole rib cage of the animal for your meal. On the flip side though, the tradeoff with their portion size is their BBQ definitely ranks high on taste! Later when I ate some, the meat had the perfect texture and was moist, tender and I could taste the meat's juice in my mouth. Importantly the main aspect that really impressed me is their hot and wet option, even though their BBQ is singularly labeled as just BBQ. What I mean by this is in the South (being the prized home of BBQ) many restaurants offer either a dry-rubbed BBQ (with seasonings only and no sauce) and/or wet BBQ version with sauce. I thought I'd never see the day when a northern restaurant would have the dry version. And now I finally have!! Only at Fat Cap's their wet version is their dry BBQ with just sauce added. So, if you want dry BBQ ask for no sauce or have it on the side. But in my opinion both versions taste great, being a little better without sauce! So, I was very pleased with Fat Cap's BBQ, with my only hang up their lack of generosity with their portions of BBQ. Due to their portions, even though I venture here from time to time, I also frequent other BBQ joints to switch it up. Being why I deducted them a star, although Fat Cap's serves delicious BBQ. read more

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Early Saturday afternoon stop here for BBQ was well worth it! The man and woman working were very friendly with us. They had burnt ends as today's special which were fabulous. Our party of 3 also got a pulled pork and a brisket sandwich which were staked with meat and delicious. 2 side orders of fries were more than enough. 5 stars from us and we will be back when visiting the area. read more

Food is amazing, I come to South bend to visit my boyfriend from California and he brought me to fat cap! Food was hands down the best bbq I've ever had (and I've had a lot) the people working there are very nice and outgoing . Got a pulled pork & chicken sandwich (chicken was was so dang good) read more

I will get right to the point.....I ordered brisket and baked beans. The brisket was tasty and the flavor profile was good. Although, I take away points because it was fatty!! Lots of fat on my brisket. The beans flavor was good with some chunks of meat in it. I don't think the beans where cooked long enough cause they were still a little tough. If they improve, they could do really well being in that location. read more

Fat Cap - Brisket and ribs - Barbeque Near Me - South Bend, Indiana

Amazing bbq and the best service. We were visiting South Bend and needed to try mid western bbq. We pretty much tried everything on the menu, all was delicious. The owner was there to explain the different types of bbq sauces and to make us all feel welcome. This was our favorite meal on our trip. read more

Best brisket in the area! Food is always great. People are always friendly and helpful.

Great bbq and service. The smoke on the pulled pork makes you feel like you're in a Texas bbq pit.

Not sure if they are making up random prices, but it is way more expensive than other bbq joints.

Solid food, great service, and friendly staff!! Pulled pork was moist and full of flavor as was the sliced brisket. Collard greens were on point. They were crisp and had great flavor as well. Great variety of sauces to accompany the meal. Excellent stop through!! read more

Great smoky smell outside. I ordered a pound of ribs, potato salad, baked beans and a drink. $26 A lot overpriced. The sides are too large for one person....could be good, but I'm flying in a jet plane... The ribs are pre cooked and served dry, with 4 sauces available. Ribs = 7 out of 10 Baked beans = 1 out of 10 Potato salad = 7 out of 10 Sauces ..... let's talk about the sauces... 1. Kansas City (Red) = 4 out of 10 2. South Carolina (Mustard and Vinegar) = 2 out of 10 3. Alabama (White, horseradish) = 6 out of 10 4. North Carolina (Vinegar) = 1 out of 10 No WOW factor.........until Mix KC Red and ALA Horseradish and you get a sauce 9 out of 10. Worth the trip to try this sauce fusion. read more

Fat Cap - Barbeque Near Me - South Bend, Indiana

Passing through and looking for some BBQ. The food was great, nice portions, and the drive-thru chick was polite and hawt. I will definitely come back should I be in the area again. read more