10/10 great service! The staff treats you like family. And then don't get me started on how amazing the bbq is! Just come and try it for yourself! read more

I came here one day for a nice lunch. Got here right when it opened, so we had the place to ourselves. Ambiance was nice. Counter-service right when you walk in, and then there's a great, big dining room full of wooden bench-esque booths. Feels like of like an outdoor picnic area. It was nice. Cozy. Service was excellent. Believe it or not, we were served by Papa Diesel himself! I only knew that, because he was standing right in front of a life-sized cardboard cutout of himself. Very surreal. The food came out very promptly, and he went and got us a whole flight of sauces to try. The food itself was pretty good. We got The Diesel Sampler (1/4 lb of slow smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, sausage, and wings) and a few sides, the Smoked Gouda Mac & Cheese, the Brussel Sprouts with Bacon, and a Sweet Roll. Brisket was not good, sorry, ribs were nice, but needed sauce, pulled pork was good, but needed sauce, sausage was the best part, Huge chunks of melty cheddar cheese inside, and the wings had a nice little smoke to them. Pretty good stuff. The mac was very gouda-y. Needed some seasoning, though. The sprouts were excellent. Huge sprouts, but cooked all the way through, nice chunks of bacon added that much needed fat. Good work here. Overall, some pretty good BBQ. You won't be disappointed with your visit here. Just make sure to sauce adequately. read more

Papa Diesels BBQ - Barbeque Near Me - Apopka, Florida

Pros: Ambiance was nice. Spacious dining room with BBQ style benches and BBQ style condiment caddies at every table. Service was excellent. We were actually served By Papa Diesel! One of the nicest guys you'll ever meet. And the food came out promptly and hot. We got a meat sampler with some sides. Some of the meats were very good! Juicy, flavorful, tender. Very good stuff. Cons: The sides were a little bit of a let-down. Sometimes, all the focus goes into the meats, and the sides kind of suffer. Not too terrible, but make sure you prioritize the meats. Tips: All the meats are pure meat, so make sure you ask for adequate sauce. The sausage might have been the best part for me, and I usually don't like sausage. If you are having trouble deciding, you could skip the brisket. read more

Papa Diesels BBQ - Barbeque Near Me - Apopka, Florida

The BEST BBQ I have had in my 69 years!!! Sampler was so amazing, couldn't pick a favorite. Will never buy wings anywhere else. Sweet potato fries have no competition- sweet and crunchy. Brisket/ ribs/ pulled pork/ jalapeño cheddar sausage/ smoked wings... just STELLAR! All employees go beyond in making sure you have a great experience! Lovely setting! read more

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wow, lot's of good reviews. Here's an honest one. Very busy, noisy and to me, poorly organized. No table service. Only a couple of menus floating around for dozens of people. The order counter is right in the front door, causing lots of congestion and confusion. Very limited menu and very pricey. Two baked potatoes with chicken topping, two (small) sandwiches and two sides; food was fair... $67+. I can't recommend it at all. I prefer Sonny's by far. read more

Saw the reels on TikTok and happened to be in town for a funeral. We were hot and hungry. We walked in and we were greeted right away! The restaurant wasn't super busy until after we ordered the sampler with 3 corn muffins and for our sides the creamy Gouda Mac and baked beans. The sampler was just that a sample of the meat not sauced. Can we talk about the crispiest wings ever... brisket was decent but as expecting it was fatty. The ribs were very tasty pulled pork is was good if you like that but my favorite was the jalapeño cheddar is Sausage. The best service came from G. She is phenomenal and loves her job. She is seriously amazing. We tried the sauces and let me tell you I loved the creamy cilantro sauce and shhh I mixed it with the sweet sauce. Haha!!! The corn muffins those are next level. I swear I heard angels while eating those glorious round sweet morsels of corn and honey goodness. If you're stuck on what to order the sampler was a good start. We weren't full but we weren't starving. Now I know what I will be ordering for next time. Plus G has welcomed us as family. The recommendations for the food were great!!! We even got to try a little piece of the chopped chicken which wasn't dry at all. The overall restaurant was nice and clean and had some pre games on the tv. It's a great family atmosphere. read more

Papa Diesels BBQ - Sampler platter. Don't expect huge portions as this is your taste test serving. Which 3 of us shared. - Barbeque Near Me - Apopka, Florida

I'm late to the party But, I'm so happy I was finally able to check out Papa Diesel. The ambiance was steady traffic dining in & take out . I ordered a little bit of everything. I decided to order the Diesel fries with brisket , & the diesel sampler which came with 1/4 lb of brisket ,ribs , pulled pork, sausage, & wings. I also decided to make it a meal for an extra $3 so I was able to get 2 sides and roll & drink . The sides I decided on was the Brussel sprouts w/bacon and the three spice baked beans. For my drink I decided on the sweet tea and for dessert o got a key lime cake slice. The food didn't take very long. I did take the food to go but, I did a taste test before heading home. The fries were for my husband but they were delicious and it was def filling ! The sampler was amazing and I def recommend if you're not sure which exact meat you want. The brisket & ribs were so tender they melt in your mouth. The sausage was a bit spicy but good and the pork was seasoned well. The wings were also very good. The sides were delicious but, the Brussel sprouts were very salty and especially as you got to the bottom of the container. The key lime pie was spectacular! I was able to refill my sweet tea while I waited at no additional cost . Overall all I enjoyed this place and look forward to visiting again . read more

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Decided I wanted to support a small business restaurant today. Saw this place and I am glad that I did. I had the lunch special for $11 which includes a sand which of your choice, chips and drink. I had the brisket and it literally was like eating butter. I had the hot n sweet sauce. Made the brisket sandwich even better. Please go support small businesses! Took a pic of the menu and oh they have fried okra too The service was fast and the staff were SUPER nice. read more

Papa Diesels BBQ - Barbeque Near Me - Apopka, Florida

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Solid bbq place, great setting with lots of clean seats and tvs, and the cashier was extremely welcoming and helpful - checked that everything was good like a sit-down restaurant. Sprouts were salty but tasty; pork was a good portion of tasty meat, baked potato isn't something I see everywhere so had to try (good with cilantro sauce!). read more

Papa Diesels BBQ - Pork platter with baked potato, Brussels sprouts and a drink - Barbeque Near Me - Apopka, Florida

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In Florida in business and was looking for something good for dinner. Wasn't sure what I expected Florida BBQ to be like but dammmmmmn this was really good. I did the diseal sampler came with chicken, port, ribs, brisket, and sausage. I subbed the sausage and got more wings. Everything was great, amazing taste, smokey and moist. Pork was a "little" greasy, eating it just plain, but if you got it on a bun would be out of this world. Ribs fell off the bone. Brisket by far my fav. Cashier was great and talked about the meat options and sauce with knowledge. My only diss to this place is WHERE THE HECK is the potato salad? If that's a FL thing then needs to be fixed...BBQ without potato salad is like...hell nothing like it. I want the potato salad!!!! :) If you are in the area give them a go. You wont be disappointed...well no potato salad so. read more

Papa Diesels BBQ - Sampler platter - Barbeque Near Me - Apopka, Florida

Finally got a chance to try this place that my husband wouldn't shut up about and I gotta say he was right, this place is full of flavor! I loved how they have a sampler and you're able to try a little but of everything. Everything was perfect, the meat had great seasonings and perfect texture. My favorite was the pull pork, ribs and chicken wings with their delicious ranch .The sides were really good as well , I loved the beans with the corn bread. I've never had a corn bread that moist I loved it! They're service was great, they kept checking on us, they were very sweet. The atmosphere was nice I like how the bar is separate from the booths and tables. I will definitely be back read more

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The food is amazing! Love this place! You have to get the corn muffins! I even got to try the beef rib and that was impeccable. This is a bit pricey, but we still have gone multiple times. This is where you take your family when they come to town! 10/10!!! read more

NOW THIS HOW TO DO REAL BBQ!! Best BBQ IN TOWN from local business!!! Yes what we needed in town. PAPA DIESELS is truly the best..amazing flavors And I'm a "saucy" type of gal.. but let me tell no sauce needed.. the seasoning are delicious on point.. we got wings, ribs, and boneless chicken thighs OMG!! oh and the GOUDA MACNCHEESE THE BOMB a must !! Blessings to you and you new business Wishing you nothing but the best PS. SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS AND TIP read more

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Great staff. Great food. Big portions. Smoked wings were huge and tasty. Not a pricey meal but a great one.

I've passed this place a few times, but never stopped until I decided to give them a try today! And I am so glad I gave them a try! My husband and I both love bbq but it's been hard finding a really good spot near us. We know of a place in Sanford, but neither of us ever want to drive there just to get bbq. Well, now that we've found papa diesels we will never have to go far to get bbq. This place is soooo good! My husband got the full rack ribs and the smoked Gouda Mac n cheese. The first thing he said after trying both was "I don't know which one is better" he was really impressed with the ribs and he doesn't easily impress. As for me, I got the papa diesels fries and this was so good! I was worried it would all get soggy since I was taking it home, but even after I got home the fries maintained their crisp. I got it with the brisket and it's such a great combination! I also didn't wait long at all for my food and the staff were really friendly. When I walked in, there were hardly any people at the restaurant, which surprised me because Everytime I've passed by it's been somewhat packed, but I'm happy I went when it wasn't yet full because I was able to get my food right away. read more

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From a food truck to the brick and mortar! The food from Papa Diesels hits everytime! He is a pro when it comes to the meats, mac, papa diesel fries, and the corn muffins is like no other! They ususally sell out of the corn muffins, and once you taste them, you'll see why! If you're looking for BBQ in the Apopka area, make sure you give this place a try! I don't have pictures because hunger wins before the photos. read more

This was our first experience, and we discovered very friendly customer service and quality barbecue. A native Texan, I'm particular about barbecue, especially brisket. The kind order taker and server told me about the lunch special, which included a brisket sandwich, a side, a beverage, and sauce. The lean brisket was piled high on the fresh bun. The refreshing lemonade was neither too sweet, not too tart. The unique beans had a spicy, sweet flavor. I would have preferred them mostly drained to avoid searching for the beans throughout the sauce. A spoon would probably have been better than a fork to eat them with. The ambiance was acceptable for a barbecue restaurant. Before we left, we were offered a beverage to go and gratefully accepted more lemonade. read more

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I went to have the chili and corn muffin and this time it was much better !!! fresh and Delicious. The brisket chili was bomb !!! The last time I got it, it was good but way looser like soup. The service is always nice. I wish more people would visit. It's never busy when I stop by. They have a full bar and great food. read more

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A Soulful BBQ Experience -- Food, Family & Flavor! Papa Diesel's BBQ is more than a restaurant -- it's a heartbeat in the community. From the moment my wife, my son, and I walked in, we felt like family. The staff was incredibly attentive, genuinely welcoming, and beautifully inclusive. That kind of hospitality is rare -- and we soaked in every second of it. The positive energy here is next level. It's the kind of place you come to feed more than your stomach -- you come to recharge your spirit. Honestly, I could sit here alone just to breathe in the vibes. But let's be clear: the food is absolutely to die for. The brisket and the chicken? Unreal. Fall-apart tender, smoky, and so flavorful that sauce isn't even necessary -- though their sauce is phenomenal too. Every bite felt like a warm hug from someone who knows their way around a smoker and a kitchen full of soul. Papa Diesel's has officially become our BBQ spot -- and we're proud to say we're part of the Papa Diesel's BBQ family now. If you're in Apopka (or even just passing through), do yourself a favor and stop by. Your taste buds and your heart will thank you. read more

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My family of 25+ from South Carolina would like to say thank you for catering our 4 July 2026 Ribs, pull pork, brisket, and wing was all tasty and delicious. From my family to you continue to support your community with the love you put in your food. Thanks read more

Had the Papa Diesels Sampler and mac and cheese. Place was fairly empty when I ordered it to go. Service was great 5 stars and the food was a 4. Some brisket was slightly tough. Pulled pork and ribs was a 4.5. Had the house and spicy sauce. The house is slightly sweet a 4 and the spicy is a 4.5. Overall it was good. read more

Papa Diesels BBQ - Sampler with chicken wings and brisket - Barbeque Near Me - Apopka, Florida

First of all, AMAZING, PHENOMENAL AND OUTSTANDING are not high enough praise for the mouthwateringly delicious food and top tier staff!! Ms. G at the front counter makes you feel like family from the moment you walk in the door, Alexys and Rose were so sweet and attentive and Jumar and Josh held it down in the kitchen and brought the food out as soon as it was ready. If you are looking for the best bbq around and that comfort of home, this is THE spot!!! Oh, let me not forget, the portions!!! Do you see the PORTIONS?!!! Worth every single cent if not more!!! read more

Papa Diesels BBQ - Beef rib, Diesel Sampler and green beans - Barbeque Near Me - Apopka, Florida

Amazing food, amazing flavor, and value!!! I had the food delivered and the temp was great. Also, their smoked chicken sliders were yummy, nice and tender smoked chicken breast! read more

Papa Diesels BBQ - Smoked chicken wings! - Barbeque Near Me - Apopka, Florida

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Food, service and ambiance all top tier! Love this family owned restaurant. We got a sampler of meats and a variety of sides. Love the ribs, they were falling off the bone. The smoked chicken wings were also very good and the cilantro garlic sauce is so good on the chicken. All of the sides were fresh and I would get them again. Make sure you get the honey corn muffins you will want extra for sure. The chili fries were also tasty and great for sharing because it was a large portion. read more

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My daughter and I really enjoyed our dinners at Papa Diesels BBQ. We had sausage, ribs, baked bq teans. brussel sprouts, rolls, and refills of sweet tea. We also enjoyed an opportunity to speak with the owner "G". read more

Papa Diesels BBQ - View from the outside of Papa Diesel's BBQ. - Barbeque Near Me - Apopka, Florida

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Had a good experience at Papa Diesels. Very friendly service with a comfortable atmosphere that was clean and contemporary. The beef ribs as described fell right off the bone. It was a bit salty for my taste, but it was flavorful. Gouda Mac n cheese was on point. The restaurant doesn't have collard greens which I was missing. I would definitely eat there again! read more

Hidden gem frfr. Pulled up before it opened, it was a line out the door before we sat down. This is the Kelley Family's new spot every time we're in the O for sure. Shout out to Doy for putting me on to ya cousin's spot. Ordered half the menu the first time. Looking forward to ordering the other half when we spin back. Got to take that turkey leg down through there! read more

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Food was outstanding! Visited on Saturday just by luck. I'm telling you the brisket, seasoned green beans, honey waffles sweet potato fries and that honey corn muffin and not to mentioned the lemonade Came back Sunday for a repeat and got the Brussel sprouts, Mac n cheese, fried corn and that red velvet cake with nuts! The service is very personal where the host comes out to make sure you're enjoying your meal. The atmosphere is clean, accommodating and pleasantly warming. read more

This was my first visit to Papa Diesels BBQ and we had a great experience! You order at the counter and then seat yourself. The lady at the counter was very friendly and made great recommendations for us. I got the loaded fries with pulled pork and my dad got the brisket sandwich with 3 spice beans, Mac and cheese, and a corn muffin. My loaded fries were awesome! The topping to fry ratio was great and the portion was a good value for the price. The pulled pork was tender and well sauced. The Gouda cheese sauce was delicious and I adored the cilantro sauce. I also had the Alabama white sauce and it was creamy and well seasoned. The brisket was perfection. All the sides were delicious! The beans had an amazing cardamom flavor and the corn muffin was so vanilla-y. We were very impressed. Beyond great food, the staff is kind and helpful and the restaurant is clean. Make sure to go support this family owned business that puts so much love into their food! read more

Papa Diesels BBQ - Diesel's loaded fries with pulled pork - Barbeque Near Me - Apopka, Florida

This was the best barbecue I have ever had even though I come from California I am just visiting Florida and this made the entire trip worth it the food alone doesn't even need sauce the wings are the best I have ever had and the people are the nicest you will ever meet, and in all the experience itself is life changing both my dad and I had a felt like Jesus himself touched our food read more

Food was average at best. Brisket was chewy & dry. Pulled pork was dry also not moist at all! Sausage was just okay. Brussel sprouts were mushy & tasteless. Mac & cheese not very flavorful although it was cheesy. Fries I shouldn't have wasted the order. The wings were solid. You have to make sure to ask for sauce bc they don't have any out to add to the dry meat. The ribs were above average tender. Will not go back! read more

The BBQ pork ribs tasted amazing. They were tender and seasoned to perfection. The Brussel sprouts were to die for. The only problem I had was the portion size of the meal; it was too small for the cost. Overall , the food was delicious. read more

2nd time around, trying the ribs n two sides. 1st time I had the wings. I enjoyed both meals. The corn muffin taste like cake. Give them a try it's a nice clean establishment read more

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Meh.. i didn't hate it, also didnt love it, small menu , wings were good , sweet tea was super sweet, maybe ill try the ribs next time ?

This spot is my current favorite barbecue place. I'm obsessed with their pulled pork and Brussel sprouts. Portions are huuuuuge. Service is awesome with lots of attention after your food is served. The owner and chefs visit each table to check on the food. This restaurant started as a food truck and now has a brick and mortar sit down with indoor and outdoor seating. read more

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Excellent food and service!!! You definitely will be glad you did!! Ribs, brisket and chicken wings were amazing!!

We created a custom catering order for 40 people for a corporate event. It was wonderful working with the owner. He communicated quickly and clearly and was able to accommodate some dietary restrictions for a group. We ordered brisket, chicken, corn, muffins, mac & cheese, baked beans, banana pudding, peach cobbler, and a few other things. All wonderful. Delivery was on time and the food was hot. Everything was delicious and I know some of my coworkers plan on stopping in to try some more things. I would highly recommend working with them. read more

The first thing I gotta say is the food at Papa Diesels was fantastic and made with a lotta love! I've had better brisket before but the ribs, which is the important item in any self-respecting BBQ in my opinion, were first rate. The sides were large portions and tasted home made. The staff is very personable, extra friendly and truly seems to care about their customers. Check out Papa Diesels for some real barbecue! They do it right. read more

First time to try this place. Will probably never go back there. The brisket was extremely dry and wasn't worth the price. Sides were overly priced for the size of the order read more

Came to check out after church. The hungry black man highly recommended them recently. Nice set up, friendly staff, and tasty food and desserts. Will definitely be back! read more

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