Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    RibCrib BBQ

    3.7 (62 reviews)
    ModerateBarbeque, American
    Open 11:00 am - 9:00 pm

    Order RibCrib BBQ Takeout or Delivery

    RibCrib BBQ Photos

    RIBCRIB BBQ ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Good for groups
    Outdoor seating

    You might also consider

    More like RibCrib BBQ

    Recommended Reviews - RibCrib BBQ

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    The Motherlode
    Jason M.

    We drove through Mason City on our way back to Des Moines and decided on this place. We were a group of 10 and were seated promptly. The waitress did a great job keeping our 3 tabs separate. Drinks came out fairly fast. All the food looked good. The boys had wings and enjoyed them. My wife had a chicken salad of some sort. She said it was good. I had the Motherlode. It was a nice sampling of meats. Pretty decent bbq. If I lived in Mason City I'd likely frequent this restaurant. No issues with it on my end and I'd like to try some of their other stuff. Give it a try.

    4 meats platter

    The food unfortunately was mid. I had my mouth set on some delicious brisket....however I met with dry brisket. I will say the ribs were tender but the flavor was lacking. Surprising the only flavorful and tender meat was the turkey breast and the fried okra was good. It was hot and fresh. The potato salad was creamy and the corn on the cob was unsalted and not buttered and overcooked, if that is a thing. Service was decent but overall, no thank you.

    Elizabeth X.

    Came in with a large group of 8 and were seated immediately for lunch. Staff was patient and got all our orders out to us pretty quick. They even snapped pictures for us. Menu is pretty good - Rib plates were the food for me. The BBQ sauce is pretty good too. Reasonably priced.

    Motherlode platter.

    Great service, fast and friendly. Acceptable brbq food selection. Multiple choices for sides to add to your order.

    Fried pickles, delicious
    Eric B.

    Great little BBQ place with some great staff. I have been to a couple Rib Cribs around the US but by far this one has the nicest staff!! Oh and the BBQ is pretty damn good too!!

    The Motherlode
    Caleb C.

    Being from Texas, I was extremely excited to find a traditional barbecue restaurant in northern Iowa! I decided to try Iowa's brand of barbecue on a cold and rainy Friday afternoon. As I pulled in to the parking lot, I noticed that it was decently full. A good sign for it being 3 in the afternoon. As I approached the front door, I was greeted with that unmistakable smell of barbecue. A welcomed sign. When I walked in, there was nobody to be found at the front of the house! Granted, I did not have to wait terribly long to be seated. However, not having a host readily available is always a bad look. Once I was finally seated, myself and my partner were shown to a rather small high top table next to the bar. This was less than ideal as the tabletop was small and we quickly ran out of real estate even before our main courses came out. We noticed that other customers quickly experienced the same issue as there were larger parties getting seated at way too small of tables. For an appetizer, we decided to go with the chips and queso. This was a mistake. The queso had a layer of hard, congealed cheese on top as soon as it arrived. The salsa that was offered was just a glorified spicy ketchup. And the cheese lacked any flavor what so ever. The chips that we were served had quite a bit of chew chew on them! They definitely appeared to be old, which is never good. For a main course, I was going to order a variety plate that featured ribs. However, I was informed that the restaurant was out... You read that right. THE RESTAURANT WITH RIB IN THEIR NAME DID NOT HAVE ANY RIBS. I found this almost unbelievable as it was nearing dinner time on a Friday night. To make matters worse, I was not offered a substitute. I had to order something else. Disappointed, settled on The Motherload. It seemed to have enough variety (minus the rib) that I would be able to get a good feel for the restaurant. The dish came with pulled pork, brisket, chicken and sausage. It's also served with your choice of two sides. I went with mac and cheese as well as the fried okra. The lovely young lady I was with got the same as I did, only with fries and Mac and cheese. When our plates arrived, they looked the part! I was suddenly excited again and was ready to forgive the missing ribs. So, let's get into the main reason you're reading this. You want to know how the food is, right?! We'll start with the sides. I believe Mac and cheese goes with bbq like peanut butter and jelly. They pair perfectly... If the Mac and cheese is good that is. I am telling you now, DO NOT ORDER THE MAC AND CHEESE. It has the consistency of soup and leaves behind a chalky dry taste. The man and cheese gets a one and you're done, son. As for my fried okra? Damn, damn damn! That's what okra should be! It was fried up perfectly and the flavor was spot on. Considering the disaster I experienced with the Mac and cheese, this was a real surprise. Now for the meat of the dish... The chicken was dry. Which I don't really hold against the restaurant. Dry chicken is easy to do! The Carolina sauce they offer at the table is a great addition and fixes the dryness wonderfully. My brisket, which I was most excited about, had a rather odd presentation. It was chopped up rather than sliced, which I am not used to. However, the flavor was decent and it paired well with their house bbq sauce. Overall, I didn't have any major complaints. Now as for the sausage... That sausage is a lady in the street, but a freak in the sheets! This is some sneaky spicy sausage. It's like a punch in the face when you're least expecting it. However, if you like spice like I do, you'll love this sausage. As the old saying goes... Save the best for last. And the best is undoubtedly the pulled pork! Oh my word! The pulled pork could not have been more perfect or spot on. It was so good, I was almost able to overlook the other mishaps.... Almost. Overall, I'd say the Rib Crib is decent for what it is. And that is a slightly below average bbq restaurant. There are some things that need to be worked on across the board. But they do just enough to get by. So if you're in the mood for bbq and not too picky, give em a try.

    Cribfire Burger
    Raye R.

    The menu featured a photo of the crib fire burger and it did not disappoint. The double beef patty was stacked was layers of cheese with onion rings and hot link sausage. Simple decor,friendly staff, great food and reasonably priced. It was worth the 13 minute detour from the interstate.

    Kamron A.

    Wow what can I say but this is real deal BBQ in northern Iowa! The smell from the outside makes you drool! I got the 3 meat choice with brisket that was smoked perfect and flavor was bold, smoked chicken breast that was juicy and smokey and the ribs which comenSt Louis style and have a nice bark on them! The potato salad was ridiculously good and Mac and cheese was solid! To see all the cool pics go to my Facebook page Kam Finds Food and check them out!

    Rita on the rocks yummy
    Bobbie M.

    From the moment you walk in and smell the meat being smoked/grilled you know it's going to be good! The staff is AMAZING! We had the house Rita let me tell you for $5 bucks we got almost 3 drinks out of the shaker they gave us. The food was outstanding.BBQ Chicken

    I wasn't expecting much. Mason City is a smaller town and I wasn't expecting a meal that blew my socks off. Well that was until I had the ribs. Oh my they may have been the best I've had. I've been in Kansas City twice in the last month, and these were better than any I had there. I went with the sampler to try a few others and while they were good, the ribs stood out. If you're in the area, it's worth a stop. In addition, the staff was very friendly and helpful.

    Sharif Kathy C.

    I myself have read a lot of you guys review. Most from the city of Mason . I don't get the Same taste , not so delicious I got unseason Ribs and very tender but a little too much which I wonder if a little ?. I didn't get that Teeth bite into my ribs just fall off the bone. Mac taste like store brand not homemade, but I will say that fried okra was delicious and Staff was courteous and friendly, they are the one reason I rate

    Angie M.

    Best Ribs I have had in a long time! They literally fell off the bone. Loved the mild BBQ sauce. The baked beans were just as I like them thick and sweet. The lunch special has a lot of good food for $10. The chicken breast was baked perfect and juicy with no fat. The wait staff was attentive and friendly. Glad I stopped in. Might even take ribs to go!

    All you can eat ribs snd two sides

    See all

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    24 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    A pleasant discovery while passing through. Food was great, prices were reasonable, and waitress was very nice!! Would definitely recommend.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Dee P.
    0
    43
    6

    2 years ago

    Service and food are good and pricing is reasonable. We are seldom disappointed when we eat here.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Great place for BBQ in Mason City, I love their salads and baked potatoes. Great ribs and pulled pork.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Aimee H.
    59
    19
    79

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mark G.
    917
    1237
    2214

    11 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    6 years ago

    Great food! All you can eat ribs are the bomb! Love the food and the people are fantastic!!!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Keene M.
    2
    166
    119

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Lola V.
    102
    77
    40

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ron W.
    0
    25
    12

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    15 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Greg P.
    74
    27
    0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of B J.
    0
    1
    0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - RibCrib BBQ

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    Get access to customer & competitor insights.

    Verify this business

    Boulder Tap House

    Boulder Tap House

    3.4(98 reviews)
    0.2 mi
    $$

    do not get jamaican jerk wings they taste like shit. my dad says they taste like toilet chemicals…read more whoever is in the kitchen needs to self reflect and taste their own product. i threw 9 wings straight into the trash where they belonged.

    Stopped in here on the way out of town after looking for a chill place to relax after reffing a…read morebunch of youth basketball games. I was immediately greeted by a young hostess who was happy to find me a table, but I said I'd find a spot at the bar. I was immediately greeted by Sophia who handed me a beer list and was happy to pour a sample. That's nice service to start out with. She checked in but was never overbearing. A+. Their unique 60/40 beef/bacon burgers caught my eye...mine had cheese sauce, tons of bacon, and bacon jam. You can only have these cooked medium well or well done; for a burger I feel that's acceptable. Sandwich components were all delightful...the beer battered fries have a nice smooth coating and the house made ranch was the thinner variety was a great complement too. I'll kip the pretzel bun next time; I didn't find it to be a great complement to the components on the burger. I felt too many taps had crappy mass-produced domestics for the squares out there. I highly recommend the Mason City Cream Ale. Wish they sold their glasses! Credit cards have a 2.99% service fee. Thankfully, debit cards have no fee...which is the law. Not many places follow this procedure.

    Photos
    Boulder Tap House - Mason City Cream Ale

    Mason City Cream Ale

    Boulder Tap House - Mason City Iowana Cream Ale

    Mason City Iowana Cream Ale

    Boulder Tap House - Hot honey chicken

    See all

    Hot honey chicken

    Pasta Bella - My non-dairy bread and my Fiancé's regular bread

    Pasta Bella

    4.3(133 reviews)
    1.2 mi
    $$

    If you're searching for outstanding Italian cuisine paired with warm hospitality and a welcoming…read moreatmosphere, look no further--this place truly stands out as the best Italian restaurant in the area. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with the kind of attentive, genuine service that sets the tone for the entire meal. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready with thoughtful recommendations, whether you're craving a classic pasta dish or something a little more adventurous. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between cozy and elegant. Soft lighting, rustic décor, and the gentle hum of conversation make it the ideal setting for everything from a relaxed dinner with friends to a romantic night out. And the food? Simply exceptional. Every dish is crafted with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors--perfectly al dente pastas, rich and aromatic sauces, and beautifully prepared entrées that show real care in the kitchen. Even the small touches, like warm bread and house-made desserts, elevate the experience. In short, this Italian gem delivers on all fronts: remarkable food, top-tier service, and an inviting atmosphere that makes you want to linger. A must-visit for anyone who appreciates truly great Italian dining. Buon appetito!

    Food was good Service was good…read moreAnd ambiance was good The table bread was serviceable and appetizer bread wasn't as good as I'd hoped, but everything else was good.

    Photos
    Pasta Bella - Baked Ziti

    Baked Ziti

    Pasta Bella
    Pasta Bella - Pizza was so good

    See all

    Pizza was so good

    RibCrib BBQ - bbq - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...