best barbeque and best customer service or in tracy! very nice people work there and it's right next to a bowling alley!!

I'm a trucker that happened to see Shorter's after finishing a route, I decided to stop there just to give it a shot and see how their food was. I tried the cup of rib tips, and it was amazing, I would def consider myself a tough critic when it comes to bbq but I must say between the fact that they only charged me 7 bucks for a good sz container of rib tips and the fact that the taste was very good, meat was tender, sauce was great, and def could tell it was smoked and seasoned the right way... I left feeling pleasantly surprised and whenever I have to stop back in Tracy Shorter's is def a place I will be looking forward to stopping at and for any bbq fans I would def recommend their food 5 stars!!!!! read more

Unfortunately, I will not patronize this business any longer. I recently placed an online order and ordered a slab of ribs. I was corrected by the female that answered the phone that they did not sell slabs of ribs, but racks. Really, talk about customer service. Anyway, I picked up my order and once I got home (which was after they had closed) I reviewed the food in the bag and noticed I got rib tips? I didn't order rib tips...So I made a note to call them in the morning to discuss once they opened. I called around 11:15 in the morning and was told, they would not correct the meal because it was the next day? This is after I have used them to cater events paid over $3K and tried to support their business. Unfortunately, the lack of customer loyalty has caused this business to lose a customer. read more

I had eaten some of there food once at a party and there meats were lathered in bbq sauce , so much That the meat was over powered by the sauce . I decided to give them a try with the bbq sauce on the side and ordered a chicken sandwich ,the bread was soggy and the chicken was so bland . Properly marinated meats Need very little bbq sauce and taste much better .I want To taste the meat not all the sauce , and if I order the bbq Sauce on the side I expect my meat to have some flavor read more

Great Yelp find on the way to Tahoe for solid mom and pop BBQ. 4.25 stars Food: 4.5, Atmosphere: 3, Service: 3 Cost to worth it rating: 3 ($8 for lunch special sandwich with fries) Return worthiness: sure Highlights: - BBQ beef brisket: excellent flavor and sauce that was thick and a bit sweet. 4.5 stars - BBQ porch nachos: tortilla chips, rich orange nacho cheese, sliced jalapeños, and a pile of tender smokey BBQ pork. 4 stars - Tri tip: thin slices and not tough at all. 4 stars - Atmosphere: like a place you'd see off the side of the road in the south. Smoking going outside in the parking lot. No frills diner style with a few simple tables and a small soda fountain-like bar with padded bar stools. Midlights: - Takes a while to get your order even though meat is already smoked, but worth the wait. Lowlights: - To use the restroom, you have to go through the stuck back in time and smells like it bowling alley. The food was great and I'd come back if I was in the area. read more

Hands down the best kept bbq secret around! Best bbq and soul food! The owner David is now our friend.

I got this place and everything tasted great except the sauces I had to pay 50 cents each even though I bought a sandwich and fries. The ranch was not filled even halfway and the fries were $4.50 and there was less than a half a handful full of fries. The food was good no complaints on that just the portion size. Not sure if it's because I got it to go but that's just my two cents. read more

Shorter's Barbeque - Barbeque Near Me - Tracy, California

See all

Super yummy. My husband and I just relocated to the valley. Stockton is a constant struggle for good food so we decided to drive out toward tracy. Came here based on the good reviews and was not disappointed! The prices we super affordable between 10-25 depending on what you order. We each had 2 meat combos, I had brisket and chicken w/red beans and rice and potato salad. My husband has ribs and tri tip with yams and mac n cheese. It was all really good and uniquely but tastefully seasoned. None of the meat was fatty. The only thing I did not care for was the red beans and rice. Was not cooked in the way I am used to but does not mean they were not good. We ordered in person and waited 10 mins. The staff is really nice and attentive and the owner is super nice. We will definitely be back again! read more

I must say that I'm a little bummed. I used to frequent this establishment when they were downtown (before the days of yelp or even the internet), and always found the food to be tasty and reasonably priced. Tonight I was sent by my girlfriend--who would normally cook the best damn soul food you could ever eat, but was feeling a bit under the weather--to get some catfish and all the fixings. The catfish is the the only reason that there isn't one star. To be far, this review could have been three stars but it was worthy of one. The other, bare-minimum one star is for the sides. My love took one bite of the cole slaw and spit it back out. I did the same. It was salt and pepper with a little greens and mayonnaise tossed in for taste. Into the trash it went. Next was the red beans and rice. Soggy, stuck-together rice, and mushy beans with almost no flavor. Also into the trash when the kids confirmed what we thought. I'm still hungry. Not a good look for a restaurant such as this. I honestly do hope they return to their former glory, as there are far too many chain restaurants in this god-forsaken town. read more

We called for takeout for 2 brisket dinner, 1 ribs dinner & 1 tri tip dinner. The receipt and the box showed as what we ordered. However what we got inside the box were 2 pullpork dinner, 1 ribs dinner & 1 brisket dinner ;( ;( ;( ;( ;( It was on Jan 1 for early dinner, not busy at all at that time, how can they messed up our pretty simple orders. read more

Shorter's Barbeque - We called as what shown in this receipt for togo. However what we got were 2 pullpork, 1 ribs & 1 brisket ;( ;( ;( ;( ;( - Barbeque Near Me - Tracy, California

For Tracy. Ok this is the place to go to. I ordered the 3 way and some sides. I wish I would've asked for my bbq sauce. I didn't have enough to cover all my meats. Overall everything was good. Don't forget to ask for extra bbq sauce. read more

Famous Dave's can go to hell!!!! I've lived in Tracy for 6 years now, and can't believe that I just now tried this place for the first time. TriTip sandwich is highly recommended, and also a side of spicy spaghetti. Very inexpensive, along with a clean restaurant and family oriented environment make this place a slam dunk. Definitely coming back!!! read more

MMMM...We had Shorter's for lunch today and it was DELICIOUS!!!! Excellent food and without the drive to the Bay Area. I had the tri tip sandwich which was soooo good with no fat on the meat. Will definitely be back!!! Just a small little place, but serving BIG food. read more

Great food and service, wish they had more food like this in Tracy, with this type of ambiance

The stars are for the food. They use good quality ingredients and you can taste it. The ribs are meaty and succulent with a deep smoky flavor. The BBQ sauce is a nice combo of spicy and sweet, but not too sweet. Ditto on the coleslaw, which is nicely balanced. The portions (at least meat-wise) are pretty generous. I wish the side were a teensy bit bigger. The owner is very friendly, as is the staff in general. Don't plan on eating in. Though they have tables and a TV, it obvious from how things are set up that folks probably only use them to wait for their carryout. Be prepared to wait. Both times I've been there I was unfortunate enough to be behind a few other folks. Why the two relatively small orders before mine would take over 25 minutes I don't know. What I do know is the food was worth the wait. A must try in Tracy. read more

I've given this place numerous chances. Newborn portions of sides. Overcooked ribs undercooked links. Pan-scrapings of brisket fat. Only eat here if you're high read more

It saddens me that people think this is good BBQ. If you do think that, do yourself a huge favor and travel to other parts of the country - Texas, Memphis, K.C., heck, even the Carolinas. This place is long on sauce and overcharges for it. read more

Still....the BEST BBQ I've ever had and the people are the nicest! I feel like they cooked the food just for me. Love getting food for the fam from Shorters! read more

A friend of mine who used to live in Tracy told me if I was over there working that I had to try it. So we were working in Tracy last week and I saw it was only a mile or so from where I was staying. I went to give it a try and it was everything my friend said it would be from the smell from the outside smoker to the great bbq smell on the inside. I ordered the 3 meat combo with 2 sides. I had the tri tip, pulled pork and the ribs. The 2 sides were the potato salad and the bbq beans. Everything was fantastic. I'm working over in that same area the next couple of weeks and I'll be back for sure. Definitely going to get the tri tip again and the bbq beans, but hopefully I'll be able to try the Mac and cheese. They had run out last visit so I'll give it a try this time I hope. read more

not good , not the same since they sold it the chicken was cooked in old grease if you know how to cook chicken you know what I'm talking about and it was raw in the inside no more home made potato salad NOT RECOMMEND and Fyi I been going to this place for 10yrs but not anymore read more

Was in Tracy visiting friends and had a craving for BBQ. I mentioned this and was planning to head over to Concord when they suggested Shorter's. Saw the high review rating and was easily convinced. We made our way there and right when we pulled in, I saw the big smoker outside just smoking away, that's when i knew I was in for a treat!! I will say that being almost part of the bowling alley, it was a little weird. Food; I had the the 2 meat combo that came with 2 sides. I went with Tri-Tip, Pulled Pork, Potato Salad and Red beans & Rice. The plate (to go box container) was packed high with meat. You really get your $23+ worth with their plate when it comes to meat. My sides, I hate to say it but they sucked... The potato salad and the red beans & rice were lacking flavor. They were bland. If you decide to get the 2 meat combo, the sausage is really good but you only get 2 of them and in my opinion, that's just a waste of money cause we were charged the same as if you ordered any of the other meats. Service: You order at the counter when one of the employees can make their way out to the front. Its pretty busy, so expect some wit time to order and get your food. In my opinion, if you arent in a hurry, its worth the wait. 5 stars for the smoked meats but -1 star for the sides. If im in the area I would stop by again but only order meat. read more

Shorter's Barbeque - I had a good feeling about this place when I pulled up and saw this out front! - Barbeque Near Me - Tracy, California

See all

Came upon this place after a crafting event. Hungry, we decided to give it a try. It's a hole in the wall but the owners were so welcoming and the BBQ was amazing, the ambiance didn't even matter. In fact, it added to the charm. Food was so delicious. I had the ribs and it was cooked to perfection. The sides were pretty good, too. I don't live in the area but next time I'm in Tracy, I'd come here again. read more

Food was delicious. Got a couple different dinners ribs brisket and tri-tip all were delicious and so were the sides!

Great place for barbecue down homestyle good people friendly atmosphere and it was some pretty good food I recommend giving it a shot it's not that off and then we can come across something that's down home around the corner and that's the place to go to I guess and give it a shot lots of people love it read more

My aunt and uncle took me there last night. When we first walked in, I seriously thought to do an about face. Unbeknownst to us, the server was actually the owner. After being there for about 10 minutes you'd never have known that we all had just met. His name is David and he could not have been nicer. His food was was great, his employees were great, and his friends were awesome. Yes, I did say friends. The one bad thing I have to say about this place way too small. Thank you David of Shorter's BBQ in Tracy, CA. Great food and great company, all led to a great evening. read more

Love the catfish and the spaghetti. They love the customers and it's always a pleasure to order from here.

Good spot. We looove the pulled pork and brisket . Only thing, please change your cheese sauce, it's so bad. We love pulled pork nachos but whatever cheese sauce brand you use, is awful. Please please change it. Otherwise your food is bomb! read more

Great BBQ and great service. Shorter's is probably one of the best, if not the best, BBQ joints in town. Attached to West Valley Bowling, which is probably their only short coming only because I think they should have their own place. You would be able to see their smoker right at the parking lot. Just the sight makes you wonder what juicy, off the bone meats are cooking in there. I've been there twice, first to try it out based on the other reviews, this second time was my recommendation to family. If I could, and I might, I'll come by at least once a month since it's one of my favorite places in Tracy. The first time I was there, I went for the pulled pork with mac n; cheese and yams on the side. The BBQ sauce is well known that they've had to charge folks for asking for more, but what they put is enough. It's sweet and a little tangy; wonderful. The pulled pork was soft and juicy, The mac n cheese was good, and the yams drowned in syrup was sinfully sweet; thankfully it was only there for a limited time or else I'd gobble it all up. Second time around, I went for the ribs itself, and it was as expected. They slid off the bone with little difficulty and not dry at all; I'm not an expert, but they were perfectly cooked. I went with the side of mac n' cheese again, and without their yams, I went with collard greens. The greens were good as well, almost melting in my mouth, and with bits of ham hock in it. The ribs and two sides went well. As for the staff, they're always great. Asking how I was if I met them at the door while they headed to tend to the meat, or asking if I needed anything while sitting at the table. The atmosphere is very friendly and close, unlike chain restaurants, and I'm happy to come here more often to the support a great place like this. read more

Shorter's Barbeque - Ribs. Mac n cheese. Collard Greens. - Barbeque Near Me - Tracy, California

Shorter's might not look like much from the outside and their interior decor may need some updating, but all of that won't matter once you try their BBQ. I can appreciate a BBQ place that puts all of its efforts into making really good food. The friendly staff definitely makes up for any lack of decor. Unlike Dickey's, you can tell just from tasting the food that they use a real smoker rather than some POS electric smoker. The tri-tip I had was tender with just the perfect amount of smoke enhancing the natural flavors of the meat. I had a bite of my wife's pulled pork sandwich which was super tender and flavorful. I'll definitely be back with my next visit including some ribs. Give Shorter's a try. You won't be disappointed. read more

Shorter's Barbeque - Tri-tip! Yum! - Barbeque Near Me - Tracy, California

Dave and his crew!! This food is amazing. We ordered a complete Thanksgiving Diner for about 10-15 for a great price!! I was refusing to cook this you so I did some research and found Shorters. I can tell you that Dave helped made our Thanksgiving a much less stressful success. We will be ordering our Turkey Day and possibly Christmas dinner from Shorters every year. Thanks for such a smooth transaction! read more

Shorter's Barbeque - Everything was amazing! - Barbeque Near Me - Tracy, California

Seriously this place is so good! I've never been disappointed. The people are so sweet and funny. The food is delicious. My favorite is the tritip sandwich and banana pudding (which is only made I believe once a week, so get it fast!). If you're on a time limit definitely order ahead. Everything is made when you order, and it's well worth the wait. The venue is small, but my favorite spot is the table right outside. If the bbq is going the cook will talk to you and make you smile. On average expect about $10 a plate for lunch. And I believe the dinners are about $12, but you get SO MUCH FOOD. This place is on my top 3 in Tracy. Must go! read more

I have no idea who wrote those negative reviews, but the bbq is like some old school, Oakland, down home, southern vibe! Excellent sauce too!!! I got the sauce on the side because I wanted to enjoy the taste of the meat first, but the sauce was a definite addition to the flavors. I travel a lot for work and I'm a real food snob, so trust me when I say that it's on the level! The atmosphere is humble, but I was told it's a family business so I get it. I will go back again very soon! read more

Stopped by Shorter's on several occasions. The BBQ Ribs and $32.00 are an ok price. I always order the rack-of-ribs and for some reason, I always get a bunch of tips which are never tender. When I call to complain-all I get is a bunch of excuses. If you don't check your order on your 'take-outs - you may not get what you want. I've gone back on four occasions and on three of them, the ribs were tough to the point I had to complain 2x's. When I called, I was told that no one else complained that day. Well, if I had a rack-it certainly would be different from anyone else's rack. I feel so ripped off. My own fault though for going back after the 1st bad experience. I won't be back..... Searching for a new rib joint..... read more

When the family and I drove up we started to get s little worried after seeing that this place was located inside/part of the bowling alley. Don't let the looks fool you. Some of the better BBQ I've had around in a long time. The spicy spaghetti was great, the chopped brisket was very good and the Tri Tip was bomb! The sauce was really good as well, the only drawback was the I got to full to quickly! LoL lots of food for the price. Well worth the detour off of the highway if your in the area! read more

Shorter's Barbeque - Barbeque Near Me - Tracy, California

See all

Incredible BBQ, even better service and experience! We had the brisket lunch special, some delicious coleslaw, and the brisket nachos. Dave, the owner, was the best host as well! We will be returning with the entire family!! read more

Great Tri-Tip Sandwich. David the owner Puts love in his food. Bring napkins and Enjoy! read more

Wow was this some great BBQ. We ordered a variety of items and the smoke was on point. Nothing was overcooked or dried out. We also ordered all the sides as this was our first time and I didn't want to miss anything. My only call out is this minor thing. The potato salad needed a little more mayo and some salt and pepper (remove the pimento ugh lol). But once I did that it was great. read more

We moved to Tracy from Austin, and figured we'd never be able to find real BBQ out here. Shorter's has absolutely saved our lives. This isn't Texas style BBQ (the sauce gives it away) but it is absolutely excellent, the sauce is fantastic and compliments the smokiness of the meats incredibly well. Portions are enormous, you won't walk away hungry and the service is great. The sides I've had were all perfect, I could eat a huge serving of the greens by themselves. Peach cobbler was among the best I've had, and the banana pudding is way better than Rudy's back in Texas. I can't wait to try the brisket which sells out early...that alone should speak to the quality of the food, show up before lunch if you want some! read more

Went in with my 3 boys. I ordered the 3 way with brisket,ribs and hot link. I also ordered the catfish. Omg everything was so good. People say you can tell by the brisket if they have good bbq. Well I have a real picky eater in one of my son's and he loves the brisket. What impressed me the most was the customer service. I ordered the nachos for my two younger boys and they weren't eating the nachos. The lady who was helping us noticed and offered the make them something else. They went for the hot dogs. I really appreciated that. Awesome customer service and the food was excellent. We will definitely be back to try the rest of the menu. Thank You "Auntie" read more

I used to go here often when I lived in tracy, but I have moved. I called a phone order in when I was passing through town and was bummed they didn't have Mac n cheese. The owner remembered my voice and could hear my disappointment that they surprised me with a fresh batch of Mac n cheese that I cooked at home . Can we say one happy customer. Thanks for always have great food and amazing customer service! read more