After a long night of dancing and drinks at Brown's annual Reunion Weekend, our group of twelve was hungry for some good old fashioned comfort food. Some people in the group reminisced about their times in college where they would indulge in BBQ in the wee hours of the morning. At around midnight on a Saturday, we opted to return to Wes's to see if anything had changed: when we arrived, we were pleasantly surprised for the better. Nestled in Providence's Olneyville neighborhood, boasts a distinctive exterior featuring a combination of brick and dark siding. Prominent red lettering displays the restaurant's name and its establishment year, 1973, with a modern-industrial appearance. Inside the restaurant, Wes' Rib House has undergone significant renovations to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The interior features high ceilings with exposed ductwork, large windows that allow natural light to flood the space, and a mix of wooden and industrial design elements. The dining area includes a bar with metal paneling and an orange accent wall, contributing to a cozy yet modern ambiance. Additionally, there's a music area upstairs, providing a great setup for live performances. At around midnight, we were one of a few parties in the space: there's also a karaoke bar where we heard people loudly singing, which was quite entertaining! As a large party, we ordered multiple platters to share: we first opted for two Munchie Platters ($19.99 each), which come with buffalo wings, mozzarella sticks, jalapeno poppers, onion rings, and waffle fries. There was a good sampling of finger foods to try, and we particularly enjoyed the crispy onion rings and waffle fries (the buffalo wings lacked meat and flavor). We then opted for two Family Combos ($94.99 each), which come with a full rack of ribs, 1/2 lb each of brisket and pulled pork, 2 half chickens, 3 pint sides (we chose coleslaw, mac and cheese, and pickles), and 4 pieces of cornbread. This is actually quite a lot of food, and we particularly enjoyed the ribs! They were quite meaty, tender, and great when paired with their tangy BBQ sauce. The brisket and pork were solid if not stellar: the brisket wasn't very tender, and the pork was lukewarm, so some of the fat had congealed, leaving an unpleasant texture. The half chickens were surprisingly moist and flavorful, although we would have preferred more crisp on the skin. The sides were fine, but we found the mac and cheese to be overcooked, and the coleslaw and pickles didn't taste very fresh (granted, it was probably what was left over at the end of the day). However, their cornbread was fluffy and just sweet enough - a treat when paired with butter! Overall, Wes's Ribs pleasantly surprised us with their renovations and food quality since the last time that some members of our party had dined there. Perhaps my rating of four stars is being pulled up from nostalgia's sake, but service was fast and friendly, the food was decent, and it's a fun place for a late-night BBQ session. read more

RI Food Fight- Lord of the Wings 2025 Review: First time ever at Wes'. I grew up hanging out with previous owners kids. The wing coupon brought me in. Off the beaten path, decent sized parking lot, inside is very modern. There were only like 2 people working on a Saturday night at 5pm. When we walked in we had to wait to be seated for 5 mins but the place was pretty empty?? Once seated, we placed an order for drinks. I went with a rum punch (it was advertised as moonshine but I asked for the liquor switch) and my husband eyes a posted $5 margarita sign. The drink was more liquor than punch. I like it the opposite way. My husband had no problems with the margarita's or the deal! The wings: we went boom boom sauce. It was a decent wing but the boom boom just didn't do it for me. It's me- not the sauce! Just not my jam. He told us it was like a Cajun ranch. I didn't find anything Cajun about it. We ordered mozzarella sticks (I don't think you can really mess up a mozzarella stick.), (2) cornbread's and 1 rib. The cornbread was ok. (With winging it, I have had a lot of cornbread around the state recently.) The rib was large! Overall this place is ok. My husband and I chatted as we pulled out: if we were in the area again we would hit it up again! read more

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Wow! After reading so many reviews with a wide variety of ratings we didn't know what to expect, but our visit to Wes' was great. We used to frequent Wes' back in the 1990's, but hadn't been there since it reopened. We spoke with the owner today (who was also our server), and learned it recently changed hands again, so maybe the poor reviews were under the previous ownership. Our experience today was awesome as we really enjoyed the environment as well as the food. Wes's has its own parking lot, which is great since parking in Olneyville can be tough. The exterior of the building has been fixed up from the good old days, and when we went indoors, we were very impressed with how the interior has been renovated as well. New windows, new furniture, new bathrooms, and everything is spotlessly clean. Menu choices are great with fair pricing, and service was prompt with just the right amount of attentiveness. We were using our RI Food Fight sandwich coupons and were given three choices: pulled pork, fried chicken, or the All-American burger. We went with the pulled pork and the burger. Both were served on good rolls that didn't fall apart, and both were nice and big with plenty of meat. The burger had a delicious smokey taste and the pulled pork was tasty as well. We did not use any extra bbq sauce, but we did see a bottle of what looked to be house-made sauce on another table. In addition we split corn bread and sweet fried plantains and really enjoyed both sides. Wes' is still working on obtaining a liquor license (should be soon!), so we ordered sodas and were impressed by the large cups. We also checked out the arcade game area, which looked fun, and the additional seating room upstairs which includes a small stage. The new owner told us that they host karaoke and trivia, and this room looks perfect for these types of entertainment. We loved that the event space is separate from the main dining room as oftentimes it's tough to eat dinner and converse while other events are happening, and it looks like this won't be a problem at Wes'. We would like to wish the new owner lots of success - Thanks for bring Wes' back to life and we hope to return soon! read more

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The minute you walk into Wes's Rib House, you understand what they're going for. The space strikes that perfect balance - substantial butcher block tables against black chairs, exposed ductwork overhead, and Edison pendants casting warm light across honey-colored floors. It's designed by someone who cares, not someone who scrolled through Pinterest for "restaurant trends 2023." I came for the burger after seeing it place in the #RhodeIslandFoodFights competition. It delivers - a substantial patty with genuine char, topped with bacon that shatters between your teeth. The bun provides structure without stealing focus from what matters. Every element feels deliberate. The chicken sandwich holds its own - breading with proper seasoning and texture, protecting meat that's actually juicy. Those pickles deserve special attention - they carry a complex tang that cuts through the richness perfectly. Someone in that kitchen understands how flavors should play together. Onion rings are good but not memorable. Crisp, not greasy, decent batter. They satisfy without impressing. Service strikes the right note - attentive without hovering, friendly without feeling forced. The staff move with the quiet confidence of people who know what they're doing. What separates Wes's from the pack is straightforward execution. Each component on the plate feels intentional. The food works because someone's paying attention to fundamentals rather than gimmicks. We were pleasantly surprised compared to what we expected based on other people's reviews. read more

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Newly renovated, change of ownership, been around for 50 years... I went in with a little hope. That hope was crushed to dust that resembled the brisket you see on my review. An 8oz portion of brisket is $18, and that's what I was served. The guy working the smoker put bark from the wood splits that he was burning on my platter by mistake - oh never mind, that WAS beef.. The expressionless gentleman working asked us how everything was to which I answered "the brisket was terrible. Dry, hard, it was cut with the grain..", everything was wrong. He comped it, so I didn't pay for it, thank God. That aside, the pulled pork sandwich was also aggressively dry, but edible with some sauce. But, pork and a bun and... That's it? No coleslaw? No pickles? If you're giving pork and a bun it better be some dang good pork.. I don't have much else to say. The dining room was actually awesome but the goodness stopped at that. My brother in law got ribs.. They were undercooked and overcooked. They weren't cooked long enough for the meat to bite cleanly off the bone and before they serve them, they sliced the ribs individually and sauced them.. Then maybe broiled, or set back on the smoker. An absolute mistake because now they're dried out on the sides. This place is terrible, should close down and for the love of all that is good, pour gasoline on your smoker and set it ablaze and never look back. No one here deserves to operate one. read more

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I stopped by this place to get some food to bring home. The total came to $60 which wasn't that bad for 3 people. It took about an hour or so! Crazy! I also ordered 3 extra onion rolls to go with the meal because it was needed. The 3 rolls cost me an extra $26.00 WTF REALLY??!! It looked like someone jumped on them!! Anyways- I sent an email to the business and stated I wasn't happy for 3 flattened rolls @ $26 bucks. He/she whoever wrote back agreed w/ me that the cost was definitely wrong. They asked for the 2nd receipt which I could not find! I only had the 1st receipt for some reason. I asked if they could see it off their computer because it was literally 5mins after the 1st order. I got ZERO replied back! A good business owner/manager would try to make this matter right! Send a gift card or something. Even if it was for 10 bucks! We will never go back!!! Horrible service!!!! read more

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Plenty of parking. Beautiful space, friendly service. I had a BbQ pulled pork taco and a BBQ chicken tacos. Great tender, juicy and great flavor! A fun spin on a street tacos!! I highly recommend! read more

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Honestly, I've ordered from here only a few times since the start of 2025. As the year went on, the BBQ is pretty good, definitely not bad, but since I was new to the area and didn't know any other barbecue spots, it's just okay, nothing wrong with it. I just wish they had beef ribs because they only sell pork ribs. Still, I love the sweet plantains and collard greens that come with it. The only reason I give it a three is because I don't eat pork like that, but I still ate it about five times, so it's all right. it's more like 3.5 not really three. read more

Stop #3 on RI FOOD FIGHTS 12th Annual Big Burger Blowout #bestburgersri...Wes' Rib House is offering 2 cheeseburger sliders, great smoky flavor...got a side of Fried Plantains too! Wes' has been a landmark for over 45 years, great ribs and menu! read more

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Really Cool place inside, not very busy they have no alcohol license . Ribs, pulled pork and Brisket was good not great. Sweet potatoes fries tasted like regular French fries, probably cuz they fry in same fryer. Server was Fantastic just need a few changes and a license and then that place will be packed for sports tv watching and the location is was easy to find as well and they had great parking!! read more

Had a great experience tonight here. We were a party of 14 and the service was on point. We pretty much ordered everything on the menu and it was all delicious. Definitely need to come a check it out Bonus is that they have a little arcade with pinball machines!!! read more

Wes' Rib House - Barbeque Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

Been here twice. Both times, were disappointing. First time, shame on a buddy of mine for speaking highly of this place. (This was around 2009). Second time, shame on me for giving them a second chance. (This time was 3/2025). I am usually a one and done once I have a bad experience. The food was super mediocre the first time and it seemed to be the same this second time around. I will give them credit on being consistent. I want to share with you, the reader, so you don't make the same mistake I did. I spent $14 on what I thought would be a nice piece of catfish but ended up being some school lunch fish stick. I understand that inflation has affected us all. I get that. But man, I feel like I paid $14 for a Calise Bulkie roll, coleslaw with a side of 1 fish stick. I could have gone to price rite and picked up all of these ingredients for less and have it taste better. So disappointing. I wish Wes Rib House nothing but the best. Safe to say I learned my lesson. read more

Wes' Rib House - A $14 fish sandwich - Barbeque Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

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The food was fabulous. The service was amazing and I love the ambience of the fireplace TV. The only ingredient you need to bring is good people. read more

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I really tried to give them a chance, thinking the poor reviews were perhaps exaggerated. The worst bbq I've ever had in my life by far. Ribs so chewy we couldn't get the meat off. Brisket so bland and over cooked. Sides were unmemorable and completely single note. read more

Came here for 2025 #rifoodfights #lordofthewing tour. Had buffalo wings. Tasted fine, would have liked a little more sauce. Brisket sandwich was tasty, along with the loaded fries. Service could have been a little better. Was not busy and just took long time. read more

Wes' Rib House - Buffalo Sauce Chicken Wings - Barbeque Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

Stop number 4 on the @rifoodfights #lordofthewings challenge: @wesribhouse. I was very excited to try this as I skipped lunch so I could have room for their ribs. They have been in Prividence for 50+ years but they were not on my radar - which I am disappointed in myself, as I love BBQ. The bartender recommends the hot honey wing BUT I decide to go with the house BBQ sauce as I assume it is made in house. I was not disappointed. The sauce was not overpowering and complemented the smokey flavor of the wing. The wings were a little crispy. I would have preferred more "crisp" but I suspect that is the trade off for that smoked flavor. A lot of meat on the bone and little fat. Another solid entry! The ribs were very good. Pork ribs (not baby back, so big. I got a quarter rack and it was enough!). Great flavor. I added a bit of their hot bbq sauce and enjoyed the experience. I also had the collard greens, cole slaw, and corn bread. I was stuffed (and left a bit I couldn't finish. Bonus: there was a flyer for @improvpig in the entrance! read more

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I was in Providence last weekend for a quick business meeting and decided to check out Wes' Rib House. best decision I made all trip. The ribs were insanely good, super tender with that perfect smoky flavor and a nice caramelized bark on the outside. I got mac & cheese and collard greens on the side, and both were on point. The beans were also amazing, rich and full of flavor, definitely homemade. The cornbread was a nice surprise warm, slightly sweet, and buttery. Everything tasted fresh and like it was made with care. The vibe inside is super chill and welcoming. Service was fast and friendly, and you can tell they really know what they're doing. Portions were generous, and I left full and happy. It seems the real owners really know what they are doing here! Definitely coming back next time I'm in town. If you're into good BBQ, this place is a must. read more

I finally made it over to Wes' Rib House in Olneyville, and I'm kicking myself for not going sooner. This place has serious staying power, over 45 years in the game, and you can feel that legacy the second you walk in. Don't let the old-school roots fool you, the vibe inside is fresh, updated, and really well done. I came hungry and left borderline stuffed, in the best way possible. I started with the cheeseburger sliders, which had this awesome smoky flavor that honestly surprised me. Then came the main event, the Family Combo platter. Ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken, all cooked just right, juicy and flavorful without needing to drown in sauce (though their house-made stuff is solid). The ribs especially were next-level tender. Sides were no afterthought either. The sweet fried plantains were crispy on the outside and soft in the middle, just the right touch of sweet. Cornbread was moist with a hint of sweetness, and the portions across the board were generous. You'll want to bring friends just to make it through everything. The staff was welcoming and easygoing, and I love that they've got an upstairs area for events like trivia and karaoke. It's clear Wes' isn't just a restaurant, it's a local hangout with some real thought behind it. If you're craving BBQ or just want a casual spot that does the basics really, really well, Wes' is worth checking out. I'll definitely be back, might even try karaoke next time (after ribs, of course). read more

Would I go back? Absolutely. Especially for that pulled pork. Great service overall. Family styled and really makes you feel at home. read more

I've recently went to Durk's and Great Northern BBQ here in Rhode Island on my quest to find the most delicious BBQ restaurant here in this state; Wes' is the best I've been to so far! First off, awesome abidance! The restaurant is spacious and gorgeous! The staff were nothing but genuine and kind! Our family and I got the $95 Full Family Family Style and for 4 people, it was PLENTY OF FOOD (leftovers are great though). Everything was seasoned, the ribs were very tender, the cornbread is out of this world, the Mac & Cheese was packed with flavor and a tad bit of spice, and their homemade sauce were simply delicious! Also, their homemade drinks looked delicious! Highly recommend! read more

Wes' Rib House - variety of food items - Barbeque Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

Manager was very nice. It was super quiet in here for a Saturday night. Might be because they don't serve alcohol. Seems like at one time it was a successful business, but not anymore. Food was okay, wouldn't come back for it. read more

I've been to Wes's rib house when it was on Broad Street in Providence many years ago. It moved to Dyke Street and was great then things went south. I moved and now I'm visiting Rhode Island and was driving by Wes's. We went in. Ordered the baby back ribs. Got them home. Awful awful awful. Save your 30.00 and go around the corner to the New York system and get yourself a couple of weiners-all the way. You will be better satisfied and still have money in your pocket. read more

I'm not shy when it comes to low ratings if appropriate but I just don't understand the simmering disappointment here. I suspect if you grew up in Memphis, Kansas City or Texas (or have a fake Stetson and a cable television subscription) you just might have some very pointed opinions on the authenticity of the meats at Wes' especially now that everyone is an amateur pitmaster courtesy of the Food Network. It must be the "big hat, no cattle" syndrome courtesy of the armchair cowboy gourmands who can distinguish dry rub from KC hickory blindfolded at ten paces... or so they say. However, as a frequent guest over the years, I have had intermittent issues with service but never the quality of the menu or meals. We have always enjoyed, well-prepared tasty BBQ in a clean, frenetic environment. The technical term for the food here is it tastes good. The place is very loud and can be chaotic but their consistency is still intact -- Wes' rates a return every time I visit Providence. Highly recommended. read more

Food was gross inedible. The appetizer platter was ok. We left without eating the meal. Empty car lot empty restaurant. Not the same Wes Ribs in the past . Name it something else. read more

Service was very good and friendly. Food could use a little help as nothing I had was truly difficult or exciting read more

We visited this establishment on a Saturday night. Food was delicisous. We ordered a Pick Three option and it was more then enough food to split. Marilyn the bartender was super nice and explained all the menu options to us. Do yourself a favor and stop in you wont be disappointed. The restaurant is under new ownership and does some Karaoke nights. Great little hidden gem! read more

I remember Wes' as being the go to for BBQ in Providence so many years ago... They reopened recently so I wanted to check it out. To be fair I got take out so maybe my experience would have been better had I dined in. Food was okay... portions were kind of small. I intend to try again when I can dine in. read more

I went to Wes' Rib House recently and the wings were very good. #RIFoodFights #lordofthewings read more

I'll start with the pros. A lot of options on the menu, parking is easy, large bar, and a lot of seating with an arcade in the adjacent room. However the food was underwhelming compared to the renovation. I got a cob salad which was just okay and my partner got the pork sandwich with sides of mac and cheese, beans, and cornbread. The mac and cheese and beans were cold not homemade and the cornbread was comparable to mini muffins. My partner is from the south so was disappointed not only with the food but the fact that they didn't have sweet tea. Sweet tea is a staple in the south. I never been to the old location but it seems like someone did not do their due diligence before reopening. The service was just okay as well a lot of staff just sitting around. Hope this place gets the help that it needs because providence is lacking good bbq. read more

Wes' Rib House - Baked beans and Mac and Cheese - Barbeque Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

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The place looks great.. what can I say, $66 for lunch, meh. Brisket Sandwich was served cold which was off putting, but the frozen waffle fries were good. The wings were very over cooked and the greens were bland. The service was great and helpful. I hope they get their act together for BBQ devotees. I'm tired of driving ho Blackstone MA for it. read more

I goto providence often, haven't ever been to this place. But extremely happy I did! Between the fast and good service to the amazing food. I normally am not a big fan of bbq but this place defiantly changed my prospective. I WILL BE BACK read more

Wes' Rib House is a 5-star BBQ paradise! Their ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and incredibly flavorful. Fantastic sides, cozy atmosphere, and friendly staff complete the perfect meal. A must-visit for amazing BBQ! read more

The food was subpar, I ordered the 3 meat combo and with this order was 2 brisket portion and 1 pork rib portion. The brisket was absolutely way too tough, dry, and just not worth the money I spent. The ribs were okay no complaints, I also got the munchie platter and honestly the portion was so small, there was barely any waffle fries and jalapeño peppers and the fries were chewy and not even crispy. Sadly no pictures I wish they put more effort into the food and into their costumers. Recommend a different place. read more

How I wish I enjoyed this place more than I did. After ricks roadhouse closed I've been dying to find some good bbq so I decided to give Wes' a try. The parking area is a good size when you arrive but the street to get to Wes' is really narrow and cars park on the street making the 2 way feel more like a 1 way. Atmosphere was nice came on a Saturday night around 8 wasn't too busy and was seated immediately. Our waiter was nice they don't check on you often enough but whatever . Ordered the mesquite honey wings for an app they were the highlight if you ask me. The cornbread is SOO GOOD I would come here just to order that. We got the pulled pork that was just ok wasn't crazy about the onions in it, the ribs that were just okay they could have been cooked longer to be more tender nothing special though, and some sort of bbq beef that tasted like roast beef with bbq sauce. I love the baked beans nice sauce I wish they gave more. All in all the place was okay I'd give it a try again. Good place for families I came with my children. read more

Wes' Rib House - Barbeque Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

I had an amazing time at the rib house! I met this super cool guy outside so I bought him dinner and I made a new friend for life! read more

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I was looking for a bbq grill place, found this spot... But I was a bit disappointed. I ordered the lamb roast. Eh, no taste... It looked and tasted like the seasoning was brushed on it after it was cooked. The coleslaw was ok, too much liquid like a soup. The macaroni salad was perfect and tasty. Just a waste of money. read more

Wes' Rib House - Roast beef. - Barbeque Near Me - Providence, Rhode Island

I want to recommend this place, but I can't. During covid delivery times, they seem to lack any attention to detail or pride in their service and food. I've ordered here thrice to give it a fair chance. Famous smokehouse chili (7 dollars on Grubhub) is actually horrible. I had high hopes but it's just all the dried about and leftover brisket. If you order rings and ask for a side of Bleu cheese, they'll forget it. If you order a medium rare burger, you'll get it charred and well done. Want some ketchup with your onion rings, there won't be any there. No onions on your burger? It had onions. A side salad? Here is some prepackaged lettuce/cabbage abs carrot mix but mine had a random slice of bell pepper in it as a bonus. The list goes on. This is over the course of 3 orders, not just once or twice. No one seems to care there about the quality of food they're putting out as well as getting orders correct. Sorry guys, after last night's order, I'm out. read more

Tried the newly renovated Wes' for dinner the other night with my wife. Pros - they have a nice selection of cocktails, mocktails and beers. The menu looked appealing and provided a nice variety of choices. The restaurant atmosphere was warm and inviting. The old school belt and pulley driven ceiling fans were cool to see. The rear of the dining room could use a little more light but we did just fine. The sauces are excellent and saved the food. Cons - service was slow at first, but may not have been the fault of the server. Once started it was prompt and courteous. Noise; bar patrons were loud and rowdy, which for olneyville on a Saturday night isn't really a big surprise. However, there were families trying to eat dinner so it definitely took the atmosphere down. Additionally, there is a live music venue adjacent to the restaurant which was hosting a metal/hardcore show during their dinner service. We were there between 9pm and 10pm. There is no door between the spaces to you feel like you're in the mosh pit while eating, which might be appealing to some (I don't mind it) but many others will not be so appreciative (ie my wife), who wasn't happy at all with the noise level. It made it almost impossible to enjoy our meal. The drinks were middle of the road. They weren't great but they weren't awful. The food was just not where it should be for $40-50 per person. I get that this place is in the city but it's in Olneyville, where people come to get away from the pretense and high prices of downtown Providence. I could justify the price if the food was outstanding. It needs work, especially in terms of service temperatures, seasoning, and quality. The food wasn't hot. The cornbread was stale, and lukewarm, served with cold butter. The brisket was ok in terms of flavor, but again it wasn't even close to hot. It was served in small slices which is not typically how it's served. Texas style brisket should be cut in long slices, and served hot. The sausage looked like it was cut up a long time before it was served, but tasted alright. Again, cut it right before serving, because otherwise it will dry out (like mine). The ribs were delicious, and one of the only things served which was close to service temp and tasted fresh. The sides were underwhelming. The mac and cheese was lacking seasoning, again it felt like something that had sat for a while. The Cole slaw was lacking seasoning. Long story short: the food lacked the quality and love you'd expect from a Texas style BBQ joint charging $40-$50 per person. Go back to the drawing board and improve the food and atmosphere; otherwise a lot of the locals won't be going back. read more

I really enjoyed it. Very convenient location and friendly staff. We had the brisket, ribs, cornbread. They were delicious and sauces were on point. read more

Coming off a long yelp hiatus because I'm so pissed. I got a combo of ribs and baby ribs, my girlfriend got ribs as well. I'm a BBQ junkie, and neither of us are picky, make no mistake - I've never seen her spit out a bite of food so fast in the decade I've known her. I didn't even believe it until I tried mine. 100% fat. Not even close to a mouthful of meat between the entire thing. Like chewing on a car tire. Gummy mac and cheese. Golden Corral doesn't even overcook this much. Seeing as I'm not 100 years old and have all my teeth, no good. Shitty beans. Coleslaw wasn't even good. How on earth do you shit the bed this badly? Might as well have taken $50 and lit it on fire for how much edible food I got. To whoever's reading this, I know we don't know each other, but please trust me on this. This place is bullshit, don't eat here. read more