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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Tampa

Rib spots

Made for those who want a substantial meal of ribs and prefer a relaxed atmosphere over a polished dining experience.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Whigham Family Kitchen image 1
Whigham Family Kitchen image 2
Whigham Family Kitchen image 3
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Food truck with two picnic tables offers a friendly, family-friendly atmosphere. Known for generous portions of tender, flavorful BBQ including ribs and brisket, paired with homemade desserts. Meals are prepared under strict sanitary conditions and served with a special house sauce.

Ribs here are unbelievably tender and fall off the bone with ease. The flavor stands out even without sauce, and the barbecue sauce adds a delicious, moist finish.

Food features generous amounts of meat on sandwiches and offers both entrées and desserts at the same spot. Portions serve four adults and stay consistently fresh and juicy.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ here was the best in Tampa."

"The brisket here is so delicious and seasoned very well."

"I found the BBQ ribs here to be the best in Tampa."

Good to know

1

They are open every Saturday from 12 to 7 pm.

2

You should arrive early for the smoked brisket because it sells out quickly.

3

The portion size is well worth the price.

02
The Fryer House - Nebraska Ave image 1
Fried chicken takeaway

Small, cozy diner with indoor and outdoor seating offers a warm, friendly atmosphere that feels welcoming and positive. Space fills quickly during busy times, creating a packed, lively vibe. Unique hand-cut halal fried chicken and custom sauces distinguish the place from typical takeout spots.

Corn ribs come seasoned and grilled with a fire flavor that stands out. They deliver a yummy, intense taste that makes them memorable.

Food here is consistently amazing and HFSAA certified. The team serves with great care, even offering free meals during tough times.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and delicious."

"The chicken and waffles here have amazing flavor and perfectly cooked chicken."

"You have to try the corn ribs; they're so delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is HFSAA certified, ensuring strict halal standards.

2

They serve large portions, often enough for two people.

3

Parking is limited, making it difficult to access the restaurant.

03
Rosenheim Restaurant image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern restaurant offers live entertainment with dancers and drummers alongside hookah for a lively atmosphere. Both indoor and outdoor dining areas feature modern, beautiful decor with outdoor AC enhancing comfort. The vibe is energetic and memorable, combining music, dance, and a refined dining experience.

Lamb ribs come out tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.** They melt in your mouth and stand out among other grilled items like shish tawook and kebab.

Food here features authentic Mediterranean flavors with dishes that are full of flavor and beautifully presented. The dining experience combines excellent food with attentive service.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned."

"I found the Mediterranean food here to be the best I've ever tasted."

"The lamb ribs were perfectly seasoned, juicy, and tender."

Good to know

1

Samba night happens every Saturday with live dancers and music.

2

Live music is featured every Friday night at the restaurant.

3

A big party with a live DJ and belly dancer starts at 6:30 PM on weekends.

04
Abu Naji Restaurant image 1
Halal restaurant

Arabic-style family rooms and traditional floor seating create a private, cultural atmosphere with a relaxing vibe. Spacious prayer areas and unique seating options offer privacy and comfort. Clean, authentic Yemeni decor and innovative design distinguish the environment from other restaurants.

Beef ribs stand out for being very tender, juicy, and large enough to share. The ribs come flavorful and tender, often served as a special or part of a mixed plate with lamb and chicken.

Offers excellent Yemeni and Arabic cuisine with halal options. Food and service consistently receive high praise for quality and uniqueness.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and satisfying."

"The mint lemonade here is refreshing with a zesty kick."

"The ribs here are so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the Ramadan Buffet Iftar due to high demand.

2

Expect to pay around $50 per person for the average buffet.

3

The restaurant charges for water, which is uncommon in many places.

05
Kiwa Asian Kitchen Sushi, Korean, Bar & Boba image 1

Modern dining room combines cozy color scheme with comfortable seating and thoughtful decor to create a relaxing yet lively atmosphere. The vibe stays welcoming and chill, suitable for families and small groups. Sushi stands out as a highlight, praised for quality and presentation.

Korean short ribs stand out with rich flavor and tender texture. They pair well with other dishes like sushi and specialty rolls.

Food here is consistently delicious and authentic, with a strong focus on sushi and Korean dishes. Service complements the meals well, making dining smooth and enjoyable.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be amazing and very fresh."

"The food here is amazing and fresh."

"The Korean short ribs here are incredible."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult when nearby restaurants are busy.

2

The restaurant is open late for dinner service.

3

Happy hour features BOGO sake, making it a great time to visit.

06
Big Mel's Smoke House BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant offers tender, smoky ribs and homemade-style sides like mac and cheese and collard greens. Atmosphere is casual with affordable prices and occasional waits due to popularity. Customers often bring their own buns for pulled pork, as none are sold on site.

Ribs come tender and smoky with a sauce that hits the mark. Properly trimmed ribs fall off the bone and deliver outstanding flavor without greasiness.

Food features generous portions and consistently excellent barbecue flavors. The service includes unexpected extras, with staff often adding more food without accepting tips.

People are saying

"The BBQ chicken here is smoky, juicy, and flavorful."

"These ribs are tender, smoky, and fall right off the bone."

"The food here is incredible and awesome."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during peak hours, but it's worth it for the food.

2

Bring your own buns if you want to make pulled pork sandwiches.

3

Kids meals are available for families dining with children.

07
Southern Luv BBQ image 1

Smoked meats fill the air in a clean, modern space with bench seating and 90’s music playing. A warm, family-friendly vibe welcomes guests, with personal touches like the owner offering tastes while waiting. The atmosphere feels authentic and inviting, setting it apart from typical BBQ spots.

Ribs arrive on a hot platter and often fall off the bone. St. Louis style ribs come smoked just right with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Food features outstanding barbecue with ribs served hot right at the start. The kitchen shows pride in every dish and pairs it with attentive service.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the mac and cheese, is so creamy and wonderful."

"The food, especially the mac and cheese, was so wonderful."

"The ribs here are so tender they fall right off the bone."

Good to know

1

On Fridays, they smoke ribs.

2

Everything is made homemade on the same day.

3

The menu is routinely tweaked to include new and unique items.

08
Grill & Provisions image 1

Barbecue spot with massive, tender ribs and moist, well-seasoned brisket draws steady crowds and often has a wait to order. The atmosphere buzzes with energy as people come for outstanding BBQ and reasonable prices. It closes on Tuesdays and food sells quickly, highlighting its popularity.

Massive, tender ribs come well seasoned and pair well with sides like coleslaw and mac and cheese. The pork Spanish style offers a distinct, flavorful option alongside the ribs.

Food features freshness and high quality with standout items like brisket and ribs. Preparation shows care and the dishes often draw a wait worth it.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be incredibly delicious and fresh."

"Danny's guidance made my brisket smoking experience a success."

"The ribs here are awesome and moist."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait to order during peak hours from Thursday to Saturday.

2

Grill & Provisions is closed on Tuesdays.

3

Prices are very reasonable for the quality of food offered.

09
Punta Cana Restaurant image 1
Dominican restaurant

Dominican restaurant offers a calm and peaceful atmosphere with a clean and inviting interior despite a modest exterior. Seating is ample, including a pleasant outdoor area. The vibe feels homey and welcoming, making it a hidden gem for authentic Latino-Caribbean dining.

Tender, fall off the bone ribs come with flavorful seasoning. Served alongside rice with peas, the baked ribs stand out as a hearty dish.

Food features great tasting and delicious variety with excellent service. Portions often provide two meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always good."

"I loved the authentic Dominican food here."

"The ribs here are fall-off-the-bone tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The portions are huge, often enough for three meals.

2

Prices are reasonable, with meals around $20 for two people.

3

The dining area is very clean and welcoming.

10
Hot Pot World (锅天下) image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Spacious dining area features hot pots and grills at each table with remote heat control for cooking. Atmosphere stays relaxed and warm with pop music setting a chill vibe. Guests enjoy all-you-can-eat buffet style with a sauce bar and Korean beer options.

Short ribs have amazing flavor and stand out among the meat options. The menu includes bulgogi beef and pork belly, but short ribs remain the main highlight.

Food stands out for its amazing quality and excellent taste. Meals consistently deliver delicious flavors that surpass typical chain restaurant offerings.

People are saying

"The marinated meats and shrimp for the BBQ were extremely good."

"The food here is delicious with so many fresh options."

"The short rib here has amazing flavor."

Good to know

1

Hot Pot World offers all-you-can-eat options for $19.99.

2

A 15% discount is available for birthday celebrations.

3

The restaurant provides snow crab upon request at no extra charge.

11
BJ’s Alabama BBQ! image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Old gas station style with an old school mobile wood pit smoker out front creates a small town feel and signals authentic barbecue methods. Atmosphere stays family friendly and welcoming, with a relaxed, positive energy. Walls decorated with college banners add local character to the cozy interior.

Ribs come smoked and tender with a rich flavor that stands out. The combo plates include collards and mac and cheese alongside the ribs and sausage.

Tender and flavorful pork and beef stand out with generous portions and fantastic prices. The menu focuses on comfort food with consistently great taste and service.

People are saying

"I found the BBQ here to be damn good."

"The food here is amazing, especially the ribs and beef."

"I found the ribs and beef to be amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open Wednesday through Saturday only, with a break from 3 to 4 pm.

2

They are closed on Sunday through Tuesday.

3

The restaurant often runs out of popular items like chicken and ribs.

12
YaYa Southern Cuisine image 1
Soul food restaurant

Intimate 16-seat soul food spot with warm, welcoming atmosphere and dark, relaxing decor. Small size creates an exclusive, personal vibe filled with good music and genuine smiles. The space feels like home, inviting guests to slow down and enjoy hearty, authentic meals.

Ribs come as part of a dinner plate and also alongside fried chicken and shrimp. Portions are generous enough for leftovers. The ribs pair well with classic sides like fries.

Authentic soul food shines with fresh, delicious dishes that impress every time. The kitchen proudly serves black-owned, home-style cooking that stands out in the city.

People are saying

"The food here was so good, I had to comment."

"The American food, especially the oxtails, is fall-off-the-bone tender."

"I ordered the ribs and had leftovers for the next day."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect wait times of over 2 hours during peak dining hours.

3

Ordering ahead is advised as food is prepared to order.

13
Wicked Oak BarbeQue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Oak smoke fills the air around a clean, well-decorated space with local graffiti art and a vibrant rock music soundtrack. Seating is limited inside but extends to an outdoor patio that could benefit from added shade and lighting. The atmosphere blends a teenage arcade hangout vibe with a welcoming, lively energy.

Ribs here fall off the bone and are not greasy. They come in combos and pair well with brisket, offering a delicious, well-balanced flavor.

Food features generous portions like the XL Platter that serves 10 or more. The menu offers fantastic barbecue with consistently amazing flavor and quality.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is perfectly seasoned and tender."

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and absolutely delicious."

"These ribs just fell off the bone, so tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

Order at the counter and take it to go or sit at the tables in the cold AC.

2

They only serve whole brisket on Sundays.

3

The prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

14
The Outside Kitchen image 1

Small restaurant with intimate seating and vibrant R&B music sets a chill, welcoming vibe. Live DJ energizes the space while the decor adds a cozy touch. The atmosphere feels spotless and inviting, creating a relaxed dining experience.

Jerk ribs stand out with intense flavor and tender texture. They often serve as a highlight alongside other dishes like pasta and shrimp.

Food here is flavorful and fresh with an incredible taste. Service complements the cozy atmosphere for a complete dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, flavorful, and cooked fresh."

"The lemonade here is so well balanced and delicious."

"I loved the jerk ribs, they were packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

They have weekly food specials that change regularly.

2

The restaurant primarily focuses on takeout orders.

3

Expect a line for takeout orders during peak hours.

15
Al's Finger Licking Good Bar-B-Que and Soul Food image 1

Small, hole-in-the-wall barbecue spot with old-fashioned charm and walls adorned with musical legends. Atmosphere feels like a warm family gathering, relaxed and inviting with friendly staff. Outdoor area hosts roosters and chickens, adding to the homey vibe.

Ribs come falling off the bone, large and well-seasoned with a smoky flavor. The BBQ sauce is boss, enhancing the ribs and other dishes like chicken and beans.

Barbecue and soul food here taste fresh and delicious with a homestyle vibe that feels welcoming. The dining area is surprisingly uncrowded and service is warm and attentive.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is the best I've ever had."

"The food here is delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The ribs here are tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for patrons in the lot behind the restaurant.

2

A huge meat plate with two sides and a drink costs $20.

3

The restaurant often runs out of several side dishes.

16
LaMeiZi Hot Pot & BBQ 辣妹子火锅烧烤 image 1

Asian restaurant offers sunken hot pot tables and an island buffet for self-selection of ingredients. Spacious layout includes private rooms and a smoke machine to remove BBQ odors. Atmosphere is beautiful and relaxing with clean, welcoming decor and koi fish wall art.

Short ribs come with incredible seasoning and generous portions. Korean pork ribs stand out for their delicious flavor while beef belly and ribs offer large servings.

An amazing buffet offers fresh ingredients like lamb, beef, chicken, seafood, tofu, and veggies. Cooked foods include crayfish, sushi, and chicken wings, all served with attentive staff and excellent service.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"I loved the huge variety of fresh seafood and meats available."

"The short ribs here were the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts at 9pm on weekends, perfect for a fun night out.

2

Birthday meals are free, making it a great spot for celebrations.

3

Hotpot costs $35 per person during lunch, including a drink.

17
OUTSIDE BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant with family-friendly atmosphere and clean, warm environment. Seating near the smoker grill offers an authentic experience while pop music plays at a comfortable volume. The vibe reflects Black culture and flavor, creating a joyful and welcoming space.

Ribs come with meaty tender bones and generous portions. A mustard sauce with a strong yellow mustard taste and sweet tang pairs well with the pork. The chicken and rib combo offers a solid mix of flavors.

Food here is flavorful and properly cooked. The dishes consistently deliver great taste and quality.

People are saying

"These ribs were perfectly seasoned and so tender."

"The dirty rice here is really good, especially with the sausage."

"I thought the food here was delicious and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Expect generous portion sizes for a satisfying meal.

2

The menu may not always reflect available items; check before ordering.

3

Family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great spot for gatherings.

18
Konan BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant with hole-in-the-wall vibes and a friendly, home-like atmosphere. Blues music and the rich aroma of wood smoke create a warm, inviting mood. Offers indoor and outdoor seating with plenty of space and parking.

Smoking ribs come out perfectly tender and packed with smoky goodness. They pair well with sides like macaroni and cheese and stand out alongside chicken, sausage, and pulled pork.

Food stands out as the most important aspect here with an outstanding quality that surpasses other places in Tampa.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is packed with amazing flavor."

"The food here was so good and fresh."

"I found the ribs here really good and generously portioned."

Good to know

1

Backpacks are given out the day before school starts.

2

Expect a long line at opening for lunch.

3

Get there early as they often run out of food.

19
Mi Pueblito Bakery & Restaurant image 1

Space resembles a small Colombian town with built-in booths and a gorgeous, clean setting. Atmosphere feels like hanging out with family, filled with great music that invites dancing. Frequented by families enjoying authentic Colombian flavors and a welcoming vibe.

Rib broth comes in a huge portion with four giant pieces of rib. It tastes delicious and stands out as the only place consistently offering good rib broth among Colombian restaurants.

Food here is consistently delicious and amazing, with a strong Latin influence. Service matches the quality of the food, making for a solid dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and has a comforting homemade flavor."

"The food here is amazing, especially the delicious fritters."

"You have to try the rib broth; it's huge and delicious."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served at dawn, perfect for early risers.

2

Meals are available before heading home to rest.

3

The restaurant is exceptionally clean and well-maintained.

20
Greedy Lee's BBQ image 1
Grill store

Small, run-down grill store with a takeout-only setup and a welcoming, soulful atmosphere. The space fills with good smells and uplifting energy, drawing many first-time customers. Known for fall-off-the-bone ribs and legendary oxtails, it stands out as an authentic BBQ spot despite limited indoor space.

Ribs come with an insane bark and flavor that stands out. They pair well with sides like baked beans, potato salad, and Mac-n-cheese, and the BBQ sauce adds a fantastic touch.

Food shows amazing taste and clear passion and care in preparation. The Tomahawk steak stands out as especially fantastic.

People are saying

"The ribs here are smoked, tender, and perfectly seasoned."

"I found the oxtail here to be delicious and seasoned perfectly."

"The food here is so juicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult; expect limited spaces near the restaurant.

2

Bring cash as credit card machines may not work consistently.

3

The restaurant often runs out of menu items close to closing time.

21
Mr B's Restaurant image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant offers an elegant interior with southern charm and a calm dining experience. Gospel music plays softly, creating a warm and respectful atmosphere. The space feels clean and beautifully decorated, inviting a sense of home.

Beef ribs come seasoned and tender. Short ribs pair well with dirty rice and mac and cheese.

Southern food offers fantastic flavor with dishes like turkey wings, collard greens, and mac and cheese. The cuisine is consistently delicious and excellent across all offerings.

People are saying

"The American Food's yams and mac & cheese are highly recommended."

"I found the food here to be delicious and satisfying."

"The beef ribs were seasoned and tender."

Good to know

1

Key menu items like sweet tea, corn bread, and peach cobbler were out of stock.

2

They ran out of food during the event.

3

The restaurant is very clean and well-maintained.

22
Craft Tampa image 1
Restaurant

Boat cruise restaurant offers relaxing river views and an elegant atmosphere with air conditioning and scenic waterfront sights. Guests enjoy well-crafted cocktails and perfectly cooked meals while dining in an intimate, peaceful setting that feels exclusive and special.

Short rib stands out with its tender texture and full flavor. It compares favorably to dishes at Burn's and Flemings.

Food and drinks deliver an amazing experience with perfect execution. Dining here feels like a 5-star experience with every detail carefully crafted.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is amazing and beautifully prepared."

"The food here is delicious and thoughtfully prepared."

"The short rib here is tender and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like Valentine's Day and Father's Day brunch.

2

Dinner cruises typically cost around $79 per person, excluding drinks.

3

Parking at the Garrison lot costs $2 per hour via the Park Mobile app.

23
Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Indoor smoke room and drive-thru option stand out in this barbecue restaurant. Atmosphere feels cozy yet modern, with plenty of space between tables for easy conversation. Regulars enjoy top-notch ribs and brisket, making it a favored spot for casual dining and catering.

Ribs come right off the bone, juicy and tender with a great sauce. The bronto rib stands out as especially delicious, making ribs and brisket the best choices here.

Food here is consistently amazing and phenomenal with a reputation for being incredibly delicious. Service complements the food well, making every visit satisfying.

People are saying

"I thought their classic BBQ was very good."

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"I found the ribs here to be the best in Tampa."

Good to know

1

They offer lunch specials every day of the week.

2

Mighty Quinn's has a drive-through for convenient takeout.

3

Catering services are available for events and private parties.

24
BBQ Time image 1
Restaurant

Large, rustic space feels cozy and welcoming with bright, refreshing air conditioning. Atmosphere stays clean and presentable, inviting diners to relax and enjoy hearty meals. Known for smoky, tender barbecue and distinctive sides, it offers a satisfying experience without high prices.

Ribs come meaty and tender with a strong smoked flavor. Plates often include generous portions paired with tasty sides like potato salad, BBQ beans, and spicy macaroni.

Food offers excellent quality with large portions that provide good value. The kitchen maintains a clean environment and handles food with care.

People are saying

"I thought their BBQ was delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The pulled pork and spicy mac and cheese are amazing."

"The food here is delicious and the portions are very good."

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout.

3

Prices are reasonable, especially for large portions of food.

25
Blue Flame image 1
Soul food restaurant

Outdoor tables create a peaceful dining atmosphere complemented by chill music. The menu offers an awesome selection of soul food dishes with standout items like moist baked chicken and best-in-town mac and cheese. Cleanliness and quick service add to a pleasant, relaxed experience.

Ribs stand out as a decent item here. They pair well with sides like mac and cheese and collard greens.

Food here features well-seasoned soul food with 5-star quality flavors. Dishes come out delicious and satisfying for takeout or dine-in.

People are saying

"I found the soul food here to be the best."

"The ribs were the only decent item here."

"I thought the Mac and Cheese was the best I had at a restaurant."

Good to know

1

Sundays at Blue Flame are packed, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

2

Expect to pay around $24 for a meal, including one large pork chop.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of soul food dishes for takeout.

26
Crossroad Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Small space with four tables and a giant mural creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere stays chill and clean with friendly staff and consistent music. Lines form regularly, reflecting popularity for freshly made hot chicken sandwiches with notable heat levels.

Corn ribs stand out with their amazing flavor and delicious texture. They offer a unique twist on traditional ribs that many find tremendous.

Food here is consistently delicious and fresh with flavorful dishes that stand out. Service complements the meals well, making the dining experience smooth and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The food here is phenomenal, really, really good."

"I've never had Mac and Cheese this good before."

"The chicken tenders were huge and so good."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy lunch hours.

2

Portions are generous, with large chicken servings for the price.

3

The restaurant offers a 'pay it forward' board for those in need.

27
Jerk Pit image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Caribbean atmosphere fills the space with reggae music and colorful decor creating a warm and welcoming vibe. The energy stays lively and authentic, making it feel like home. The dining area is small but clean, hosting a crowd that appreciates genuine Jamaican culture.

Jerk barbecue ribs come with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. They are spicy and flavorful with an authentic jerk seasoning.

Offers authentic Jamaican food with consistently amazing flavors. Food arrives hot and fresh, making it a reliable choice for Caribbean cuisine.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, well-seasoned, and deeply satisfying."

"The oxtail here is flavorful and just like home."

"The jerk barbecue ribs are seasoned perfectly, spicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Sundays have dinner pricing, which is considered worth it.

2

The weekday lunch specials offer great value.

3

There are many vegan options available.

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