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ZipPicks Awards

Best BBQ Ribs in Santa Monica

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Chick 'N' Ribs 7.8
Santa Monica
This food court gem specializes in rotisserie chicken and baby back ribs that fall off the bone with a tangy house-made BBQ sauce. The casual counter-service spot delivers surprisingly tender meat at mall prices, making it a budget-friendly option for quality BBQ.
Must-Try Dishes: Full Rack Baby Back Ribs, Half Chicken & Ribs Combo, Beef Short Ribs
Scores:
Value: 8.8 Service: 7.2 Consistency: 7.8 Food Quality: 7.9 Atmosphere: 6.5 Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Mall food court BBQ that rivals standalone restaurants
Who should go: Budget-conscious BBQ lovers and shoppers
When to visit: Weekday lunch for shortest lines
What to order: Baby back ribs, cornbread, mac and cheese
Insider tip: Ask for extra BBQ sauce on the side
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mall parking garage - 2 hours free with validation, $3/hour after
Dress code: Come as you are - it's a food court counter
Noise level: Loud food court atmosphere - not ideal for intimate conversation
Weekend wait: 5-10 min line at peak mall hours
Weekday lunch: Order immediately - minimal crowds
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited - coleslaw, cornbread, and mac & cheese only
Vegan options: No - all sides contain dairy or are cooked with meat
Gluten-free options: Ribs and rotisserie chicken only - no dedicated prep area
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No - food court setting lacks ambiance and it's too casual. Save it for established relationships who appreciate good cheap eats.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations - it's counter service. Finding seating in the food court can be challenging during weekend mall rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Perfect for families - food court setting means kids can be loud, high chairs available, and the mild BBQ sauce works for young palates.
Best For
Better for: Unbeatable value - you're getting $25 BBQ restaurant quality for $12 mall prices
Consider Alternatives If: You want ambiance, craft beer selection, or extensive side options - head to a standalone BBQ joint instead

Hours

Monday11am - 10pm
Tuesday11am - 10pm
Wednesday11am - 10pm
Thursday11am - 10pm
Friday11am - 10pm
Saturday11am - 10pm
Sunday11am - 10pm