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Kinder’s Meats Deli & BBQ (Parkside)
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Kinder’s Meats Deli & BBQ (Parkside)
7.8
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick-service butcher-deli famous for ball-tip—but the tequila-lime St. Louis ribs are the sleeper order. Counter service, fast ticket times, and park-adjacent convenience make it easy for takeaway rib dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tequila-Lime St. Louis Ribs (half/full rack), Ribs + Hot Link combo, BBQ beans with garlic bread
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Counter-service ribs—especially the tequila-lime style—at deli speed.
Who should go: Grab-and-go rib lovers
When to visit: Mid-afternoon lull 2–4 pm
What to order: Tequila-lime ribs; ribs + hot link; beans & slaw
Insider tip: Ribs travel well—ask for sauce on the side and extra napkins.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared surface lot and plenty of free street parking on Civic Drive; easy access during non-peak hours.
Dress code: Completely casual—come as you are, from work clothes to weekend wear.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly takeout traffic, easy to hold a conversation if dining in.
Weekend wait: 10–15 minutes for hot food prep; no formal wait since orders are counter-based.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes; busiest around 12–1 pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—some salads and sides, but this is a meat-forward deli.
Vegan options: Very limited—best to stick with basic sides like fries or salad without dressing.
Gluten-free options: Some meats and sides are naturally gluten-free; no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it’s a quick counter-service setup with limited dine-in space, better suited for casual or solo meals.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations needed. Seating is limited but turns quickly, especially mid-afternoon.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—great for families with young kids. Plenty of outdoor space nearby at Civic Park to picnic after picking up food.
Best For
Better for: Faster turnaround and lower prices than Sauced or other full-service BBQ spots in downtown Walnut Creek.
Skip if: You’re looking for a sit-down rib dinner with cocktails or a big-group sports-bar vibe—go to Sauced instead.
Kinder’s Meats Deli & BBQ (Parkside)
7.6
Counter-service deli-BBQ hybrid known for ball-tip steak sandwiches, grilled chicken, and house sauces/rubs. A quick, affordable option for takeout or a casual lunch near Civic Park.
Must-Try Dishes:
Original ball-tip steak sandwich, BBQ chicken sandwich, Rib tips (when available)
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 7.3
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Fast deli-BBQ service with signature ball-tip and house sauces.
Who should go: Lunch crowds and grab-and-go diners
When to visit: 11:15–12:00 or after 1:30 to miss the rush
What to order: Ball-tip steak sandwich, BBQ chicken sandwich, rib tips
Insider tip: Ask for extra sauce on the side to control the heat.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared surface lot behind the building with overflow spots along Civic Drive; easy midday parking on weekdays.
Dress code: Casual — work attire, gym clothes, or parkwear all fit in comfortably.
Noise level: Low to moderate — counter ordering with some chatter from takeout traffic, but easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: Typically no wait; many orders are takeout.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes during peak noon rush, otherwise immediate service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited — sides like mac & cheese or salad are available but no dedicated entrées.
Vegan options: Minimal options — stick to green salad and select sides without dressing.
Gluten-free options: Some meats and sauces are gluten-free; ask staff for ingredient details before ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal — it's a counter-service deli focused on quick meals rather than ambiance or table service.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — all seating is first come, first served. Most customers take food to go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — casual setup with easy parking and kid-approved items like grilled chicken and mac & cheese.
Best For
Better for: Faster, cheaper BBQ sandwiches and ball-tip steak than full-service spots nearby.
Skip if: You’re seeking slow-smoked brisket, plated dinners, or a sit-down BBQ experience — try Sauced instead.