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Slow N’Low BBQ
Master Critic Review
Slow N’Low BBQ
8.1
Slow N’Low BBQ is a small Arts District smoke operation turning out beef ribs, brisket, and smoked lamb from a compact counter on Traction. The focus is on long-smoked meats and straightforward sides, making it one of the few true barbecue options within 90013 when you want ribs with noticeable smoke and bark.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef ribs plate, Smoked brisket with house sauce, Pork belly bites
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Smoke-focused ribs and brisket served from a low-key Arts District counter.
Who should go: Rib fans who care more about smoke than decor.
When to visit: Early evening before popular cuts sell out.
What to order: Beef ribs plate, brisket with sides, pork belly bites.
Insider tip: Call or check recent reviews to confirm which rib cuts are available that day.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Traction Ave and surrounding Arts District blocks; generally manageable on weeknights but tighter on weekends. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—hoodies, tees, and jeans fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate; mostly counter service with steady foot traffic, but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on meat availability, but the bigger risk is items selling out rather than long lines.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though popular cuts may run low by midafternoon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited—sides like mac and cheese or coleslaw, but no true vegetarian mains.
Vegan options: Minimal options; only a few sides qualify and portions are small.
Gluten-free options: Many meats are naturally gluten-free and seasoning is straightforward, but no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date appreciates casual counter-service barbecue. The vibe is relaxed and unfussy, better for low-pressure meetups than special-occasion dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations. Seating is limited, so be prepared to take your tray outside or eat on the go during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally yes for older kids who like barbecue; no special amenities, and seating is limited, so families may prefer off-peak times.
Best For
Better for: Strong smoke flavor, well-rendered bark, and straightforward, no-frills ribs that outperform more polished but less smoky options nearby.
Skip if: You want a full-service dining room, larger groups needing guaranteed seating, or diners requiring strong vegetarian or vegan options.