ZipPicks Awards
Best American in Roseland
Master Critic Review
Lexington Betty Smokehouse
8.1
A Pullman smokehouse anchored by brisket-and-rib culture with a Chicago-meets-Southern comfort side bench. Order like a pit regular—one smoked meat, one standout side, one sauce lane—so the balance stays tight and the smoke reads clean.
Must-Try Dishes:
Rib tips, Brisket, Mac and cheese
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Smokehouse barbecue built around brisket, ribs, and rib-tip energy.
Who should go: BBQ fans who prioritize smoked meats over polish.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner for the widest availability.
What to order: Rib tips, brisket, mac and cheese
Insider tip: Keep sides focused—one creamy, one greens/yams-style for balance.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking nearby; generally manageable in Pullman, but it can tighten up during peak dinner hours—arrive a little early if you want an easy spot close to the door.
Dress code: Casual comfort—jeans and sneakers totally fine. Wear something you don’t mind getting a little smoky/BBQ-sauced if you’re going rib tips or ribs.
Noise level: Moderate—lively when busy, but you can still hold a normal conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 20-40 min during peak hours (longer if you show up right at the dinner rush).
Weekday lunch: 0-15 min typically, with the smoothest flow earlier in the lunch window.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—more side-driven than entree-driven (think mac and cheese, greens-style sides, and other comfort sides). Best for vegetarians who are fine building a plate from sides.
Vegan options: Very limited—most of the menu is smokehouse meat + rich comfort sides. Call ahead or be prepared to piece together a simple sides-only order.
Gluten-free options: Possible but not guaranteed—some smoked meats may be gluten-free depending on rubs/sauces, but cross-contact risk is real in a BBQ kitchen. Ask for sauce guidance and keep the order simple.
Best For
Better for: Smoke-forward BBQ satisfaction—brisket/ribs/rib-tip energy with comfort sides that feel Chicago-meets-Southern. It’s the spot when you want real pit flavor and a tight, no-nonsense BBQ plate.
Consider Alternatives If: Skip if you need a quiet, upscale dining room, lots of vegan/vegetarian choices, or a ‘light’ meal. Choose an alternative when your group wants broad dietary flexibility or a more polished full-service night out.