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Smitty's Grill
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Smitty's Grill
8.0
Since 2002, this beloved neighborhood spot serves elevated American comfort fare with Wine Spectator-awarded selections. Iron skillet cornbread and homemade chicken pot pie embody the cozy booth atmosphere locals cherish.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Pot Pie, BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Iron Skillet Cornbread
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Wine Spectator Award winner with 20+ year legacy
Who should go: Families and comfort food enthusiasts
When to visit: Early dinner to avoid wait times
What to order: Pot pie, cornbread, grilled artichoke
Insider tip: Valet parking available for $8
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet $8, self-parking in adjacent structure, street parking fills up after 5:30pm
Dress code: Casual comfortable, anything from nice jeans to business casual works
Noise level: Moderate buzz - lively but conversation-friendly
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation, call-ahead seating available
Weekday lunch: No wait before 12:30pm, 10-15 min during rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several pasta, salad, and veggie-forward options
Vegan options: Limited - can modify salads and sides, ask server
Gluten-free options: Yes - marked menu items, GF buns available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - cozy booths offer privacy, wine list impresses without intimidating, and comfort food creates relaxed atmosphere. Not too loud, not too quiet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch usually fine, dinner gets busy after 6pm. Bar seating often available for walk-ins. Weekend reservations strongly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Very - kids menu, crayons provided, high chairs available. Family-heavy before 7pm. Staff accommodating with special requests.
Best For
Better for: Wine selection beats most casual spots, cornbread is destination-worthy, more polished service than typical American comfort restaurants
Skip if: You want cutting-edge cuisine, need late-night dining (closes 9pm), or prefer modern minimalist ambiance over traditional comfort
Smitty's Grill
7.8
No-frills counter-service spot serving messy, satisfying baby back ribs with tangy house sauce since 2007. The casual strip mall location and generous portions make this a reliable choice for office workers seeking quick, affordable BBQ without compromising on flavor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baby Back Rib Plate, BBQ Chicken Combo, Pulled Pork Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Authentic BBQ execution at fast-casual prices with generous portions
Who should go: Budget-conscious diners and busy professionals needing quick lunch
When to visit: Weekday lunch to avoid dinner rush lines
What to order: Baby back plate with coleslaw, cornbread, extra sauce
Insider tip: Order the rib tips on Thursdays when they smoke extra batches
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free strip mall lot with 20+ spaces, fills up 12-1pm weekdays
Dress code: Casual - work clothes fine, many come in business attire for lunch
Noise level: Moderate - counter-service setup keeps it conversational
Weekend wait: 15-20 min typical, counter-service moves quickly
Weekday lunch: 5-10 min during peak (12-1pm), no wait off-peak
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - veggie sides only (coleslaw, beans, cornbread)
Vegan options: Very limited - most sides contain dairy, call ahead
Gluten-free options: Ribs and some sides work, but shared fryer/prep surfaces
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal - counter-service setup and messy ribs make it better for casual hangouts than romantic dates. Save it for when you're already comfortable together.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed - it's counter-service. Order at the counter, grab a table while they prepare your food. Only gets tight during weekday lunch rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - casual atmosphere, quick service, and kids love the ribs. No high chairs but booths work for families. Gets messy so bring wipes.
Best For
Better for: Speed and value - you get authentic BBQ flavor in under 15 minutes at prices that won't break your lunch budget. Perfect when you want real smokehouse quality without the sit-down restaurant wait or price tag.
Skip if: You want a full-service BBQ experience with table service, craft cocktails, or date-night ambiance. This is grab-and-go efficiency, not a leisurely meal destination.