Best Ribs Under $20: 4 Chain Restaurants to Try Now
For many, a hearty rack of ribs represents a classic indulgence. But sometimes, a full rack feels like too much – or too expensive. Fortunately, several chain restaurants offer satisfying half-rack rib dinners for under $20, providing a flavorful and affordable option for barbecue lovers. Recent reports highlight four establishments consistently praised for their value and taste, offering a welcome respite for those seeking a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
Dickey’s BBQ Pit: A Solid Choice for Hickory-Smoked Ribs
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit stands out for its commitment to traditional smoking methods, utilizing wood-burning hickory pits to impart a distinctive flavor to their ribs. A 6-piece rib meal is available for $18. Customer feedback, like a Reddit user’s assessment, describes the offering as “solid,” particularly when compared to other smokehouses across the United States. This suggests a consistent quality that appeals to barbecue enthusiasts.
Sonny’s BBQ: Variety and Value in St. Louis and Baby Back Ribs
Sonny’s BBQ distinguishes itself with a diverse menu of hickory-smoked meats, including pork, chicken, and a variety of rib styles – wet, dry, St. Louis-style, and baby back. Notably, a full order of St. Louis Ribs can be had for $17.29, while Baby Back ribs are priced at $19.49. Both options are served with classic sides like BBQ beans, coleslaw, and cornbread. This combination of choice and affordability contributes to the perception that Sonny’s offers excellent value for money. You can view their full menu here.
City Barbeque: Generous Portions and Broad Regional Influences
City Barbeque prioritizes fresh-smoked meats served in generous portions at competitive prices. A half-slab of their St. Louis-cut pork ribs, known for their “bite off the bone” tenderness, is available for $17.99 with sides. The restaurant emphasizes its commitment to showcasing the diverse landscape of barbecue traditions across the country, rather than limiting itself to a single regional style.
Mission BBQ: Patriotic Flair and Consistent Quality
Mission BBQ, operating in 23 states, has garnered praise for both the quality of its food and its patriotic theme. Five baby back ribs are available for $14.79, with sides sold separately at around $3.50 each. One diner remarked on the exceptional taste of their offerings, highlighting the restaurant’s dedication to quality barbecue. You can explore their menu here.
When seeking an affordable and satisfying half-rack rib dinner, these four chains – Dickey’s BBQ Pit, Sonny’s BBQ, City Barbeque, and Mission BBQ – consistently receive positive reviews. Each offers a unique approach to barbecue, from traditional hickory smoking to diverse regional styles, ensuring a flavorful experience for a variety of palates. The availability of these options demonstrates that enjoying a classic barbecue meal doesn’t necessarily require a significant financial investment.