Southbank Original Barbecue

Christian Von Spaamdump III, Jr.

Three stars is generous. Great facility which looks like a real Southern BBQ shack with a similar atmosphere and decor. Right on the Fox River with a huge outdoor biergarten including two separate bar areas (one covered) and picnic tables. Good venue for live music. Awful service. Seemed short-staffed. Older waitress, who was working hard but struggling and clearly frustrated to serve almost 20 tables and all food orders, while younger waitresses stood in unproductive groups talking at length, indicates no manager on duty. Only BBQ on a summer weekend was a small cold serving of pulled pork with what tasted like small sides that had not been freshly prepared. Only other thing on the menu was broasted chicken. One bartender was clearly stoned out of her gourd, taking 20-30 minutes to serve a beer to only four people at the back bar. Little BBQ or fresh sides at a BBQ joint?. Needs a call to Bar Rescue.

John M

These guys have a really special spot on the river. If they had better food this place could really be something. It's low quality bar BBQ. All 3 of our meals were cold. People are super nice, so it's too bad.

Thomas Howard

Great spot by the river. The meat was good but kinda warm at best. The Mac N cheese was cold and tasted like box mix. With a tip it was almost $40 with no alcohol. Expected better for the price. Edit: Nice reply. This is called a review, and judging from the others, looks like we weren't the only ones with this issue. Maybe you should address the ongoing issues you have instead of attacking your reviewers.

Ashley D.

Prime real estate right in the river- the twinkle lights and outdoor decorating is such a great atmosphere. A perk to be right next to the river as well with a great view. However, the food was just ok. Would definitely come back at least for drinks and live music!