Rick’s Barbecue isn’t just a place to grab a meal; it’s a celebration of authentic smoky flavors and time-honored grilling traditions. From the moment you step inside, the aroma of hickory-smoked meats and tangy sauces envelops you, promising a culinary experience that delights both casual diners and barbecue aficionados.
The menu at Rick’s offers a diverse selection of dishes crafted with premium cuts of meat and a dedication to slow cooking that brings out the deepest, richest flavors. Whether you crave tender ribs falling off the bone or a perfectly charred brisket, Rick’s Barbecue menu has something to satisfy every craving.
Beyond the meats, the sides and sauces elevate the meal, providing the perfect balance between smoky, sweet, spicy, and savory. The chefs here understand the importance of crafting each element with care, ensuring every bite is a harmony of textures and tastes.
For those who appreciate traditional barbecue or are eager to explore new flavor combinations, Rick’s menu offers an inviting and mouthwatering journey.
With an emphasis on fresh ingredients and expert preparation, Rick’s Barbecue menu invites you to experience the art of barbecue at its finest. The following sections dive deep into the different facets of the menu, from signature dishes and sides to drinks and desserts, highlighting what makes Rick’s a standout destination for barbecue lovers everywhere.
Signature Meat Selections
The heart of Rick’s Barbecue menu lies in its expertly smoked meats. Each selection is slow-cooked to perfection, ensuring maximum tenderness and a rich, smoky flavor profile.
Whether it’s the classic ribs or the house-special brisket, the quality of meat and the mastery of smoking techniques are evident in every bite.
Rick’s prides itself on using locally sourced, high-quality cuts that undergo a meticulous seasoning and smoking process. The wood smoked over hickory and oak imparts a distinctive aroma and taste that sets Rick’s apart from other barbecue joints.
Each meat dish is paired with house-made sauces that complement the natural flavors without overpowering them. From a spicy chipotle to a tangy vinegar-based sauce, options abound to suit varying palates.
Ribs
Rick’s ribs are a customer favorite, known for their fall-off-the-bone tenderness and a perfect bark formed by hours of slow smoking. The ribs are dry-rubbed with a blend of spices that enhance the meat’s natural flavors before being smoked low and slow for up to six hours.
“The secret to our ribs is patience and attention to detail—true barbecue is a labor of love,” says Rick, the owner and pitmaster.
Served with your choice of sauce or dry-rubbed, the ribs come in full or half racks, making them ideal for sharing or indulging solo. The balance between smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy notes creates a memorable experience.
Brisket
The brisket at Rick’s is another highlight, featuring slices that are juicy and tender with a pronounced smoke ring. The meat is trimmed carefully to retain the perfect amount of fat, which melts during the cooking process to keep the brisket moist.
- Cooked for 10-12 hours over a hickory and oak wood blend
- Seasoned with a secret dry rub recipe
- Served with pickles and onions for added texture and flavor
- Available in sandwich or platter form
The brisket is a must-try for those who appreciate a classic Texas-style barbecue experience with authentic smoky richness.
Pulled Pork
Rick’s pulled pork is shredded fresh from a well-smoked pork shoulder, tender enough to melt in your mouth. The pork is cooked slowly until it reaches the ideal pull-apart texture, then tossed lightly with a tangy barbecue sauce.
This dish works beautifully as a sandwich filling or as a plated entrée with traditional sides. Its versatility and bold flavor make it a popular choice for both new visitors and regulars.
| Meat | Smoking Time | Flavor Profile | Serving Style |
| Ribs | 5-6 hours | Smoky, sweet, slightly spicy | Full/Half rack with sauce options |
| Brisket | 10-12 hours | Deep smoky, tender, juicy | Platter or sandwich |
| Pulled Pork | 8-9 hours | Tangy, smoky, tender | Sandwich or plate |
Delicious Side Dishes
While the meats are the stars of the show, Rick’s side dishes provide the perfect accompaniment to round out the meal. The sides are crafted with the same care and attention to flavor, ensuring each complements the smoky richness of the barbecue.
Many sides at Rick’s are made fresh daily, using seasonal and local produce whenever possible. From creamy mac and cheese to tangy coleslaw, the variety caters to all tastes, balancing textures and flavors beautifully.
These sides not only provide variety but also highlight Rick’s commitment to quality and authenticity in every component of the menu.
Mac and Cheese
The mac and cheese at Rick’s is a creamy delight, featuring a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses that melt perfectly into a rich sauce. This side is baked to a golden-brown crust, adding a slight crunch that contrasts with the creamy interior.
Made from scratch with quality pasta and real cheese, it’s a comfort food favorite that pairs wonderfully with the smoky meats.
Coleslaw
Rick’s coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the heavier barbecue dishes. It’s made with finely shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing that balances sweetness and acidity.
- Made fresh daily
- No preservatives or artificial flavors
- Perfect palate cleanser between meat bites
The crisp texture and bright flavor of the coleslaw add a necessary lightness to the meal.
Baked Beans
The baked beans are slow-cooked with a smoky base and a hint of sweetness, often enhanced with bits of bacon for added savoriness. This side is hearty and rich, providing a deep flavor that complements the meats perfectly.
Many customers consider the baked beans a must-have, as they embody the rustic spirit of true barbecue cuisine.
Appetizers and Starters
Starting your meal at Rick’s with a thoughtfully prepared appetizer sets the tone for the barbecue feast ahead. The starters are designed to tease the palate with bold flavors and interesting textures.
Rick’s offers a selection of classic southern-style appetizers, each crafted to maintain the authenticity that defines the entire menu. Whether you’re sharing with friends or looking for a light beginning, these options satisfy cravings without overwhelming.
The appetizers showcase Rick’s dedication to quality and flavor from the very first bite.
Smoked Wings
Rick’s smoked wings are a standout starter, slow-cooked to tender perfection before being tossed in a house-made sauce.
- Choice of sauces: spicy buffalo, honey BBQ, or dry rub
- Served with celery sticks and ranch dressing
- Perfectly smoky with a crispy skin
The wings maintain an ideal balance of smoky flavor and saucy tang, making them a crowd favorite.
BBQ Nachos
For a shareable option, the BBQ nachos are loaded with pulled pork, melted cheese, jalapeños, and drizzled with barbecue sauce. This dish combines smoky, spicy, and cheesy elements in every bite.
Great for groups or as a hearty starter, these nachos highlight the versatility of barbecue flavors beyond traditional plates.
Fried Pickles
Fried pickles offer a crunchy, tangy contrast to the smoky meats. Lightly battered and fried until golden, they come with a zesty dipping sauce that enhances their flavor.
“Our fried pickles are a nod to southern hospitality—crispy, tangy, and addictive,” shares Rick.
This appetizer is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of texture and zest before diving into the main courses.
Crafted Sauces and Condiments
Sauces are integral to the barbecue experience, and Rick’s menu features an array of house-made condiments designed to complement each meat perfectly. These sauces range from sweet and smoky to fiery and tangy, catering to diverse preferences.
The sauces are crafted in-house using fresh ingredients, avoiding artificial additives. This attention to detail ensures that each sauce enhances rather than masks the natural flavors of the smoked meats.
Rick encourages diners to experiment with sauces, allowing them to customize their meals for a truly personal barbecue experience.
Classic BBQ Sauce
The classic barbecue sauce at Rick’s is a balanced blend of tomato, molasses, vinegar, and spices. It offers a mild sweetness with a gentle tang and a smoky undertone that pairs well with all meats.
- Perfect for ribs and pulled pork
- Glazes meats without overpowering
- Made fresh daily
Spicy Chipotle Sauce
For those who like a kick, the spicy chipotle sauce combines smoky chipotle peppers with a hint of sweetness and heat. It adds depth and complexity to brisket and wings.
This sauce is crafted to build heat gradually, allowing diners to savor the flavor without overwhelming their palate.
Vinegar-Based Sauce
Inspired by traditional eastern North Carolina barbecue, the vinegar-based sauce is tangy, sharp, and slightly sweet. It cuts through the richness of the meats, providing a refreshing contrast.
“Our vinegar sauce is a tribute to the roots of barbecue—simple, bold, and unforgettable,” Rick explains.
This sauce is especially popular with pulled pork, enhancing its natural juiciness.
Beverages to Complement Your Meal
No barbecue meal is complete without the right beverage pairing, and Rick’s Barbecue menu thoughtfully includes a selection of drinks designed to enhance the dining experience. Whether you prefer something refreshing, robust, or sweet, the drink options are carefully curated.
The beverage list features classic southern favorites, local craft beers, and house-made non-alcoholic drinks. Each option is chosen to balance the smoky and often bold flavors of the barbecue dishes.
Rick’s encourages guests to experiment with pairings to find their perfect match.
Craft Beers
Rick’s offers a rotating selection of local and regional craft beers that range from light pilsners to robust stouts. These beers complement the smoky meats by adding different flavor layers.
- Light beers for cleansing the palate
- Hoppy IPAs to cut through richer dishes
- Dark ales to enhance smoky profiles
Beer lovers will find plenty of options to suit their mood and meal choice.
House-Made Lemonade
The house-made lemonade is a refreshing, slightly tart beverage made with freshly squeezed lemons and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s an ideal non-alcoholic choice to balance the richness of the barbecue.
Many customers appreciate the lemonade’s crispness, which helps cleanse the palate between bites.
Sweet Tea
A southern staple, Rick’s sweet tea is brewed fresh daily with black tea leaves and sweetened to perfection. Served over ice, it’s a classic pairing with any barbecue dish.
“Sweet tea is as essential to barbecue as smoke and sauce,” Rick notes with a smile.
This traditional drink offers a cooling contrast that enhances the overall meal experience.
Desserts to End on a Sweet Note
After a hearty barbecue feast, Rick’s dessert options provide just the right amount of sweetness to round out the meal. The desserts combine classic southern flavors with a touch of modern flair, ensuring a satisfying conclusion to your dining experience.
Each dessert is made in-house with fresh ingredients, reflecting the same care and attention as the savory dishes. The menu offers both traditional favorites and unique creations that surprise and delight.
Rick’s desserts are designed to complement the smoky flavors of the meal without overshadowing them.
Pecan Pie
Rick’s pecan pie is a rich, buttery dessert with a perfectly toasted pecan topping and a gooey filling. It’s served warm and often paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for contrast.
- Made from a family recipe
- Features locally sourced pecans
- Balances sweetness with a hint of caramel
This pie is a favorite for those seeking a deeply traditional southern dessert.
Banana Pudding
Another southern classic, the banana pudding features layers of fresh bananas, vanilla wafers, and creamy pudding. It’s chilled and topped with whipped cream for a light yet indulgent finish.
This dessert’s cool, creamy texture offers a welcome respite after a smoky, savory meal.
Chocolate Bourbon Cake
For chocolate lovers, Rick’s chocolate bourbon cake combines rich chocolate layers with a subtle bourbon-infused frosting. The cake is moist and decadent, with a warm depth provided by the bourbon.
“Our chocolate bourbon cake is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for celebrations or a special treat,” Rick shares.
This dessert brings a sophisticated touch to the menu, ideal for ending on a memorable note.
Vegetarian and Lighter Options
While barbecue is traditionally meat-heavy, Rick’s Barbecue menu also thoughtfully includes vegetarian and lighter options for guests seeking alternatives. These dishes maintain the same high standards of flavor and freshness, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
The vegetarian offerings emphasize fresh, seasonal vegetables and creative preparations that complement the rest of the menu. Meanwhile, lighter dishes provide balanced portions and healthier ingredients without compromising taste.
Rick’s commitment to inclusivity ensures that all guests, regardless of dietary preference, can enjoy a memorable meal.
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Portobello mushrooms are marinated in a smoky glaze and grilled to tender perfection. They offer a meaty texture and a deep umami flavor that appeals to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
- Served with a side of roasted vegetables
- Gluten-free and vegan-friendly
- Rich, smoky flavor without meat
Garden Salad
The garden salad features fresh, crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, tossed in a light vinaigrette. It’s an excellent lighter choice and provides a refreshing contrast to the heavier barbecue dishes.
Rick’s uses organic produce whenever possible, enhancing the salad’s natural flavors.
Veggie Plate
For a more substantial vegetarian option, the veggie plate offers a selection of seasonal grilled vegetables, baked beans, and coleslaw. It’s a balanced meal that provides variety and nutrition.
“Even our vegetarian dishes carry the spirit of barbecue—smoky, bold, and satisfying,” Rick explains.
Conclusion
Rick’s Barbecue menu represents more than just food; it embodies a passion for tradition, quality, and flavor that resonates through every dish. From the expertly smoked meats to the thoughtfully crafted sides, sauces, and desserts, the menu offers a comprehensive barbecue experience that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
Every item is prepared with care, whether it’s the slow-smoked brisket cooked to tender perfection or the house-made lemonade that refreshes and cleanses the palate. The variety of options, including vegetarian and lighter dishes, ensures that every guest finds something to love.
Rick’s Barbecue is a testament to the art of barbecue, where patience, quality ingredients, and expert technique come together to create memorable meals. This menu invites you to indulge in authentic southern flavors while enjoying the warm hospitality and inviting atmosphere that Rick’s is known for.
Whether you’re a lifelong barbecue lover or new to the scene, Rick’s promises a culinary journey marked by rich, smoky flavors and heartfelt craftsmanship.