The Spare Rib in Commack has carved out a distinctive niche in the local dining scene, celebrated for its hearty American barbecue offerings and warm, inviting atmosphere. This beloved restaurant is well-known for crafting a menu that expertly balances traditional flavors with modern culinary twists, making it a go-to destination for both casual diners and barbecue aficionados.
Whether you’re craving slow-cooked ribs, smoked meats, or satisfying sides, The Spare Rib delivers quality and flavor in every bite. Its commitment to fresh ingredients and meticulous preparation shines through in every dish, promising an unforgettable dining experience.
Beyond just the food, The Spare Rib’s menu reflects a deep respect for barbecue culture, incorporating classic techniques alongside innovative recipes. As you explore the menu, you’ll find an array of options that cater to diverse tastes, from succulent pork ribs to vegetarian-friendly sides.
The restaurant’s dedication to exceptional service and consistent quality makes it a standout choice in Commack’s culinary landscape. For those seeking robust flavors paired with a welcoming environment, The Spare Rib’s menu offers a perfect balance of comfort and creativity.
Signature Barbecue Entrées
The heart of The Spare Rib’s menu lies in its signature barbecue entrées, where slow-smoking techniques and expert seasoning come together to create memorable dishes. These entrées highlight the restaurant’s dedication to classic barbecue traditions while incorporating nuanced flavors that elevate each plate.
Each entrée is prepared using premium cuts of meat, carefully marinated and smoked for hours to ensure tenderness and a rich smoky flavor. The menu features a variety of options to satisfy different preferences, including pork ribs, beef brisket, and chicken, all served with house-made sauces that complement the meats perfectly.
The Spare Rib takes pride in its balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy barbecue sauces, allowing guests to customize their meals according to their taste. The portions are generous, designed to provide a fulfilling and hearty dining experience.
Popular Entrée Highlights
- St. Louis Style Ribs: Fall-off-the-bone tender with a smoky crust and a signature dry rub.
- Texas Beef Brisket: Slow-smoked for 12 hours, offering a deep smoky flavor and a succulent bite.
- Barbecue Chicken: Marinated overnight and grilled to perfection, glazed with the house barbecue sauce.
- Pulled Pork Sandwich: Slow-cooked pork shoulder, shredded and served with coleslaw on a toasted bun.
“Our barbecue entrées are more than just meals—they’re an experience crafted with passion, tradition, and a commitment to excellence.”
Appetizers and Starters
The Spare Rib’s appetizers set the tone for a satisfying meal, offering a variety of small plates that showcase bold flavors and quality ingredients. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo, these starters prepare the palate for the rich barbecue dishes to come.
From crispy fried delights to smoky bites, the appetizers are designed to complement the main courses while providing a taste of the restaurant’s culinary creativity. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted to balance textures and flavors, using fresh produce and house-made sauces.
Whether you prefer something light or crave a more indulgent appetizer, the menu offers options that cater to different appetites and preferences.
Appetizer Selections
- Smoked Wings: Tossed in a spicy dry rub or classic barbecue sauce, served with ranch dip.
- Fried Pickles: Lightly battered and served with a tangy remoulade sauce.
- Loaded Potato Skins: Topped with cheddar, bacon, scallions, and sour cream.
- Barbecue Nachos: Tortilla chips layered with smoked brisket, cheese, jalapeños, and drizzled with barbecue sauce.
| Appetizer | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
| Smoked Wings | Spicy and smoky | Light beer or iced tea |
| Fried Pickles | Crispy and tangy | Barbecue chicken entrée |
| Loaded Potato Skins | Rich and savory | Bold red wine or cola |
| Barbecue Nachos | Smoky and cheesy | Craft beer or lemonade |
Side Dishes
The Spare Rib’s side dishes are essential companions to the main barbecue offerings, providing balance and added texture to the meal. These sides range from classic Southern staples to innovative vegetable preparations, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Each side is prepared with care, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. The menu’s diversity allows diners to customize their plates, mixing and matching sides to complement their entrée of choice.
The sides help round out the meal, offering a variety of flavors from creamy to tangy and crunchy to tender.
Popular Side Options
- Macaroni and Cheese: A creamy blend of cheeses baked to golden perfection.
- Baked Beans: Slow-cooked with smoky bacon and a hint of molasses.
- Coleslaw: Crisp and refreshing with a light, tangy dressing.
- Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet and buttery, perfect for soaking up sauces.
“Our sides are crafted to complement the boldness of our barbecue, bringing harmony to every plate.”
Salads and Lighter Fare
For those seeking lighter options, The Spare Rib offers a selection of salads and healthier dishes that do not compromise on flavor. These choices provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the barbecue entrées.
Each salad features fresh, crisp vegetables and thoughtfully paired ingredients that highlight seasonal availability. Dressings are house-made, designed to enhance rather than overpower the natural flavors of the produce.
The lighter fare is perfect for guests who want a balanced meal or simply prefer something less heavy but still satisfying.
Salad Menu Highlights
- Barbecue Chicken Salad: Mixed greens topped with grilled barbecue chicken, corn, black beans, and a smoky vinaigrette.
- House Salad: Fresh lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions with choice of dressing.
- Southwest Quinoa Salad: Quinoa mixed with avocado, corn, black beans, and cilantro-lime dressing.
- Caesar Salad: Classic romaine with Parmesan, croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing.
| Salad | Calories | Key Ingredients |
| Barbecue Chicken Salad | 450 | Grilled chicken, black beans, corn, mixed greens |
| House Salad | 180 | Lettuce, tomato, cucumber, red onion |
| Southwest Quinoa Salad | 350 | Quinoa, avocado, black beans, corn |
| Caesar Salad | 320 | Romaine, Parmesan, croutons, Caesar dressing |
Desserts
The Spare Rib rounds out its menu with a thoughtfully curated selection of desserts that provide a sweet finish to the savory meal. These desserts combine traditional favorites with unique touches that reflect the restaurant’s commitment to quality.
Each dessert is freshly made, using premium ingredients to ensure the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Whether you prefer rich chocolate, fruity flavors, or classic comfort desserts, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
The dessert menu offers indulgent options that provide a delightful conclusion to the dining experience.
Featured Desserts
- Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie: A decadent twist on a Southern classic with a hint of bourbon.
- Peach Cobbler: Made with fresh peaches and a buttery crust, served warm with vanilla ice cream.
- Banana Pudding: Creamy layers of banana and vanilla wafers topped with whipped cream.
- Cheesecake: Classic New York-style cheesecake with a graham cracker crust.
“Our desserts are the perfect finale—comforting, indulgent, and made with love.”
Beverage Selection
The Spare Rib’s beverage menu complements its robust food offerings with a variety of drinks designed to enhance the dining experience. From craft beers to signature cocktails, the drink options are carefully chosen to pair well with the smoky and savory flavors of the barbecue.
Non-alcoholic beverages are also available, featuring fresh juices, sodas, and iced teas made in-house. The drink menu caters to all tastes, ensuring that every guest finds the perfect refreshment.
Whether you prefer a carefully curated wine, a cold beer, or a creative cocktail, the beverage selection at The Spare Rib adds a dynamic element to the meal.
Drink Pairing Recommendations
| Beverage | Best Paired With | Taste Profile |
| Craft IPA | Brisket and ribs | Bitter, hoppy, citrus notes |
| Red Zinfandel | Pulled pork and barbecue chicken | Bold, fruity, spicy |
| Sweet Tea | All barbecue entrées | Sweet, refreshing |
| Signature Bourbon Cocktail | Ribs and smoked meats | Smoky, slightly sweet, balanced |
Special Dietary Options
The Spare Rib is attentive to the needs of guests with dietary restrictions, offering a range of options that accommodate gluten-free, vegetarian, and other special diets. The kitchen works diligently to ensure these dishes maintain the same flavor and quality as the rest of the menu.
Vegetarian options often include hearty salads, vegetable sides, and plant-based dishes that provide satisfying alternatives without sacrificing taste. Gluten-free diners can enjoy specially prepared entrées and sides marked clearly on the menu.
This commitment to inclusivity allows The Spare Rib to welcome a diverse clientele while maintaining high culinary standards.
Dietary-Friendly Menu Items
- Grilled Vegetable Platter: Seasonal vegetables grilled and seasoned with herbs.
- Gluten-Free Pulled Pork Plate: Served without bread, accompanied by gluten-free sides.
- Quinoa Salad: Naturally gluten-free and packed with fresh flavors.
- Vegan Baked Beans: Prepared without animal products, full of smoky flavor.
“We believe great barbecue should be accessible to everyone, regardless of dietary needs.”
Conclusion
The Spare Rib in Commack offers a meticulously crafted menu that embodies the best of American barbecue traditions while embracing contemporary culinary trends. Every aspect of the menu—from the signature smoked meats to the vibrant salads and decadent desserts—reflects a deep commitment to quality and flavor.
The restaurant’s focus on fresh ingredients, expert preparation, and accommodating diverse dietary preferences makes it a standout culinary destination.
By providing generous portions, robust flavors, and thoughtful pairings, The Spare Rib ensures that each visit is a memorable experience. Whether you’re indulging in the tender ribs, savoring a refreshing salad, or finishing with a rich dessert, the menu offers something that appeals to every palate.
The inclusion of well-paired beverages and special dietary options further enhances the dining journey, making The Spare Rib a place where guests feel valued and satisfied.
Ultimately, The Spare Rib’s menu is more than just a list of dishes—it’s a celebration of barbecue culture and community spirit, inviting diners to share in a warm, flavorful experience that keeps them coming back for more.
