TLDR
KC-style BBQ joint w/ standout burnt ends & ribs [1]. Some say best in NYC, others cite inconsistency & dryness [3], [4]. Lively vibe.
Will Hartman reviews John Brown BBQ, a Kansas City-style smokehouse in Long Island City, particularly recommending the brisket burnt ends and ribs, while finding the brisket itself a bit dry.
Details
John Brown BBQ, a Kansas City-style smokehouse, offers a lively atmosphere, especially on Sundays with football games [1]. While known for its BBQ, opinions are mixed, with some hailing it as the best in NYC [1], [2], while others find the quality inconsistent and dishes dry [3], [4]. Standout items include the burnt ends and ribs [1], [5], alongside popular sides like cornbread and mac 'n' cheese [6].
Food Overview
John Brown BBQ is a Kansas City-style smokehouse with a focus on traditional BBQ. Praised dishes include their fatty brisket, good sausage, cole slaw, burnt ends, and ribs [5], [7]. The cornbread souffle is also a highlight [8]. However, some patrons find the BBQ itself forgettable or dry, with inconsistent quality reported [4], [3], [2]. The pastrami has also been described as dry and stringy [1].
Caveats
Some long-time patrons have noted a decline in quality, with dishes becoming dry and subpar. This is attributed to decreased customer traffic, potentially leading to less fresh preparation throughout the day. Ordering by phone can also be difficult due to long holds and hang-ups [3], [4].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About JOHN BROWN BBQ
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Best Tender Bbq In Nyc Hometowns Quality Fell Off
"This commenter finds John Brown's cornbread to be the best they've had and their ribs quite good."
PositiveFrom post: Best Tender Bbq In Nyc Hometowns Quality Fell Off
"This user believes John Brown's cornbread is possibly the best they've encountered and also enjoys their barbecue."
PositiveFrom post: Best Tender Bbq In Nyc Hometowns Quality Fell Off
"This user agrees that both positive and negative comments about John Brown BBQ can be true, implying a mixed experience."
NeutralFrom post: Best Tender Bbq In Nyc Hometowns Quality Fell Off
"This user claims John Brown's burnt ends are excellent."
PositiveFrom post: Best Tender Bbq In Nyc Hometowns Quality Fell Off
"This user states that the pastrami at John Brown BBQ is 'pretty bomb'."
Positive