Parks Old Style Bar-B-Q

For over four decades, Parks BBQ has been a staple in my life, a tradition introduced by my mother when I was just a toddler. The nostalgia and loyalty I've held for this establishment are deeply rooted, intertwined with countless memories of flavorsome ribs and warm, welcoming service. However, it's with a heavy heart that I pen this review, marking the end of an era for me and Parks BBQ. Over the past few years, a noticeable decline has marred what used to be a consistent and delightful experience. The once impeccable service has now become a shadow of its former self, characterized by indifference and a lack of professionalism that was unthinkable in the past. This steep descent in customer service quality has been a hard pill to swallow. Equally disconcerting are the erratic operating hours that have become a norm rather than an exception. On two separate occasions this week, I found the doors shut well before the posted closing time, a frustration that many patrons should not have to endure. Such unreliability is not only inconvenient but also disheartening for longtime fans of the restaurant. The culinary standards, too, have not been spared in this decline. The ribs, once the highlight of their menu, now often arrive overcooked, lacking the succulent juiciness that once had patrons coming back for more. This drop in food quality, coupled with the astronomical rise in prices post-pandemic, leaves much to be desired. A half slab now costing over $30—a stark 50% increase above the national average for BBQ joints—feels not just unjustified but exploitative.

In a world still reeling from the effects of the pandemic, one would hope for some semblance of understanding and value from establishments like Parks BBQ. Instead, the exorbitant prices seem disconnected from the current economic reality many face, further alienating a once-loyal customer base. Today, I made the difficult decision to no longer patronize Parks BBQ. This decision wasn't made lightly but out of a realization that the respect and value once given to customers have dwindled to an all-time low. The sense of community, once the backbone of Parks BBQ, seems to have faded into obscurity. It saddens me greatly to turn away from a place that once felt like home, filled with cherished memories and shared meals. However, respect and quality are paramount, and as such, my journey with Parks BBQ ends here. I hope, for future patrons and perhaps for the establishment itself, that this feedback serves as a wake-up call to revisit and revitalize the core values that once made Parks BBQ a beloved destination.