Chicken in a Barrel BBQ- Garden City — Restaurant in Garden City

I've visited this restaurant twice now. After my first experience, I decided to cut them some slack since they had just opened and I didn’t want to be overly critical. However, the food left much to be desired. The chicken was undercooked to the point where there was actual blood - not the pinkish hue you get from smoking, but real blood. The chili beans had a nice flavor, but the portion was disappointingly small, and the rice was bland. I also ordered a side of cornbread, which was handed to me at the counter, wrapped in cellophane. They couldn’t heat it up, nor did they have butter to go with it. The cornbread was so dry it crumbled apart.

On that visit, a young man who was working his first day did his best to be polite and welcoming. He greeted me and let me know he’d be with me shortly, which I appreciated. Unfortunately, the owner - who was busy cooking and plating for a party of six in the lobby - offered no guidance to his employee and didn’t acknowledge me at all. While I could see they were overwhelmed, basic acknowledgment from the owner would have gone a long way.

Despite my first experience, I decided to give them another chance because I did like the flavor of the chicken and the barbecue sauce. My second visit was either Friday or Saturday this past weekend, about 30 minutes before closing. At that time, there was only a party of two dining in and one person waiting for a to-go order. However, six people were gathered at the register, waiting to be served. The owner was in the back cooking, clearly working alone.

I was prepared to wait, understanding the challenges of being short-staffed, but what I couldn’t excuse was the lack of acknowledgment. The owner made eye contact with us multiple times yet said nothing - no greeting, no apology for the delay, no reassurance that he’d be with us soon. Just silence. Basic customer service, such as acknowledging your customers, can make all the difference, but that didn’t happen.

For me, this was the final straw. I don’t mind being patient, especially for a new business working out its kinks, but ignoring your customers is unacceptable. My decision not to return isn’t because the owner was overwhelmed; it’s because of his poor customer service. I gave them a second chance, but they failed to deliver, not on speed, but on respect for...

Very promising!!! Chicken in a Barrel is a welcome addition to Garden City and the greater Boise area! I tried the sampler plate of chicken, pulled pork and beef, a baby back rib, homemade chili and brown rice. I really loved the chili, it wasn’t heavy and it was packed with tons of flavor. The meat is served “naked” and they offer their original sauce which I loved. It was a nice combination of smokey sweet that I really enjoyed. They offer a “hot” version that I didn’t try. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED the baby back rib and next time I would definitely order the full or half rack a la cart without hesitation!! The chicken was perfectly cooked and delicious! I found the pulled beef and pork salty for my taste and I really hope that isn’t the norm. I have a feeling it’s not because everything else was perfectly seasoned. The brown rice was average. The service was above and beyond as I had a little difficulty finding the restaurant in the newly built building. I called them and an employee actually came outside to look for me! The restaurant is casual with an open concept. I’m very excited for their large outside patio area that will be a great place to eat when the weather warms up. Chicken in a Barrel also offers a Keiki (kids) Menu, various sides and an either a mixed green or caesar salad. TIP - park in the dirt lot at the end of the road and walk across to the apartment building keeping towards the left side. The restaurant is located on the left side of...

I had the pleasure of visiting Chicken in the Barrel BBQ, and it’s clear from the moment you walk in that this isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a community. Owners Mike and Patrick have created something truly special: a laid-back, homey environment that welcomes you exactly as you are. Their vision is more than just serving great food (though the BBQ is absolutely top-notch); it’s about creating a space where people can relax, feel at home, and connect. Whether you’re there for a quiet meal or to catch up with friends, the atmosphere invites you to breathe easy and just be yourself. What really stands out is the heart behind the business. Mike and Patrick openly share the Christian-based values that guide their work—not in a pushy way, but as a genuine reflection of who they are. Their approach is inclusive and deeply respectful, striking a beautiful balance between sharing their beliefs and honoring each guest's individuality. You leave Chicken in the Barrel not just full from the meal, but refreshed by the warmth and authenticity of the experience. It’s rare to find a place where the food, the people, and the purpose all come together so naturally. Mike and Patrick are doing something truly meaningful here, and it’s exciting to see where they take it next. Highly recommended—for the BBQ, and for the...