Sweet Pork Wilson's Lakeside (Lorain) — Restaurant in Lorain

Sweet Pork Wilson’s took over the old Jackalope spot by the marina, and I had high hopes for a real BBQ joint in such a gorgeous location. Sadly, it’s still basically the old Jackalope — same half-baked nautical theme, same uncomfortable patio furniture, no southern charm or smokehouse character. The view of the marina, lighthouse, and sunset is still stunning, but the food and experience don’t match it.

We started with smoked wings (good flavor, tender, but overly salty from the rub and sauce combo) and fried pickles (fine, nothing special). Cocktails had to be requested — we ordered the Pitmaster Punch, which was solid, but it showed up halfway through our appetizers despite being ordered well before. For mains, we tried the pulled pork sandwich (I asked for slaw on the side, it came on the sandwich anyway; small portion of dry pork, sauce did all the work) and the half rack of ribs (tough, membrane still on, nowhere near the fall-off-the-bone quality you’d expect — honestly a chain BBQ place does better ribs). Sides were okay, but nothing memorable.

All in, it was a $100 meal with tip, and it simply wasn’t worth it. I’ve always believed restaurants get one chance at a first impression, and this one left me disappointed. The Jackalope curse strikes again — a mediocre restaurant in a prime location. You barely even know the place is there, and if it doesn’t step up its game, it won’t...

I so wanted to love this place. Bbq is one of my favorites and was looking forward to having something good close to home. Sadly, from the moment we walked it it wasn't good vibes. We were greeted right away, and staff said please seat yourself and ill bring by menus. We sat outside for almost 15 minutes before we even got menus. Place looked like they took over the old Jackalopes , turned key without cleaning and opened shop. Outside windows, filthy. Outside tables, wobbly. Rugs indoors, needs a good shampoo or replacement. Our server was wearing short shorts and did not feel like a family friendly atmosphere. After she took our order we didnt see her back.ay our table for a long time . Kitchen staff brought out food. I didnt receive all my items and waiting approximately 15 to 20 minutes to come check how our food was. My wings were good. Meat sampler had pulled pork and brisket. Very dry and served with no sauce. This lakefront has great potential, but might need to get kitchen rescue in to get it up to par. Good luck. Oh and the outdoor heater...

Tried this new BBQ spot and left feeling pretty underwhelmed.

I started with the fried pickles, which were actually really good — I’d definitely recommend those. I also ordered the house BBQ smoked wings. They weren’t terrible, but honestly just okay, and not what I’d expect from a true BBQ restaurant.

For dinner, I had the ribs with mac & cheese and smashed potatoes. The sides were solid (both the mac and potatoes were tasty), but the ribs were disappointing — again, just okay. To be honest, I’ve had way better ribs at Mission BBQ, and that’s a chain.

We sat on the patio where a live band was playing. While I appreciate the idea, it was so loud we couldn’t even have a conversation. We actually heard several other tables complaining about the same thing, so it wasn’t just us. Having live music is nice, but the volume was over the top and really took away from the experience.

Overall, the food and atmosphere didn’t justify the price. It wasn’t terrible, but nothing that would make me want to come back...