J & J BBQ & Catering — Restaurant in Nelson

I read the reviews before trying this place and had some pretty high expectations. Sadly, on this particular evening, this popular bbq joint didn't measure up to its hype. The service was fair, at best. The wait was lengthier than the other patrons due to what I can only assume was a mix up in the kitchen. Somehow our order fell out of rotation and sat, while at least 10 later orders were filled and delivered. This resulted in our food being Luke warm at best. $32.00 for a meal...cold food is not acceptable. We requested a re-heat and got our food back promptly, warmer, but still not hot. Hmmm... the brisket was tender and had fairly good flavor, but nothing to write home about. The pulled pork was rather fatty which probably helped to keep it moist, but did nothing for the flavor. It was quite bland. The beans were pretty good, the coleslaw and potato salad lackluster. Overall I'd say the meal was average, at best. Judging by the response of the other patrons, I'd say my opinion matched the majority's. That being said, I will give this place another try, because anyone can have a bad night. For now I will give them 3 stars because I can't...

Such a disappointment! We had been talking about trying this place for over a year and on Father's Day we were ready to make the 85 mile one way drive! Since it was Father's Day, and many places do have special hours, I checked the website and confirmed they were open until 6, and we estimated we would arrive before 4. Off we went for a beautiful drive. What a SHOCK it was when we walked to the door and a handwritten sign posted on the door "Closed at 3 for Father's Day."

I immediately called and left message and asked for the owner to call me as I wanted an explanation as to why the website stated open till 6 and yet they were closed at 340 when we arrived. I called one week later and left a second message, but still no response. While I want everyone to enjoy Father's Day and understand closing early, but why didn't the website indicate same? Seems the least the owner could do as apologize that his website and sign on the door didn't match! We drove round trip 170 miles and the owner doesn't think we deserve a phone call? Seems very...

We have heard a lot about this place and how they have "The best ribs on the river" so thought we should make the trip and see for ourselves. We were NOT disappointed. This is the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon. We went for the Easter Buffet to try several of their specialty items. They offered Ribs, Ham, Chicken, Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese, Mashed Potatoes, Baked Beans, Carrots, a large Salad Bar, several choices of deserts, and probably a few other things I didn't get a chance to try. Talk about outstanding food. Usually on a buffet, the food is a little less than first quality because of sitting for a bit. Not here. They were constantly refreshing the food so it was always first quality. Then there is the little antique type store attached. There's a lot of little trinkets to look at and they even have ice cream (if you're not too full from the awesome restaurant). Bottom line, I think they might be right saying that they have the "Best Ribs on the River". I suggest you stop by and see for yourself. You won't be...