MISSION BBQ — Restaurant in Westlake

As a member of the Mission BBQ Veteran VIP Club, I received an email inviting me to come in for a complimentary sandwich of choice for my bday. Since it had been awhile since I last visited (not by choice but due to health issues), I was really excited to go there for dinner. I usually go to the Parma location but decided to try the Westlake location for the 1st time to celebrate (9/9/25 at 6:20 pm). So, first - the positive: The food was excellent, and the location was very clean and inviting. Unfortunately, my customer experience was quite a bit less than I've ever experienced at a Mission BBQ. Upon ordering, I showed the young lady (name begins with "M") my email for my comp sandwich. She graciously wished me a Happy Birthday. I chose the pulled pork sandwich. I didn't learn until later that I had a choice to get it NC style because she never mentioned it. I then ordered a seasonal side (corn casserole) and an American Heroes cup beverage. Then I asked, "Do you guys still offer the free dessert for vets?" She looked confused and finally said, "We don't do that or offer any vet discounts". Ok, no problem. But then she offered to comp me one anyway as a courtesy. I thought that was so nice of her!

Long story short: Unfortunately, I never got the mud pie. And no, I didn't get up to address the issue bc I walk slowly with a cane now and I just wanted to eat my dinner. I also got a printed receipt that I didn't check til I got home. I was charged for my free bday sandwich! In addition I was never thanked for my service by her as I overheard other vet patrons being thanked by other staff after a customer mentioned their vet status. There were only 3-4 other parties there when we were, but mgr never came out on the floor to say hello to anyone and we were there for an hour, at least. In short, I really didn't feel as valued as a customer and especially as a vet as I always did whenever visiting the Parma store. It may not seem like much, but especially to senior female vets like myself, it means a whole lot just to be "seen" and acknowledged in even the smallest of ways. And, being charged for something that yo invited me in for to enjoy a comp for my bday...hullo? But at least the food was on point & delicious - so thank you for at least being consistent on that note! PS - Perhaps that young lady cashier was very new, having an off day, etc...but nevertheless; a little more coaching to help her thrive & better succeed would be...

Came across Mission BBQ while in the Westlake, Ohio area for business and had to rave about my experience. Being a veteran and retired State Trooper, I was overwhelmed by the patriotism upon walking thru the door and seeing the military and first responder paraphernalia throughout. We were immediately greeted by a young woman who could tell we were Mission BBQ newbies. She explained that she loved to tell new patrons all about their menu. After our briefing, we were met with another smiling, welcoming face at the order counter. I ordered the brisket, side of coleslaw and an iced tea. After sitting down at our table, our greeter returned to provide an explanation about the various BBQ sauces. The food was fantastic! If I had one criticism it would be that there was no sweet tea available that day so I had to mix it up myself with the sugar that never seems to dissolve. Sweet tea and BBQ is like peanut butter and jelly...they just go together! I am not easily impressed with restaurants these days and very rarely will take the time to write a review. There are just so many that are mediocre at best with atmosphere, food, and employees. Mission BBQ is absolutely the exception. The whole experience was just outstanding! In a land of woke, anti-American nonsense, Mission BBQ reminds its patrons of everything that makes this country the best place on earth! The enthusiasm and pride of your employees is on full display. Whatever you are doing, its working...keep it up! Mission BBQ will be my go to whenever...

There needs to be consistency of food in quality and taste. In good conscience how can a barbecue place be a barbecue place that has no spare ribs? The spare rib is what made barbecue famous. The southern tradition is the sparerib, which is much more meaty. Baby back is just the top curvy portion. Not more tender and less substantial. Sadly Americans have been conned to think baby back is special. Moving on: Previously the cornbread was not sweet now it is sweet. It was better before. When I first tried the brownie, it was perfect back in the summer, now it's just way too chocolatey. I think it might be better to cut out some of the sauces, save some money there and bring back spare ribs. 6 sauces is just not necessary. Back to the ribs for a bit: The baby back ribs are not nearly as good. When a rib is cooked properly the meat does not fall off the bone. I got baby back ribs today and they're falling off the bone and I can't eat them off the bone. I have hope for this establishment however. I think some things need to be changed and that's what I've addressed here. But whatever you do, don't get rid of the Smoky mountain barbecue sauce. There are a few others though you...