The other end of the table ordered barbecued ribs platters in two incarnations — smoked baby back (1/2 rack, $13.45), and the “award-winning” St. Louis-style (1/2 rack, $12.45), both of which spend 24 hours in the dry rub before smoking two-to-four hours and then being finished on the grill with Bernie’s dad’s sauce recipe. Baby backs are meatier than the spare ribs, but each of the four ribs-eaters was notably quiet once their plates arrived, looking up occasionally with smiles on their greasy chins. Portions were so generous that the med student took home part of her dinner while also gathering up leftovers from family members.
Linda no longer makes the desserts at LJ’s, but both of our enthusiastic waitresses vouched for their quality. The pies vary daily and seasonally, among sweet potato, pecan, apple and peach; there is also usually at least one cake option. Each is $5.50, with ice cream added for an additional $2.25.
Not surprisingly, LJ’s was packed during each of our Saturday visits. Considering the carefully prepared barbecue, the pulled pork sandwiches and the recipes of Bernie’s late grandmother Leola Jean (the second namesake LJ) that define the side dishes, lines should form right out the door.
LJ’S BBQ, 727 East Ave, Pawtucket | Tues-Sun, 11:30 am-10 pm; Sat-Sun brunch, 10 am-2 pm | Major credit cards | Full bar | Sidewalk-level access | www.ljsbbq.com | 401.305.5255
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Johnette Rodriguez: johnette.rodriguez@cox.net.
