Nestled in Davis Square, Redbones serves up hefty helpings of BBQ and Southern sides in a lively, laid-back atmosphere, perfect for group outings and late-night munchies.
"At 36 years old, Redbones has cemented its popularity in Somerville’s Davis Square. It’s perpetually crowded and the ambiance is fun, particularly at the downstairs bar, Underbones. Redbones’s strength lies in its lively vibe and solid beer list. The restaurant doesn’t really specialize in any one aspect of barbecue; there’s a giant menu that has a little bit of something for everyone, so it’s an easy choice if there’s a big group to feed. Try the banana pudding for dessert." - Valerie Li Stack, Rachel Leah Blumenthal
"A little tucked away compared to its neighbors on Elm Street, this joint has been serving up traditional barbecue fare for more than three decades. From Southern-style pulled pork to Texas-style beef ribs, Redbones’ menu offerings cover a range of classics, as well as comforting sides and a decent fried chicken with biscuits." - Valerie Li Stack
"Nothing like a face full of barbecue to say, “This date is going well.” Start with fried pickles and jalapenos before going all-in on a plate of ribs at this classic Davis Square spot. Of age? Add a margarita slushie. Here are some additional Boston-area barbecue options to peruse." - Dana Hatic
"If you go within a three-block radius of Rebones, you will smell Redbones. And if you smell Redbones, you will probably walk into Redbones. And if you walk into Redbones, you will be happy, at least for a little while. That’s what you get from big plates of really smokey brisket, moist baby back ribs, and beignets that you should pretty much always order because, come on, they’re tiny little cakes covered in powdered sugar. Upstairs, this place looks like a traditional southern barbecue joint where people talk about high school football. Downstairs, it looks like a Somerville bar where people talk about the Sh!t-Faced Shakespeare production they just caught at the Rockwell down the street. Both spots serve their purpose, and both spots are great places to eat and drink, thanks to a giant cocktail selection and beer that you can order in four different sizes." - dan secatore
"The upstairs of Redbones in Davis Square feels like a genuine Southern roadhouse, the type with a dress code that requires mesh hats. The downstairs, though, with it’s dark, art-covered walls, is about as Somerville as it gets. We love both dining rooms, and we really love the brisket, the cask beer, and the fact that the kitchen’s open after midnight." - Dan Secatore
