Tom Jenkins BBQ

Tom Jenkins is a household name and undoubtedly has the best BBQ ribs, sandwiches, and BBQ chicken in South Florida. You will love their fresh, down-home sides like: baked beans, potato salad, and collard greens. It's a very small restaurant with a rustic, woodsy feel. Seating inside the restaurant is very limited with about 7-8 picnic style tables, so take out is ideal. There may be a slight wait during peak busy times but it's definitely worth it. Best BBQ and sides hands down! 💯

Soo good. I was craving pulled pork but chopped pork worked out just fine. Generous portion and really good. The coleslaw was a little pickle heavy for my tastes but my wife liked it a lot. Beans were excellent, almost spicy but not quite

They serve the best food ever, but they’re notoriously short-on hours of operation. Ever since the pandemic, they’ve drastically reduced their hours. On July 5th, at 6:47 PM, I arrived to find their doors locked and a sign on the door. I drove nearly 30 minutes to get here, only to be disappointed.

If you're looking for authentic, mouthwatering barbecue in Fort Lauderdale, Tom Jenkins BBQ is the place to go! From the moment you arrive, you're welcomed by the amazing aroma of smoked meats and the warm hospitality of the incredible team running this local gem. The flavors are outstanding—perfectly seasoned, tender meats with that rich, smoky taste that only true pitmasters can achieve. Whether you're craving ribs, pulled pork, or brisket, every bite is packed with flavor. And let's not forget their homemade sauces—the perfect complement to an already perfect meal! Beyond the food, the atmosphere is unbeatable. It's a place where you can truly feel the heart and soul behind the business. The story of Tom Jenkins BBQ adds another layer of appreciation, making it more than just a restaurant—it’s a Fort Lauderdale institution. With plenty of parking, great prices, and top-notch service, this spot checks all the boxes. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this is a must-visit for any BBQ lover. 🔥 5/5 – Highly recommended! 🔥

We arrived 30 min before closing, though they stopped serving and locked the doors 10 minutes after our arrival. They were out of all sides. They also had no sausage links. I did manage to get what they said was the last chicken Caesar salad. The chicken was tasty but the bed of lettuce had no Parmesan or croutons like most Caesar salads. It felt like the staff were trying to close down and get out on time. My friends ordered a pulled pork sandwich which they rated average. I don’t think it’s fair to rate their food based on this visit as most menu items were not available. The restaurant was very clean and the staff polite. Maybe I’ll give it another try someday..I’ll just make sure to arrive well before closing.

First of all, Lisa at the counter made you feel like family, very sweet person. The food was amazing, the service was great. Great place to eat.

Idk what was going today, but yall severely missed the mark. I waited 5-7 min w no line before anyone showed up to take my order. Lady who finally took my order was too caught up in her phone call to pay attention to the payment; was pulling out of the driveway before she chased me down to say my payment hadn’t been completed. Got home and the ONE item I ordered (peach cobbler) was severely undercooked (the raw dough is evident in the pictures). I’m local AF and have been eating here for years—last three experiences have all been similar, from the food to the service. Hope y’all get it together, but I won’t be back soon to see it.

The ribs were amazing.The brisket was good. The Mac and cheese was okay, and the collard greens were unique -:(. The sweet potato pie did not have a southern flavor profile. The peach cobbler had a good taste but needed a homemade pie crust instead of a bready crust. The corn bread was overcooked and dry.

Tom Jenkins is a somewhat legendary bbq place in Fort Lauderdale. Because of that, the line is long so be prepared, and maybe have someone in your group grab a seat while the rest order. They have pretty classic bbq menu, with meat options by the pound and a few sides. I wanted to try different things since it was my first time there, so I got the two-meat dinner with brisket and chicken. It's a very good price for the amount and quality of food Everything was very good, fresh, and flavorful. My only thing is that the brisket was a little fatty for my taste-although I know that some people prefer it that way. Overall, it's a great, no-nonsense place with amazing food, and I believe it's family-owned.

First time here recommended by co-worker. Small place with some inside seating. I order the ribs with 2 sides to choose. Ribs came off the bone so tender along with their sauce was so good with a touch of kick for those who want little spicy. Will be back to try their brisket that I saw one of the cooks chopping up.

Best BBQ in Fort Lauderdale! It's so nice when you get an airport return when TJ is open because it's on my way home! All ribs are great. Sauce is fantastic. Simple menu. Corn bread rolls could be bigger ;)

Tom Jenkins is a Fort Lauderdale staple! Their bbq sauce is amazing! Portions are big and their sides are amazing! My favorite is the corn bread !

If I'm back in Lauderdale, this is a definite stop. It's a small typical BBQ joint. Great food, great sides. I like the two meat platter and two sides. The collard greens are perfectly cooked. Some places make the collard greens really salty or super spicy, but not this place. They are perfectly prepared. You can't go wrong with anything you get here.

Great experience at tom Jenkins. Staff were friendly and attentive. Restaurant was small but had a warm and rustic atmosphere. The food was good. When i went there was unfortunately no brisket so i got the sausage and baby back ribs with mac and cheese and coleslaw. Coleslaw did not hit as hard as I wanted it to but everything else was good. Their bbq dipping sauce and corn muffin were also good. My drink was the sweet tea. Solid sweet tea.

We were heading to another restaurant for lunch and for me to review it; but when we got there, it was closed. We were hungry. And I remembered that Tom Jenkins was nearby. Parking is tricky; it's on the south side of the restaurant and goes from the side into a back area. There are plenty of spots. This place often has lines out the door. But at lunchtime on a Wednesday, it was not a very long wait (about 10 minutes). However, there is a heavy business of take-out orders. The dining area is clean and neat and seats about 30. The clientele seemed to be mostly men having a hearty lunch. Service was quick, not particularly friendly, just businesslike. We got the slab of ribs with two sides--cole slaw and greens. The ribs were done just right, and they were meaty. The sauce, on the side, was good. The cole slaw was a bit sweet but tasty. The greens were just right. Not too salty. We got more food than we anticipated (about 12 ribs) and had enough leftovers for dinner. My absolute favorite was the corn muffin. Definitely made fresh, but it tasted like they made their own cornmeal. :-) I got an extra one for dessert. Our meal was $30.99 but there was a surcharge to use a credit card. With tax we spent a little under $35 but got lunch and dinner.

Coming in it was pretty crowded, so there was definitely a wait for food. We Really enjoyed the ribs more than the brisket. The barbecue sauce is really good. Surprisingly the corn bread was good as well!

Great Bbq, great service and reasonable prices. Came here for lunch today and had a great experience. The moment you pull into the parking lot the smells hit you and you know you're about to eat something great. I had the two meat combo dinner with Baby Back Ribs, Brisket, Mac and Cheese, and potato salad. The baby back ribs were definitely the star of the show here. They were sweet, smokey, and tender. The brisket was decent as well. Coming from Houston, I have pretty high standards on bbq and this place hit the spot.

LOVE Tom Jenkins. My husband and I drove down from Cocoa on a whim just to have it and then drove back.

Small place that is pretty old but the food is delicious and the sauce is amazing. Make sure you buy a bottle to take home. The only downside was the people behind the counter were not very personable.

Best bbq places near my job . Highly recommended. Brisket and turkey was so tasty . Place is always clean and inviting as well.

Great bbq, the Chopped Pork and the Baked Beans were so good. The Mac and Cheese not so much. Love the authentic feel of the place. Service was fast, parking was easy. They close at 7 pm, so go early if you are picking up dinner. Couldn't place an order over the phone, the number listed in Yelp is not working.

Got takeout from me calling in ahead of time today. It worked out well. Seems like they are learning from the reviews that people give. Food was on point as usual.

Today I visited for the millionth time this restaurant. It never disappoints, the ribs were perfect, the corn on the cob was great, the corn bread... is to die for... the baked beans are delicious . Go visit!!! They are closed Sundays and Mondays... plan! You won't be disappointed.

Some of the best BBQ I've had in this area. It was a fun throw back with lots of old pictures of Ft. Lauderdale inside. Only reason I couldn't give 5 stars today was the coleslaw seemed to be old. It was a little discolored and soggy, not bright and crisp. That being said, I would go back for the BBQ.

Grabbed take out for a quick dinner and was absolutely delighted with the food! Whether you eat in or out the quality is always great, total comfort food. We had a half chicken combo and chopped pork (yummy) with an extra side of collards, a must have! The sides are great and will satisfy everyone in your family and don't forget the cornbread. If you happen to have any room for dessert, it's a true treat. Service was quick and the dining room is always clean. Picnic tables and wall counters are available for eat in and you may make a new friend!

First off. Awesome!! Atmosphere is busy. Old style feel. Truly great food being prepared here. The brisket was so tender. The bbq sauce had a nice little heat. Mac and cheese reminded me of just like home. Love the collard greens also. Overall 5 stars. Friendly employees. Thank you.

I've always passed by this place but never actually stopped by until last week. Since then, I've been twice and both times have been remarkable. We've tried out the brisket, baby back ribs, spare ribs, pulled pork, chicken, beans, mac & cheese, cornbread, and the lemonade. Out of everything we've tried, we've loved most of it. The only thing that could use some work is the brisket, not sure if it was just an off day but I'll give it another chance. My favorite items have been the baby back ribs, spare ribs, chicken, mac & cheese, beans, and pulled pork (in that order). Also worth mentioning, it's probably the best bbq sauce that I've tried in quite some time. Highly recommend it! Anyways, definitely will be back soon to continue trying out the menu and giving that brisket another chance. Come check it out today!

I love this restaurant the food the service is always good whenever I order the waiter always suggest a menu items very clean very nice staff and food is delicious

The ribs were decent. The side, which were fantastic for years, are now lacking. No live there. The sauce is still great though. But, the service is atrocious. The first you should do is ask if they're out of anything. I'm usually given incorrect information and end up having to choose one or two other items instead because they are really out or there's a 45 minute wait for the next batch. Then there's the counter person who glares at you like she has a terrible headache or you're bothering her somehow. There's no professionalism, "thank you", no appreciation. Like I said, if you come to just get the food, just be glad if they have what you want. DOUBLE CHECK YOUR RECEIPT BECAUSE THEY SOMETIMES CHARGE YOU MORE THAN THE MENU SAYS. I assume they're outdated. Oh yeah, they have a big TIP JAR! NOPE.

Hadn't been for a few months but wanted some good BBQ. Ordered a full rack of ribs , fries and beans. A few of the ribs tasted dried up and old and not really edible, a few were actually pretty good but it seemed like my rack of ribs came from two different places. For the giant price of $30.99 we got about 6 edible ribs? The fries were cold and limp so we returned them for new ones that they replaced with no question. I didn't want to make a scene but $30.99 for 6 edible ribs? They really need to have better quality control but after thinking about this meal my wife and I felt they intentionally used up an old half rack and supplemented with a fresh half rack? We have sent many folks here for bbq but that will now stop. We won't go back for a while at least because there's several other places with fresh made bbq that we can go to. My beans were fresh and really great but not great enough to make up for old dried up ribs. Jenkins used to really be the go to place for BBQ in Ft. Lauderdale and I believe they are taking their customers for granted when you sneak in old ribs with new at these super high prices.. I feel badly about this super honest review because my family's eaten here for many many years without this kind of issue.

It's been a while since I last visited. The sides were delicious--creamy macaroni and cheese packed in the little cup, definitely need to upsize that portion and savory collard greens get no complaint. The corn muffin is sweet and still quite dense. I wanted catfish, but being none, I settled for half rack of pork spare ribs. They were okay, but about one quarter of them were the extremely charred ends that were not edible. The sauce lights up the taste of the meat. Next time, I'd get the baby back ribs. The lemonade was refreshing. Should have asked for a free refill awaiting my order.

Had lunch here recently with friends. I had ribs, baked beans, collard greens, and iced tea. My friends had brisket and a chicken salad, and Mac and cheese. We all agreed the food was good but the service was not friendly. It wasn't what I expected or the business model I would prefer. You order at the counter and pick up the food there when it's ready. It's all packed up to go and if you eat there you use plastic silverware. I would prefer to sit down and be served on real plates and silverware at this price point. If you want take out or delivery maybe you won't mind.

Tom Jenkins' BBQ has been in business for over 30 years. The food is still amazing after all this time and quite delicious. It takes me a while to travel the distance to the restaurant; But, it's worth the travel expense and quite refreshing to be surrounded by that old country & southern hospitality plus great food. I actually drive past several restaurants just to dine at Tom Jenkins where the freshness and quality of the food is only getting better with time. Constance Richardson

I am so tired of driving to Tom Jenkins, only to find out they closed earlier than stated hours. This is 3rd and last time. I'm know they are proud people that think a lot of their food. But not good customer service.

Great good . Friendly service and people .Feels like you in your beloved grandparents place. . They have their history and awards on the walls . Its more of a take out place .

Best bbq in Broward, and I've been going for thirty years. Really good collards, ribs, chicken, brisket and pulled pork.

The best barbecue in all Broward ! go there! Every time they are consistently delicious! Their baked beans are great!

Great experience and takeout packed perfectly. Been there several times and so good .

I went in to get some food, I'm used to a different style of barbecue, so I like how they have a very open policy about emailing them. If you have a concern . I think of more restaurants, especially small restaurants adapted this policy it would prevent a lot of restaurants from getting bad reviews. Everybody that works at the restaurant was very nice and hard-working, and the Restaurant seem to have a good flow of lunch eaters. Nice location in downtown Fort Lauderdale right across from Whole Foods near 17th St., Causeway very safe area. I recommend you go, check them out and try their food. See if it's your style of barbecue. I'm used to Sonny rib city or even Houston's baby back ribs style myself. This one is more authentic with the actual smoker.

Had the chopped pork. Half of it was too fatty to eat. Mac and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans were good. Lady the took order was pretty rude. Constantly were swatting flys off while eating. Restaurant could use a deep cleaning but pretty typical for a bbq joint. Food was good but not good enough to go back. Surprised this was a staple for so many years to be honest.

I was looking forward to coming here after many yrs. Unfortunately my daughter and I had a very bad experience and I threw out about 30 worth of food. The corn bread was hard and heavy like dried out hockey pucks. I mainly came for the meat but it was all so overcooked and dry no amount of sauce( I did like the sauce) was going to be able to save it. I have a little girl who just adores Mac and cheese and asked for it. She took 2 bites and even she wouldn't eat it. The sauce had curdled and the Mac and cheese was dry. I ordered the ribs, brisket and the chicken all were tough. I was looking forward to the greens but they lacked seasoning. The only thing I enjoyed was the coleslaw and the lemonade#dissappionted

the absolute best bbq hands down!! i live in north broward but it's worth the ride.. it is always worth the ride!! if you're looking for the best bbq go to tom jenkins you will not regret it! it's

I came to Jenkins bbq about three years ago from New York to write a review. I gave it a great review food and service was excellent. I had the pleasure of meeting the owner who was extremely nice. I went back today and it felt like I was in a different restaurant. They had no meats ready except smoked turkey. The owner was not around and the staff was very rude to customers. I saw at least 20 people walk out after being told it would take 45-60 minutes for chicken to be done. They had no idea when the other meats would be ready. Whoever is managing this restaurant today, had a bad attitude and does not have the owners best interest at hand. It felt like all the other staff was walking on eggshells. I would not recommend you go to Jenkins restaurant and get there,and no food is ready in the middle of the day, and be told you have to wait an hour.

Man I just came from the counter getting some chopped pork for lunch and was told some people still haven't heard of Tom Jenkins! That's gotta be fake news y'all. I've been coming to Tom Jenkins for 10 plus years now since I started working and I have met many people who don't know. Their BBQ is number 1 in this area. They sides be hitting every time you come through. People leave an hour early for lunch to get on this BBQ. If you're visiting, new in town, or just looking for the "real" BBQ spot, you gotta come to Tom Jenkins. Everything else is just imitation!

The service is amazing. Lisa helped us with our order and she is the star of the place. The BBQ sauce is unique and tasty, as was my turkey sandwich and delicious baked beans. The establishment is spotless, including the rest room. The restaurant has an authentic BBQ restaurant feel. I'll definitely be back.

All around good BBQ. Not the best I've had but certainly on my list of places to return to.

The smell of barbecue was amazing. Thei service was quick but not efficient. I ordered 2 dinners. I ordered a half of chicken dinner with greens, macaroni and cheese. The chicken was tender and flavorful but it had taste of something that I couldn't put my finger on what it was. It was not to my likiThe Mac was great (delicious) and collards were good ( I don't like sweet greens). The other dinner was a full slab of ribs but I received a full rack of baby backs. I am. It a fan of back. I will eat them but it's not my preference. The sides were coleslaw and baked beans. The baked beans were amazing but one the diabetes sugar level. However, seasoned very. The coleslaw to me wasn't fresh. It was seemed soft. It didn't have a hardy crunch, very vinegary and not sweet. Now the baby back ribs I didn't order. I addressed the error and missing coleslaw immediately at the counter. The lady at the register was nonchalant. The man came back and he let me the coleslaw when I told him it was the wrong order. He looked at me and walked away, They had good flavor, but unfortunately, they were dry as hell and a little overcooked not burnt, but almost there. If I wasn't with friends and family, I would have insisted on a replacement however since they were not giving great customer service that day, I just let it be a stated. I would take the baby back ribs. Unfortunately, most of the food was cold. The only thing that was warm was the macaroni cheese. The corporate muffins were cold and hard. This place definitely has potential on no good barbecue when I smell and see it. I think it was just a one off. I would definitely try again. However. I'm not taking something in order. The next time should be hot. This means they are over prepping or understand how to manage the warmers ,and yes, I have worked in full service.

As soon as you walk in the lady taking orders was an absolute doll. She was so welcoming to my family and I. I will be back just for her. And obviously the food is outstanding!!! Can't go wrong with the Mac baby! I just wish they still had catfish but that's okay because all their food is soo good. The ambience is homey. It's just feels like home in here. Thank you Tom Jenkins, your staff for your hard work and amazing personalities.

I feel I am a connisour of bbq and this one of my favorite places to eat. Quick service, delicious food, friendly staff. this place has quickly become my go to place! definitely check them out.

When you have to wait 20 min in line at peak time....you KNOW that's going to be some YUMMY BBQ!!! The potato salad is also delicious!

Food is fabulous , I love the smell of smoked meat . If you like BBQ this is the place for you . The staff is friendly and fast .

Now this is some amazing barbecue! Walking into this place it looks pretty tiny, rundown, and a bit chaotic with the long line. But, you're going to get some great tasting ribs! We ordered the baby back ribs along with the chicken breast and their coleslaw. The coleslaw was a bit too sweet, perhaps too much sugar, and the chicken breast was nothing to write home about, but the baby back ribs were pure five star! These ribs had an excellent bark on them with a nice smoked flavor and they fell right off the bone. Their homemade barbecue sauce is also very neat tasting and absolutely delicious, no wonder people were buying it by the bottle. One recommendation by the woman who served us at the counter, get here early, as things sell out towards closing time which is around 7 PM on a Saturday evening.

Went years ago and it was fantastic! Went a few weeks ago and it was awful. Baby back ribs were very fatty and not tender. Chicken was not that good either. ALL of the sides (coleslaw, baked beans, and potato salad) were fair at best. Overall, extremely disappointing.

Very average. Fries are terrible. Mac n cheese is terrible. Not sure how you mess those up. Asked specifically for fatty brisket and got lean. Staff isn't exceptionally friendly.

This place has been here for years, and I've always wanted to check it out. Problem is, it's so far from home that to get takeout, the food would be cold. Anyway, we took a chance over the weekend and got some takeout and it held just fine all the way home. Great, authentic BBQ in a no-frills building with smokers, puffing out beautiful beef smoke from their smokers. But it doesn't stop there, they've also got pork and turkey smoked that is both tender and flavorful. I would recommend this to anyone that likes barbecue, or meat in general.

I haven't stopped in for a decade, my mistake! The beef ribs are incredible, brisket outstanding! Staff is very helpful and efficient. I chose take out, but thankfully the restaurant hasn't changed, still benches and long tables, step back in time! I can't wait to return!

Came for ribs at 3pm and they we're out since 11 am . I got the beef and my husband got a beef and chicken combo. The food was served cold. I couldn't finish it. I'm very disappointed since they've been in business for so long. It seems that they don't fully care about their customers.