About Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que

Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que is a barbecue restaurant chain with locations across the United States. The restaurant specializes in slow-smoked meats, traditional sides, and regional barbecue styles. Each location operates as a full-service restaurant where you order at a counter or table and eat on-site, though many locations also offer takeout and delivery through third-party apps.

The restaurant was founded on the principle of authentic barbecue preparation — meats are smoked for extended periods using wood smoke rather than quick-cooking methods. The menu typically features brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken, along with classic barbecue sides like beans, coleslaw, and cornbread. Pricing and exact menu offerings vary by location.

Key Takeaways

  • Lucille's operates multiple locations across the country, and each restaurant's hours, menu, and pricing may differ.
  • You can order at the counter for when ready seating, or call ahead to reserve a table if your location takes reservations.
  • Most locations accept both cash and card payments, though you should confirm payment methods when you call or visit.
  • Takeout and delivery are usually available through the restaurant directly or through food delivery apps, depending on your location.
  • Barbecue meats are cooked to order or in batches, so wait times during peak hours can range from 15 to 45 minutes.

How to Find Your Nearest Location

Lucille's has multiple restaurants in different states, so your first step is to locate the one closest to you. The official Lucille's website typically has a location finder tool where you can enter your city or zip code and see all nearby restaurants, their addresses, phone numbers, and hours of operation.

You can also search "Lucille's Smokehouse Bar-B-Que near me" on Google Maps or Apple Maps, which will show you locations, directions, current hours, and customer reviews. If you are planning to visit during a specific time, check the location's posted hours before you go — some restaurants close between lunch and dinner service, and hours vary by day of the week.

Ordering and Seating Options

Most Lucille's locations operate on a counter-order model: you walk up to the counter, review the menu board, place your order, pay, and then find a seat in the dining room. Some locations may have table service where a server takes your order at your table, though this varies by restaurant.

If you prefer to call ahead, you can phone your local Lucille's to ask about wait times or to place a takeout order. Some locations accept reservations for larger groups, but this is not may provide at every restaurant — ask when you call. Takeout orders are typically ready within 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the kitchen is.

Menu Basics and What to Expect

Lucille's menu centers on smoked meats sold by the pound or as part of combination plates. A typical order includes your choice of meat (brisket, pulled pork, ribs, or chicken), two or three sides, and bread. Sides usually include options like baked beans, coleslaw, mac and cheese, collard greens, or cornbread.

Combination plates come in different sizes — a single-meat plate typically feeds one person, while a larger platter or family pack can feed multiple people. Prices vary by location and by the specific meat you choose, with brisket and ribs generally costing more than pulled pork or chicken. The restaurant also serves appetizers, sandwiches, and desserts, though the focus is on full plates of smoked meat and sides.

Payment Methods and Pricing

Most Lucille's locations accept both cash and major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover). Some restaurants may also accept digital payment methods like Apple Pay or Google Pay, though this depends on the individual location. Call ahead if you want to confirm payment options before you visit.

Pricing for a full plate typically ranges from moderate to moderately high, reflecting the cost of slow-smoked meats and the time required to prepare them. A single-meat plate with two sides and bread usually costs between $15 and $25, depending on which meat you choose and your location. Family packs and larger orders cost more but offer better value per person if you are feeding a group.

Takeout and Delivery

You can order takeout directly from most Lucille's locations by calling ahead or ordering at the counter. Takeout orders are packaged in disposable containers and are ready within the timeframe the restaurant quotes you — typically 15 to 30 minutes for standard orders.

Many Lucille's locations also partner with third-party delivery apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, or similar services. Ordering through an app adds a delivery fee and service fee on top of your food cost, but the food is brought to your home or office. Delivery times vary based on how far you are from the restaurant and how busy the delivery service is. If you order through an app, check the restaurant's current hours on the app before you place your order, as app listings sometimes show outdated information.

What to Know About Wait Times

Barbecue restaurants typically have longer wait times than fast-food chains because meats are smoked slowly and cannot be rushed. During peak hours (lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and dinner from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.), you may wait 20 to 45 minutes from the time you order to the time you receive your food. Off-peak hours (mid-afternoon or late evening) usually have shorter waits.

If you are visiting during a busy time, consider calling ahead to ask about current wait times, or order takeout so you can wait at home instead of in the restaurant. Some locations may have a waiting area with seating, while others may ask you to wait outside or in your car.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make a reservation at Lucille's?

Reservation policies vary by location. Some Lucille's restaurants accept reservations for groups, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Call your local restaurant directly to ask whether they take reservations and what size group qualifies for one.

Do you have to order at the counter, or can a server take your order?

Most locations use counter ordering, but some restaurants have table service. When you arrive, look for signs or ask staff how ordering works at that specific location. If you prefer table service, call ahead to confirm the restaurant offers it.

What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?

Speak with staff at the counter or your server about your dietary needs. Most barbecue restaurants can accommodate requests like no sauce, no dairy sides, or vegetable-only plates, but availability depends on what the kitchen has prepared that day. Call ahead if you have severe allergies so the restaurant can prepare safely.

How long does a takeout order usually take?

Standard takeout orders are typically ready within 15 to 30 minutes. Larger orders or orders placed during peak hours may take longer. When you call or order, ask the restaurant for an estimated pickup time so you know when to return.

Is there a kids menu?

Many Lucille's locations offer a kids menu with smaller portions and simpler options, though offerings vary by restaurant. Call your local location or check their website to see what kids menu items are available.