We just had the combo 1) brisket and turkey with mac and greens 2) beef and turkey with sweet corn and greens And beef sandwich. The seevice is fast ths food is amazing! What is that sauce?? Amazing is a good word. The little joint isnt that impressive but the food sure is. Always a good sign at 1100am and ppl are lined up to the parking lot!
(5)
Mike M.
While on a business trip to the Tampa area I found this BBQ restaurant on Yelp and decided to give it a try. It's kind of hard to find in the corner of a shopping center. I walked in and after looking at the menu decided to go with a 2 meat combo of a 1/4 chicken and beef with beans and potato salad. The food came out quickly. The beef was chopped and I thought it was tender and good. (3). The chicken had a nice smoky flavor and I graded it as a 3.5. The beans were a 3.5 also. The potato salad was creamy and had a hint of nutmeg? I thought it was a 3.5 too. The sauce was kind of sweet and the more I tasted the more I dislike it more (2). Finally I ordered another side of their fritters. These are made of pork rolled into a ball, then battered and then fried. Just like a hushpuppy but with a pork center instead of a cornmeal. You get 5 with the order and I thought they were wat too much. The first one was ok but greasy. I had to force myself to eat the second one and the other two went to waste. I just didn't like them. I felt they were just a grease ball. My overall score is a 3. If I am back in the area I will not return. The sauce was a turnoff. The food is ok.
(3)
Ian S.
I just visited again after a long hiatus. I remembered the food being really good, but don't work in that area anymore, so I just haven't been visiting. I also didn't Yelp back then, and, as it turns out, my memory of the food was better than the reality, so I'm only giving 2 stars. I ordered the pulled pork and sausage combo plate with fries and collard greens. I think they dip their fries in oil once, they were limp and soggy and had no salt at all. The collard greens, especially at a barbecue place, should (IMHO) be cooked with some type of meat, but these bland collards probably were not. They taste like nothing but a collard green, no fat, no smoke, no meat, no salt, no nothing. I'm a white guy from Boston and I can make better greens. The pork and sausage were OK, but again, nothing that would draw me back. The pork seems like it is just pork thrown in a smoker with no salt, seasonings, brine, nothing. Weird. Also, the barbecue sauce they make is too sweet and has too much ketchup. It seems like it's 95% ketchup. And lastly, not one person who works here looks like they want you there. I remember this from before when i ate here in their early days after leaving the truck on the street and opening this place. Every order that comes through looks like a chore for them. Nobody will smile at you, nobody will thank you, and nobody will even say hi or goodbye to you while you're in their "home". So.... I'll jump on the crosstown and hit Holy Hog downtown before I'll come back here.
(2)
Anna M.
I was craving a Banh Mi thanks to Rachel M earlier this week so I drove to the closest Vietnamese restaurant that was in the area. Well...apparently, I had stayed away too long because the restaurant had closed. Several doors down was First Choice, begging me to walk through its doors. I practically ran to it, like a lost child running back to her mother. Go ahead and make fun of me, I like to eat early. Call me old or whatever you like ha ha, but I despise crowds. Lucky for me, I had walked into First Choice right when they had just opened their doors. Getting early to First Choice is crucial. Crucial, because there is less of a wait. Otherwise, the line is out the door. No thanks. For those who know me, I have zero patience. What has not changed is that these guys are the BBQ Nazis like the Soup Nazi on Seinfeld. You better know what you want or else you will be in trouble! Don't be scared though, the staff is firm, but friendly here. Being a creature of habit, I always order the same thing here: sausage with baked beans and french fries. Mmmmmmm sausage!!! As usual, the sausage was delicious. The fries were a bit soggy for me. And, the baked beans were good, but the cinnamon they added overpowered the taste of the beans. Next time, I plan to finally change it up with the sides. First Choice is definitely one of the best BBQ joints in this area. Their food is delicious and the portions are such a good value. The staff here is friendly and very efficient at getting you in and out of their restaurant. Tables are limited but turnover is normally quick. Ahhh...First Choice. I have missed you, my love. I promise it won't be two years before I see you again.
(4)
Ferdnan H.
This is straight up real bbq. The quality of food is five star. If your eating in expect a line at prime time. The AC has never done a good job if eating in but its worth it regardless.
(5)
Mailoha A.
After this recent visit I have to update my review and say that there are just better options around. The pulled pork was bland, the ribs were fatty and the potato salad was mush. The customer service was also "eh". They rushed us through and there wasn't anyone in line behind us.
(2)
Nick W.
This is decent barbecue. Prices are a good value and all the meat had a real nice smoke on it. I had beef and ribs. The sauce has a great flavor. Sweet with a bit of a kick. The baked beans were great. There was a little pork mixed in for flavor and had a bit of extra spice. They probably were my favorite thing on the plate. Fries weren't anything special. Overall if I was in the area looking for a quick bite I would look them up.
(3)
Melissa M.
I love this place. It's really unfussy, unfooled-around with BBQ. I prefer BBQ joints like this. The meat is perfect every time. The sides are few, but done exactly right (try spicy Mac salad or beans). The sauce comes in regular or spicy. Both are great. The line is out the door at lunch and you better know your order! These guys are busy as all get out and for good reason.
(5)
Celine L.
One of my favorite places for barbecue. All the meats are cooked to perfection & are always juicy (not dry like some places). Don't forget the sides- I love the mac & cheese-- it has a nice kick to it too!
(4)
Nadine F.
Amazing BBQ! The sauce is finger-lickin good and the meat is always smoked perfectly. The service feels a little bit like you are in the Soup Nazi's line (seinfeld reference) but soo worth it and to be honest I am glad they move you through the line fast because there is ALWAYS a line. We have used their catering too and it was just as good.
(5)
Tiffani L.
This is place for BBQ in Brandon. Hidden by the home Depot and always has line out the door. Awesome.puled pork & macaroni salad. Guys are great who work there.
(5)
Ernie And Dora H.
Tucked into an obscure corner behind the Adamo Home Depot, you could probably follow your nose to FirstChoice BBQ. The combination plate includes pork ribs, sausage, fries and baked beans. The food was just as I remember from 8 years ago. The sausage was smoky without being spicy, and the ribs were fall off the bone. The fries, made from fresh potatoes, were just crispy enough and the beans were molasses-sweet and tasty, great for dipping fries. Definitely order the fritters. Crispy on the outside, but tender and moist on the inside, they're not sweet, more savory since they stuff them with pork morsels. They are the most unique tasting, and that is in a good way, fritters I have ever tasted. Dora here. My fave is the chopped pork with fries and baked beans, but the turkey is also a close second. Today I chose the pork. Made me want to close my eyes and just savor the flavor so I could tuck it in my memory for the next few years! We lucked out getting here early on a Saturday because normally the line is out the door. And don't come all dressed up. It's warm and you'll smell like woodsmoke when you walk out, but that's all good because the food is worth it. I would rate this restaurant 4 forks out of 5 forks for a family friendly restaurant serving great food. Ernie & Dora Hiers, Fiction Faith & Foodies Blog
(4)
Edward C.
Very good deal, large servings, and definitely fulfilling. I got the 1/4 ribs for $9.50, which came with two sides. Got the potato salad and fries. Loved the barbecue sauce, 3 (or 4) large rib bones, and potato salad. They gave me many fries, but I didn't really like them--oily, and didn't feel too fresh. However, I definitely be back to try something else!
(4)
Derek N.
The smoke drew me in... Great BBQ joint in Brandon. Line was long when arrived for lunch this saturday but it went quick. I like the idea you can see where your food is coming from. Watching the meat being chopped fresh. I ordered the combo platter and a drink. I had Chicken and Pork with beans and fries with some bread. The sauce is good no doubt about that. I wish they had a spicy version or even a mustard sauce but I did not see any. The chicken was good but a little dry. The pork was flavorful and moist. The sauce made the meal. The beans were ok, probably order something else next time. The fries were fresh, not very crispy. All in all the food was good, definitely will be back to try the corn beef.
(3)
Stephen F.
Tucked in the back corner of a shopping center and located next to the Japanese restaurant this place is easy to miss as well as overlook......... but don't, you need seek it out. This is your Uncle cooking in the backyard only now he's sober and governed by health codes. As soon as you walk in your olfactory sense will be overcome by this warm smokey smell. Next you will see fresh slabs of ribs being plated and then finally it will be your time to order. There's nothing you can order that you won't enjoy, everything is homemade, even the french fries. I think between all of dining we samples most everything on the menu...ribs, beef & chicken...check! Fries, beans & collard greens....check! Don't pass up on the baked beans, they add cinnamon that really separates it from all of the other baked beans that you've tasted.
(4)
James C.
I'm from TN and know good BBQ, and this place is on par. Our family got the ribs,brisket,turkey,fries, and fritters. *Ribs- huge, lots of meat, little fat, and I would give 4/5 stars. *brisket- corned beef, shredded, 4/5 stars *turkey- tender white meat, didn't have a smoked flavor which was disappointing. Give this 3/5 stars. *Fries- hand cut and fried everyday. These were great. 5/5 stars *fritters- I expected something more like a hush puppy, but was good never less. Would of liked more shredded pork in it though. These were good, but maybe not for everyone. I give these 3/5 Overall the staff was extremely polite, attentive, and helpful. This is a great BBQ joint that I would recommend to anyone.
(4)
Jason C.
Stopped by here during a trip to the Citrus Park Mall. I was a bit confused at first, but just keep driving back into the plaza, and you'll find it. I got the ribs which were very tender. I especially liked their spicy BBQ sauce. The spicy macaroni salad was good as well. I'd never had spicy macaroni salad, but it hit the spot. The macaroni noodles had a nice texture and a good kick.
(4)
J D.
Excellent BBQ place with a rich history. The best BBQ around. Get the beef! The fries are also very good.
(4)
Ty M.
Quality way down. I used to drive 10 miles just for your coleslaw. Too bad. Last chance fellas. Oh and thanks for the 25.00 slab of grey steamed ribs. That and your attitude makes you last choice. Tighten up.
Great yelp recommendation, went for lunch and got the pulled pork sandwich and coleslaw, great taste. Would go again. Atmosphere is relaxed and clean, doesn't have table service, order by the giant smoker and take to your table.
(4)
Tiffany B.
Holy. Shit. I mean, what more is there to say? Literally the best BBQ I have had since I moved to Florida 7 years ago, and definitely top 3 BBQ places I've eaten at ever in life. Pulled pork sandwich? Smokey, sweet, amazing. Ribs? Flavorful and fall off the bone tender. BBQ sauce? God yes. So good. SO GOOD. The staff is friendly, fast, and helpful. One reviewer called them "intimidating" which... no. Not intimidating what so ever. I've eaten here twice in the same amount of weeks. Brandon is half an hour away from where I live. I do not care. Worth it. Worth the drive. Worth the calories. That's it, I'm getting BBQ today. Done.
(5)
Geno K.
After a few more visits, I've become more of a fan. The baked beans and fries are definitely the sides to get. Had the sausage and ribs combo on my most recent visit and they were great. The staff isn't terribly friendly. The place looks likes it could be closed down after one of those Restaurant Red Alerts they do on the TV news. They don't have air conditioning. But it's still the best BBQ this side of Tampa.
(4)
Bo K.
First of all, the prices are a little high. I paid $12 for a small pork sandwich and fries. The pork was chopped and not very smoky. The french fries were hand cut and delicious. Overall, very average barbecue
(3)
Jerry B.
This Is the best BBQ around. Period. The meat is cooked perfectly. The sauce is award winning. And the spicy mac n cheese is too good. This is where you go when you want the best. The guys will take care of you.
(5)
Mel C.
The. Yummiest. BBQ. Ever.!!! So must try this place, if I lived in the area I would add this dive to my restaurant rotations! It's inexpensive, portions are huge, the ribs, sausage, pulled pork are my faves (pretty much anything pig) the french fries are hand cut, the chicken is smoked fresh. Tip: get the combo dinner, you'll eat for two days for $10bucks!
(5)
Rusty D.
This is the real deal!! Tender smoke but if you like the ribs chewey then you have the right place. I do like the way they were cooked and the inside seating was interesting. Good 60's and 70's souls music playing on an old boom box. The owner and two of his friends were entertaining also. Had a slab, couldn't finish them off between my wife and I. The ribs were a full slab not St. Louis cut so we have some away to a nice young man who was a musician from Chicago. The sounds and sights of this place would be something not to miss. Many of the people ordering knew exactly what they wanted and the staff often knew what they were going to Orrder
(5)
Bonnie H.
The bbq pork sandwich was tender and flavorful. The baked beans and potato salad topped it off as delightful. However, the only issue was the restaurants warmth. A lot of customers only ordered take out. We were traveling from a seminar, so we ate there. It was delicious though.
(4)
Jennifer W.
I had the pork sandwich with a side of potato salad. The meat was super tendered and wasn't over powered with smoke flavor. I really enjoyed it. The BBQ sauce was a bit sweeter than I like, but since they don't smother their meat in the sauce, it wasn't a deal breaker. The potato salad had more mustard in it than I normally like, but it was homemade and very good. I am looking forward to going back and trying the ribs and brisket.
(4)
Chaena P.
Omg the best in town. How is this place not 5 stars??? Just real southern bbq. Nothing fancy just strait up to the point. The sides are incredible. The baked beans and omg the spicy Mac. Do it! I crave this place. That's it! I'm going now.
(5)
Alison C.
I came here for lunch with some friends, one of which has raved about the food to price point ratio. Her praise was well-founded. First Choice is a tiny, hole-in-the-wall shop, so the line goes out the door during busy times like lunch. While this seems intimidating, the line moves quickly and orders are taken at rapid speed, so be sure of what you want before you get to the counter. I had the beef brisket sandwhich with the spicy macaroni salad and collard greens. The brisket meat was tender and flavorful with no shortage of delicious barbecue sauce, which was rich and had a smoky flavor. The spicy macaroni salad was also unique, as it was the first cold macaroni pasta I've ever had that packed heat while still lending sweet and savory notes. It was a good compliment to the meat, and delivered some excitement to an otherwise standard BBQ meal. The collard greens were also delicious and typical of most southern food. Yeah, there might be better barbecue places in other towns, but this definitely hits the spot and is the first barbecue place in Tampa that I've found to be satisfactory. The portions are generous and the price is cheap for what you get. My only complaint is that it was hard to find a seat because of the crowd. First Choice should expand because they're definitely popular enough!
(4)
Frank N.
There is no bigger fan of BBQ than me, I love it. Wife and I had recently had lunch at First Choice and I couldn't wait to get back. Now I wish I had waited longer. First time the ribs were succulent bone tender, mouth watering sauce, it was like finding Nirvana (the place, not the band). This time the ribs were fatty and barely warm, the beef was just ok. My sides, BBQ beans and fries were awesome though and in fairness we hit them right before closing. I know.....no excuses, but this is BBQ. We will try it again....earlier and hope to recapture the magic.
(3)
Crystal D.
I agree with lady H. BBQ is a personal thing- Everyone's different. I'm not a huge fan of the way they chop up "pulled pork" & the brisket. The meat itself had a good, smokey flavor, but unfortunately they covered it in A LOT of sauce. I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm particular about sauce of my BBQ. I'm not a fan of a sweet BBQ sauce. I think it's a lot like serving a steak with steak sauce- it's like their covering up the flavor of the meat itself. The potato salad lacked flavor, I did enjoy their original kind of macaroni salad. Nice kick. It was okay. Not my favorite
(2)
Lori L.
Not impressed. The smoker out front draws you in b/c of the amazing bbq smell but the food was ok. 1st time there & bought 3 pulled pork sandwiches & a rack of ribs w/ sides for $64. The pulled pork sammy's were good but wish they didn't drown it in bbq sauce. Sauce not that great tasting unless you really like A LOT of sauce & it's sweet. The baked beans I tried & didn't care for b/c they were incredibly sweet, the mac n cheese was ok, hardly any cheese & spicy which I love spice but my children don't so they should let patrons know that it's spicy (I believe jalapeños) are in it. The collard greens were good but a bit salty & the rack of ribs were good but some portions were so barbecued that we couldn't bite into it. We won't be back. Also, no a/c in there & it's blazing hot.
(2)
Amber F.
I've been here quite a few times, and I always get the pulled pork! It's not my favorite around, but it has good flavor to it. I love their sauce, and their fries and beans are pretty good! I wasn't a fan of the macaroni though. I asked for mac and cheese, and wasn't told it was a spicy pasta salad. I'm also not really a fan of their customer service, but it's close to work so I go when I'm craving it.
I went here today because I read so many good reviews so I just brought some chicken. Its tasted like they took the chicken and cooked it without any seasoning. It was bland and the skin was very soft and pale. You can taste the smokey flavor. The barbecue sauce has a heavy ketchup taste. Maybe next time I will try the ribs. The place does look nice and clean. Staff friendly.
(3)
Lily R.
I think I probably went in with too high of expectations, because I was a bit disappointed. I got a pulled pork sandwich and we shared the mac salad and coleslaw. The meat was ok..I prefer it pulled rather than chopped and it was pretty flavorless..luckily the sauce was probably my favorite thing here so that saved it. If you like sweet bbq sauce like me you'll definitely like theirs! The macaroni salad is a spicy cold salad and while I like the idea...it definitely had potential to be something I'd really it was mostly just spicy without to much flavor. The coleslaw was a total miss for me..cabbage was just kinda ehh and the flavor was off. It wasn't awful..and if you live in Tampa it might be one of the better options, but if you're a real bbq fan I'd probably skip it..I can get better stuff at home..I'd say the highlights of this trip were the sweet tea and the bbq sauce.
(2)
Kerianne G.
They're good is really good, the best bbq place. The food is always hot and fresh, never had a bad experience at this place
(5)
Dani R.
The BBQ Pork Sandwich in the area!!! If you have carvings for some real good BBQ that's the place to go
(5)
Bill G.
Not a big fan of their ribs, but I LOVE their brisket, pork and baked beans.
(5)
Dan G.
On point... went and ordered the 1/2 slab ribs fries with side baked beans was not disappointed gets a little busy but worth the wait. .will definitely be back for more.
(5)
Tracy M.
This place is great. Real BBQ made fresh every day (follow the smoke). Nothing terribly healthy though but who cares. It's delicious and authentic. The owner talked to us today about how it's all about the process and NOT about who's doing the cooking. So the food has been consistent for 23 years regardless of who the chef is. Try the brisket. It's not like anything I've had before. Yum!
(5)
Bonita B.
The smell of the Bar-B-Que (even though I don't eat pork or beef) drew me in. I had no meat, just sides -- collards, macaroni salad (it's SPICY as heck, at least to me), and baked beans (didn't know it had meat in it until I took a spoon full). Usually on the weekends, the lines are long -- out the door. Don't worry, the lines move fairly quickly. I saw all nationalities in the line or in the dining area, that made me smile because it make me think for a moment that Bar-B-Que crossed over the color-lines. You might have to ignore the music piping through their little intercom/speaker system. This restaurant is tucked in the corner in a big shopping plaza...past Home Depot, US Postal Office, and Old Time. If you blink you might miss it.
(4)
Katy S.
As a supervisor of 10 people at a company in Brandon, First Choice has become a favorite of mine for lunch catering. It is good, consistent, and inexpensive! My personal favorite order: The pulled pork, baked beans, and macaroni salad. As someone who LOVES spice, I must highly recommend the mac salad. It is super spicy and I become more addicted with each bite. In my opinion, the biggest measure of a restaurant is how they react to a mistake. When I ordered my typical catering order last week, I got back to my office and noted that the baked beans were left out. I called them back and they apologized profusely and stated that they would make up for it. When I got back to First Choice, they had included a free order of chicken, which more than made up for the mistake. I will continue to be a loyal First Choice customer after that experience.
(4)
Cambria K.
I wasn't really impressed. I'm ok with dives and have to been to many that still felt clean and cheerful., but the restaurant felt dirty and dingy. And there was a fly buzzing around my face while I ate. Finally they were playing rap music which in and of itself isn't a big deal, but it was of a variety that had a lot of cursing so I wouldn't bring my kids here. The BBQ pork was ok, but they drowned it in a sauce that tasted heavily of ketchup. I wasn't warned about the spicy macaroni salad and didn't like that at all. Also the man had me test the fries to see if they were still hot so even though they were, it told me they weren't fresh. All in all, I won't be back.
(2)
Chris B.
I was excited to try this place out. Good Yelp reviews and a line out the door had me ready for some good BBQ. The line did move awfully slow, but that's fine, it's obviously a popular place. I ordered the beef, and my two sides were collard greens and macaroni. The guys behind the counter were very friendly and seemed efficient. The BBQ sauce was good, and I'm glad they kept extra on the table. I thought the portion of beef was on the small side, but was pretty good. Collard greens were just ok. The macaroni was different than anything I've tasted...it was a spicy macaroni salad. That was really good. Overall I wasn't blown away. I'd like to come back and try the pork because that did look really good.
(3)
Lady H.
Bbq is a personal thing. Everybody has their own personal preferences and it's damn near impossible to please most of the crowd with everything. That being said, here is my two cents (for what its worth). The bbq sauce, which is sweet, and the sweet tea were delicious and the highlights of the meal. I had pulled pork, which was actually chopped and not "pulled," chicken, potato salad and baked beans. I didn't like that the pork was chopped instead of pulled. All the bones and grizzle was chopped up in the meat and I kept having to pull bits of them out of my mouth mid-chew. The baked beans seem like they had been overly seasoned with nutmeg. After I ate a bite of them I couldn't get the nutmeg taste out of my mouth. The potato salad was just okay. Bottom line is its not horrible but in my opinion it's not that good. I wont go back.
(3)
Martic R.
Main advice about this place is.... get there early to avoid the lines if going for lunch. We got there early shortly after they opened. I haven't been here in years and was hoping to get a chicken sandwish but they don't offer that on the menu, the Turkey was my second option but it wasn't done yet so I went for the beef sandwish...really good, great barbecue sauce. We also got the pork and ribs dinner which comes with two sides. I wish the place was a bit bigger but overall great food.
(4)
Todd V.
I go here a lot whenever I'm in Tampa for business. The BBQ meats are average to above average, but their side dishes are outstanding and is what keeps me coming back. The spicy macaroni salad is the most unique style I have had anywhere and is my favorite dish. A close second would be the BBQ beans. The fries are good too and a lot of people seem to get those, although there is usually a wait while they make more. There is usually a line out the door unless you come at an odd time. Ordering can be somewhat intimidating and reminds me of a black version of the Soup Nazi; the guys behind the counter all look like hardcore gangsters, and seem too high to say anything and just stare at you when it's your turn to order. If you're not paying attention they'll take someone else's order.
(4)
Alex Z.
Great BBQ...the real deal for florida BBQ...try the corned beef BBQ...this place has been here for 15 years and rightfully so
(5)
RE A.
The chicken here is succulent and the barbecue ring is evident when you come here you know you get the best that's why they're call first choice because you're always the first choice when you want barbecue
(4)
Maria C.
This is THE BEST BBQ in Tampa Bay. If you're in the Brandon area and get a hankering for some good ribs, get in line. They pull quite a crowd for lunch. But it is Mmmm Mmmm good!
(4)
Benjamin M.
And Bingo was his name-o. This place is ten minutes from my office, so I decided to check it out last Friday for lunch. As a loyal Yelper, I read most of the reviews before taking my little cruise down Falkenberg. I arrived right at 11:30, hoping to beat the rush. Fail. The line was at least a dozen people out the door. Alas, I am a dedicated foodie so I waited it out and--oh boy!!--it was definitely worth the wait. (Side note: there is shade, so don't get discouraged if you also see an ugly line.) Once in the door, you shout out your order to the guy behind the counter and then he starts a styrofoam plate for you and passes it down the assembly line. I ordered the pulled pork sandwich with potato salad and baked beans ($8). Classic BBQ meal. Oh my goodness. It was SOOO good. The BBQ was incredibly flavorful and fresh. The beans were the bomb. The wait was about 20 minutes. Ordering took about 3 minutes. I finished my meal in about 5 minutes. Total time: around half an hour. If you figure in ten minutes to/from work, it's a perfect place for lunch if you work in the MLK/Falkenberg/60 corridor. This place beats the snot out of Sonny's. First Choice is my new first choice for BBQ in Brandon.
(5)
Carlos H.
I have visited First Choice BBQ a few times in the past with some friends and they serve some solid BBQ food - far better than the bigger chains in the area. It is messy and heartache-inducing, but still great. The ribs, baked beans, and fries are great. The portions are big. The inside feels more like a fast-food place - so I normally take my food to-go. There is always a line, but as another Yelper mentioned the lines move quick. I wouldn't recommend getting unless you're ready to order. Prices are reasonable with dinners starting at $8.50 - you can probably share the meat if you get an extra side. Overall, pretty great BBQ spot and close to 60 so it is accessible to people off I-75 and people coming from Brandon and Ybor City.
(4)
Fred S.
My first review as a Yelper. I've been wanting to write one for awhile but after my visit to First Choice I felt compelled to do just that A coworker of mine has been raving about this place to me for awhile now. Living in St. Pete this was an easy 30 minute drive which is why I probably put off coming here for as long as I did. I instantly regretted it my 3rd bite in I went with my friends recommendation of the combination plate - corn beef brisket, sausage, fries, and baked beans. Wow! All of it was delicious. And their sweet tea is worth coming for in itself. Only caution is that when they ask if you want sauce and you say yes be prepared to have your meat bathing in it. Although their sauce is good I would prefer to apply it myself at the table. I can't wait to come back and try more
(5)
Amber U.
Really great food. The only thing we didn't favor were the baked beans but honestly that's some good BBQ.
(4)
Brett N.
Why 4 stars? Because it's one of the best BBQ spots in Tampa. --- --- --- First Choice is a rare exception to the "restaurant in a strip mall" rule. This place serves great food, as evidenced by the lines extending outside the door around lunch time. The guys slopping the beans on your plate may look like prison inmates, but as far as I'm concerned, the only thing they are guilty of is serving me awesome pulled pork. But seriously, they do look like they've spent some time in the big house, and I'm not even trying to be funny. The sweet tea at First Choice might be the best I've had in Tampa. Sweet tea is the essential compliment to any good barbecue. All of the sides that I've tried are at least good, if not great. Unfortunately for acid reflux sufferers like myself, the Mac-n-Cheese is spicy. If you are looking for good BBQ in the Tampa area, First Choice is a very safe bet.
(4)
Bronze M.
The BBQ here is pretty good. Really good actually. I was first introduced to First Choice by my Work Wife - you know, the member of the opposite sex that you're closest to at work. Everyone has one. Anyway, she kept telling me how this place has the best BBQ ever. Finally one day I gave in and we went here. I was really impressed! The food is extremely good, and just as unhealthy. But it's bar-b-que, so who cares. I of course, was indecisive and wanted to order one of everything on my first visit. I eventually settled on the combination platter, which was a menu choice that allowed me to reinforce my indecisiveness. Here's the rundown of the food: Sausage - flavorful, great consistency and juicy. Ribs - Soo good. perfect smoke flavor. You can eat it without BBQ sauce. Chicken - You cannot go wrong with this choice. Pulled Pork - I swear that their pulled pork sandwich is easily in the top 3 that I've every tasted. Here's what's important for a 1st time visitor to know: ALL OF THE SIDES ARE ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS. You cannot go wrong regardless of what you choose. Oh, and don't be intimidated by the staff. They look intimidating, but once you warm up to them and see them flash a smile and their bright gold teeth blingin', it's all love. Seriously, they are a good group of guys and provide great customer service. My work wife did good on this one! B. Major Grade: A+
(5)
Bill G.
Wow these guys have brisket figured out. I travel every week for work and have tried different BBQ all around the country. Try their brisket with the sauce on the side because the meat is so good on its own. The sauce is great but you might not need it. I'll be back to try the ribs next.
(5)
Jonathan H.
I tried this place again and the service was much better this time around. The corned beef brisket is phenomenal.
(4)
Sum G.
I had the pork sandwich. The meat was very tender and the bbq sauce was sweet and tangy. Pork and side portions were large. The macaroni salad was spicy which threw me off, but the spiciness added to the sweet flavor. If your a fan of spicy food, pick the mac salad as your side.
(4)
Tweet G.
Where I'm from you don't boil ribs slap some sauce on them and call it BBQ. Baked beans were pretty good but I won't be back anytime soon.
(2)
Rebecca K.
I'm originally from Memphis, so I know good bbq. I've been to at least 30 different bbq joints across the states and First Choice is excactly that when it comes to BBQ around the Brandon/Tampa area. The sauce is smoky, not too sweet ,and they are super generous with their portions. The corned Beef Brisket is a must get. The sides are also tasty. The spicy Mac-n-Cheese pasta salad is a must try! I usually get the mustard base potato salad and their natural cut fries and never finish all the food on my plate. I've been here more times than I can count on my hands and always try something different. The inside of the restaurant is no fuss. They are there to serve you great bbq, not plushy comfort for mediocre franchise taste (a la Sonny's across the street) I always have happy bbq filled belly when I leave!
(4)
Jessica D.
Really good portions, yummy bbq sauce, bring your own hot sauce though. Friendly guys. Definitely going back here.
(4)
Travis E.
Everything is good here. These guys know how to make some BBQ. Try the pasta salad it is the best I've ever had
(5)
Aaron K.
This place is a drive for me but worth the time and every penny! The ribs are SUPER meaty and of course, SUPER delicious. Cannot get much better. When I get the opportunity to go here I end up spending upwards of 70-90 buck. 3 full racks and slaw. The red sauce is good too (which they give plenty of). This place never disappoints.
(5)
Nikki L.
Up until I tried First Choice, I've never like BBQ places. I always thought BBQ sauce was too sweet and I just wasn't a fan. However, the smoked pork sandwich here is delicious, and what makes the food so good, is their BBQ sauce. The sausage is also good here. The chicken I had last time was a little dry, but you put their BBQ sauce on it and then it tastes great. What I like about all of their food is that you get that smokey flavor in the meat. I can't wait to try the ribs next time. One thing I do wish they had was better sides. The beans and cole slaw were good, but the potato salad was average. This is the only place I've been to more than once for BBQ and that I actually love.
(4)
Chris W.
Best BBQ in tampa. Mac salad is very good.
(5)
Shannon K.
Great BBQ, Memphis style. Expect the service to be... Not exactly friendly. If you go in knowing that they're not rolling out the red carpet for you it will be a much better experience. I love the spicy mac salad and beef brisket sandwich. Great tea too.
(5)
G S.
I went during the lunch rush, which was out the door of this strip mall location. Ordering is at the counter, direct from the guy chopping the 'que. Know what you want; the line moves quickly. I had the rib dinner, which comes with two sides. I chose fries and beans, and neither was an afterthought. The fries were hot and skin-on, ungreasy and lacking only salt. Easily rectified. The beans were flavorful and bore a hint of cinnamon. Delicious. And the ribs. Well, now. Falling off the bone tender, needing no sauce whatsoever but benefiting from the scoop of sauce slathered on by the counterman. Served in the traditional style with two triangles of white bread. Good size portion, very little fat, moist and smoky. Recommended.
(4)
C G.
Been coming here for years. Best BBQ in Brandon! Excellent ribs and pork. And always friendly service.
(5)
Conner S.
Who needs customer service when your BBQ is this tasty?!?
(4)
Zach P.
I love this place. I first had this from some catering at my office. The Macaroni is amazing. The quality of the food is top notch. I used them to cater a birthday party and everyone was completely satisfied. If you come for lunch try to get there before noon or you'll find yourself standing in line waiting to get inside to place your order.
(5)
Tony Y.
This is one I cannot get. The lines were long, service was decent, but the bbq was not that good. For starters, the ribs seemed like they were first boiled and were not very fresh. Briskets were ok but nothing to write home in my opinion. Baked beans reminds me something out of a can, then heated. Maybe I am not accustomed to this type of bbq but really, compared to the Four Rivers in Orlando or the chain Jim n Nick's, there is a huge gap there in terms of flavor, succulence, smokiness/wood flavor, and general thorough cook thru one expects from good bbq.
(2)
Rachel S.
My friend and I went here for dinner. I, too, was interested in eating here based on the glowing reviews. First of all, if you DO visit this place, head's up. It's in the very back corner of a large plaza. We both drove around the plaza twice looking for the place. It was difficult to find because their lighted sign wasn't on, but it's between Aaron's and a sushi place. For dinner, I had the ribs meal and my friend got a pulled pork sandwich. I was underwhelmed by the ribs themselves. They were not fall-off-the-bone tender or particularly flavorful and were doused in a sauce that is simply way too sweet for the meat. The helpings are healthy portions, but I didn't really have the desire to eat my neon yellow potato salad or my fries that were dripping in oil and salt. My friend's "pulled pork" was more like chopped pork and was equally doused in sugary sauce. So all in all, if I am in the area and NEED bbq (there are plenty of other food options in the same plaza), I may go here again. I gave it a three because I felt that the ribs were just that, a-ok. For bbq, this place is acceptable, but for the best in town, I guess I'll keep looking.
(3)
Felix A.
What can I say, it's the best bbq I have ever had and it seems like it's the best other people have as well because this place packs the people in. If you don't get there by 11:30 be prepared to wait online for at least 20-30 minutes. Also, bring a coat because the line will go out the door. I usually have the pulled pork with greens and beans which were great! I have had other things on the menu and they were equally awesome. Make sure to get some of that terrific Iced Tea, you won't be disappointed.
(5)
Mark N Phoebe G.
Hands down the best BBQ in Florida. One of the few things I miss living there.
(5)
Aaron B.
Favorite lunch spot. The pork, sausage, brisket, coleslaw, and collard greens are all fantastic.
(4)
Daniel L.
Great place. Service is quick so prepare before you get there. Can't go wrong with most of the items on the menu and it's all served with a slice of white bread. I've been know to hotbox the lobby of the Springhill Suites with this BBQ goodness!
(4)
Maria G.
First time seeing a huge bbq pit in the restaurant... ribs were good n chicken was juicy.... staff took order right away n food served immediately... dining in was a lil basic ...n small... over all.. nice place but nothing to wow me... ps. Busy for pick up to go orders...n very reasonable in price...
(3)
Jennifer H.
This is the place to go if you're off of I-75 near SR60. They open at 11am, and if you get there by 11:15, you'll be waiting in a line out the door. This BBQ joint is no frills, not a chain, and one of a kind so I hear. The helpings are huge, and delish! The BBQ beans were more like a dark molasses dessert than they were beans. It was really good. I tried a friend's dish of the spicy mac and cheese - it was really interesting; served cold, but doused with cayenee pepper the heat sneaks up on you as you chew. I'll definately be back, and now I know for sure that I'll be there at 11am when the doors open.
(5)
Lauren J.
If your in the mood for BBQ, You've found your restaurant. This is a small place, but they make the most of it by putting the kitchen right in front of your eyes! French fries are to die for! BBQ SAUCE is also awesome...on anything. Since I like to be tidy in restaurants I get pulled pork...I see them throw the meat down and start chopping. Fast,not too fast. If you get pulled pork...SMOTHER IT IN BBQ SAUCE!!! :P
(5)
Courtney S.
went back- yummy yummy as usual. Great staff, very friendly :-)
(5)
Rich D.
After getting absolutely raving recommendations for First Choice from two folks whose palates I respect, I've visited First Choice twice over the past year, with varying degrees of satisfaction. It's conveniently located in the corner of a strip mall with lots of parking. The restaurant is fairly good sized, but can be strained during meal times by the large crowds. I've visited both in the afternoon and at dinner time, the staff is always very friendly, service has been prompt, with my food was delivered up fairly quickly. I had both the beef and pork dinners with baked beans. As my recommendation for First Choice was so high, my expectation was for a "big moment" in my BBQ pilgramage that's taken me from California to North Carolina and many points in between. First Choice was built up so high I guess I expected the clouds to part and the BBQ gods to smile down and grant me a special life-changing experience. Whether my expectations were too high or the BBQ was delivered too low, I felt both 'Q dishes missed the high mark. Simply said, it was good, but it wasn't great, and I've had much better. The baked beans were very good at both visits. So I have no criticism at all for First Choice without trying out more of the menu. Obviously, they're making lots of folks very satisfied. Unfortunately, the location is not one I frequent often, so it will likely be a long time before I get a chance to return. If/when I do, I'll update my review. Atmosphere: 4 Service: 5 Food: 4 Value: 4
(4)
alison t.
First of all, I don't like BBQ, never have. 10 or 15 years ago when I worked on Adamo drive someone suggested First Choice for lunch, I went begrudgingly. To say I was blown away is an understatement. Yeah, you gotta wait in line but who cares. Everyone talks about the meats which are fabulous but the fritters to me are, in a word, amazing... hot, greasy, spicy deliciousness. I don't know what's in them and I don't care just gimme gimme. I haven't worked in Brandon in years and have moved to Lutz so I don't frequent as much as I'd like to but lets just say I wouldn't walk across the street normally for BBQ but for First Choice I make plans to go there and bring friends. Well done!
(5)
Cynthia S.
Great BBQ. Chicken was great, ribs awesome. The BBQ sauce was perfect, a little sweet a little tart. The greens were great, as were the beans and potato salad. The macaroni salad was hot, you have to like cayenne hot. No ambiance, but with q like this who cares!
(5)
Frankie F.
Ya so, if your looking for a sit down full service BBQ place, this isn't the place. Its a hole in the wall place, run more like a backyard BBQ, than a restruant. The BBQ is one of the best in the area. The sides are stuff youd find in someones house, not your typical mac and chesse sides. If your a fan of unique homestyle cooking, then this place is for you.
(4)
Joshua S.
Repeat after me: I will NEVER go to Sonny's EVER EVER again. When I get the craving, I have to drive a half-hour to get here, and that's pretty significant for some random yen, but oh is it worth it! This place has become my guilty pleasure! I have grown to love the baked beans that I was sort of uncertain about before. The sauce is amazing and the meats are just all-around great!
(4)
Cindy V.
the guy who owns this place used to run moses white's on 7th ave years ago, where he most definitely earned the respect of bbq aficionados throughout the bay area and beyond. moses white's may have closed, but (thankfully) the flavor lives on at first choice. the ribs are their best meat, IMO (order the "short end" for the most tender part of the rack), and their sides are all outstanding. potato salad, baked beans and spicy mac 'n cheese are all great (note: spicy means holy-sh*t-balls-that's-hot!). give the fritters a try, but make sure you order them the second you walk in - i mean it, the very second that you walk in, shout out to the sometimes scary looking men with cleavers behind the glass, "can you drop an order of fritters, please?" it takes FOR. EVER. to cook those things and even longer for them to cool down long enough to eat them. go against your better judgment and eat your food in the restaurant. you can get it to go but it won't be nearly as good. just bring some wet wipes of some kind to clean the table off with and don't set your purse on the floor; you'll be fine. closed on sundays so if you can only go on the weekend, get your fix on saturday.
(5)
Mike S.
Great food, horrible atmosphere, so it's perfect! I got the pork and, get this, corned beef combo plate. Ever seen smoked corned beef on a menu? Well if you ever do, order it because it's awesome. Beans and mac salad were both very good too. Why not 5 stars? Well, the day I was there I was a bit put off by the rather rude service, but I am chalking it up to an anomoly. My new favorite bbq dive in the Tampa area.
(4)
Claire T.
We found this on Yelp while planning a trip to Tampa. We thought maybe the place had closed as we drove around and around the parking lot and the Garmin said we'd reached our destination. Finally I had to call them... they're tucked waaaay back in the corner just down from the post office. We had the pulled pork and fries and beans. Yummy!!! The pork was moist, tender and flavorful and there was plenty of it! The skin on fries were right out of the deep fryer and piping hot and crispy! The beans were a bit sweet for taste but good. Next trip I'm getting the ribs!!!!! Don't miss this gem!!!
(4)
Stacie D.
I've had the privilege of being able to enjoy First Choice ever since we discovered it about 15 years ago, and it's just as fantastic now as it was then, and the staff is still notably eager to please. Since we moved over 20 miles away, we don't get to indulge as much as we'd like, but it's my destination of choice for my birthday, even though it's agonizing to have smell those enticing aromas on the drive home. I love the sauce so much that I admit to eating it all by itself by the spoonful.
(5)
Rob F.
Gets no better than this! Line out the door so dont expect to be in and out in 15 minutes. Be patient though because the pork sandwich, beans, fries, etc, etc, etc is all worth it. Enthusiastic employees, dedicated owner, and some of the best BBQ you can get. WAY BACK IN THE CORNER of the Home Depot shopping center. Super good food, and I love a hole in the wall. Not much seating and it can be a little warm inside because the door is stuck open for the line of 20 people.
(5)
Robyn S.
Oh how I wanted to like this. The food itself was fine, but the atmosphere is really, really REALLY divey. It might have been fine for just meeting my friend for dinner, but I was with my whole family, and my kids refused to eat there. The barbecue was good, but the sides weren't all that great. This is NOT a kid-friendly place, so don't expect that. It is also very hard to find - very back corner of the shopping center. If you really do love your barbecue, great, try it out, but understand this may be a bit of an... adventure.
(2)
Edward O.
Best.BBQ.Ever Found this place at random. We had lunch there; there was no line. Perhaps we just missed the lunch rush. The meat is perfect. Wife had the ribs, I had the pulled pork. Everything was perfect, well I was a little surprised at the "weber" sandwich bread we received when we asked for extra bread. But perhaps this is traditional BBQ bread. Anyway, we are planning another trip to FLA, and will stop in Tampa jsut to eat here. PS, if you are ever in San Diego and looking for BBQ keep on looking. San Diego has many thing, and is a beautiful city, but when it comes to BBQ it's not my First Choice.
(5)
Jodi M.
This place has been voted the number one BBQ place in Brandon for years. Don't worry about the huge line it moves quickly. Also, know that it's an order, they fix it in front of you, pay, get your own drink and find an empty table kind of place. I gave this place 4 stars because I think their BBQ is good and their sides are good. My biggest gripe is I don't like eating on disposable plates and using plastic silverware. This is probably why I don't eat here more often. BBQ is difficult enough to eat and keep clean. Still on those rare days I can afford to get messy I will be back because I love BBQ.
(4)
Kathryn D.
I might have been more enthusiastic about this place if I hadn't just eaten at Kojak's in Palmetto. I found out about them from TripAdvisor, where several people just raved about them. Although they are good, Clint is right. They are not the very best. Our ribs were smokey, but a bit chewy. I got the pulled pork (on a very subpar white bun) with beans (OK) and the spicy mac salad (I did not expect that!). My husband got the ribs with collard greens (no vinegar to be seen, but they did have plastic packets of lemon juice) and green beans (straight from a can). Although we ate every bit and enjoyed the meat, the sides were only average and the bread was downright terrible. This is a very plain place with a walk up counter, a soda fountain, and plastic utensils on plastic plates. It I lived close by, I'd probably just order some meat to go and make my own sides.
(3)
Clint U.
I FEEL CHEATED!!!!!!!!!!! I have only read glowing reviews of this place. After eating some great BBQ from coast to coast in the USA, I couldn't wait to try this place....... It must have been an off night in the smoker. I tried the rib sandwich, which is just ribs in between two slices of white bread.....plain and simple. And the verdict??? The ribs were rather tasteless. There wasnt that concentrated beefy flavor from hours of smoking. Instead all I had was rather a tasteless grey meat. It seemed like they parboiled the ribs to cut down on the smoking times. Whatever they did, the ribs came out tasteless. The meat was also slightly overdone....didnt have that chew....when you pulled it off the bone....again this didn't add to the experience. Far too often BBQ places try to disguise poorly prepared meat with lots of sauce. My preparer tried to do just that, giving my rib sandwich a bath in BBQ sauce. In the hotel, I carefully wiped off all the sauce and tasted the meat. Upon closer inspection, I also noticed the lack of red smoke rings in the meat....a sure sign of long slow smoking...or the lack thereof..... Overall 3 stars. Overall, it was ok, but nothing memorable. Tampa may have great Cuban food, but it's BBQ needs some improvement.
(3)
Paul M.
Not bad, but not great. Baked beans are weird and taste like they may have ginger snaps as an ingredient. Mac salad is definitely unique. Greens needed hot sauce big time and maybe a ham hock or two. I got the ribs and unfortunately it was close to closing and tasted like they had been in the steamer a tad too long. Not sure how it compares to other Tampa BBQ joints but there sure are better smoke houses around. Bottom line...pretty good for a strip mall, but not quite all that if going for dinner.
(3)
Marianne M.
This is the best BBQ in the area, the only reason I gave only 4 stars is because the restaurant is definitely no frills. If if hadn't been told how good the food is I may not have gone in, but a line out the door says it all.
(4)
Jordan M.
The best BBQ in the Tampa Bay area, hands down. Their ribs and pulled pork are amazing. Their sides are awesome - most notably their sweet and smokey beans and their spicy macaroni salad. We had these guys cater our rehearsal dinner we love them so much.
(5)
jon Q.
My girlfriend and I tried this BBQ joint tonight based on the reviews here. We drove about an hour to get there, and when we arrived there was only one person in front of us who had already been helped. Despite being right in front of 3 employees, no one even acknowledged that we were standing there for a good 5 minutes. When we were helped the staff was friendly though. As to the food, I had high hopes for this one based on the reviews. I got the rib dinner and my girlfriend got the pulled pork. Both were decently priced, we got away with $15 dollars for the both of us. Over all I can say that the meat was, well, decent. There was nothing particularly bad about any of it, but there was nothing that was particularly good about it either. There was no flavor that really popped out at me with the ribs, and the pulled pork tasted like just about any other pulled pork you've ever had. All in all, nothing to write home about throughout the entire meal. Our final verdict: If you lived in the area and were jonesing for some BBQ its a heck of a lot better than going to Sonny's; if your looking for some really top notch BBQ to lay your hands on, keep on looking.
(3)
Jaski K.
Ordered take-out from there today, so I can't comment about the restaurant itself, but the food was delicious and had me craving for more! I ordered the 1/4 slab of ribs. The meat was nice and tender and I liked that the BBQ sauce came on the side so that it didn't overpower the flavors of the meat. Good stuff!
(4)
Stefan S.
Not bad - #2 BBQ in Brandon
(4)
Brittany R.
The jerks here wouldn't accept the restraunts.com gift cirtificate that was paid for. don't sign up for online discounts if you aren't going to honor them!
(1)
Denise J.
This is by far the best BBQ ever. It is tangy, spicy and smokey all at the same time. The pulled pork is soooo good. The sides seem ordinary but all have some extra goodness. The spicy macaroni salad is unlike any macaroni salad you have ever had. Even the hush puppies and steak fries are delicious. If you are anywhere near Brandon, you must stop by, be prepared to stand in a line out the door, order quickly and get your own drink!
(5)
B K.
I agree with all previous 5-star reviews, and would like to add that the hot barbeque sauce is just that....VERY HOT! Also, this is the only place around (that's worth going to) that still serves sausage, which I love. But if you like your sausage whole, be sure to let them know because otherwise they'll chop it up.
(5)
James C.
I'm from TN and know good BBQ, and this place is on par. Our family got the ribs,brisket,turkey,fries, and fritters. *Ribs- huge, lots of meat, little fat, and I would give 4/5 stars. *brisket- corned beef, shredded, 4/5 stars *turkey- tender white meat, didn't have a smoked flavor which was disappointing. Give this 3/5 stars. *Fries- hand cut and fried everyday. These were great. 5/5 stars *fritters- I expected something more like a hush puppy, but was good never less. Would of liked more shredded pork in it though. These were good, but maybe not for everyone. I give these 3/5 Overall the staff was extremely polite, attentive, and helpful. This is a great BBQ joint that I would recommend to anyone.
(4)
Jason C.
Stopped by here during a trip to the Citrus Park Mall. I was a bit confused at first, but just keep driving back into the plaza, and you'll find it. I got the ribs which were very tender. I especially liked their spicy BBQ sauce. The spicy macaroni salad was good as well. I'd never had spicy macaroni salad, but it hit the spot. The macaroni noodles had a nice texture and a good kick.
(4)
J D.
Excellent BBQ place with a rich history. The best BBQ around. Get the beef! The fries are also very good.
(4)
Ty M.
Quality way down. I used to drive 10 miles just for your coleslaw. Too bad. Last chance fellas. Oh and thanks for the 25.00 slab of grey steamed ribs. That and your attitude makes you last choice. Tighten up.
Great yelp recommendation, went for lunch and got the pulled pork sandwich and coleslaw, great taste. Would go again. Atmosphere is relaxed and clean, doesn't have table service, order by the giant smoker and take to your table.
(4)
Tiffany B.
Holy. Shit. I mean, what more is there to say? Literally the best BBQ I have had since I moved to Florida 7 years ago, and definitely top 3 BBQ places I've eaten at ever in life. Pulled pork sandwich? Smokey, sweet, amazing. Ribs? Flavorful and fall off the bone tender. BBQ sauce? God yes. So good. SO GOOD. The staff is friendly, fast, and helpful. One reviewer called them "intimidating" which... no. Not intimidating what so ever. I've eaten here twice in the same amount of weeks. Brandon is half an hour away from where I live. I do not care. Worth it. Worth the drive. Worth the calories. That's it, I'm getting BBQ today. Done.
(5)
Geno K.
After a few more visits, I've become more of a fan. The baked beans and fries are definitely the sides to get. Had the sausage and ribs combo on my most recent visit and they were great. The staff isn't terribly friendly. The place looks likes it could be closed down after one of those Restaurant Red Alerts they do on the TV news. They don't have air conditioning. But it's still the best BBQ this side of Tampa.
(4)
Rusty D.
This is the real deal!! Tender smoke but if you like the ribs chewey then you have the right place. I do like the way they were cooked and the inside seating was interesting. Good 60's and 70's souls music playing on an old boom box. The owner and two of his friends were entertaining also. Had a slab, couldn't finish them off between my wife and I. The ribs were a full slab not St. Louis cut so we have some away to a nice young man who was a musician from Chicago. The sounds and sights of this place would be something not to miss. Many of the people ordering knew exactly what they wanted and the staff often knew what they were going to Orrder
(5)
Bonnie H.
The bbq pork sandwich was tender and flavorful. The baked beans and potato salad topped it off as delightful. However, the only issue was the restaurants warmth. A lot of customers only ordered take out. We were traveling from a seminar, so we ate there. It was delicious though.
(4)
Jennifer W.
I had the pork sandwich with a side of potato salad. The meat was super tendered and wasn't over powered with smoke flavor. I really enjoyed it. The BBQ sauce was a bit sweeter than I like, but since they don't smother their meat in the sauce, it wasn't a deal breaker. The potato salad had more mustard in it than I normally like, but it was homemade and very good. I am looking forward to going back and trying the ribs and brisket.
(4)
Chaena P.
Omg the best in town. How is this place not 5 stars??? Just real southern bbq. Nothing fancy just strait up to the point. The sides are incredible. The baked beans and omg the spicy Mac. Do it! I crave this place. That's it! I'm going now.
(5)
Alison C.
I came here for lunch with some friends, one of which has raved about the food to price point ratio. Her praise was well-founded. First Choice is a tiny, hole-in-the-wall shop, so the line goes out the door during busy times like lunch. While this seems intimidating, the line moves quickly and orders are taken at rapid speed, so be sure of what you want before you get to the counter. I had the beef brisket sandwhich with the spicy macaroni salad and collard greens. The brisket meat was tender and flavorful with no shortage of delicious barbecue sauce, which was rich and had a smoky flavor. The spicy macaroni salad was also unique, as it was the first cold macaroni pasta I've ever had that packed heat while still lending sweet and savory notes. It was a good compliment to the meat, and delivered some excitement to an otherwise standard BBQ meal. The collard greens were also delicious and typical of most southern food. Yeah, there might be better barbecue places in other towns, but this definitely hits the spot and is the first barbecue place in Tampa that I've found to be satisfactory. The portions are generous and the price is cheap for what you get. My only complaint is that it was hard to find a seat because of the crowd. First Choice should expand because they're definitely popular enough!
(4)
Frank N.
There is no bigger fan of BBQ than me, I love it. Wife and I had recently had lunch at First Choice and I couldn't wait to get back. Now I wish I had waited longer. First time the ribs were succulent bone tender, mouth watering sauce, it was like finding Nirvana (the place, not the band). This time the ribs were fatty and barely warm, the beef was just ok. My sides, BBQ beans and fries were awesome though and in fairness we hit them right before closing. I know.....no excuses, but this is BBQ. We will try it again....earlier and hope to recapture the magic.
(3)
Lori L.
Not impressed. The smoker out front draws you in b/c of the amazing bbq smell but the food was ok. 1st time there & bought 3 pulled pork sandwiches & a rack of ribs w/ sides for $64. The pulled pork sammy's were good but wish they didn't drown it in bbq sauce. Sauce not that great tasting unless you really like A LOT of sauce & it's sweet. The baked beans I tried & didn't care for b/c they were incredibly sweet, the mac n cheese was ok, hardly any cheese & spicy which I love spice but my children don't so they should let patrons know that it's spicy (I believe jalapeños) are in it. The collard greens were good but a bit salty & the rack of ribs were good but some portions were so barbecued that we couldn't bite into it. We won't be back. Also, no a/c in there & it's blazing hot.
(2)
Amber F.
I've been here quite a few times, and I always get the pulled pork! It's not my favorite around, but it has good flavor to it. I love their sauce, and their fries and beans are pretty good! I wasn't a fan of the macaroni though. I asked for mac and cheese, and wasn't told it was a spicy pasta salad. I'm also not really a fan of their customer service, but it's close to work so I go when I'm craving it.
I went here today because I read so many good reviews so I just brought some chicken. Its tasted like they took the chicken and cooked it without any seasoning. It was bland and the skin was very soft and pale. You can taste the smokey flavor. The barbecue sauce has a heavy ketchup taste. Maybe next time I will try the ribs. The place does look nice and clean. Staff friendly.
(3)
Lily R.
I think I probably went in with too high of expectations, because I was a bit disappointed. I got a pulled pork sandwich and we shared the mac salad and coleslaw. The meat was ok..I prefer it pulled rather than chopped and it was pretty flavorless..luckily the sauce was probably my favorite thing here so that saved it. If you like sweet bbq sauce like me you'll definitely like theirs! The macaroni salad is a spicy cold salad and while I like the idea...it definitely had potential to be something I'd really it was mostly just spicy without to much flavor. The coleslaw was a total miss for me..cabbage was just kinda ehh and the flavor was off. It wasn't awful..and if you live in Tampa it might be one of the better options, but if you're a real bbq fan I'd probably skip it..I can get better stuff at home..I'd say the highlights of this trip were the sweet tea and the bbq sauce.
(2)
Crystal D.
I agree with lady H. BBQ is a personal thing- Everyone's different. I'm not a huge fan of the way they chop up "pulled pork" & the brisket. The meat itself had a good, smokey flavor, but unfortunately they covered it in A LOT of sauce. I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm particular about sauce of my BBQ. I'm not a fan of a sweet BBQ sauce. I think it's a lot like serving a steak with steak sauce- it's like their covering up the flavor of the meat itself. The potato salad lacked flavor, I did enjoy their original kind of macaroni salad. Nice kick. It was okay. Not my favorite
(2)
Kerianne G.
They're good is really good, the best bbq place. The food is always hot and fresh, never had a bad experience at this place
(5)
Dani R.
The BBQ Pork Sandwich in the area!!! If you have carvings for some real good BBQ that's the place to go
(5)
Tracy M.
This place is great. Real BBQ made fresh every day (follow the smoke). Nothing terribly healthy though but who cares. It's delicious and authentic. The owner talked to us today about how it's all about the process and NOT about who's doing the cooking. So the food has been consistent for 23 years regardless of who the chef is. Try the brisket. It's not like anything I've had before. Yum!
(5)
Bill G.
Not a big fan of their ribs, but I LOVE their brisket, pork and baked beans.
(5)
Dan G.
On point... went and ordered the 1/2 slab ribs fries with side baked beans was not disappointed gets a little busy but worth the wait. .will definitely be back for more.
(5)
Bonita B.
The smell of the Bar-B-Que (even though I don't eat pork or beef) drew me in. I had no meat, just sides -- collards, macaroni salad (it's SPICY as heck, at least to me), and baked beans (didn't know it had meat in it until I took a spoon full). Usually on the weekends, the lines are long -- out the door. Don't worry, the lines move fairly quickly. I saw all nationalities in the line or in the dining area, that made me smile because it make me think for a moment that Bar-B-Que crossed over the color-lines. You might have to ignore the music piping through their little intercom/speaker system. This restaurant is tucked in the corner in a big shopping plaza...past Home Depot, US Postal Office, and Old Time. If you blink you might miss it.
(4)
Katy S.
As a supervisor of 10 people at a company in Brandon, First Choice has become a favorite of mine for lunch catering. It is good, consistent, and inexpensive! My personal favorite order: The pulled pork, baked beans, and macaroni salad. As someone who LOVES spice, I must highly recommend the mac salad. It is super spicy and I become more addicted with each bite. In my opinion, the biggest measure of a restaurant is how they react to a mistake. When I ordered my typical catering order last week, I got back to my office and noted that the baked beans were left out. I called them back and they apologized profusely and stated that they would make up for it. When I got back to First Choice, they had included a free order of chicken, which more than made up for the mistake. I will continue to be a loyal First Choice customer after that experience.
(4)
Cambria K.
I wasn't really impressed. I'm ok with dives and have to been to many that still felt clean and cheerful., but the restaurant felt dirty and dingy. And there was a fly buzzing around my face while I ate. Finally they were playing rap music which in and of itself isn't a big deal, but it was of a variety that had a lot of cursing so I wouldn't bring my kids here. The BBQ pork was ok, but they drowned it in a sauce that tasted heavily of ketchup. I wasn't warned about the spicy macaroni salad and didn't like that at all. Also the man had me test the fries to see if they were still hot so even though they were, it told me they weren't fresh. All in all, I won't be back.
(2)
Chris B.
I was excited to try this place out. Good Yelp reviews and a line out the door had me ready for some good BBQ. The line did move awfully slow, but that's fine, it's obviously a popular place. I ordered the beef, and my two sides were collard greens and macaroni. The guys behind the counter were very friendly and seemed efficient. The BBQ sauce was good, and I'm glad they kept extra on the table. I thought the portion of beef was on the small side, but was pretty good. Collard greens were just ok. The macaroni was different than anything I've tasted...it was a spicy macaroni salad. That was really good. Overall I wasn't blown away. I'd like to come back and try the pork because that did look really good.
(3)
Lady H.
Bbq is a personal thing. Everybody has their own personal preferences and it's damn near impossible to please most of the crowd with everything. That being said, here is my two cents (for what its worth). The bbq sauce, which is sweet, and the sweet tea were delicious and the highlights of the meal. I had pulled pork, which was actually chopped and not "pulled," chicken, potato salad and baked beans. I didn't like that the pork was chopped instead of pulled. All the bones and grizzle was chopped up in the meat and I kept having to pull bits of them out of my mouth mid-chew. The baked beans seem like they had been overly seasoned with nutmeg. After I ate a bite of them I couldn't get the nutmeg taste out of my mouth. The potato salad was just okay. Bottom line is its not horrible but in my opinion it's not that good. I wont go back.
(3)
Martic R.
Main advice about this place is.... get there early to avoid the lines if going for lunch. We got there early shortly after they opened. I haven't been here in years and was hoping to get a chicken sandwish but they don't offer that on the menu, the Turkey was my second option but it wasn't done yet so I went for the beef sandwish...really good, great barbecue sauce. We also got the pork and ribs dinner which comes with two sides. I wish the place was a bit bigger but overall great food.
(4)
Todd V.
I go here a lot whenever I'm in Tampa for business. The BBQ meats are average to above average, but their side dishes are outstanding and is what keeps me coming back. The spicy macaroni salad is the most unique style I have had anywhere and is my favorite dish. A close second would be the BBQ beans. The fries are good too and a lot of people seem to get those, although there is usually a wait while they make more. There is usually a line out the door unless you come at an odd time. Ordering can be somewhat intimidating and reminds me of a black version of the Soup Nazi; the guys behind the counter all look like hardcore gangsters, and seem too high to say anything and just stare at you when it's your turn to order. If you're not paying attention they'll take someone else's order.
(4)
Alex Z.
Great BBQ...the real deal for florida BBQ...try the corned beef BBQ...this place has been here for 15 years and rightfully so
(5)
RE A.
The chicken here is succulent and the barbecue ring is evident when you come here you know you get the best that's why they're call first choice because you're always the first choice when you want barbecue
(4)
Maria C.
This is THE BEST BBQ in Tampa Bay. If you're in the Brandon area and get a hankering for some good ribs, get in line. They pull quite a crowd for lunch. But it is Mmmm Mmmm good!
(4)
Benjamin M.
And Bingo was his name-o. This place is ten minutes from my office, so I decided to check it out last Friday for lunch. As a loyal Yelper, I read most of the reviews before taking my little cruise down Falkenberg. I arrived right at 11:30, hoping to beat the rush. Fail. The line was at least a dozen people out the door. Alas, I am a dedicated foodie so I waited it out and--oh boy!!--it was definitely worth the wait. (Side note: there is shade, so don't get discouraged if you also see an ugly line.) Once in the door, you shout out your order to the guy behind the counter and then he starts a styrofoam plate for you and passes it down the assembly line. I ordered the pulled pork sandwich with potato salad and baked beans ($8). Classic BBQ meal. Oh my goodness. It was SOOO good. The BBQ was incredibly flavorful and fresh. The beans were the bomb. The wait was about 20 minutes. Ordering took about 3 minutes. I finished my meal in about 5 minutes. Total time: around half an hour. If you figure in ten minutes to/from work, it's a perfect place for lunch if you work in the MLK/Falkenberg/60 corridor. This place beats the snot out of Sonny's. First Choice is my new first choice for BBQ in Brandon.
(5)
Carlos H.
I have visited First Choice BBQ a few times in the past with some friends and they serve some solid BBQ food - far better than the bigger chains in the area. It is messy and heartache-inducing, but still great. The ribs, baked beans, and fries are great. The portions are big. The inside feels more like a fast-food place - so I normally take my food to-go. There is always a line, but as another Yelper mentioned the lines move quick. I wouldn't recommend getting unless you're ready to order. Prices are reasonable with dinners starting at $8.50 - you can probably share the meat if you get an extra side. Overall, pretty great BBQ spot and close to 60 so it is accessible to people off I-75 and people coming from Brandon and Ybor City.
(4)
Fred S.
My first review as a Yelper. I've been wanting to write one for awhile but after my visit to First Choice I felt compelled to do just that A coworker of mine has been raving about this place to me for awhile now. Living in St. Pete this was an easy 30 minute drive which is why I probably put off coming here for as long as I did. I instantly regretted it my 3rd bite in I went with my friends recommendation of the combination plate - corn beef brisket, sausage, fries, and baked beans. Wow! All of it was delicious. And their sweet tea is worth coming for in itself. Only caution is that when they ask if you want sauce and you say yes be prepared to have your meat bathing in it. Although their sauce is good I would prefer to apply it myself at the table. I can't wait to come back and try more
(5)
Amber U.
Really great food. The only thing we didn't favor were the baked beans but honestly that's some good BBQ.
(4)
Brett N.
Why 4 stars? Because it's one of the best BBQ spots in Tampa. --- --- --- First Choice is a rare exception to the "restaurant in a strip mall" rule. This place serves great food, as evidenced by the lines extending outside the door around lunch time. The guys slopping the beans on your plate may look like prison inmates, but as far as I'm concerned, the only thing they are guilty of is serving me awesome pulled pork. But seriously, they do look like they've spent some time in the big house, and I'm not even trying to be funny. The sweet tea at First Choice might be the best I've had in Tampa. Sweet tea is the essential compliment to any good barbecue. All of the sides that I've tried are at least good, if not great. Unfortunately for acid reflux sufferers like myself, the Mac-n-Cheese is spicy. If you are looking for good BBQ in the Tampa area, First Choice is a very safe bet.
(4)
Bronze M.
The BBQ here is pretty good. Really good actually. I was first introduced to First Choice by my Work Wife - you know, the member of the opposite sex that you're closest to at work. Everyone has one. Anyway, she kept telling me how this place has the best BBQ ever. Finally one day I gave in and we went here. I was really impressed! The food is extremely good, and just as unhealthy. But it's bar-b-que, so who cares. I of course, was indecisive and wanted to order one of everything on my first visit. I eventually settled on the combination platter, which was a menu choice that allowed me to reinforce my indecisiveness. Here's the rundown of the food: Sausage - flavorful, great consistency and juicy. Ribs - Soo good. perfect smoke flavor. You can eat it without BBQ sauce. Chicken - You cannot go wrong with this choice. Pulled Pork - I swear that their pulled pork sandwich is easily in the top 3 that I've every tasted. Here's what's important for a 1st time visitor to know: ALL OF THE SIDES ARE ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS. You cannot go wrong regardless of what you choose. Oh, and don't be intimidated by the staff. They look intimidating, but once you warm up to them and see them flash a smile and their bright gold teeth blingin', it's all love. Seriously, they are a good group of guys and provide great customer service. My work wife did good on this one! B. Major Grade: A+
(5)
Bill G.
Wow these guys have brisket figured out. I travel every week for work and have tried different BBQ all around the country. Try their brisket with the sauce on the side because the meat is so good on its own. The sauce is great but you might not need it. I'll be back to try the ribs next.
(5)
Jonathan H.
I tried this place again and the service was much better this time around. The corned beef brisket is phenomenal.
(4)
Sum G.
I had the pork sandwich. The meat was very tender and the bbq sauce was sweet and tangy. Pork and side portions were large. The macaroni salad was spicy which threw me off, but the spiciness added to the sweet flavor. If your a fan of spicy food, pick the mac salad as your side.
(4)
Tweet G.
Where I'm from you don't boil ribs slap some sauce on them and call it BBQ. Baked beans were pretty good but I won't be back anytime soon.
(2)
Rebecca K.
I'm originally from Memphis, so I know good bbq. I've been to at least 30 different bbq joints across the states and First Choice is excactly that when it comes to BBQ around the Brandon/Tampa area. The sauce is smoky, not too sweet ,and they are super generous with their portions. The corned Beef Brisket is a must get. The sides are also tasty. The spicy Mac-n-Cheese pasta salad is a must try! I usually get the mustard base potato salad and their natural cut fries and never finish all the food on my plate. I've been here more times than I can count on my hands and always try something different. The inside of the restaurant is no fuss. They are there to serve you great bbq, not plushy comfort for mediocre franchise taste (a la Sonny's across the street) I always have happy bbq filled belly when I leave!
(4)
Jessica D.
Really good portions, yummy bbq sauce, bring your own hot sauce though. Friendly guys. Definitely going back here.
(4)
Travis E.
Everything is good here. These guys know how to make some BBQ. Try the pasta salad it is the best I've ever had
(5)
Aaron K.
This place is a drive for me but worth the time and every penny! The ribs are SUPER meaty and of course, SUPER delicious. Cannot get much better. When I get the opportunity to go here I end up spending upwards of 70-90 buck. 3 full racks and slaw. The red sauce is good too (which they give plenty of). This place never disappoints.
(5)
Nikki L.
Up until I tried First Choice, I've never like BBQ places. I always thought BBQ sauce was too sweet and I just wasn't a fan. However, the smoked pork sandwich here is delicious, and what makes the food so good, is their BBQ sauce. The sausage is also good here. The chicken I had last time was a little dry, but you put their BBQ sauce on it and then it tastes great. What I like about all of their food is that you get that smokey flavor in the meat. I can't wait to try the ribs next time. One thing I do wish they had was better sides. The beans and cole slaw were good, but the potato salad was average. This is the only place I've been to more than once for BBQ and that I actually love.
(4)
Chris W.
Best BBQ in tampa. Mac salad is very good.
(5)
Shannon K.
Great BBQ, Memphis style. Expect the service to be... Not exactly friendly. If you go in knowing that they're not rolling out the red carpet for you it will be a much better experience. I love the spicy mac salad and beef brisket sandwich. Great tea too.
(5)
G S.
I went during the lunch rush, which was out the door of this strip mall location. Ordering is at the counter, direct from the guy chopping the 'que. Know what you want; the line moves quickly. I had the rib dinner, which comes with two sides. I chose fries and beans, and neither was an afterthought. The fries were hot and skin-on, ungreasy and lacking only salt. Easily rectified. The beans were flavorful and bore a hint of cinnamon. Delicious. And the ribs. Well, now. Falling off the bone tender, needing no sauce whatsoever but benefiting from the scoop of sauce slathered on by the counterman. Served in the traditional style with two triangles of white bread. Good size portion, very little fat, moist and smoky. Recommended.
(4)
C G.
Been coming here for years. Best BBQ in Brandon! Excellent ribs and pork. And always friendly service.
(5)
Conner S.
Who needs customer service when your BBQ is this tasty?!?
(4)
Zach P.
I love this place. I first had this from some catering at my office. The Macaroni is amazing. The quality of the food is top notch. I used them to cater a birthday party and everyone was completely satisfied. If you come for lunch try to get there before noon or you'll find yourself standing in line waiting to get inside to place your order.
(5)
Tony Y.
This is one I cannot get. The lines were long, service was decent, but the bbq was not that good. For starters, the ribs seemed like they were first boiled and were not very fresh. Briskets were ok but nothing to write home in my opinion. Baked beans reminds me something out of a can, then heated. Maybe I am not accustomed to this type of bbq but really, compared to the Four Rivers in Orlando or the chain Jim n Nick's, there is a huge gap there in terms of flavor, succulence, smokiness/wood flavor, and general thorough cook thru one expects from good bbq.
(2)
Rachel S.
My friend and I went here for dinner. I, too, was interested in eating here based on the glowing reviews. First of all, if you DO visit this place, head's up. It's in the very back corner of a large plaza. We both drove around the plaza twice looking for the place. It was difficult to find because their lighted sign wasn't on, but it's between Aaron's and a sushi place. For dinner, I had the ribs meal and my friend got a pulled pork sandwich. I was underwhelmed by the ribs themselves. They were not fall-off-the-bone tender or particularly flavorful and were doused in a sauce that is simply way too sweet for the meat. The helpings are healthy portions, but I didn't really have the desire to eat my neon yellow potato salad or my fries that were dripping in oil and salt. My friend's "pulled pork" was more like chopped pork and was equally doused in sugary sauce. So all in all, if I am in the area and NEED bbq (there are plenty of other food options in the same plaza), I may go here again. I gave it a three because I felt that the ribs were just that, a-ok. For bbq, this place is acceptable, but for the best in town, I guess I'll keep looking.
(3)
Felix A.
What can I say, it's the best bbq I have ever had and it seems like it's the best other people have as well because this place packs the people in. If you don't get there by 11:30 be prepared to wait online for at least 20-30 minutes. Also, bring a coat because the line will go out the door. I usually have the pulled pork with greens and beans which were great! I have had other things on the menu and they were equally awesome. Make sure to get some of that terrific Iced Tea, you won't be disappointed.
(5)
Mark N Phoebe G.
Hands down the best BBQ in Florida. One of the few things I miss living there.
(5)
Aaron B.
Favorite lunch spot. The pork, sausage, brisket, coleslaw, and collard greens are all fantastic.
(4)
Daniel L.
Great place. Service is quick so prepare before you get there. Can't go wrong with most of the items on the menu and it's all served with a slice of white bread. I've been know to hotbox the lobby of the Springhill Suites with this BBQ goodness!
(4)
Lauren J.
If your in the mood for BBQ, You've found your restaurant. This is a small place, but they make the most of it by putting the kitchen right in front of your eyes! French fries are to die for! BBQ SAUCE is also awesome...on anything. Since I like to be tidy in restaurants I get pulled pork...I see them throw the meat down and start chopping. Fast,not too fast. If you get pulled pork...SMOTHER IT IN BBQ SAUCE!!! :P
(5)
Courtney S.
went back- yummy yummy as usual. Great staff, very friendly :-)
(5)
Maria G.
First time seeing a huge bbq pit in the restaurant... ribs were good n chicken was juicy.... staff took order right away n food served immediately... dining in was a lil basic ...n small... over all.. nice place but nothing to wow me... ps. Busy for pick up to go orders...n very reasonable in price...
(3)
Jennifer H.
This is the place to go if you're off of I-75 near SR60. They open at 11am, and if you get there by 11:15, you'll be waiting in a line out the door. This BBQ joint is no frills, not a chain, and one of a kind so I hear. The helpings are huge, and delish! The BBQ beans were more like a dark molasses dessert than they were beans. It was really good. I tried a friend's dish of the spicy mac and cheese - it was really interesting; served cold, but doused with cayenee pepper the heat sneaks up on you as you chew. I'll definately be back, and now I know for sure that I'll be there at 11am when the doors open.
(5)
Rich D.
After getting absolutely raving recommendations for First Choice from two folks whose palates I respect, I've visited First Choice twice over the past year, with varying degrees of satisfaction. It's conveniently located in the corner of a strip mall with lots of parking. The restaurant is fairly good sized, but can be strained during meal times by the large crowds. I've visited both in the afternoon and at dinner time, the staff is always very friendly, service has been prompt, with my food was delivered up fairly quickly. I had both the beef and pork dinners with baked beans. As my recommendation for First Choice was so high, my expectation was for a "big moment" in my BBQ pilgramage that's taken me from California to North Carolina and many points in between. First Choice was built up so high I guess I expected the clouds to part and the BBQ gods to smile down and grant me a special life-changing experience. Whether my expectations were too high or the BBQ was delivered too low, I felt both 'Q dishes missed the high mark. Simply said, it was good, but it wasn't great, and I've had much better. The baked beans were very good at both visits. So I have no criticism at all for First Choice without trying out more of the menu. Obviously, they're making lots of folks very satisfied. Unfortunately, the location is not one I frequent often, so it will likely be a long time before I get a chance to return. If/when I do, I'll update my review. Atmosphere: 4 Service: 5 Food: 4 Value: 4
(4)
alison t.
First of all, I don't like BBQ, never have. 10 or 15 years ago when I worked on Adamo drive someone suggested First Choice for lunch, I went begrudgingly. To say I was blown away is an understatement. Yeah, you gotta wait in line but who cares. Everyone talks about the meats which are fabulous but the fritters to me are, in a word, amazing... hot, greasy, spicy deliciousness. I don't know what's in them and I don't care just gimme gimme. I haven't worked in Brandon in years and have moved to Lutz so I don't frequent as much as I'd like to but lets just say I wouldn't walk across the street normally for BBQ but for First Choice I make plans to go there and bring friends. Well done!
(5)
Cynthia S.
Great BBQ. Chicken was great, ribs awesome. The BBQ sauce was perfect, a little sweet a little tart. The greens were great, as were the beans and potato salad. The macaroni salad was hot, you have to like cayenne hot. No ambiance, but with q like this who cares!
(5)
Frankie F.
Ya so, if your looking for a sit down full service BBQ place, this isn't the place. Its a hole in the wall place, run more like a backyard BBQ, than a restruant. The BBQ is one of the best in the area. The sides are stuff youd find in someones house, not your typical mac and chesse sides. If your a fan of unique homestyle cooking, then this place is for you.
(4)
Joshua S.
Repeat after me: I will NEVER go to Sonny's EVER EVER again. When I get the craving, I have to drive a half-hour to get here, and that's pretty significant for some random yen, but oh is it worth it! This place has become my guilty pleasure! I have grown to love the baked beans that I was sort of uncertain about before. The sauce is amazing and the meats are just all-around great!
(4)
Cindy V.
the guy who owns this place used to run moses white's on 7th ave years ago, where he most definitely earned the respect of bbq aficionados throughout the bay area and beyond. moses white's may have closed, but (thankfully) the flavor lives on at first choice. the ribs are their best meat, IMO (order the "short end" for the most tender part of the rack), and their sides are all outstanding. potato salad, baked beans and spicy mac 'n cheese are all great (note: spicy means holy-sh*t-balls-that's-hot!). give the fritters a try, but make sure you order them the second you walk in - i mean it, the very second that you walk in, shout out to the sometimes scary looking men with cleavers behind the glass, "can you drop an order of fritters, please?" it takes FOR. EVER. to cook those things and even longer for them to cool down long enough to eat them. go against your better judgment and eat your food in the restaurant. you can get it to go but it won't be nearly as good. just bring some wet wipes of some kind to clean the table off with and don't set your purse on the floor; you'll be fine. closed on sundays so if you can only go on the weekend, get your fix on saturday.
(5)
Mike S.
Great food, horrible atmosphere, so it's perfect! I got the pork and, get this, corned beef combo plate. Ever seen smoked corned beef on a menu? Well if you ever do, order it because it's awesome. Beans and mac salad were both very good too. Why not 5 stars? Well, the day I was there I was a bit put off by the rather rude service, but I am chalking it up to an anomoly. My new favorite bbq dive in the Tampa area.
(4)
Claire T.
We found this on Yelp while planning a trip to Tampa. We thought maybe the place had closed as we drove around and around the parking lot and the Garmin said we'd reached our destination. Finally I had to call them... they're tucked waaaay back in the corner just down from the post office. We had the pulled pork and fries and beans. Yummy!!! The pork was moist, tender and flavorful and there was plenty of it! The skin on fries were right out of the deep fryer and piping hot and crispy! The beans were a bit sweet for taste but good. Next trip I'm getting the ribs!!!!! Don't miss this gem!!!
(4)
Stacie D.
I've had the privilege of being able to enjoy First Choice ever since we discovered it about 15 years ago, and it's just as fantastic now as it was then, and the staff is still notably eager to please. Since we moved over 20 miles away, we don't get to indulge as much as we'd like, but it's my destination of choice for my birthday, even though it's agonizing to have smell those enticing aromas on the drive home. I love the sauce so much that I admit to eating it all by itself by the spoonful.
(5)
Rob F.
Gets no better than this! Line out the door so dont expect to be in and out in 15 minutes. Be patient though because the pork sandwich, beans, fries, etc, etc, etc is all worth it. Enthusiastic employees, dedicated owner, and some of the best BBQ you can get. WAY BACK IN THE CORNER of the Home Depot shopping center. Super good food, and I love a hole in the wall. Not much seating and it can be a little warm inside because the door is stuck open for the line of 20 people.
(5)
Robyn S.
Oh how I wanted to like this. The food itself was fine, but the atmosphere is really, really REALLY divey. It might have been fine for just meeting my friend for dinner, but I was with my whole family, and my kids refused to eat there. The barbecue was good, but the sides weren't all that great. This is NOT a kid-friendly place, so don't expect that. It is also very hard to find - very back corner of the shopping center. If you really do love your barbecue, great, try it out, but understand this may be a bit of an... adventure.
(2)
Edward O.
Best.BBQ.Ever Found this place at random. We had lunch there; there was no line. Perhaps we just missed the lunch rush. The meat is perfect. Wife had the ribs, I had the pulled pork. Everything was perfect, well I was a little surprised at the "weber" sandwich bread we received when we asked for extra bread. But perhaps this is traditional BBQ bread. Anyway, we are planning another trip to FLA, and will stop in Tampa jsut to eat here. PS, if you are ever in San Diego and looking for BBQ keep on looking. San Diego has many thing, and is a beautiful city, but when it comes to BBQ it's not my First Choice.
(5)
Jodi M.
This place has been voted the number one BBQ place in Brandon for years. Don't worry about the huge line it moves quickly. Also, know that it's an order, they fix it in front of you, pay, get your own drink and find an empty table kind of place. I gave this place 4 stars because I think their BBQ is good and their sides are good. My biggest gripe is I don't like eating on disposable plates and using plastic silverware. This is probably why I don't eat here more often. BBQ is difficult enough to eat and keep clean. Still on those rare days I can afford to get messy I will be back because I love BBQ.
(4)
Kathryn D.
I might have been more enthusiastic about this place if I hadn't just eaten at Kojak's in Palmetto. I found out about them from TripAdvisor, where several people just raved about them. Although they are good, Clint is right. They are not the very best. Our ribs were smokey, but a bit chewy. I got the pulled pork (on a very subpar white bun) with beans (OK) and the spicy mac salad (I did not expect that!). My husband got the ribs with collard greens (no vinegar to be seen, but they did have plastic packets of lemon juice) and green beans (straight from a can). Although we ate every bit and enjoyed the meat, the sides were only average and the bread was downright terrible. This is a very plain place with a walk up counter, a soda fountain, and plastic utensils on plastic plates. It I lived close by, I'd probably just order some meat to go and make my own sides.
(3)
Clint U.
I FEEL CHEATED!!!!!!!!!!! I have only read glowing reviews of this place. After eating some great BBQ from coast to coast in the USA, I couldn't wait to try this place....... It must have been an off night in the smoker. I tried the rib sandwich, which is just ribs in between two slices of white bread.....plain and simple. And the verdict??? The ribs were rather tasteless. There wasnt that concentrated beefy flavor from hours of smoking. Instead all I had was rather a tasteless grey meat. It seemed like they parboiled the ribs to cut down on the smoking times. Whatever they did, the ribs came out tasteless. The meat was also slightly overdone....didnt have that chew....when you pulled it off the bone....again this didn't add to the experience. Far too often BBQ places try to disguise poorly prepared meat with lots of sauce. My preparer tried to do just that, giving my rib sandwich a bath in BBQ sauce. In the hotel, I carefully wiped off all the sauce and tasted the meat. Upon closer inspection, I also noticed the lack of red smoke rings in the meat....a sure sign of long slow smoking...or the lack thereof..... Overall 3 stars. Overall, it was ok, but nothing memorable. Tampa may have great Cuban food, but it's BBQ needs some improvement.
(3)
Paul M.
Not bad, but not great. Baked beans are weird and taste like they may have ginger snaps as an ingredient. Mac salad is definitely unique. Greens needed hot sauce big time and maybe a ham hock or two. I got the ribs and unfortunately it was close to closing and tasted like they had been in the steamer a tad too long. Not sure how it compares to other Tampa BBQ joints but there sure are better smoke houses around. Bottom line...pretty good for a strip mall, but not quite all that if going for dinner.
(3)
Marianne M.
This is the best BBQ in the area, the only reason I gave only 4 stars is because the restaurant is definitely no frills. If if hadn't been told how good the food is I may not have gone in, but a line out the door says it all.
(4)
Jordan M.
The best BBQ in the Tampa Bay area, hands down. Their ribs and pulled pork are amazing. Their sides are awesome - most notably their sweet and smokey beans and their spicy macaroni salad. We had these guys cater our rehearsal dinner we love them so much.
(5)
jon Q.
My girlfriend and I tried this BBQ joint tonight based on the reviews here. We drove about an hour to get there, and when we arrived there was only one person in front of us who had already been helped. Despite being right in front of 3 employees, no one even acknowledged that we were standing there for a good 5 minutes. When we were helped the staff was friendly though. As to the food, I had high hopes for this one based on the reviews. I got the rib dinner and my girlfriend got the pulled pork. Both were decently priced, we got away with $15 dollars for the both of us. Over all I can say that the meat was, well, decent. There was nothing particularly bad about any of it, but there was nothing that was particularly good about it either. There was no flavor that really popped out at me with the ribs, and the pulled pork tasted like just about any other pulled pork you've ever had. All in all, nothing to write home about throughout the entire meal. Our final verdict: If you lived in the area and were jonesing for some BBQ its a heck of a lot better than going to Sonny's; if your looking for some really top notch BBQ to lay your hands on, keep on looking.
(3)
Jaski K.
Ordered take-out from there today, so I can't comment about the restaurant itself, but the food was delicious and had me craving for more! I ordered the 1/4 slab of ribs. The meat was nice and tender and I liked that the BBQ sauce came on the side so that it didn't overpower the flavors of the meat. Good stuff!
(4)
Stefan S.
Not bad - #2 BBQ in Brandon
(4)
Brittany R.
The jerks here wouldn't accept the restraunts.com gift cirtificate that was paid for. don't sign up for online discounts if you aren't going to honor them!
(1)
Denise J.
This is by far the best BBQ ever. It is tangy, spicy and smokey all at the same time. The pulled pork is soooo good. The sides seem ordinary but all have some extra goodness. The spicy macaroni salad is unlike any macaroni salad you have ever had. Even the hush puppies and steak fries are delicious. If you are anywhere near Brandon, you must stop by, be prepared to stand in a line out the door, order quickly and get your own drink!
(5)
B K.
I agree with all previous 5-star reviews, and would like to add that the hot barbeque sauce is just that....VERY HOT! Also, this is the only place around (that's worth going to) that still serves sausage, which I love. But if you like your sausage whole, be sure to let them know because otherwise they'll chop it up.
(5)
Ralston D.
We just had the combo 1) brisket and turkey with mac and greens 2) beef and turkey with sweet corn and greens And beef sandwich. The seevice is fast ths food is amazing! What is that sauce?? Amazing is a good word. The little joint isnt that impressive but the food sure is. Always a good sign at 1100am and ppl are lined up to the parking lot!
(5)
Mike M.
While on a business trip to the Tampa area I found this BBQ restaurant on Yelp and decided to give it a try. It's kind of hard to find in the corner of a shopping center. I walked in and after looking at the menu decided to go with a 2 meat combo of a 1/4 chicken and beef with beans and potato salad. The food came out quickly. The beef was chopped and I thought it was tender and good. (3). The chicken had a nice smoky flavor and I graded it as a 3.5. The beans were a 3.5 also. The potato salad was creamy and had a hint of nutmeg? I thought it was a 3.5 too. The sauce was kind of sweet and the more I tasted the more I dislike it more (2). Finally I ordered another side of their fritters. These are made of pork rolled into a ball, then battered and then fried. Just like a hushpuppy but with a pork center instead of a cornmeal. You get 5 with the order and I thought they were wat too much. The first one was ok but greasy. I had to force myself to eat the second one and the other two went to waste. I just didn't like them. I felt they were just a grease ball. My overall score is a 3. If I am back in the area I will not return. The sauce was a turnoff. The food is ok.
(3)
Ian S.
I just visited again after a long hiatus. I remembered the food being really good, but don't work in that area anymore, so I just haven't been visiting. I also didn't Yelp back then, and, as it turns out, my memory of the food was better than the reality, so I'm only giving 2 stars. I ordered the pulled pork and sausage combo plate with fries and collard greens. I think they dip their fries in oil once, they were limp and soggy and had no salt at all. The collard greens, especially at a barbecue place, should (IMHO) be cooked with some type of meat, but these bland collards probably were not. They taste like nothing but a collard green, no fat, no smoke, no meat, no salt, no nothing. I'm a white guy from Boston and I can make better greens. The pork and sausage were OK, but again, nothing that would draw me back. The pork seems like it is just pork thrown in a smoker with no salt, seasonings, brine, nothing. Weird. Also, the barbecue sauce they make is too sweet and has too much ketchup. It seems like it's 95% ketchup. And lastly, not one person who works here looks like they want you there. I remember this from before when i ate here in their early days after leaving the truck on the street and opening this place. Every order that comes through looks like a chore for them. Nobody will smile at you, nobody will thank you, and nobody will even say hi or goodbye to you while you're in their "home". So.... I'll jump on the crosstown and hit Holy Hog downtown before I'll come back here.
(2)
Anna M.
I was craving a Banh Mi thanks to Rachel M earlier this week so I drove to the closest Vietnamese restaurant that was in the area. Well...apparently, I had stayed away too long because the restaurant had closed. Several doors down was First Choice, begging me to walk through its doors. I practically ran to it, like a lost child running back to her mother. Go ahead and make fun of me, I like to eat early. Call me old or whatever you like ha ha, but I despise crowds. Lucky for me, I had walked into First Choice right when they had just opened their doors. Getting early to First Choice is crucial. Crucial, because there is less of a wait. Otherwise, the line is out the door. No thanks. For those who know me, I have zero patience. What has not changed is that these guys are the BBQ Nazis like the Soup Nazi on Seinfeld. You better know what you want or else you will be in trouble! Don't be scared though, the staff is firm, but friendly here. Being a creature of habit, I always order the same thing here: sausage with baked beans and french fries. Mmmmmmm sausage!!! As usual, the sausage was delicious. The fries were a bit soggy for me. And, the baked beans were good, but the cinnamon they added overpowered the taste of the beans. Next time, I plan to finally change it up with the sides. First Choice is definitely one of the best BBQ joints in this area. Their food is delicious and the portions are such a good value. The staff here is friendly and very efficient at getting you in and out of their restaurant. Tables are limited but turnover is normally quick. Ahhh...First Choice. I have missed you, my love. I promise it won't be two years before I see you again.
(4)
Ferdnan H.
This is straight up real bbq. The quality of food is five star. If your eating in expect a line at prime time. The AC has never done a good job if eating in but its worth it regardless.
(5)
Mailoha A.
After this recent visit I have to update my review and say that there are just better options around. The pulled pork was bland, the ribs were fatty and the potato salad was mush. The customer service was also "eh". They rushed us through and there wasn't anyone in line behind us.
(2)
Nick W.
This is decent barbecue. Prices are a good value and all the meat had a real nice smoke on it. I had beef and ribs. The sauce has a great flavor. Sweet with a bit of a kick. The baked beans were great. There was a little pork mixed in for flavor and had a bit of extra spice. They probably were my favorite thing on the plate. Fries weren't anything special. Overall if I was in the area looking for a quick bite I would look them up.
(3)
Melissa M.
I love this place. It's really unfussy, unfooled-around with BBQ. I prefer BBQ joints like this. The meat is perfect every time. The sides are few, but done exactly right (try spicy Mac salad or beans). The sauce comes in regular or spicy. Both are great. The line is out the door at lunch and you better know your order! These guys are busy as all get out and for good reason.
(5)
Celine L.
One of my favorite places for barbecue. All the meats are cooked to perfection & are always juicy (not dry like some places). Don't forget the sides- I love the mac & cheese-- it has a nice kick to it too!
(4)
Nadine F.
Amazing BBQ! The sauce is finger-lickin good and the meat is always smoked perfectly. The service feels a little bit like you are in the Soup Nazi's line (seinfeld reference) but soo worth it and to be honest I am glad they move you through the line fast because there is ALWAYS a line. We have used their catering too and it was just as good.
(5)
Tiffani L.
This is place for BBQ in Brandon. Hidden by the home Depot and always has line out the door. Awesome.puled pork & macaroni salad. Guys are great who work there.
(5)
Bo K.
First of all, the prices are a little high. I paid $12 for a small pork sandwich and fries. The pork was chopped and not very smoky. The french fries were hand cut and delicious. Overall, very average barbecue
(3)
Jerry B.
This Is the best BBQ around. Period. The meat is cooked perfectly. The sauce is award winning. And the spicy mac n cheese is too good. This is where you go when you want the best. The guys will take care of you.
(5)
Mel C.
The. Yummiest. BBQ. Ever.!!! So must try this place, if I lived in the area I would add this dive to my restaurant rotations! It's inexpensive, portions are huge, the ribs, sausage, pulled pork are my faves (pretty much anything pig) the french fries are hand cut, the chicken is smoked fresh. Tip: get the combo dinner, you'll eat for two days for $10bucks!
(5)
Ernie And Dora H.
Tucked into an obscure corner behind the Adamo Home Depot, you could probably follow your nose to FirstChoice BBQ. The combination plate includes pork ribs, sausage, fries and baked beans. The food was just as I remember from 8 years ago. The sausage was smoky without being spicy, and the ribs were fall off the bone. The fries, made from fresh potatoes, were just crispy enough and the beans were molasses-sweet and tasty, great for dipping fries. Definitely order the fritters. Crispy on the outside, but tender and moist on the inside, they're not sweet, more savory since they stuff them with pork morsels. They are the most unique tasting, and that is in a good way, fritters I have ever tasted. Dora here. My fave is the chopped pork with fries and baked beans, but the turkey is also a close second. Today I chose the pork. Made me want to close my eyes and just savor the flavor so I could tuck it in my memory for the next few years! We lucked out getting here early on a Saturday because normally the line is out the door. And don't come all dressed up. It's warm and you'll smell like woodsmoke when you walk out, but that's all good because the food is worth it. I would rate this restaurant 4 forks out of 5 forks for a family friendly restaurant serving great food. Ernie & Dora Hiers, Fiction Faith & Foodies Blog
(4)
Edward C.
Very good deal, large servings, and definitely fulfilling. I got the 1/4 ribs for $9.50, which came with two sides. Got the potato salad and fries. Loved the barbecue sauce, 3 (or 4) large rib bones, and potato salad. They gave me many fries, but I didn't really like them--oily, and didn't feel too fresh. However, I definitely be back to try something else!
(4)
Derek N.
The smoke drew me in... Great BBQ joint in Brandon. Line was long when arrived for lunch this saturday but it went quick. I like the idea you can see where your food is coming from. Watching the meat being chopped fresh. I ordered the combo platter and a drink. I had Chicken and Pork with beans and fries with some bread. The sauce is good no doubt about that. I wish they had a spicy version or even a mustard sauce but I did not see any. The chicken was good but a little dry. The pork was flavorful and moist. The sauce made the meal. The beans were ok, probably order something else next time. The fries were fresh, not very crispy. All in all the food was good, definitely will be back to try the corn beef.
(3)
Stephen F.
Tucked in the back corner of a shopping center and located next to the Japanese restaurant this place is easy to miss as well as overlook......... but don't, you need seek it out. This is your Uncle cooking in the backyard only now he's sober and governed by health codes. As soon as you walk in your olfactory sense will be overcome by this warm smokey smell. Next you will see fresh slabs of ribs being plated and then finally it will be your time to order. There's nothing you can order that you won't enjoy, everything is homemade, even the french fries. I think between all of dining we samples most everything on the menu...ribs, beef & chicken...check! Fries, beans & collard greens....check! Don't pass up on the baked beans, they add cinnamon that really separates it from all of the other baked beans that you've tasted.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : No Caters : Yes
Ralston D.
We just had the combo 1) brisket and turkey with mac and greens 2) beef and turkey with sweet corn and greens And beef sandwich. The seevice is fast ths food is amazing! What is that sauce?? Amazing is a good word. The little joint isnt that impressive but the food sure is. Always a good sign at 1100am and ppl are lined up to the parking lot!
(5)Mike M.
While on a business trip to the Tampa area I found this BBQ restaurant on Yelp and decided to give it a try. It's kind of hard to find in the corner of a shopping center. I walked in and after looking at the menu decided to go with a 2 meat combo of a 1/4 chicken and beef with beans and potato salad. The food came out quickly. The beef was chopped and I thought it was tender and good. (3). The chicken had a nice smoky flavor and I graded it as a 3.5. The beans were a 3.5 also. The potato salad was creamy and had a hint of nutmeg? I thought it was a 3.5 too. The sauce was kind of sweet and the more I tasted the more I dislike it more (2). Finally I ordered another side of their fritters. These are made of pork rolled into a ball, then battered and then fried. Just like a hushpuppy but with a pork center instead of a cornmeal. You get 5 with the order and I thought they were wat too much. The first one was ok but greasy. I had to force myself to eat the second one and the other two went to waste. I just didn't like them. I felt they were just a grease ball. My overall score is a 3. If I am back in the area I will not return. The sauce was a turnoff. The food is ok.
(3)Ian S.
I just visited again after a long hiatus. I remembered the food being really good, but don't work in that area anymore, so I just haven't been visiting. I also didn't Yelp back then, and, as it turns out, my memory of the food was better than the reality, so I'm only giving 2 stars. I ordered the pulled pork and sausage combo plate with fries and collard greens. I think they dip their fries in oil once, they were limp and soggy and had no salt at all. The collard greens, especially at a barbecue place, should (IMHO) be cooked with some type of meat, but these bland collards probably were not. They taste like nothing but a collard green, no fat, no smoke, no meat, no salt, no nothing. I'm a white guy from Boston and I can make better greens. The pork and sausage were OK, but again, nothing that would draw me back. The pork seems like it is just pork thrown in a smoker with no salt, seasonings, brine, nothing. Weird. Also, the barbecue sauce they make is too sweet and has too much ketchup. It seems like it's 95% ketchup. And lastly, not one person who works here looks like they want you there. I remember this from before when i ate here in their early days after leaving the truck on the street and opening this place. Every order that comes through looks like a chore for them. Nobody will smile at you, nobody will thank you, and nobody will even say hi or goodbye to you while you're in their "home". So.... I'll jump on the crosstown and hit Holy Hog downtown before I'll come back here.
(2)Anna M.
I was craving a Banh Mi thanks to Rachel M earlier this week so I drove to the closest Vietnamese restaurant that was in the area. Well...apparently, I had stayed away too long because the restaurant had closed. Several doors down was First Choice, begging me to walk through its doors. I practically ran to it, like a lost child running back to her mother. Go ahead and make fun of me, I like to eat early. Call me old or whatever you like ha ha, but I despise crowds. Lucky for me, I had walked into First Choice right when they had just opened their doors. Getting early to First Choice is crucial. Crucial, because there is less of a wait. Otherwise, the line is out the door. No thanks. For those who know me, I have zero patience. What has not changed is that these guys are the BBQ Nazis like the Soup Nazi on Seinfeld. You better know what you want or else you will be in trouble! Don't be scared though, the staff is firm, but friendly here. Being a creature of habit, I always order the same thing here: sausage with baked beans and french fries. Mmmmmmm sausage!!! As usual, the sausage was delicious. The fries were a bit soggy for me. And, the baked beans were good, but the cinnamon they added overpowered the taste of the beans. Next time, I plan to finally change it up with the sides. First Choice is definitely one of the best BBQ joints in this area. Their food is delicious and the portions are such a good value. The staff here is friendly and very efficient at getting you in and out of their restaurant. Tables are limited but turnover is normally quick. Ahhh...First Choice. I have missed you, my love. I promise it won't be two years before I see you again.
(4)Ferdnan H.
This is straight up real bbq. The quality of food is five star. If your eating in expect a line at prime time. The AC has never done a good job if eating in but its worth it regardless.
(5)Mailoha A.
After this recent visit I have to update my review and say that there are just better options around. The pulled pork was bland, the ribs were fatty and the potato salad was mush. The customer service was also "eh". They rushed us through and there wasn't anyone in line behind us.
(2)Nick W.
This is decent barbecue. Prices are a good value and all the meat had a real nice smoke on it. I had beef and ribs. The sauce has a great flavor. Sweet with a bit of a kick. The baked beans were great. There was a little pork mixed in for flavor and had a bit of extra spice. They probably were my favorite thing on the plate. Fries weren't anything special. Overall if I was in the area looking for a quick bite I would look them up.
(3)Melissa M.
I love this place. It's really unfussy, unfooled-around with BBQ. I prefer BBQ joints like this. The meat is perfect every time. The sides are few, but done exactly right (try spicy Mac salad or beans). The sauce comes in regular or spicy. Both are great. The line is out the door at lunch and you better know your order! These guys are busy as all get out and for good reason.
(5)Celine L.
One of my favorite places for barbecue. All the meats are cooked to perfection & are always juicy (not dry like some places). Don't forget the sides- I love the mac & cheese-- it has a nice kick to it too!
(4)Nadine F.
Amazing BBQ! The sauce is finger-lickin good and the meat is always smoked perfectly. The service feels a little bit like you are in the Soup Nazi's line (seinfeld reference) but soo worth it and to be honest I am glad they move you through the line fast because there is ALWAYS a line. We have used their catering too and it was just as good.
(5)Tiffani L.
This is place for BBQ in Brandon. Hidden by the home Depot and always has line out the door. Awesome.puled pork & macaroni salad. Guys are great who work there.
(5)Ernie And Dora H.
Tucked into an obscure corner behind the Adamo Home Depot, you could probably follow your nose to FirstChoice BBQ. The combination plate includes pork ribs, sausage, fries and baked beans. The food was just as I remember from 8 years ago. The sausage was smoky without being spicy, and the ribs were fall off the bone. The fries, made from fresh potatoes, were just crispy enough and the beans were molasses-sweet and tasty, great for dipping fries. Definitely order the fritters. Crispy on the outside, but tender and moist on the inside, they're not sweet, more savory since they stuff them with pork morsels. They are the most unique tasting, and that is in a good way, fritters I have ever tasted. Dora here. My fave is the chopped pork with fries and baked beans, but the turkey is also a close second. Today I chose the pork. Made me want to close my eyes and just savor the flavor so I could tuck it in my memory for the next few years! We lucked out getting here early on a Saturday because normally the line is out the door. And don't come all dressed up. It's warm and you'll smell like woodsmoke when you walk out, but that's all good because the food is worth it. I would rate this restaurant 4 forks out of 5 forks for a family friendly restaurant serving great food. Ernie & Dora Hiers, Fiction Faith & Foodies Blog
(4)Edward C.
Very good deal, large servings, and definitely fulfilling. I got the 1/4 ribs for $9.50, which came with two sides. Got the potato salad and fries. Loved the barbecue sauce, 3 (or 4) large rib bones, and potato salad. They gave me many fries, but I didn't really like them--oily, and didn't feel too fresh. However, I definitely be back to try something else!
(4)Derek N.
The smoke drew me in... Great BBQ joint in Brandon. Line was long when arrived for lunch this saturday but it went quick. I like the idea you can see where your food is coming from. Watching the meat being chopped fresh. I ordered the combo platter and a drink. I had Chicken and Pork with beans and fries with some bread. The sauce is good no doubt about that. I wish they had a spicy version or even a mustard sauce but I did not see any. The chicken was good but a little dry. The pork was flavorful and moist. The sauce made the meal. The beans were ok, probably order something else next time. The fries were fresh, not very crispy. All in all the food was good, definitely will be back to try the corn beef.
(3)Stephen F.
Tucked in the back corner of a shopping center and located next to the Japanese restaurant this place is easy to miss as well as overlook......... but don't, you need seek it out. This is your Uncle cooking in the backyard only now he's sober and governed by health codes. As soon as you walk in your olfactory sense will be overcome by this warm smokey smell. Next you will see fresh slabs of ribs being plated and then finally it will be your time to order. There's nothing you can order that you won't enjoy, everything is homemade, even the french fries. I think between all of dining we samples most everything on the menu...ribs, beef & chicken...check! Fries, beans & collard greens....check! Don't pass up on the baked beans, they add cinnamon that really separates it from all of the other baked beans that you've tasted.
(4)James C.
I'm from TN and know good BBQ, and this place is on par. Our family got the ribs,brisket,turkey,fries, and fritters. *Ribs- huge, lots of meat, little fat, and I would give 4/5 stars. *brisket- corned beef, shredded, 4/5 stars *turkey- tender white meat, didn't have a smoked flavor which was disappointing. Give this 3/5 stars. *Fries- hand cut and fried everyday. These were great. 5/5 stars *fritters- I expected something more like a hush puppy, but was good never less. Would of liked more shredded pork in it though. These were good, but maybe not for everyone. I give these 3/5 Overall the staff was extremely polite, attentive, and helpful. This is a great BBQ joint that I would recommend to anyone.
(4)Jason C.
Stopped by here during a trip to the Citrus Park Mall. I was a bit confused at first, but just keep driving back into the plaza, and you'll find it. I got the ribs which were very tender. I especially liked their spicy BBQ sauce. The spicy macaroni salad was good as well. I'd never had spicy macaroni salad, but it hit the spot. The macaroni noodles had a nice texture and a good kick.
(4)J D.
Excellent BBQ place with a rich history. The best BBQ around. Get the beef! The fries are also very good.
(4)Ty M.
Quality way down. I used to drive 10 miles just for your coleslaw. Too bad. Last chance fellas. Oh and thanks for the 25.00 slab of grey steamed ribs. That and your attitude makes you last choice. Tighten up.
(2)Chris D.
Don't get the brisket it's not like normal brisket. It's corn beef reminds me of spam. The place is not a 4 star place as the reviews say. My Fiancé agrees 100% (and we don't agree on much LOL). We won't be back.
(1)Caroline C.
Great yelp recommendation, went for lunch and got the pulled pork sandwich and coleslaw, great taste. Would go again. Atmosphere is relaxed and clean, doesn't have table service, order by the giant smoker and take to your table.
(4)Tiffany B.
Holy. Shit. I mean, what more is there to say? Literally the best BBQ I have had since I moved to Florida 7 years ago, and definitely top 3 BBQ places I've eaten at ever in life. Pulled pork sandwich? Smokey, sweet, amazing. Ribs? Flavorful and fall off the bone tender. BBQ sauce? God yes. So good. SO GOOD. The staff is friendly, fast, and helpful. One reviewer called them "intimidating" which... no. Not intimidating what so ever. I've eaten here twice in the same amount of weeks. Brandon is half an hour away from where I live. I do not care. Worth it. Worth the drive. Worth the calories. That's it, I'm getting BBQ today. Done.
(5)Geno K.
After a few more visits, I've become more of a fan. The baked beans and fries are definitely the sides to get. Had the sausage and ribs combo on my most recent visit and they were great. The staff isn't terribly friendly. The place looks likes it could be closed down after one of those Restaurant Red Alerts they do on the TV news. They don't have air conditioning. But it's still the best BBQ this side of Tampa.
(4)Bo K.
First of all, the prices are a little high. I paid $12 for a small pork sandwich and fries. The pork was chopped and not very smoky. The french fries were hand cut and delicious. Overall, very average barbecue
(3)Jerry B.
This Is the best BBQ around. Period. The meat is cooked perfectly. The sauce is award winning. And the spicy mac n cheese is too good. This is where you go when you want the best. The guys will take care of you.
(5)Mel C.
The. Yummiest. BBQ. Ever.!!! So must try this place, if I lived in the area I would add this dive to my restaurant rotations! It's inexpensive, portions are huge, the ribs, sausage, pulled pork are my faves (pretty much anything pig) the french fries are hand cut, the chicken is smoked fresh. Tip: get the combo dinner, you'll eat for two days for $10bucks!
(5)Rusty D.
This is the real deal!! Tender smoke but if you like the ribs chewey then you have the right place. I do like the way they were cooked and the inside seating was interesting. Good 60's and 70's souls music playing on an old boom box. The owner and two of his friends were entertaining also. Had a slab, couldn't finish them off between my wife and I. The ribs were a full slab not St. Louis cut so we have some away to a nice young man who was a musician from Chicago. The sounds and sights of this place would be something not to miss. Many of the people ordering knew exactly what they wanted and the staff often knew what they were going to Orrder
(5)Bonnie H.
The bbq pork sandwich was tender and flavorful. The baked beans and potato salad topped it off as delightful. However, the only issue was the restaurants warmth. A lot of customers only ordered take out. We were traveling from a seminar, so we ate there. It was delicious though.
(4)Jennifer W.
I had the pork sandwich with a side of potato salad. The meat was super tendered and wasn't over powered with smoke flavor. I really enjoyed it. The BBQ sauce was a bit sweeter than I like, but since they don't smother their meat in the sauce, it wasn't a deal breaker. The potato salad had more mustard in it than I normally like, but it was homemade and very good. I am looking forward to going back and trying the ribs and brisket.
(4)Chaena P.
Omg the best in town. How is this place not 5 stars??? Just real southern bbq. Nothing fancy just strait up to the point. The sides are incredible. The baked beans and omg the spicy Mac. Do it! I crave this place. That's it! I'm going now.
(5)Alison C.
I came here for lunch with some friends, one of which has raved about the food to price point ratio. Her praise was well-founded. First Choice is a tiny, hole-in-the-wall shop, so the line goes out the door during busy times like lunch. While this seems intimidating, the line moves quickly and orders are taken at rapid speed, so be sure of what you want before you get to the counter. I had the beef brisket sandwhich with the spicy macaroni salad and collard greens. The brisket meat was tender and flavorful with no shortage of delicious barbecue sauce, which was rich and had a smoky flavor. The spicy macaroni salad was also unique, as it was the first cold macaroni pasta I've ever had that packed heat while still lending sweet and savory notes. It was a good compliment to the meat, and delivered some excitement to an otherwise standard BBQ meal. The collard greens were also delicious and typical of most southern food. Yeah, there might be better barbecue places in other towns, but this definitely hits the spot and is the first barbecue place in Tampa that I've found to be satisfactory. The portions are generous and the price is cheap for what you get. My only complaint is that it was hard to find a seat because of the crowd. First Choice should expand because they're definitely popular enough!
(4)Frank N.
There is no bigger fan of BBQ than me, I love it. Wife and I had recently had lunch at First Choice and I couldn't wait to get back. Now I wish I had waited longer. First time the ribs were succulent bone tender, mouth watering sauce, it was like finding Nirvana (the place, not the band). This time the ribs were fatty and barely warm, the beef was just ok. My sides, BBQ beans and fries were awesome though and in fairness we hit them right before closing. I know.....no excuses, but this is BBQ. We will try it again....earlier and hope to recapture the magic.
(3)Crystal D.
I agree with lady H. BBQ is a personal thing- Everyone's different. I'm not a huge fan of the way they chop up "pulled pork" & the brisket. The meat itself had a good, smokey flavor, but unfortunately they covered it in A LOT of sauce. I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm particular about sauce of my BBQ. I'm not a fan of a sweet BBQ sauce. I think it's a lot like serving a steak with steak sauce- it's like their covering up the flavor of the meat itself. The potato salad lacked flavor, I did enjoy their original kind of macaroni salad. Nice kick. It was okay. Not my favorite
(2)Lori L.
Not impressed. The smoker out front draws you in b/c of the amazing bbq smell but the food was ok. 1st time there & bought 3 pulled pork sandwiches & a rack of ribs w/ sides for $64. The pulled pork sammy's were good but wish they didn't drown it in bbq sauce. Sauce not that great tasting unless you really like A LOT of sauce & it's sweet. The baked beans I tried & didn't care for b/c they were incredibly sweet, the mac n cheese was ok, hardly any cheese & spicy which I love spice but my children don't so they should let patrons know that it's spicy (I believe jalapeños) are in it. The collard greens were good but a bit salty & the rack of ribs were good but some portions were so barbecued that we couldn't bite into it. We won't be back. Also, no a/c in there & it's blazing hot.
(2)Amber F.
I've been here quite a few times, and I always get the pulled pork! It's not my favorite around, but it has good flavor to it. I love their sauce, and their fries and beans are pretty good! I wasn't a fan of the macaroni though. I asked for mac and cheese, and wasn't told it was a spicy pasta salad. I'm also not really a fan of their customer service, but it's close to work so I go when I'm craving it.
(3)Megan W.
After living in Tampa for 3 1/2 years, I think we found a little slice of BBQ heaven at a strip mall in Brandon. I would give this place 5 stars if they had beer. But the sweet tea was pretty awesome. We ordered the pork dinner and a combo dinner of ribs & corned beef brisket. They chip your meat in front of you and the sides are delicious. Hand cut fries are a must. I'm pretty particular about pulled pork and this was spot on. The line was out the door at 2pm but it moves fast. We will be back again. My fiancé said this is the best BBQ he has ever had.
(4)Maria D.
I went here today because I read so many good reviews so I just brought some chicken. Its tasted like they took the chicken and cooked it without any seasoning. It was bland and the skin was very soft and pale. You can taste the smokey flavor. The barbecue sauce has a heavy ketchup taste. Maybe next time I will try the ribs. The place does look nice and clean. Staff friendly.
(3)Lily R.
I think I probably went in with too high of expectations, because I was a bit disappointed. I got a pulled pork sandwich and we shared the mac salad and coleslaw. The meat was ok..I prefer it pulled rather than chopped and it was pretty flavorless..luckily the sauce was probably my favorite thing here so that saved it. If you like sweet bbq sauce like me you'll definitely like theirs! The macaroni salad is a spicy cold salad and while I like the idea...it definitely had potential to be something I'd really it was mostly just spicy without to much flavor. The coleslaw was a total miss for me..cabbage was just kinda ehh and the flavor was off. It wasn't awful..and if you live in Tampa it might be one of the better options, but if you're a real bbq fan I'd probably skip it..I can get better stuff at home..I'd say the highlights of this trip were the sweet tea and the bbq sauce.
(2)Kerianne G.
They're good is really good, the best bbq place. The food is always hot and fresh, never had a bad experience at this place
(5)Dani R.
The BBQ Pork Sandwich in the area!!! If you have carvings for some real good BBQ that's the place to go
(5)Bill G.
Not a big fan of their ribs, but I LOVE their brisket, pork and baked beans.
(5)Dan G.
On point... went and ordered the 1/2 slab ribs fries with side baked beans was not disappointed gets a little busy but worth the wait. .will definitely be back for more.
(5)Tracy M.
This place is great. Real BBQ made fresh every day (follow the smoke). Nothing terribly healthy though but who cares. It's delicious and authentic. The owner talked to us today about how it's all about the process and NOT about who's doing the cooking. So the food has been consistent for 23 years regardless of who the chef is. Try the brisket. It's not like anything I've had before. Yum!
(5)Bonita B.
The smell of the Bar-B-Que (even though I don't eat pork or beef) drew me in. I had no meat, just sides -- collards, macaroni salad (it's SPICY as heck, at least to me), and baked beans (didn't know it had meat in it until I took a spoon full). Usually on the weekends, the lines are long -- out the door. Don't worry, the lines move fairly quickly. I saw all nationalities in the line or in the dining area, that made me smile because it make me think for a moment that Bar-B-Que crossed over the color-lines. You might have to ignore the music piping through their little intercom/speaker system. This restaurant is tucked in the corner in a big shopping plaza...past Home Depot, US Postal Office, and Old Time. If you blink you might miss it.
(4)Katy S.
As a supervisor of 10 people at a company in Brandon, First Choice has become a favorite of mine for lunch catering. It is good, consistent, and inexpensive! My personal favorite order: The pulled pork, baked beans, and macaroni salad. As someone who LOVES spice, I must highly recommend the mac salad. It is super spicy and I become more addicted with each bite. In my opinion, the biggest measure of a restaurant is how they react to a mistake. When I ordered my typical catering order last week, I got back to my office and noted that the baked beans were left out. I called them back and they apologized profusely and stated that they would make up for it. When I got back to First Choice, they had included a free order of chicken, which more than made up for the mistake. I will continue to be a loyal First Choice customer after that experience.
(4)Cambria K.
I wasn't really impressed. I'm ok with dives and have to been to many that still felt clean and cheerful., but the restaurant felt dirty and dingy. And there was a fly buzzing around my face while I ate. Finally they were playing rap music which in and of itself isn't a big deal, but it was of a variety that had a lot of cursing so I wouldn't bring my kids here. The BBQ pork was ok, but they drowned it in a sauce that tasted heavily of ketchup. I wasn't warned about the spicy macaroni salad and didn't like that at all. Also the man had me test the fries to see if they were still hot so even though they were, it told me they weren't fresh. All in all, I won't be back.
(2)Chris B.
I was excited to try this place out. Good Yelp reviews and a line out the door had me ready for some good BBQ. The line did move awfully slow, but that's fine, it's obviously a popular place. I ordered the beef, and my two sides were collard greens and macaroni. The guys behind the counter were very friendly and seemed efficient. The BBQ sauce was good, and I'm glad they kept extra on the table. I thought the portion of beef was on the small side, but was pretty good. Collard greens were just ok. The macaroni was different than anything I've tasted...it was a spicy macaroni salad. That was really good. Overall I wasn't blown away. I'd like to come back and try the pork because that did look really good.
(3)Lady H.
Bbq is a personal thing. Everybody has their own personal preferences and it's damn near impossible to please most of the crowd with everything. That being said, here is my two cents (for what its worth). The bbq sauce, which is sweet, and the sweet tea were delicious and the highlights of the meal. I had pulled pork, which was actually chopped and not "pulled," chicken, potato salad and baked beans. I didn't like that the pork was chopped instead of pulled. All the bones and grizzle was chopped up in the meat and I kept having to pull bits of them out of my mouth mid-chew. The baked beans seem like they had been overly seasoned with nutmeg. After I ate a bite of them I couldn't get the nutmeg taste out of my mouth. The potato salad was just okay. Bottom line is its not horrible but in my opinion it's not that good. I wont go back.
(3)Martic R.
Main advice about this place is.... get there early to avoid the lines if going for lunch. We got there early shortly after they opened. I haven't been here in years and was hoping to get a chicken sandwish but they don't offer that on the menu, the Turkey was my second option but it wasn't done yet so I went for the beef sandwish...really good, great barbecue sauce. We also got the pork and ribs dinner which comes with two sides. I wish the place was a bit bigger but overall great food.
(4)Todd V.
I go here a lot whenever I'm in Tampa for business. The BBQ meats are average to above average, but their side dishes are outstanding and is what keeps me coming back. The spicy macaroni salad is the most unique style I have had anywhere and is my favorite dish. A close second would be the BBQ beans. The fries are good too and a lot of people seem to get those, although there is usually a wait while they make more. There is usually a line out the door unless you come at an odd time. Ordering can be somewhat intimidating and reminds me of a black version of the Soup Nazi; the guys behind the counter all look like hardcore gangsters, and seem too high to say anything and just stare at you when it's your turn to order. If you're not paying attention they'll take someone else's order.
(4)Alex Z.
Great BBQ...the real deal for florida BBQ...try the corned beef BBQ...this place has been here for 15 years and rightfully so
(5)RE A.
The chicken here is succulent and the barbecue ring is evident when you come here you know you get the best that's why they're call first choice because you're always the first choice when you want barbecue
(4)Maria C.
This is THE BEST BBQ in Tampa Bay. If you're in the Brandon area and get a hankering for some good ribs, get in line. They pull quite a crowd for lunch. But it is Mmmm Mmmm good!
(4)Benjamin M.
And Bingo was his name-o. This place is ten minutes from my office, so I decided to check it out last Friday for lunch. As a loyal Yelper, I read most of the reviews before taking my little cruise down Falkenberg. I arrived right at 11:30, hoping to beat the rush. Fail. The line was at least a dozen people out the door. Alas, I am a dedicated foodie so I waited it out and--oh boy!!--it was definitely worth the wait. (Side note: there is shade, so don't get discouraged if you also see an ugly line.) Once in the door, you shout out your order to the guy behind the counter and then he starts a styrofoam plate for you and passes it down the assembly line. I ordered the pulled pork sandwich with potato salad and baked beans ($8). Classic BBQ meal. Oh my goodness. It was SOOO good. The BBQ was incredibly flavorful and fresh. The beans were the bomb. The wait was about 20 minutes. Ordering took about 3 minutes. I finished my meal in about 5 minutes. Total time: around half an hour. If you figure in ten minutes to/from work, it's a perfect place for lunch if you work in the MLK/Falkenberg/60 corridor. This place beats the snot out of Sonny's. First Choice is my new first choice for BBQ in Brandon.
(5)Carlos H.
I have visited First Choice BBQ a few times in the past with some friends and they serve some solid BBQ food - far better than the bigger chains in the area. It is messy and heartache-inducing, but still great. The ribs, baked beans, and fries are great. The portions are big. The inside feels more like a fast-food place - so I normally take my food to-go. There is always a line, but as another Yelper mentioned the lines move quick. I wouldn't recommend getting unless you're ready to order. Prices are reasonable with dinners starting at $8.50 - you can probably share the meat if you get an extra side. Overall, pretty great BBQ spot and close to 60 so it is accessible to people off I-75 and people coming from Brandon and Ybor City.
(4)Fred S.
My first review as a Yelper. I've been wanting to write one for awhile but after my visit to First Choice I felt compelled to do just that A coworker of mine has been raving about this place to me for awhile now. Living in St. Pete this was an easy 30 minute drive which is why I probably put off coming here for as long as I did. I instantly regretted it my 3rd bite in I went with my friends recommendation of the combination plate - corn beef brisket, sausage, fries, and baked beans. Wow! All of it was delicious. And their sweet tea is worth coming for in itself. Only caution is that when they ask if you want sauce and you say yes be prepared to have your meat bathing in it. Although their sauce is good I would prefer to apply it myself at the table. I can't wait to come back and try more
(5)Amber U.
Really great food. The only thing we didn't favor were the baked beans but honestly that's some good BBQ.
(4)Brett N.
Why 4 stars? Because it's one of the best BBQ spots in Tampa. --- --- --- First Choice is a rare exception to the "restaurant in a strip mall" rule. This place serves great food, as evidenced by the lines extending outside the door around lunch time. The guys slopping the beans on your plate may look like prison inmates, but as far as I'm concerned, the only thing they are guilty of is serving me awesome pulled pork. But seriously, they do look like they've spent some time in the big house, and I'm not even trying to be funny. The sweet tea at First Choice might be the best I've had in Tampa. Sweet tea is the essential compliment to any good barbecue. All of the sides that I've tried are at least good, if not great. Unfortunately for acid reflux sufferers like myself, the Mac-n-Cheese is spicy. If you are looking for good BBQ in the Tampa area, First Choice is a very safe bet.
(4)Bronze M.
The BBQ here is pretty good. Really good actually. I was first introduced to First Choice by my Work Wife - you know, the member of the opposite sex that you're closest to at work. Everyone has one. Anyway, she kept telling me how this place has the best BBQ ever. Finally one day I gave in and we went here. I was really impressed! The food is extremely good, and just as unhealthy. But it's bar-b-que, so who cares. I of course, was indecisive and wanted to order one of everything on my first visit. I eventually settled on the combination platter, which was a menu choice that allowed me to reinforce my indecisiveness. Here's the rundown of the food: Sausage - flavorful, great consistency and juicy. Ribs - Soo good. perfect smoke flavor. You can eat it without BBQ sauce. Chicken - You cannot go wrong with this choice. Pulled Pork - I swear that their pulled pork sandwich is easily in the top 3 that I've every tasted. Here's what's important for a 1st time visitor to know: ALL OF THE SIDES ARE ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS. You cannot go wrong regardless of what you choose. Oh, and don't be intimidated by the staff. They look intimidating, but once you warm up to them and see them flash a smile and their bright gold teeth blingin', it's all love. Seriously, they are a good group of guys and provide great customer service. My work wife did good on this one! B. Major Grade: A+
(5)Bill G.
Wow these guys have brisket figured out. I travel every week for work and have tried different BBQ all around the country. Try their brisket with the sauce on the side because the meat is so good on its own. The sauce is great but you might not need it. I'll be back to try the ribs next.
(5)Jonathan H.
I tried this place again and the service was much better this time around. The corned beef brisket is phenomenal.
(4)Sum G.
I had the pork sandwich. The meat was very tender and the bbq sauce was sweet and tangy. Pork and side portions were large. The macaroni salad was spicy which threw me off, but the spiciness added to the sweet flavor. If your a fan of spicy food, pick the mac salad as your side.
(4)Tweet G.
Where I'm from you don't boil ribs slap some sauce on them and call it BBQ. Baked beans were pretty good but I won't be back anytime soon.
(2)Rebecca K.
I'm originally from Memphis, so I know good bbq. I've been to at least 30 different bbq joints across the states and First Choice is excactly that when it comes to BBQ around the Brandon/Tampa area. The sauce is smoky, not too sweet ,and they are super generous with their portions. The corned Beef Brisket is a must get. The sides are also tasty. The spicy Mac-n-Cheese pasta salad is a must try! I usually get the mustard base potato salad and their natural cut fries and never finish all the food on my plate. I've been here more times than I can count on my hands and always try something different. The inside of the restaurant is no fuss. They are there to serve you great bbq, not plushy comfort for mediocre franchise taste (a la Sonny's across the street) I always have happy bbq filled belly when I leave!
(4)Jessica D.
Really good portions, yummy bbq sauce, bring your own hot sauce though. Friendly guys. Definitely going back here.
(4)Travis E.
Everything is good here. These guys know how to make some BBQ. Try the pasta salad it is the best I've ever had
(5)Aaron K.
This place is a drive for me but worth the time and every penny! The ribs are SUPER meaty and of course, SUPER delicious. Cannot get much better. When I get the opportunity to go here I end up spending upwards of 70-90 buck. 3 full racks and slaw. The red sauce is good too (which they give plenty of). This place never disappoints.
(5)Nikki L.
Up until I tried First Choice, I've never like BBQ places. I always thought BBQ sauce was too sweet and I just wasn't a fan. However, the smoked pork sandwich here is delicious, and what makes the food so good, is their BBQ sauce. The sausage is also good here. The chicken I had last time was a little dry, but you put their BBQ sauce on it and then it tastes great. What I like about all of their food is that you get that smokey flavor in the meat. I can't wait to try the ribs next time. One thing I do wish they had was better sides. The beans and cole slaw were good, but the potato salad was average. This is the only place I've been to more than once for BBQ and that I actually love.
(4)Chris W.
Best BBQ in tampa. Mac salad is very good.
(5)Shannon K.
Great BBQ, Memphis style. Expect the service to be... Not exactly friendly. If you go in knowing that they're not rolling out the red carpet for you it will be a much better experience. I love the spicy mac salad and beef brisket sandwich. Great tea too.
(5)G S.
I went during the lunch rush, which was out the door of this strip mall location. Ordering is at the counter, direct from the guy chopping the 'que. Know what you want; the line moves quickly. I had the rib dinner, which comes with two sides. I chose fries and beans, and neither was an afterthought. The fries were hot and skin-on, ungreasy and lacking only salt. Easily rectified. The beans were flavorful and bore a hint of cinnamon. Delicious. And the ribs. Well, now. Falling off the bone tender, needing no sauce whatsoever but benefiting from the scoop of sauce slathered on by the counterman. Served in the traditional style with two triangles of white bread. Good size portion, very little fat, moist and smoky. Recommended.
(4)C G.
Been coming here for years. Best BBQ in Brandon! Excellent ribs and pork. And always friendly service.
(5)Conner S.
Who needs customer service when your BBQ is this tasty?!?
(4)Zach P.
I love this place. I first had this from some catering at my office. The Macaroni is amazing. The quality of the food is top notch. I used them to cater a birthday party and everyone was completely satisfied. If you come for lunch try to get there before noon or you'll find yourself standing in line waiting to get inside to place your order.
(5)Tony Y.
This is one I cannot get. The lines were long, service was decent, but the bbq was not that good. For starters, the ribs seemed like they were first boiled and were not very fresh. Briskets were ok but nothing to write home in my opinion. Baked beans reminds me something out of a can, then heated. Maybe I am not accustomed to this type of bbq but really, compared to the Four Rivers in Orlando or the chain Jim n Nick's, there is a huge gap there in terms of flavor, succulence, smokiness/wood flavor, and general thorough cook thru one expects from good bbq.
(2)Rachel S.
My friend and I went here for dinner. I, too, was interested in eating here based on the glowing reviews. First of all, if you DO visit this place, head's up. It's in the very back corner of a large plaza. We both drove around the plaza twice looking for the place. It was difficult to find because their lighted sign wasn't on, but it's between Aaron's and a sushi place. For dinner, I had the ribs meal and my friend got a pulled pork sandwich. I was underwhelmed by the ribs themselves. They were not fall-off-the-bone tender or particularly flavorful and were doused in a sauce that is simply way too sweet for the meat. The helpings are healthy portions, but I didn't really have the desire to eat my neon yellow potato salad or my fries that were dripping in oil and salt. My friend's "pulled pork" was more like chopped pork and was equally doused in sugary sauce. So all in all, if I am in the area and NEED bbq (there are plenty of other food options in the same plaza), I may go here again. I gave it a three because I felt that the ribs were just that, a-ok. For bbq, this place is acceptable, but for the best in town, I guess I'll keep looking.
(3)Felix A.
What can I say, it's the best bbq I have ever had and it seems like it's the best other people have as well because this place packs the people in. If you don't get there by 11:30 be prepared to wait online for at least 20-30 minutes. Also, bring a coat because the line will go out the door. I usually have the pulled pork with greens and beans which were great! I have had other things on the menu and they were equally awesome. Make sure to get some of that terrific Iced Tea, you won't be disappointed.
(5)Mark N Phoebe G.
Hands down the best BBQ in Florida. One of the few things I miss living there.
(5)Aaron B.
Favorite lunch spot. The pork, sausage, brisket, coleslaw, and collard greens are all fantastic.
(4)Daniel L.
Great place. Service is quick so prepare before you get there. Can't go wrong with most of the items on the menu and it's all served with a slice of white bread. I've been know to hotbox the lobby of the Springhill Suites with this BBQ goodness!
(4)Maria G.
First time seeing a huge bbq pit in the restaurant... ribs were good n chicken was juicy.... staff took order right away n food served immediately... dining in was a lil basic ...n small... over all.. nice place but nothing to wow me... ps. Busy for pick up to go orders...n very reasonable in price...
(3)Jennifer H.
This is the place to go if you're off of I-75 near SR60. They open at 11am, and if you get there by 11:15, you'll be waiting in a line out the door. This BBQ joint is no frills, not a chain, and one of a kind so I hear. The helpings are huge, and delish! The BBQ beans were more like a dark molasses dessert than they were beans. It was really good. I tried a friend's dish of the spicy mac and cheese - it was really interesting; served cold, but doused with cayenee pepper the heat sneaks up on you as you chew. I'll definately be back, and now I know for sure that I'll be there at 11am when the doors open.
(5)Lauren J.
If your in the mood for BBQ, You've found your restaurant. This is a small place, but they make the most of it by putting the kitchen right in front of your eyes! French fries are to die for! BBQ SAUCE is also awesome...on anything. Since I like to be tidy in restaurants I get pulled pork...I see them throw the meat down and start chopping. Fast,not too fast. If you get pulled pork...SMOTHER IT IN BBQ SAUCE!!! :P
(5)Courtney S.
went back- yummy yummy as usual. Great staff, very friendly :-)
(5)Rich D.
After getting absolutely raving recommendations for First Choice from two folks whose palates I respect, I've visited First Choice twice over the past year, with varying degrees of satisfaction. It's conveniently located in the corner of a strip mall with lots of parking. The restaurant is fairly good sized, but can be strained during meal times by the large crowds. I've visited both in the afternoon and at dinner time, the staff is always very friendly, service has been prompt, with my food was delivered up fairly quickly. I had both the beef and pork dinners with baked beans. As my recommendation for First Choice was so high, my expectation was for a "big moment" in my BBQ pilgramage that's taken me from California to North Carolina and many points in between. First Choice was built up so high I guess I expected the clouds to part and the BBQ gods to smile down and grant me a special life-changing experience. Whether my expectations were too high or the BBQ was delivered too low, I felt both 'Q dishes missed the high mark. Simply said, it was good, but it wasn't great, and I've had much better. The baked beans were very good at both visits. So I have no criticism at all for First Choice without trying out more of the menu. Obviously, they're making lots of folks very satisfied. Unfortunately, the location is not one I frequent often, so it will likely be a long time before I get a chance to return. If/when I do, I'll update my review. Atmosphere: 4 Service: 5 Food: 4 Value: 4
(4)alison t.
First of all, I don't like BBQ, never have. 10 or 15 years ago when I worked on Adamo drive someone suggested First Choice for lunch, I went begrudgingly. To say I was blown away is an understatement. Yeah, you gotta wait in line but who cares. Everyone talks about the meats which are fabulous but the fritters to me are, in a word, amazing... hot, greasy, spicy deliciousness. I don't know what's in them and I don't care just gimme gimme. I haven't worked in Brandon in years and have moved to Lutz so I don't frequent as much as I'd like to but lets just say I wouldn't walk across the street normally for BBQ but for First Choice I make plans to go there and bring friends. Well done!
(5)Cynthia S.
Great BBQ. Chicken was great, ribs awesome. The BBQ sauce was perfect, a little sweet a little tart. The greens were great, as were the beans and potato salad. The macaroni salad was hot, you have to like cayenne hot. No ambiance, but with q like this who cares!
(5)Frankie F.
Ya so, if your looking for a sit down full service BBQ place, this isn't the place. Its a hole in the wall place, run more like a backyard BBQ, than a restruant. The BBQ is one of the best in the area. The sides are stuff youd find in someones house, not your typical mac and chesse sides. If your a fan of unique homestyle cooking, then this place is for you.
(4)Joshua S.
Repeat after me: I will NEVER go to Sonny's EVER EVER again. When I get the craving, I have to drive a half-hour to get here, and that's pretty significant for some random yen, but oh is it worth it! This place has become my guilty pleasure! I have grown to love the baked beans that I was sort of uncertain about before. The sauce is amazing and the meats are just all-around great!
(4)Cindy V.
the guy who owns this place used to run moses white's on 7th ave years ago, where he most definitely earned the respect of bbq aficionados throughout the bay area and beyond. moses white's may have closed, but (thankfully) the flavor lives on at first choice. the ribs are their best meat, IMO (order the "short end" for the most tender part of the rack), and their sides are all outstanding. potato salad, baked beans and spicy mac 'n cheese are all great (note: spicy means holy-sh*t-balls-that's-hot!). give the fritters a try, but make sure you order them the second you walk in - i mean it, the very second that you walk in, shout out to the sometimes scary looking men with cleavers behind the glass, "can you drop an order of fritters, please?" it takes FOR. EVER. to cook those things and even longer for them to cool down long enough to eat them. go against your better judgment and eat your food in the restaurant. you can get it to go but it won't be nearly as good. just bring some wet wipes of some kind to clean the table off with and don't set your purse on the floor; you'll be fine. closed on sundays so if you can only go on the weekend, get your fix on saturday.
(5)Mike S.
Great food, horrible atmosphere, so it's perfect! I got the pork and, get this, corned beef combo plate. Ever seen smoked corned beef on a menu? Well if you ever do, order it because it's awesome. Beans and mac salad were both very good too. Why not 5 stars? Well, the day I was there I was a bit put off by the rather rude service, but I am chalking it up to an anomoly. My new favorite bbq dive in the Tampa area.
(4)Claire T.
We found this on Yelp while planning a trip to Tampa. We thought maybe the place had closed as we drove around and around the parking lot and the Garmin said we'd reached our destination. Finally I had to call them... they're tucked waaaay back in the corner just down from the post office. We had the pulled pork and fries and beans. Yummy!!! The pork was moist, tender and flavorful and there was plenty of it! The skin on fries were right out of the deep fryer and piping hot and crispy! The beans were a bit sweet for taste but good. Next trip I'm getting the ribs!!!!! Don't miss this gem!!!
(4)Stacie D.
I've had the privilege of being able to enjoy First Choice ever since we discovered it about 15 years ago, and it's just as fantastic now as it was then, and the staff is still notably eager to please. Since we moved over 20 miles away, we don't get to indulge as much as we'd like, but it's my destination of choice for my birthday, even though it's agonizing to have smell those enticing aromas on the drive home. I love the sauce so much that I admit to eating it all by itself by the spoonful.
(5)Rob F.
Gets no better than this! Line out the door so dont expect to be in and out in 15 minutes. Be patient though because the pork sandwich, beans, fries, etc, etc, etc is all worth it. Enthusiastic employees, dedicated owner, and some of the best BBQ you can get. WAY BACK IN THE CORNER of the Home Depot shopping center. Super good food, and I love a hole in the wall. Not much seating and it can be a little warm inside because the door is stuck open for the line of 20 people.
(5)Robyn S.
Oh how I wanted to like this. The food itself was fine, but the atmosphere is really, really REALLY divey. It might have been fine for just meeting my friend for dinner, but I was with my whole family, and my kids refused to eat there. The barbecue was good, but the sides weren't all that great. This is NOT a kid-friendly place, so don't expect that. It is also very hard to find - very back corner of the shopping center. If you really do love your barbecue, great, try it out, but understand this may be a bit of an... adventure.
(2)Edward O.
Best.BBQ.Ever Found this place at random. We had lunch there; there was no line. Perhaps we just missed the lunch rush. The meat is perfect. Wife had the ribs, I had the pulled pork. Everything was perfect, well I was a little surprised at the "weber" sandwich bread we received when we asked for extra bread. But perhaps this is traditional BBQ bread. Anyway, we are planning another trip to FLA, and will stop in Tampa jsut to eat here. PS, if you are ever in San Diego and looking for BBQ keep on looking. San Diego has many thing, and is a beautiful city, but when it comes to BBQ it's not my First Choice.
(5)Jodi M.
This place has been voted the number one BBQ place in Brandon for years. Don't worry about the huge line it moves quickly. Also, know that it's an order, they fix it in front of you, pay, get your own drink and find an empty table kind of place. I gave this place 4 stars because I think their BBQ is good and their sides are good. My biggest gripe is I don't like eating on disposable plates and using plastic silverware. This is probably why I don't eat here more often. BBQ is difficult enough to eat and keep clean. Still on those rare days I can afford to get messy I will be back because I love BBQ.
(4)Kathryn D.
I might have been more enthusiastic about this place if I hadn't just eaten at Kojak's in Palmetto. I found out about them from TripAdvisor, where several people just raved about them. Although they are good, Clint is right. They are not the very best. Our ribs were smokey, but a bit chewy. I got the pulled pork (on a very subpar white bun) with beans (OK) and the spicy mac salad (I did not expect that!). My husband got the ribs with collard greens (no vinegar to be seen, but they did have plastic packets of lemon juice) and green beans (straight from a can). Although we ate every bit and enjoyed the meat, the sides were only average and the bread was downright terrible. This is a very plain place with a walk up counter, a soda fountain, and plastic utensils on plastic plates. It I lived close by, I'd probably just order some meat to go and make my own sides.
(3)Clint U.
I FEEL CHEATED!!!!!!!!!!! I have only read glowing reviews of this place. After eating some great BBQ from coast to coast in the USA, I couldn't wait to try this place....... It must have been an off night in the smoker. I tried the rib sandwich, which is just ribs in between two slices of white bread.....plain and simple. And the verdict??? The ribs were rather tasteless. There wasnt that concentrated beefy flavor from hours of smoking. Instead all I had was rather a tasteless grey meat. It seemed like they parboiled the ribs to cut down on the smoking times. Whatever they did, the ribs came out tasteless. The meat was also slightly overdone....didnt have that chew....when you pulled it off the bone....again this didn't add to the experience. Far too often BBQ places try to disguise poorly prepared meat with lots of sauce. My preparer tried to do just that, giving my rib sandwich a bath in BBQ sauce. In the hotel, I carefully wiped off all the sauce and tasted the meat. Upon closer inspection, I also noticed the lack of red smoke rings in the meat....a sure sign of long slow smoking...or the lack thereof..... Overall 3 stars. Overall, it was ok, but nothing memorable. Tampa may have great Cuban food, but it's BBQ needs some improvement.
(3)Paul M.
Not bad, but not great. Baked beans are weird and taste like they may have ginger snaps as an ingredient. Mac salad is definitely unique. Greens needed hot sauce big time and maybe a ham hock or two. I got the ribs and unfortunately it was close to closing and tasted like they had been in the steamer a tad too long. Not sure how it compares to other Tampa BBQ joints but there sure are better smoke houses around. Bottom line...pretty good for a strip mall, but not quite all that if going for dinner.
(3)Marianne M.
This is the best BBQ in the area, the only reason I gave only 4 stars is because the restaurant is definitely no frills. If if hadn't been told how good the food is I may not have gone in, but a line out the door says it all.
(4)Jordan M.
The best BBQ in the Tampa Bay area, hands down. Their ribs and pulled pork are amazing. Their sides are awesome - most notably their sweet and smokey beans and their spicy macaroni salad. We had these guys cater our rehearsal dinner we love them so much.
(5)jon Q.
My girlfriend and I tried this BBQ joint tonight based on the reviews here. We drove about an hour to get there, and when we arrived there was only one person in front of us who had already been helped. Despite being right in front of 3 employees, no one even acknowledged that we were standing there for a good 5 minutes. When we were helped the staff was friendly though. As to the food, I had high hopes for this one based on the reviews. I got the rib dinner and my girlfriend got the pulled pork. Both were decently priced, we got away with $15 dollars for the both of us. Over all I can say that the meat was, well, decent. There was nothing particularly bad about any of it, but there was nothing that was particularly good about it either. There was no flavor that really popped out at me with the ribs, and the pulled pork tasted like just about any other pulled pork you've ever had. All in all, nothing to write home about throughout the entire meal. Our final verdict: If you lived in the area and were jonesing for some BBQ its a heck of a lot better than going to Sonny's; if your looking for some really top notch BBQ to lay your hands on, keep on looking.
(3)Jaski K.
Ordered take-out from there today, so I can't comment about the restaurant itself, but the food was delicious and had me craving for more! I ordered the 1/4 slab of ribs. The meat was nice and tender and I liked that the BBQ sauce came on the side so that it didn't overpower the flavors of the meat. Good stuff!
(4)Stefan S.
Not bad - #2 BBQ in Brandon
(4)Brittany R.
The jerks here wouldn't accept the restraunts.com gift cirtificate that was paid for. don't sign up for online discounts if you aren't going to honor them!
(1)Denise J.
This is by far the best BBQ ever. It is tangy, spicy and smokey all at the same time. The pulled pork is soooo good. The sides seem ordinary but all have some extra goodness. The spicy macaroni salad is unlike any macaroni salad you have ever had. Even the hush puppies and steak fries are delicious. If you are anywhere near Brandon, you must stop by, be prepared to stand in a line out the door, order quickly and get your own drink!
(5)B K.
I agree with all previous 5-star reviews, and would like to add that the hot barbeque sauce is just that....VERY HOT! Also, this is the only place around (that's worth going to) that still serves sausage, which I love. But if you like your sausage whole, be sure to let them know because otherwise they'll chop it up.
(5)James C.
I'm from TN and know good BBQ, and this place is on par. Our family got the ribs,brisket,turkey,fries, and fritters. *Ribs- huge, lots of meat, little fat, and I would give 4/5 stars. *brisket- corned beef, shredded, 4/5 stars *turkey- tender white meat, didn't have a smoked flavor which was disappointing. Give this 3/5 stars. *Fries- hand cut and fried everyday. These were great. 5/5 stars *fritters- I expected something more like a hush puppy, but was good never less. Would of liked more shredded pork in it though. These were good, but maybe not for everyone. I give these 3/5 Overall the staff was extremely polite, attentive, and helpful. This is a great BBQ joint that I would recommend to anyone.
(4)Jason C.
Stopped by here during a trip to the Citrus Park Mall. I was a bit confused at first, but just keep driving back into the plaza, and you'll find it. I got the ribs which were very tender. I especially liked their spicy BBQ sauce. The spicy macaroni salad was good as well. I'd never had spicy macaroni salad, but it hit the spot. The macaroni noodles had a nice texture and a good kick.
(4)J D.
Excellent BBQ place with a rich history. The best BBQ around. Get the beef! The fries are also very good.
(4)Ty M.
Quality way down. I used to drive 10 miles just for your coleslaw. Too bad. Last chance fellas. Oh and thanks for the 25.00 slab of grey steamed ribs. That and your attitude makes you last choice. Tighten up.
(2)Chris D.
Don't get the brisket it's not like normal brisket. It's corn beef reminds me of spam. The place is not a 4 star place as the reviews say. My Fiancé agrees 100% (and we don't agree on much LOL). We won't be back.
(1)Caroline C.
Great yelp recommendation, went for lunch and got the pulled pork sandwich and coleslaw, great taste. Would go again. Atmosphere is relaxed and clean, doesn't have table service, order by the giant smoker and take to your table.
(4)Tiffany B.
Holy. Shit. I mean, what more is there to say? Literally the best BBQ I have had since I moved to Florida 7 years ago, and definitely top 3 BBQ places I've eaten at ever in life. Pulled pork sandwich? Smokey, sweet, amazing. Ribs? Flavorful and fall off the bone tender. BBQ sauce? God yes. So good. SO GOOD. The staff is friendly, fast, and helpful. One reviewer called them "intimidating" which... no. Not intimidating what so ever. I've eaten here twice in the same amount of weeks. Brandon is half an hour away from where I live. I do not care. Worth it. Worth the drive. Worth the calories. That's it, I'm getting BBQ today. Done.
(5)Geno K.
After a few more visits, I've become more of a fan. The baked beans and fries are definitely the sides to get. Had the sausage and ribs combo on my most recent visit and they were great. The staff isn't terribly friendly. The place looks likes it could be closed down after one of those Restaurant Red Alerts they do on the TV news. They don't have air conditioning. But it's still the best BBQ this side of Tampa.
(4)Rusty D.
This is the real deal!! Tender smoke but if you like the ribs chewey then you have the right place. I do like the way they were cooked and the inside seating was interesting. Good 60's and 70's souls music playing on an old boom box. The owner and two of his friends were entertaining also. Had a slab, couldn't finish them off between my wife and I. The ribs were a full slab not St. Louis cut so we have some away to a nice young man who was a musician from Chicago. The sounds and sights of this place would be something not to miss. Many of the people ordering knew exactly what they wanted and the staff often knew what they were going to Orrder
(5)Bonnie H.
The bbq pork sandwich was tender and flavorful. The baked beans and potato salad topped it off as delightful. However, the only issue was the restaurants warmth. A lot of customers only ordered take out. We were traveling from a seminar, so we ate there. It was delicious though.
(4)Jennifer W.
I had the pork sandwich with a side of potato salad. The meat was super tendered and wasn't over powered with smoke flavor. I really enjoyed it. The BBQ sauce was a bit sweeter than I like, but since they don't smother their meat in the sauce, it wasn't a deal breaker. The potato salad had more mustard in it than I normally like, but it was homemade and very good. I am looking forward to going back and trying the ribs and brisket.
(4)Chaena P.
Omg the best in town. How is this place not 5 stars??? Just real southern bbq. Nothing fancy just strait up to the point. The sides are incredible. The baked beans and omg the spicy Mac. Do it! I crave this place. That's it! I'm going now.
(5)Alison C.
I came here for lunch with some friends, one of which has raved about the food to price point ratio. Her praise was well-founded. First Choice is a tiny, hole-in-the-wall shop, so the line goes out the door during busy times like lunch. While this seems intimidating, the line moves quickly and orders are taken at rapid speed, so be sure of what you want before you get to the counter. I had the beef brisket sandwhich with the spicy macaroni salad and collard greens. The brisket meat was tender and flavorful with no shortage of delicious barbecue sauce, which was rich and had a smoky flavor. The spicy macaroni salad was also unique, as it was the first cold macaroni pasta I've ever had that packed heat while still lending sweet and savory notes. It was a good compliment to the meat, and delivered some excitement to an otherwise standard BBQ meal. The collard greens were also delicious and typical of most southern food. Yeah, there might be better barbecue places in other towns, but this definitely hits the spot and is the first barbecue place in Tampa that I've found to be satisfactory. The portions are generous and the price is cheap for what you get. My only complaint is that it was hard to find a seat because of the crowd. First Choice should expand because they're definitely popular enough!
(4)Frank N.
There is no bigger fan of BBQ than me, I love it. Wife and I had recently had lunch at First Choice and I couldn't wait to get back. Now I wish I had waited longer. First time the ribs were succulent bone tender, mouth watering sauce, it was like finding Nirvana (the place, not the band). This time the ribs were fatty and barely warm, the beef was just ok. My sides, BBQ beans and fries were awesome though and in fairness we hit them right before closing. I know.....no excuses, but this is BBQ. We will try it again....earlier and hope to recapture the magic.
(3)Lori L.
Not impressed. The smoker out front draws you in b/c of the amazing bbq smell but the food was ok. 1st time there & bought 3 pulled pork sandwiches & a rack of ribs w/ sides for $64. The pulled pork sammy's were good but wish they didn't drown it in bbq sauce. Sauce not that great tasting unless you really like A LOT of sauce & it's sweet. The baked beans I tried & didn't care for b/c they were incredibly sweet, the mac n cheese was ok, hardly any cheese & spicy which I love spice but my children don't so they should let patrons know that it's spicy (I believe jalapeños) are in it. The collard greens were good but a bit salty & the rack of ribs were good but some portions were so barbecued that we couldn't bite into it. We won't be back. Also, no a/c in there & it's blazing hot.
(2)Amber F.
I've been here quite a few times, and I always get the pulled pork! It's not my favorite around, but it has good flavor to it. I love their sauce, and their fries and beans are pretty good! I wasn't a fan of the macaroni though. I asked for mac and cheese, and wasn't told it was a spicy pasta salad. I'm also not really a fan of their customer service, but it's close to work so I go when I'm craving it.
(3)Megan W.
After living in Tampa for 3 1/2 years, I think we found a little slice of BBQ heaven at a strip mall in Brandon. I would give this place 5 stars if they had beer. But the sweet tea was pretty awesome. We ordered the pork dinner and a combo dinner of ribs & corned beef brisket. They chip your meat in front of you and the sides are delicious. Hand cut fries are a must. I'm pretty particular about pulled pork and this was spot on. The line was out the door at 2pm but it moves fast. We will be back again. My fiancé said this is the best BBQ he has ever had.
(4)Maria D.
I went here today because I read so many good reviews so I just brought some chicken. Its tasted like they took the chicken and cooked it without any seasoning. It was bland and the skin was very soft and pale. You can taste the smokey flavor. The barbecue sauce has a heavy ketchup taste. Maybe next time I will try the ribs. The place does look nice and clean. Staff friendly.
(3)Lily R.
I think I probably went in with too high of expectations, because I was a bit disappointed. I got a pulled pork sandwich and we shared the mac salad and coleslaw. The meat was ok..I prefer it pulled rather than chopped and it was pretty flavorless..luckily the sauce was probably my favorite thing here so that saved it. If you like sweet bbq sauce like me you'll definitely like theirs! The macaroni salad is a spicy cold salad and while I like the idea...it definitely had potential to be something I'd really it was mostly just spicy without to much flavor. The coleslaw was a total miss for me..cabbage was just kinda ehh and the flavor was off. It wasn't awful..and if you live in Tampa it might be one of the better options, but if you're a real bbq fan I'd probably skip it..I can get better stuff at home..I'd say the highlights of this trip were the sweet tea and the bbq sauce.
(2)Crystal D.
I agree with lady H. BBQ is a personal thing- Everyone's different. I'm not a huge fan of the way they chop up "pulled pork" & the brisket. The meat itself had a good, smokey flavor, but unfortunately they covered it in A LOT of sauce. I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm particular about sauce of my BBQ. I'm not a fan of a sweet BBQ sauce. I think it's a lot like serving a steak with steak sauce- it's like their covering up the flavor of the meat itself. The potato salad lacked flavor, I did enjoy their original kind of macaroni salad. Nice kick. It was okay. Not my favorite
(2)Kerianne G.
They're good is really good, the best bbq place. The food is always hot and fresh, never had a bad experience at this place
(5)Dani R.
The BBQ Pork Sandwich in the area!!! If you have carvings for some real good BBQ that's the place to go
(5)Tracy M.
This place is great. Real BBQ made fresh every day (follow the smoke). Nothing terribly healthy though but who cares. It's delicious and authentic. The owner talked to us today about how it's all about the process and NOT about who's doing the cooking. So the food has been consistent for 23 years regardless of who the chef is. Try the brisket. It's not like anything I've had before. Yum!
(5)Bill G.
Not a big fan of their ribs, but I LOVE their brisket, pork and baked beans.
(5)Dan G.
On point... went and ordered the 1/2 slab ribs fries with side baked beans was not disappointed gets a little busy but worth the wait. .will definitely be back for more.
(5)Bonita B.
The smell of the Bar-B-Que (even though I don't eat pork or beef) drew me in. I had no meat, just sides -- collards, macaroni salad (it's SPICY as heck, at least to me), and baked beans (didn't know it had meat in it until I took a spoon full). Usually on the weekends, the lines are long -- out the door. Don't worry, the lines move fairly quickly. I saw all nationalities in the line or in the dining area, that made me smile because it make me think for a moment that Bar-B-Que crossed over the color-lines. You might have to ignore the music piping through their little intercom/speaker system. This restaurant is tucked in the corner in a big shopping plaza...past Home Depot, US Postal Office, and Old Time. If you blink you might miss it.
(4)Katy S.
As a supervisor of 10 people at a company in Brandon, First Choice has become a favorite of mine for lunch catering. It is good, consistent, and inexpensive! My personal favorite order: The pulled pork, baked beans, and macaroni salad. As someone who LOVES spice, I must highly recommend the mac salad. It is super spicy and I become more addicted with each bite. In my opinion, the biggest measure of a restaurant is how they react to a mistake. When I ordered my typical catering order last week, I got back to my office and noted that the baked beans were left out. I called them back and they apologized profusely and stated that they would make up for it. When I got back to First Choice, they had included a free order of chicken, which more than made up for the mistake. I will continue to be a loyal First Choice customer after that experience.
(4)Cambria K.
I wasn't really impressed. I'm ok with dives and have to been to many that still felt clean and cheerful., but the restaurant felt dirty and dingy. And there was a fly buzzing around my face while I ate. Finally they were playing rap music which in and of itself isn't a big deal, but it was of a variety that had a lot of cursing so I wouldn't bring my kids here. The BBQ pork was ok, but they drowned it in a sauce that tasted heavily of ketchup. I wasn't warned about the spicy macaroni salad and didn't like that at all. Also the man had me test the fries to see if they were still hot so even though they were, it told me they weren't fresh. All in all, I won't be back.
(2)Chris B.
I was excited to try this place out. Good Yelp reviews and a line out the door had me ready for some good BBQ. The line did move awfully slow, but that's fine, it's obviously a popular place. I ordered the beef, and my two sides were collard greens and macaroni. The guys behind the counter were very friendly and seemed efficient. The BBQ sauce was good, and I'm glad they kept extra on the table. I thought the portion of beef was on the small side, but was pretty good. Collard greens were just ok. The macaroni was different than anything I've tasted...it was a spicy macaroni salad. That was really good. Overall I wasn't blown away. I'd like to come back and try the pork because that did look really good.
(3)Lady H.
Bbq is a personal thing. Everybody has their own personal preferences and it's damn near impossible to please most of the crowd with everything. That being said, here is my two cents (for what its worth). The bbq sauce, which is sweet, and the sweet tea were delicious and the highlights of the meal. I had pulled pork, which was actually chopped and not "pulled," chicken, potato salad and baked beans. I didn't like that the pork was chopped instead of pulled. All the bones and grizzle was chopped up in the meat and I kept having to pull bits of them out of my mouth mid-chew. The baked beans seem like they had been overly seasoned with nutmeg. After I ate a bite of them I couldn't get the nutmeg taste out of my mouth. The potato salad was just okay. Bottom line is its not horrible but in my opinion it's not that good. I wont go back.
(3)Martic R.
Main advice about this place is.... get there early to avoid the lines if going for lunch. We got there early shortly after they opened. I haven't been here in years and was hoping to get a chicken sandwish but they don't offer that on the menu, the Turkey was my second option but it wasn't done yet so I went for the beef sandwish...really good, great barbecue sauce. We also got the pork and ribs dinner which comes with two sides. I wish the place was a bit bigger but overall great food.
(4)Todd V.
I go here a lot whenever I'm in Tampa for business. The BBQ meats are average to above average, but their side dishes are outstanding and is what keeps me coming back. The spicy macaroni salad is the most unique style I have had anywhere and is my favorite dish. A close second would be the BBQ beans. The fries are good too and a lot of people seem to get those, although there is usually a wait while they make more. There is usually a line out the door unless you come at an odd time. Ordering can be somewhat intimidating and reminds me of a black version of the Soup Nazi; the guys behind the counter all look like hardcore gangsters, and seem too high to say anything and just stare at you when it's your turn to order. If you're not paying attention they'll take someone else's order.
(4)Alex Z.
Great BBQ...the real deal for florida BBQ...try the corned beef BBQ...this place has been here for 15 years and rightfully so
(5)RE A.
The chicken here is succulent and the barbecue ring is evident when you come here you know you get the best that's why they're call first choice because you're always the first choice when you want barbecue
(4)Maria C.
This is THE BEST BBQ in Tampa Bay. If you're in the Brandon area and get a hankering for some good ribs, get in line. They pull quite a crowd for lunch. But it is Mmmm Mmmm good!
(4)Benjamin M.
And Bingo was his name-o. This place is ten minutes from my office, so I decided to check it out last Friday for lunch. As a loyal Yelper, I read most of the reviews before taking my little cruise down Falkenberg. I arrived right at 11:30, hoping to beat the rush. Fail. The line was at least a dozen people out the door. Alas, I am a dedicated foodie so I waited it out and--oh boy!!--it was definitely worth the wait. (Side note: there is shade, so don't get discouraged if you also see an ugly line.) Once in the door, you shout out your order to the guy behind the counter and then he starts a styrofoam plate for you and passes it down the assembly line. I ordered the pulled pork sandwich with potato salad and baked beans ($8). Classic BBQ meal. Oh my goodness. It was SOOO good. The BBQ was incredibly flavorful and fresh. The beans were the bomb. The wait was about 20 minutes. Ordering took about 3 minutes. I finished my meal in about 5 minutes. Total time: around half an hour. If you figure in ten minutes to/from work, it's a perfect place for lunch if you work in the MLK/Falkenberg/60 corridor. This place beats the snot out of Sonny's. First Choice is my new first choice for BBQ in Brandon.
(5)Carlos H.
I have visited First Choice BBQ a few times in the past with some friends and they serve some solid BBQ food - far better than the bigger chains in the area. It is messy and heartache-inducing, but still great. The ribs, baked beans, and fries are great. The portions are big. The inside feels more like a fast-food place - so I normally take my food to-go. There is always a line, but as another Yelper mentioned the lines move quick. I wouldn't recommend getting unless you're ready to order. Prices are reasonable with dinners starting at $8.50 - you can probably share the meat if you get an extra side. Overall, pretty great BBQ spot and close to 60 so it is accessible to people off I-75 and people coming from Brandon and Ybor City.
(4)Fred S.
My first review as a Yelper. I've been wanting to write one for awhile but after my visit to First Choice I felt compelled to do just that A coworker of mine has been raving about this place to me for awhile now. Living in St. Pete this was an easy 30 minute drive which is why I probably put off coming here for as long as I did. I instantly regretted it my 3rd bite in I went with my friends recommendation of the combination plate - corn beef brisket, sausage, fries, and baked beans. Wow! All of it was delicious. And their sweet tea is worth coming for in itself. Only caution is that when they ask if you want sauce and you say yes be prepared to have your meat bathing in it. Although their sauce is good I would prefer to apply it myself at the table. I can't wait to come back and try more
(5)Amber U.
Really great food. The only thing we didn't favor were the baked beans but honestly that's some good BBQ.
(4)Brett N.
Why 4 stars? Because it's one of the best BBQ spots in Tampa. --- --- --- First Choice is a rare exception to the "restaurant in a strip mall" rule. This place serves great food, as evidenced by the lines extending outside the door around lunch time. The guys slopping the beans on your plate may look like prison inmates, but as far as I'm concerned, the only thing they are guilty of is serving me awesome pulled pork. But seriously, they do look like they've spent some time in the big house, and I'm not even trying to be funny. The sweet tea at First Choice might be the best I've had in Tampa. Sweet tea is the essential compliment to any good barbecue. All of the sides that I've tried are at least good, if not great. Unfortunately for acid reflux sufferers like myself, the Mac-n-Cheese is spicy. If you are looking for good BBQ in the Tampa area, First Choice is a very safe bet.
(4)Bronze M.
The BBQ here is pretty good. Really good actually. I was first introduced to First Choice by my Work Wife - you know, the member of the opposite sex that you're closest to at work. Everyone has one. Anyway, she kept telling me how this place has the best BBQ ever. Finally one day I gave in and we went here. I was really impressed! The food is extremely good, and just as unhealthy. But it's bar-b-que, so who cares. I of course, was indecisive and wanted to order one of everything on my first visit. I eventually settled on the combination platter, which was a menu choice that allowed me to reinforce my indecisiveness. Here's the rundown of the food: Sausage - flavorful, great consistency and juicy. Ribs - Soo good. perfect smoke flavor. You can eat it without BBQ sauce. Chicken - You cannot go wrong with this choice. Pulled Pork - I swear that their pulled pork sandwich is easily in the top 3 that I've every tasted. Here's what's important for a 1st time visitor to know: ALL OF THE SIDES ARE ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS. You cannot go wrong regardless of what you choose. Oh, and don't be intimidated by the staff. They look intimidating, but once you warm up to them and see them flash a smile and their bright gold teeth blingin', it's all love. Seriously, they are a good group of guys and provide great customer service. My work wife did good on this one! B. Major Grade: A+
(5)Bill G.
Wow these guys have brisket figured out. I travel every week for work and have tried different BBQ all around the country. Try their brisket with the sauce on the side because the meat is so good on its own. The sauce is great but you might not need it. I'll be back to try the ribs next.
(5)Jonathan H.
I tried this place again and the service was much better this time around. The corned beef brisket is phenomenal.
(4)Sum G.
I had the pork sandwich. The meat was very tender and the bbq sauce was sweet and tangy. Pork and side portions were large. The macaroni salad was spicy which threw me off, but the spiciness added to the sweet flavor. If your a fan of spicy food, pick the mac salad as your side.
(4)Tweet G.
Where I'm from you don't boil ribs slap some sauce on them and call it BBQ. Baked beans were pretty good but I won't be back anytime soon.
(2)Rebecca K.
I'm originally from Memphis, so I know good bbq. I've been to at least 30 different bbq joints across the states and First Choice is excactly that when it comes to BBQ around the Brandon/Tampa area. The sauce is smoky, not too sweet ,and they are super generous with their portions. The corned Beef Brisket is a must get. The sides are also tasty. The spicy Mac-n-Cheese pasta salad is a must try! I usually get the mustard base potato salad and their natural cut fries and never finish all the food on my plate. I've been here more times than I can count on my hands and always try something different. The inside of the restaurant is no fuss. They are there to serve you great bbq, not plushy comfort for mediocre franchise taste (a la Sonny's across the street) I always have happy bbq filled belly when I leave!
(4)Jessica D.
Really good portions, yummy bbq sauce, bring your own hot sauce though. Friendly guys. Definitely going back here.
(4)Travis E.
Everything is good here. These guys know how to make some BBQ. Try the pasta salad it is the best I've ever had
(5)Aaron K.
This place is a drive for me but worth the time and every penny! The ribs are SUPER meaty and of course, SUPER delicious. Cannot get much better. When I get the opportunity to go here I end up spending upwards of 70-90 buck. 3 full racks and slaw. The red sauce is good too (which they give plenty of). This place never disappoints.
(5)Nikki L.
Up until I tried First Choice, I've never like BBQ places. I always thought BBQ sauce was too sweet and I just wasn't a fan. However, the smoked pork sandwich here is delicious, and what makes the food so good, is their BBQ sauce. The sausage is also good here. The chicken I had last time was a little dry, but you put their BBQ sauce on it and then it tastes great. What I like about all of their food is that you get that smokey flavor in the meat. I can't wait to try the ribs next time. One thing I do wish they had was better sides. The beans and cole slaw were good, but the potato salad was average. This is the only place I've been to more than once for BBQ and that I actually love.
(4)Chris W.
Best BBQ in tampa. Mac salad is very good.
(5)Shannon K.
Great BBQ, Memphis style. Expect the service to be... Not exactly friendly. If you go in knowing that they're not rolling out the red carpet for you it will be a much better experience. I love the spicy mac salad and beef brisket sandwich. Great tea too.
(5)G S.
I went during the lunch rush, which was out the door of this strip mall location. Ordering is at the counter, direct from the guy chopping the 'que. Know what you want; the line moves quickly. I had the rib dinner, which comes with two sides. I chose fries and beans, and neither was an afterthought. The fries were hot and skin-on, ungreasy and lacking only salt. Easily rectified. The beans were flavorful and bore a hint of cinnamon. Delicious. And the ribs. Well, now. Falling off the bone tender, needing no sauce whatsoever but benefiting from the scoop of sauce slathered on by the counterman. Served in the traditional style with two triangles of white bread. Good size portion, very little fat, moist and smoky. Recommended.
(4)C G.
Been coming here for years. Best BBQ in Brandon! Excellent ribs and pork. And always friendly service.
(5)Conner S.
Who needs customer service when your BBQ is this tasty?!?
(4)Zach P.
I love this place. I first had this from some catering at my office. The Macaroni is amazing. The quality of the food is top notch. I used them to cater a birthday party and everyone was completely satisfied. If you come for lunch try to get there before noon or you'll find yourself standing in line waiting to get inside to place your order.
(5)Tony Y.
This is one I cannot get. The lines were long, service was decent, but the bbq was not that good. For starters, the ribs seemed like they were first boiled and were not very fresh. Briskets were ok but nothing to write home in my opinion. Baked beans reminds me something out of a can, then heated. Maybe I am not accustomed to this type of bbq but really, compared to the Four Rivers in Orlando or the chain Jim n Nick's, there is a huge gap there in terms of flavor, succulence, smokiness/wood flavor, and general thorough cook thru one expects from good bbq.
(2)Rachel S.
My friend and I went here for dinner. I, too, was interested in eating here based on the glowing reviews. First of all, if you DO visit this place, head's up. It's in the very back corner of a large plaza. We both drove around the plaza twice looking for the place. It was difficult to find because their lighted sign wasn't on, but it's between Aaron's and a sushi place. For dinner, I had the ribs meal and my friend got a pulled pork sandwich. I was underwhelmed by the ribs themselves. They were not fall-off-the-bone tender or particularly flavorful and were doused in a sauce that is simply way too sweet for the meat. The helpings are healthy portions, but I didn't really have the desire to eat my neon yellow potato salad or my fries that were dripping in oil and salt. My friend's "pulled pork" was more like chopped pork and was equally doused in sugary sauce. So all in all, if I am in the area and NEED bbq (there are plenty of other food options in the same plaza), I may go here again. I gave it a three because I felt that the ribs were just that, a-ok. For bbq, this place is acceptable, but for the best in town, I guess I'll keep looking.
(3)Felix A.
What can I say, it's the best bbq I have ever had and it seems like it's the best other people have as well because this place packs the people in. If you don't get there by 11:30 be prepared to wait online for at least 20-30 minutes. Also, bring a coat because the line will go out the door. I usually have the pulled pork with greens and beans which were great! I have had other things on the menu and they were equally awesome. Make sure to get some of that terrific Iced Tea, you won't be disappointed.
(5)Mark N Phoebe G.
Hands down the best BBQ in Florida. One of the few things I miss living there.
(5)Aaron B.
Favorite lunch spot. The pork, sausage, brisket, coleslaw, and collard greens are all fantastic.
(4)Daniel L.
Great place. Service is quick so prepare before you get there. Can't go wrong with most of the items on the menu and it's all served with a slice of white bread. I've been know to hotbox the lobby of the Springhill Suites with this BBQ goodness!
(4)Lauren J.
If your in the mood for BBQ, You've found your restaurant. This is a small place, but they make the most of it by putting the kitchen right in front of your eyes! French fries are to die for! BBQ SAUCE is also awesome...on anything. Since I like to be tidy in restaurants I get pulled pork...I see them throw the meat down and start chopping. Fast,not too fast. If you get pulled pork...SMOTHER IT IN BBQ SAUCE!!! :P
(5)Courtney S.
went back- yummy yummy as usual. Great staff, very friendly :-)
(5)Maria G.
First time seeing a huge bbq pit in the restaurant... ribs were good n chicken was juicy.... staff took order right away n food served immediately... dining in was a lil basic ...n small... over all.. nice place but nothing to wow me... ps. Busy for pick up to go orders...n very reasonable in price...
(3)Jennifer H.
This is the place to go if you're off of I-75 near SR60. They open at 11am, and if you get there by 11:15, you'll be waiting in a line out the door. This BBQ joint is no frills, not a chain, and one of a kind so I hear. The helpings are huge, and delish! The BBQ beans were more like a dark molasses dessert than they were beans. It was really good. I tried a friend's dish of the spicy mac and cheese - it was really interesting; served cold, but doused with cayenee pepper the heat sneaks up on you as you chew. I'll definately be back, and now I know for sure that I'll be there at 11am when the doors open.
(5)Rich D.
After getting absolutely raving recommendations for First Choice from two folks whose palates I respect, I've visited First Choice twice over the past year, with varying degrees of satisfaction. It's conveniently located in the corner of a strip mall with lots of parking. The restaurant is fairly good sized, but can be strained during meal times by the large crowds. I've visited both in the afternoon and at dinner time, the staff is always very friendly, service has been prompt, with my food was delivered up fairly quickly. I had both the beef and pork dinners with baked beans. As my recommendation for First Choice was so high, my expectation was for a "big moment" in my BBQ pilgramage that's taken me from California to North Carolina and many points in between. First Choice was built up so high I guess I expected the clouds to part and the BBQ gods to smile down and grant me a special life-changing experience. Whether my expectations were too high or the BBQ was delivered too low, I felt both 'Q dishes missed the high mark. Simply said, it was good, but it wasn't great, and I've had much better. The baked beans were very good at both visits. So I have no criticism at all for First Choice without trying out more of the menu. Obviously, they're making lots of folks very satisfied. Unfortunately, the location is not one I frequent often, so it will likely be a long time before I get a chance to return. If/when I do, I'll update my review. Atmosphere: 4 Service: 5 Food: 4 Value: 4
(4)alison t.
First of all, I don't like BBQ, never have. 10 or 15 years ago when I worked on Adamo drive someone suggested First Choice for lunch, I went begrudgingly. To say I was blown away is an understatement. Yeah, you gotta wait in line but who cares. Everyone talks about the meats which are fabulous but the fritters to me are, in a word, amazing... hot, greasy, spicy deliciousness. I don't know what's in them and I don't care just gimme gimme. I haven't worked in Brandon in years and have moved to Lutz so I don't frequent as much as I'd like to but lets just say I wouldn't walk across the street normally for BBQ but for First Choice I make plans to go there and bring friends. Well done!
(5)Cynthia S.
Great BBQ. Chicken was great, ribs awesome. The BBQ sauce was perfect, a little sweet a little tart. The greens were great, as were the beans and potato salad. The macaroni salad was hot, you have to like cayenne hot. No ambiance, but with q like this who cares!
(5)Frankie F.
Ya so, if your looking for a sit down full service BBQ place, this isn't the place. Its a hole in the wall place, run more like a backyard BBQ, than a restruant. The BBQ is one of the best in the area. The sides are stuff youd find in someones house, not your typical mac and chesse sides. If your a fan of unique homestyle cooking, then this place is for you.
(4)Joshua S.
Repeat after me: I will NEVER go to Sonny's EVER EVER again. When I get the craving, I have to drive a half-hour to get here, and that's pretty significant for some random yen, but oh is it worth it! This place has become my guilty pleasure! I have grown to love the baked beans that I was sort of uncertain about before. The sauce is amazing and the meats are just all-around great!
(4)Cindy V.
the guy who owns this place used to run moses white's on 7th ave years ago, where he most definitely earned the respect of bbq aficionados throughout the bay area and beyond. moses white's may have closed, but (thankfully) the flavor lives on at first choice. the ribs are their best meat, IMO (order the "short end" for the most tender part of the rack), and their sides are all outstanding. potato salad, baked beans and spicy mac 'n cheese are all great (note: spicy means holy-sh*t-balls-that's-hot!). give the fritters a try, but make sure you order them the second you walk in - i mean it, the very second that you walk in, shout out to the sometimes scary looking men with cleavers behind the glass, "can you drop an order of fritters, please?" it takes FOR. EVER. to cook those things and even longer for them to cool down long enough to eat them. go against your better judgment and eat your food in the restaurant. you can get it to go but it won't be nearly as good. just bring some wet wipes of some kind to clean the table off with and don't set your purse on the floor; you'll be fine. closed on sundays so if you can only go on the weekend, get your fix on saturday.
(5)Mike S.
Great food, horrible atmosphere, so it's perfect! I got the pork and, get this, corned beef combo plate. Ever seen smoked corned beef on a menu? Well if you ever do, order it because it's awesome. Beans and mac salad were both very good too. Why not 5 stars? Well, the day I was there I was a bit put off by the rather rude service, but I am chalking it up to an anomoly. My new favorite bbq dive in the Tampa area.
(4)Claire T.
We found this on Yelp while planning a trip to Tampa. We thought maybe the place had closed as we drove around and around the parking lot and the Garmin said we'd reached our destination. Finally I had to call them... they're tucked waaaay back in the corner just down from the post office. We had the pulled pork and fries and beans. Yummy!!! The pork was moist, tender and flavorful and there was plenty of it! The skin on fries were right out of the deep fryer and piping hot and crispy! The beans were a bit sweet for taste but good. Next trip I'm getting the ribs!!!!! Don't miss this gem!!!
(4)Stacie D.
I've had the privilege of being able to enjoy First Choice ever since we discovered it about 15 years ago, and it's just as fantastic now as it was then, and the staff is still notably eager to please. Since we moved over 20 miles away, we don't get to indulge as much as we'd like, but it's my destination of choice for my birthday, even though it's agonizing to have smell those enticing aromas on the drive home. I love the sauce so much that I admit to eating it all by itself by the spoonful.
(5)Rob F.
Gets no better than this! Line out the door so dont expect to be in and out in 15 minutes. Be patient though because the pork sandwich, beans, fries, etc, etc, etc is all worth it. Enthusiastic employees, dedicated owner, and some of the best BBQ you can get. WAY BACK IN THE CORNER of the Home Depot shopping center. Super good food, and I love a hole in the wall. Not much seating and it can be a little warm inside because the door is stuck open for the line of 20 people.
(5)Robyn S.
Oh how I wanted to like this. The food itself was fine, but the atmosphere is really, really REALLY divey. It might have been fine for just meeting my friend for dinner, but I was with my whole family, and my kids refused to eat there. The barbecue was good, but the sides weren't all that great. This is NOT a kid-friendly place, so don't expect that. It is also very hard to find - very back corner of the shopping center. If you really do love your barbecue, great, try it out, but understand this may be a bit of an... adventure.
(2)Edward O.
Best.BBQ.Ever Found this place at random. We had lunch there; there was no line. Perhaps we just missed the lunch rush. The meat is perfect. Wife had the ribs, I had the pulled pork. Everything was perfect, well I was a little surprised at the "weber" sandwich bread we received when we asked for extra bread. But perhaps this is traditional BBQ bread. Anyway, we are planning another trip to FLA, and will stop in Tampa jsut to eat here. PS, if you are ever in San Diego and looking for BBQ keep on looking. San Diego has many thing, and is a beautiful city, but when it comes to BBQ it's not my First Choice.
(5)Jodi M.
This place has been voted the number one BBQ place in Brandon for years. Don't worry about the huge line it moves quickly. Also, know that it's an order, they fix it in front of you, pay, get your own drink and find an empty table kind of place. I gave this place 4 stars because I think their BBQ is good and their sides are good. My biggest gripe is I don't like eating on disposable plates and using plastic silverware. This is probably why I don't eat here more often. BBQ is difficult enough to eat and keep clean. Still on those rare days I can afford to get messy I will be back because I love BBQ.
(4)Kathryn D.
I might have been more enthusiastic about this place if I hadn't just eaten at Kojak's in Palmetto. I found out about them from TripAdvisor, where several people just raved about them. Although they are good, Clint is right. They are not the very best. Our ribs were smokey, but a bit chewy. I got the pulled pork (on a very subpar white bun) with beans (OK) and the spicy mac salad (I did not expect that!). My husband got the ribs with collard greens (no vinegar to be seen, but they did have plastic packets of lemon juice) and green beans (straight from a can). Although we ate every bit and enjoyed the meat, the sides were only average and the bread was downright terrible. This is a very plain place with a walk up counter, a soda fountain, and plastic utensils on plastic plates. It I lived close by, I'd probably just order some meat to go and make my own sides.
(3)Clint U.
I FEEL CHEATED!!!!!!!!!!! I have only read glowing reviews of this place. After eating some great BBQ from coast to coast in the USA, I couldn't wait to try this place....... It must have been an off night in the smoker. I tried the rib sandwich, which is just ribs in between two slices of white bread.....plain and simple. And the verdict??? The ribs were rather tasteless. There wasnt that concentrated beefy flavor from hours of smoking. Instead all I had was rather a tasteless grey meat. It seemed like they parboiled the ribs to cut down on the smoking times. Whatever they did, the ribs came out tasteless. The meat was also slightly overdone....didnt have that chew....when you pulled it off the bone....again this didn't add to the experience. Far too often BBQ places try to disguise poorly prepared meat with lots of sauce. My preparer tried to do just that, giving my rib sandwich a bath in BBQ sauce. In the hotel, I carefully wiped off all the sauce and tasted the meat. Upon closer inspection, I also noticed the lack of red smoke rings in the meat....a sure sign of long slow smoking...or the lack thereof..... Overall 3 stars. Overall, it was ok, but nothing memorable. Tampa may have great Cuban food, but it's BBQ needs some improvement.
(3)Paul M.
Not bad, but not great. Baked beans are weird and taste like they may have ginger snaps as an ingredient. Mac salad is definitely unique. Greens needed hot sauce big time and maybe a ham hock or two. I got the ribs and unfortunately it was close to closing and tasted like they had been in the steamer a tad too long. Not sure how it compares to other Tampa BBQ joints but there sure are better smoke houses around. Bottom line...pretty good for a strip mall, but not quite all that if going for dinner.
(3)Marianne M.
This is the best BBQ in the area, the only reason I gave only 4 stars is because the restaurant is definitely no frills. If if hadn't been told how good the food is I may not have gone in, but a line out the door says it all.
(4)Jordan M.
The best BBQ in the Tampa Bay area, hands down. Their ribs and pulled pork are amazing. Their sides are awesome - most notably their sweet and smokey beans and their spicy macaroni salad. We had these guys cater our rehearsal dinner we love them so much.
(5)jon Q.
My girlfriend and I tried this BBQ joint tonight based on the reviews here. We drove about an hour to get there, and when we arrived there was only one person in front of us who had already been helped. Despite being right in front of 3 employees, no one even acknowledged that we were standing there for a good 5 minutes. When we were helped the staff was friendly though. As to the food, I had high hopes for this one based on the reviews. I got the rib dinner and my girlfriend got the pulled pork. Both were decently priced, we got away with $15 dollars for the both of us. Over all I can say that the meat was, well, decent. There was nothing particularly bad about any of it, but there was nothing that was particularly good about it either. There was no flavor that really popped out at me with the ribs, and the pulled pork tasted like just about any other pulled pork you've ever had. All in all, nothing to write home about throughout the entire meal. Our final verdict: If you lived in the area and were jonesing for some BBQ its a heck of a lot better than going to Sonny's; if your looking for some really top notch BBQ to lay your hands on, keep on looking.
(3)Jaski K.
Ordered take-out from there today, so I can't comment about the restaurant itself, but the food was delicious and had me craving for more! I ordered the 1/4 slab of ribs. The meat was nice and tender and I liked that the BBQ sauce came on the side so that it didn't overpower the flavors of the meat. Good stuff!
(4)Stefan S.
Not bad - #2 BBQ in Brandon
(4)Brittany R.
The jerks here wouldn't accept the restraunts.com gift cirtificate that was paid for. don't sign up for online discounts if you aren't going to honor them!
(1)Denise J.
This is by far the best BBQ ever. It is tangy, spicy and smokey all at the same time. The pulled pork is soooo good. The sides seem ordinary but all have some extra goodness. The spicy macaroni salad is unlike any macaroni salad you have ever had. Even the hush puppies and steak fries are delicious. If you are anywhere near Brandon, you must stop by, be prepared to stand in a line out the door, order quickly and get your own drink!
(5)B K.
I agree with all previous 5-star reviews, and would like to add that the hot barbeque sauce is just that....VERY HOT! Also, this is the only place around (that's worth going to) that still serves sausage, which I love. But if you like your sausage whole, be sure to let them know because otherwise they'll chop it up.
(5)Ralston D.
We just had the combo 1) brisket and turkey with mac and greens 2) beef and turkey with sweet corn and greens And beef sandwich. The seevice is fast ths food is amazing! What is that sauce?? Amazing is a good word. The little joint isnt that impressive but the food sure is. Always a good sign at 1100am and ppl are lined up to the parking lot!
(5)Mike M.
While on a business trip to the Tampa area I found this BBQ restaurant on Yelp and decided to give it a try. It's kind of hard to find in the corner of a shopping center. I walked in and after looking at the menu decided to go with a 2 meat combo of a 1/4 chicken and beef with beans and potato salad. The food came out quickly. The beef was chopped and I thought it was tender and good. (3). The chicken had a nice smoky flavor and I graded it as a 3.5. The beans were a 3.5 also. The potato salad was creamy and had a hint of nutmeg? I thought it was a 3.5 too. The sauce was kind of sweet and the more I tasted the more I dislike it more (2). Finally I ordered another side of their fritters. These are made of pork rolled into a ball, then battered and then fried. Just like a hushpuppy but with a pork center instead of a cornmeal. You get 5 with the order and I thought they were wat too much. The first one was ok but greasy. I had to force myself to eat the second one and the other two went to waste. I just didn't like them. I felt they were just a grease ball. My overall score is a 3. If I am back in the area I will not return. The sauce was a turnoff. The food is ok.
(3)Ian S.
I just visited again after a long hiatus. I remembered the food being really good, but don't work in that area anymore, so I just haven't been visiting. I also didn't Yelp back then, and, as it turns out, my memory of the food was better than the reality, so I'm only giving 2 stars. I ordered the pulled pork and sausage combo plate with fries and collard greens. I think they dip their fries in oil once, they were limp and soggy and had no salt at all. The collard greens, especially at a barbecue place, should (IMHO) be cooked with some type of meat, but these bland collards probably were not. They taste like nothing but a collard green, no fat, no smoke, no meat, no salt, no nothing. I'm a white guy from Boston and I can make better greens. The pork and sausage were OK, but again, nothing that would draw me back. The pork seems like it is just pork thrown in a smoker with no salt, seasonings, brine, nothing. Weird. Also, the barbecue sauce they make is too sweet and has too much ketchup. It seems like it's 95% ketchup. And lastly, not one person who works here looks like they want you there. I remember this from before when i ate here in their early days after leaving the truck on the street and opening this place. Every order that comes through looks like a chore for them. Nobody will smile at you, nobody will thank you, and nobody will even say hi or goodbye to you while you're in their "home". So.... I'll jump on the crosstown and hit Holy Hog downtown before I'll come back here.
(2)Anna M.
I was craving a Banh Mi thanks to Rachel M earlier this week so I drove to the closest Vietnamese restaurant that was in the area. Well...apparently, I had stayed away too long because the restaurant had closed. Several doors down was First Choice, begging me to walk through its doors. I practically ran to it, like a lost child running back to her mother. Go ahead and make fun of me, I like to eat early. Call me old or whatever you like ha ha, but I despise crowds. Lucky for me, I had walked into First Choice right when they had just opened their doors. Getting early to First Choice is crucial. Crucial, because there is less of a wait. Otherwise, the line is out the door. No thanks. For those who know me, I have zero patience. What has not changed is that these guys are the BBQ Nazis like the Soup Nazi on Seinfeld. You better know what you want or else you will be in trouble! Don't be scared though, the staff is firm, but friendly here. Being a creature of habit, I always order the same thing here: sausage with baked beans and french fries. Mmmmmmm sausage!!! As usual, the sausage was delicious. The fries were a bit soggy for me. And, the baked beans were good, but the cinnamon they added overpowered the taste of the beans. Next time, I plan to finally change it up with the sides. First Choice is definitely one of the best BBQ joints in this area. Their food is delicious and the portions are such a good value. The staff here is friendly and very efficient at getting you in and out of their restaurant. Tables are limited but turnover is normally quick. Ahhh...First Choice. I have missed you, my love. I promise it won't be two years before I see you again.
(4)Ferdnan H.
This is straight up real bbq. The quality of food is five star. If your eating in expect a line at prime time. The AC has never done a good job if eating in but its worth it regardless.
(5)Mailoha A.
After this recent visit I have to update my review and say that there are just better options around. The pulled pork was bland, the ribs were fatty and the potato salad was mush. The customer service was also "eh". They rushed us through and there wasn't anyone in line behind us.
(2)Nick W.
This is decent barbecue. Prices are a good value and all the meat had a real nice smoke on it. I had beef and ribs. The sauce has a great flavor. Sweet with a bit of a kick. The baked beans were great. There was a little pork mixed in for flavor and had a bit of extra spice. They probably were my favorite thing on the plate. Fries weren't anything special. Overall if I was in the area looking for a quick bite I would look them up.
(3)Melissa M.
I love this place. It's really unfussy, unfooled-around with BBQ. I prefer BBQ joints like this. The meat is perfect every time. The sides are few, but done exactly right (try spicy Mac salad or beans). The sauce comes in regular or spicy. Both are great. The line is out the door at lunch and you better know your order! These guys are busy as all get out and for good reason.
(5)Celine L.
One of my favorite places for barbecue. All the meats are cooked to perfection & are always juicy (not dry like some places). Don't forget the sides- I love the mac & cheese-- it has a nice kick to it too!
(4)Nadine F.
Amazing BBQ! The sauce is finger-lickin good and the meat is always smoked perfectly. The service feels a little bit like you are in the Soup Nazi's line (seinfeld reference) but soo worth it and to be honest I am glad they move you through the line fast because there is ALWAYS a line. We have used their catering too and it was just as good.
(5)Tiffani L.
This is place for BBQ in Brandon. Hidden by the home Depot and always has line out the door. Awesome.puled pork & macaroni salad. Guys are great who work there.
(5)Bo K.
First of all, the prices are a little high. I paid $12 for a small pork sandwich and fries. The pork was chopped and not very smoky. The french fries were hand cut and delicious. Overall, very average barbecue
(3)Jerry B.
This Is the best BBQ around. Period. The meat is cooked perfectly. The sauce is award winning. And the spicy mac n cheese is too good. This is where you go when you want the best. The guys will take care of you.
(5)Mel C.
The. Yummiest. BBQ. Ever.!!! So must try this place, if I lived in the area I would add this dive to my restaurant rotations! It's inexpensive, portions are huge, the ribs, sausage, pulled pork are my faves (pretty much anything pig) the french fries are hand cut, the chicken is smoked fresh. Tip: get the combo dinner, you'll eat for two days for $10bucks!
(5)Ernie And Dora H.
Tucked into an obscure corner behind the Adamo Home Depot, you could probably follow your nose to FirstChoice BBQ. The combination plate includes pork ribs, sausage, fries and baked beans. The food was just as I remember from 8 years ago. The sausage was smoky without being spicy, and the ribs were fall off the bone. The fries, made from fresh potatoes, were just crispy enough and the beans were molasses-sweet and tasty, great for dipping fries. Definitely order the fritters. Crispy on the outside, but tender and moist on the inside, they're not sweet, more savory since they stuff them with pork morsels. They are the most unique tasting, and that is in a good way, fritters I have ever tasted. Dora here. My fave is the chopped pork with fries and baked beans, but the turkey is also a close second. Today I chose the pork. Made me want to close my eyes and just savor the flavor so I could tuck it in my memory for the next few years! We lucked out getting here early on a Saturday because normally the line is out the door. And don't come all dressed up. It's warm and you'll smell like woodsmoke when you walk out, but that's all good because the food is worth it. I would rate this restaurant 4 forks out of 5 forks for a family friendly restaurant serving great food. Ernie & Dora Hiers, Fiction Faith & Foodies Blog
(4)Edward C.
Very good deal, large servings, and definitely fulfilling. I got the 1/4 ribs for $9.50, which came with two sides. Got the potato salad and fries. Loved the barbecue sauce, 3 (or 4) large rib bones, and potato salad. They gave me many fries, but I didn't really like them--oily, and didn't feel too fresh. However, I definitely be back to try something else!
(4)Derek N.
The smoke drew me in... Great BBQ joint in Brandon. Line was long when arrived for lunch this saturday but it went quick. I like the idea you can see where your food is coming from. Watching the meat being chopped fresh. I ordered the combo platter and a drink. I had Chicken and Pork with beans and fries with some bread. The sauce is good no doubt about that. I wish they had a spicy version or even a mustard sauce but I did not see any. The chicken was good but a little dry. The pork was flavorful and moist. The sauce made the meal. The beans were ok, probably order something else next time. The fries were fresh, not very crispy. All in all the food was good, definitely will be back to try the corn beef.
(3)Stephen F.
Tucked in the back corner of a shopping center and located next to the Japanese restaurant this place is easy to miss as well as overlook......... but don't, you need seek it out. This is your Uncle cooking in the backyard only now he's sober and governed by health codes. As soon as you walk in your olfactory sense will be overcome by this warm smokey smell. Next you will see fresh slabs of ribs being plated and then finally it will be your time to order. There's nothing you can order that you won't enjoy, everything is homemade, even the french fries. I think between all of dining we samples most everything on the menu...ribs, beef & chicken...check! Fries, beans & collard greens....check! Don't pass up on the baked beans, they add cinnamon that really separates it from all of the other baked beans that you've tasted.
(4)