Shorty's Smokehouse

We started out over at The Stubborn German Brewing Company first, not knowing we could get food here and bring it over. We'll know better next time because both locales were great. Shorty's Smokehouse had a really good combo deal which gave you a little of everything and two sides. The meat was smoked superbly and the three sauces they had complimented their selections. I cannot express how much we enjoyed eating here. I smoke my own meats all the time, so I'm aware of the taste, texture, and color. This place does a bang up job. Of course the smell inside is fantastic, but the actual decor to me was really nostalgic. They hit the 80's-90's movie theme. If you geek out about past movies, fads, or just memory lane stuff from this time era, get there. I even was digging on the design of the bathrooms. Very spacious, cool brick wall look and clean. I recommend and will come back when I'm in Waterloo again.

Excellent bbq spot located in the heart of Waterloo. They have a relatively small menu but looks like that’s all they need. The place seems to be popular at all hours. Basically you get to pick from a turkey, brisket or pork sandwich, or meat a la cart like the ribs too. Several sides to pick from, I really liked the potato salad. The staff was very friendly and accommodating to a first time visitor. I tried the 1/4 lb turkey sandwich with the extra turkey. That really hits the spot, plenty filling and for a bbq spot the pricing is very fair and spot on. While they do not have room for outdoor seating there is plenty to pick from inside. The inside of the restaurant has a fun and eclectic decoration. Lots of movie posters and good music. They do have a fridge for to go items and merchandise such as sauces, rubs, shirts, charcoal and more. So if you bbq kinda person, I’d say this worth a try.

We eat a lot of BBQ. We travel around the country and make a point to try BBQ everywhere. The brisket at Shorty's is the best I have had. Try burnt ends too, done the right way. They are not on the menu because there is a limited amount. The sides are pretty good too, especially the potato salad. The atmosphere and the owners are great! Especially if you love 80's pop art.

I am super picky about my ribs. It's hard to find a place that has my perfect texture on the outside and falls off the bone just right. Not that sloppy fall off nonsense. When you take that Bute and it comes off with just the right amount of tension. Found it here! I also have to say the pulled pork was amazing as well. Blessed to have a few pieces of the half a massive pork steak that was take home cause of the portion size. Brandon who is one of the partners understanding of hospitality was way above my expectations. The staff was really attentive even with the kids jumping back and forth in between tables. Short drive from South County we will most certainly be taking advantage of that. Congratulations Brandon and team you have something special!