Wen Liu
TL;DR – Super friendly service, but the BBQ didn’t quite hit the mark for me. Great vibes from the staff, food was just okay.
I stumbled across Goondocks Bistro while I was in town and decided to give it a try. From the moment we sat down, the waitress was incredibly friendly and patient. She made me feel welcome and checked in at the right times without being overbearing. Honestly, service like that goes a long way, and she absolutely earned a 5 out of 5 for service.
As for the food, I ordered the ribs and brisket. The ribs were a bit over-seasoned for my taste — the flavor was strong but a little overpowering. The brisket, unfortunately, was too dry to my liking. I was hoping for something juicy and tender, but it didn’t quite deliver. Overall, I just wasn’t a fan of the BBQ here. I’d give the food a 2 out of 5.
The atmosphere was decent — nothing particularly over-the-top, but comfortable enough for a casual meal. Since I just happened to find this place while in town, it felt like a solid local spot to try, even if the food didn’t wow me. I’d give the atmosphere a 3 out of 5.
Final Ratings:
– Service: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
– Food: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5)
– Atmosphere: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
… moreAmanda Nelson
First time here, really loved it! Food was delicious and beautifully presented. We got the brisket, smashburger, bacon cheeseburger, and pulled pork sandwich. The ranch tasted homemade. Coleslaw was perfectly balanced and fresh. Burgers were cooked perfectly. Fries were delicious! Crispy hot and perfectly salted. Pulled pork and brisket were tender and full of flavor. The waitress and cook were very friendly. (The waitress even apologized to my kids for a nearby customer with a “potty mouth.” Haha) For being a new restaurant and such a small crew and a busy Saturday lunch shift, I was very impressed. I can’t wait to see how they grow.
… moreSadie Rockford
“Goondocks” great BBQ on the coast. Bloomin onion is crunchy with the most addicting dipping sauce. Some of the best Ribs and beans I have ever had. The owner is so friendly and attentive. Can’t wait to come again!
… moreFelecia Eby
There is an error in Google’s listing, as it lists the location as “Boondocks” instead of “Goondocks.”
I am delighted that there is finally a wonderful barbecue establishment right in downtown Astoria.
We had the pleasure of trying the brisket and rib plate, and both were absolutely outstanding. The barbecue had a delightful smoky flavor with a perfect touch of sweetness. The ribs were incredibly tender, and the brisket was wonderfully crisp yet juicy.
The owners were exceptionally kind and welcoming. Heather was an absolute delight and even frosted the cupcakes while we were enjoying our meal. They were truly delicious, and I’m going to need that frosting recipe.
I almost forgot, they have cocktails!
I wholeheartedly recommend dining here.
… moreArtiom Gevorgian
Beautiful barbecue spot with a stunning interior and incredible attention to detail. The owner creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and the food is absolutely delicious. Definitely worth a visit!
… morephan tastic
The best Brisket this side of the Mississippi! I had the chili & cornbread, so good! Perfect blend of flavor & spice. My table also really enjoyed the pulled pork & slaw sandwich, as well as the brisket nachos with pickled jalapeños. Delightful & friendly service. Great location. I’m stuffed. Will definitely be going back! Oh yeah, and their mac & cheese is delish!!
… moreJohn G
John and Heather (the married couple who own and operate) are AMAZING! They are so kind, talented, and thoughtful. You can tell they love their cooking as much as they care about their customers. I’ve been here twice and have left very satisfied. The ribs have a wonderful peppery flavor, although don’t expect them to fall off the bone. They are tender and extremely delicious with an ever so subtle kick at the end of the bite. Recommend if you get the ribs to get it with the BBQ sauce on the side as they are generous with how much they drizzle on top of the ribs. The brisket is moist and delicious. The brisket chili and cheese hot dog was a cool idea and very good. Recommend you get it with the pickled jalapeños for an added kick! Highly recommend.
You need to correct google though! It’s “Goondocks Bistro,” not “Boondocks Bistro.”
… moreMarshall Ronningen
We had the brisket plate which was not dry… Might even say moist. Bark was wonderfully tasty with nice bite to it. Also had the the pulled pork sandwich, spicy tangy sauce, perfectly cooked pork! Awesome side, just right NW style cornbread, nice campfire style baked beans.
… moreBritt A
Best damn barbecue I’ve ever had! Waitress was funny and very attentive. Some good home cooked feeling food If you don’t come here you will regret it!
… moreBeth Peetz
I am truly mystified. Mystified at the how great the reviews are for the burgers and service. No, I did not get a barbeque entree whuch is their specialty. I wanted a burger, it was on the menu, and the reviews were great. Walked in, seated myself. Fine. Waited a few mins for my server to take the order. Fine. After waiting for 46 minutes, during which time I watched a 45-minute documentary, I got up to ask the cook how much longer it would be for the burger. He said I was next in the cue. I then noticed a guy at the bar who was just finishing his burger, and he was def not there when I arrived. Did he get my burger? Hmm. Shortly thereafter, the cheeseburger arrived. It was so blah! Frozen patty (cooked), dry, unheated bun, no hint of onion, 2 sliced dill chips, chopped lettuce and one slice of tomato. I ordered the thousand island dressing on the side. It, too, was flavorless. Fries were hot, crispy and delish, and the ranch was good. Server never came back mid-meal to check on me. Only when I was nearly done did she ask if I wanted more water. I said no thanks, just the check. Mystifying.
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