Aaron Geiser
These guys are super popular….and for good reason. Food was solid, pricing was fair, and service was good. There was a bit of line when we got there but that’s how it goes with something that everyone wants a piece of. With that said, the line moved pretty good and the food didn’t take long to get. We were able to score a couple seats at a bigger table and another couple joined the table within minutes. Brisket and pulled pork were both smoked perfect. Went with two sides – brussel sprouts and mac ‘n cheese…both of which were tasty. Would definitely go back. Kudos Mama Jean’s BBQ.
… moreJohn Mullis
If you’re anywhere near Roanoke, Mama Jean’s BBQ is an absolute must-stop. The garlic egg noodles with pork are a straight-up flavor bomb—rich, savory, perfectly seasoned, and completely addictive. It’s one of those dishes you keep thinking about long after the plate is empty.
The ribs are legit competition-level—tender with just the right bite, beautifully cooked, and packed with smoky flavor without being overdone or mushy. You can tell real pride and skill goes into the pit work here.
On top of the food, they have an outstanding bourbon selection that pairs perfectly with the BBQ, whether you’re a casual sipper or a serious bourbon fan. And the staff was amazing—incredibly friendly, welcoming, and genuinely happy to have you there, which just elevates the whole experience.
Mama Jean’s isn’t just great local BBQ—it’s the kind of place you’d happily detour for and recommend without hesitation. Absolute home run.
… moreVictoria Hollifield
We found Mama Jeans on our first trip to Roanoke and fell in love. We now live here and have gone far too many times! The new restaurant is absolutely stunning. We were able to eat at the bar for the first time last night and had a wonderful time! So far, we’ve tried the bbq pork, brisket, and hot fried chicken. All absolutely perfect. For sides, we get the Mac and cheese and smoked potato salad every-time! But the beef tallow fried Brussels are my personal favorite! I wish we caught the bartenders name, he was SO kind and absolutely made our evening! So far, our favorite restaurant in Roanoke!
… moreMad Hatter
So go early if you’re going on the weekend . The pulled pork is delicious. Also, the smoked potato salad and mac n cheese is delicious. The portions are very good for the money . The smoked wings are flavorful too.
… moreLucas Norman
I had the privilege of having lunch today for the first time at Mama Jean’s BBQ and honestly I don’t have words to describe how good my meal was. We were promptly greeted and our order was taken. Our food was ready in a very timely manner and was absolutely delicious. I had their Birria Tacos with a side of smoked potato salad and mac & cheese. I ate all of the tacos but just had a few bites of my sides and took the rest to go. It wasn’t because I couldn’t eat them, if I did I wouldn’t have made it back to work as I would’ve had to have taken a nap lol. But seriously, a great atmosphere and amazing food, probably the best Birria tacos I’ve ever had. Pic is of my meal (ignore all of the pepper I put on my mac & cheese) I will most definitely be back and I highly recommend them if you like food that has had been prepared with love and attention to detail.
… morePhilip
I got there 20 minutes before they opened and there was already a line (A good sign for any restaurant). Got the pulled pork sandwich with slaw (Virginia Sweet, South Carolina mustard and Carolina) the Virginia Sweet was my favorite sauce. My slaw topped Q sandwich was very good! They also take credit cards which is a big plus for a BBQ place (Many of them will only take cash). As you will see their brick and mortar is in progress. Enjoy!
… moreIsaiah Matthews
I really wanted to like this place since I’ve only ever heard amazing things about them, but the food was honestly not impressive. Half of my brisket sandwich was dry and it was severely lacking in flavor. I also got the banana pudding and the potato salad, which were pretty good, but the potato salad was actually more resembling of mashed potatoes and the banana pudding tasted like it was store bought. The environment was very welcoming though.
… moreWillow
10/10 BBQ experience! Super tender, juicy brisket and you can’t go wrong with any of the sides. The cheesesteak brisket sandwich is insane!! The line can get long and you may have to wait for a table but the food is so worth it and very reasonably priced!
… moreTony Smith
Not worth the wait. The pulled pork was good and not overly smoked but I got to pieces of fat. The pintos were fine but lacking flavor and a little under cooked. The mac and cheese was very good and my friends liked the Brussels very much. None of us liked the potato salad. The vinegar pie was gross and I could not finish, get the banana pudding instead. The worst was the Dr. Pepper Old Fashioned…extremely sweet, they have a great bourbon selection so stick with something neat. Overall I don’t get the hype.
… moreKenny Spade
What can I say about Mama Jean’s that hasn’t already been said? Top notch hospitality and world class BBQ, not to mention an excellent bar program. Roanoke is lucky to have this place. If you get a chance to try the coal-fire half bird, absolutely do it!
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