Willow Ranch BBQ

27770 Lagoon Dr.

Buttonwillow, CA 93206

(661)764-6605

Willow Ranch BBQ is a hidden gem off of route I-5. It is located off a major exit Mc Kittrick Hwy, though it is quite hidden. You see signs for another restaurant, The Taste of Indian, you'll know you are in the right place. You have to make your way through a maze of fast food signs only to find it at the end of the street. The second you come out of your car, you can smell the smokey BBQ wafting through the air. You know you are in for a treat.

We came right before lunch and was seated promptly. I ordered the BBQ beef ribs while my wife had the chicken strips. We didn't know what to expect since we've never been here before. But this is what I love to discover unexpected surprises. The interior was made out to be a ranch style restaurant. I eyed a couple of local CHP officers coming in for lunch. Always a good sign since cops always know the good local eateries.

Once the beef ribs came out, I was immediately taken back at the enormous size of the ribs. I had beef ribs before, but these were at least 1/3 bigger than the rest. The were smothered in this incredibly rich and robust BBQ sauce. The sauce was sweet and had bits of caramelized onions throughout. It was really really good. Apparently the chef follows my personal belief in not cutting the fat. That kept the ribs juicy and flavorful. I just removed any unwanted fat at my table. There was a lady in the next both, which she had the tri-tip. I kept hearing telling her friend this is the best BBQ she ever tasted. She remarked how flavorful and juicy her meat was. Having just tried the ribs myself, I am incline to believe her. The ribs were so good I had no trouble finishing each and every last one.

Accompanying the ribs were a side of corn and a cup of chili. I'm not usually a big fan of chili but this chili was pretty good. It had just the right combination of hotness and sweetness that really made it standout. It also had a side salad I believed, but going to a BBQ place to eat salad doesn't make sense to me.

The chicken strips were okay, but definitely did not stand up to the ribs and sauce. It had a nice crust but it's like most chicken strips you can find anywhere else. The only saving grace is that it comes with a side of the great BBQ sauce.

The service was adequate but not spectacular. The waitress forgot to refill our waters a couple of times and we were generally left to our own. She did handle most of our request, but the wait time seem a bit long.

Final thoughts: Great BBQ in an unexpected place.

Food: 4 stars

Service : 3 stars

Price: Average

Overall: 4 stars