I didn't realize that this was a chain restaurant. Business Travel usually means BBQ at least one night! I was pleasantly surprised on arrival. Nice large clean interior, with Bar, Booth, and table seating. The Bar area hits you first. I was greeted pleasantly, and asked to sit wherever. Drink order immediately taken. I'm working on loosing a few pounds so held myself to a small Turkey dinner with 2 sides. Good amount of Turkey for a small size portion. Sides were Collard Greens and a baked Sweet Potato. Texas toast, I left... tasteless. Turkey breast could have used more smoke, but it was juicy and filling. Choice of 4 sauces, Original and the Hot were both kinda grey in color, and not very impressive. Seems the Hot was just the Original with some pepper juice added. I'd be hard pressed to choose between the other two. Hickory Red wins by just a hair, the Sweet and Tangy is a very good and close contender. Both are flavorful and complemented the Turkey well. The Hickory flavoring added some needed smoke to the meat. I'd go back, but I think I'd look for a more local place first. read more

Bono's Pit Bar-B-Q - My favorites on the sauces, - Barbeque Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

EXCELLENT BBQ!! Had the brisket and the St. Louis ribs, a nice TASTY smoke on all of their proteins, crispy fries and corn nuggets, everything was delicious! The crew are friendly and the food was ready quickly! Even for after church hours! Do not miss!! read more

So we are new here and wanted to try the bbq here. Back home we dont have this spot. So of course I wanted to try it. We had wings, sausage and the ribs which were all pretty good. They arent super smoky but still tasty. The collard greens yummy. Mac n cheese...decent. The service was great. Vivian was kind and attentive. I love the warm wipes at the end. read more

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The pork was amazing! I was on business travel and this place was ordered in for lunch and did not disappoint!

I was hoping Bono's would become our local Jacksonville BBQ joint but after trying it out it was not as good as I hoped. The service was good, attentive and friendly. The food was just okay. I can definitely be a little bit of a brisket snob and I found the brisket here disappointing. I ordered a brisket sandwich with a side of mac & cheese. The Texas toast was toasted well. The brisket was too dry for my liking. I prefer more moist brisket than what I was served. The sauces were good especially the sweet & tangy one. I did like the mac & cheese. I thought it was flavorful and cheesy. Hubby ordered the large 2-meat combo platter. He chose brisket and pulled pork, mac & cheese and green beans. He enjoyed his entree a lot more than I did. He also was a fan of the sauces. Bono's wasn't bad but not as good as I wanted it to be. read more

I went in hoping for an amazing BBQ meal. What's I got was okay, but I don't see myself making a special trip in the future. I ordered the smoked turkey, fried okra and corn on the cob. The turkey was just okay. I was expecting a ton of smoked flavor, but I got lukewarm turkey. The okra was fine, but half it was mushy and half of it was cold. The corn had been drowned in butter to the point I didn't get any crunch at all - soggy soggy soggy. The high point was the Dr. Pepper. Which is saying something. read more

Food was great. Nice portions. Good atmosphere. Worth a trip!! I asked for onion rings. Weren't on menu but they had them. Almost ordered a second plate. They were great! read more

Bono's Pit Bar-B-Q - Sitting in a booth looking out. - Barbeque Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

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The service was great. Amanda was very nice. All the meats and sides were very good. I didn't try it myself but my son said the fried corn was amazing. read more

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I don't understand how Bono's is still in business. Each time I've gone it's been below average. Then I forget and go back. Well this time I had the brisket sandwich with fries and green beans. The brisket was 95% fat and basically inedible. The green beans were nice and hot but lacked any flavor. The fries were sort of warm, dry and stale. The servers are nice. read more

Dawn is such a great server and a very pleasant atmosphere. The food is also very tasty. Can't go wrong with the sausage or brisket. Don't forget to order the corn nuggets! read more

Bono's Pit Bar-B-Q - Barbeque Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

For openers, if you think the best barbecue is usually found in the worst part of town, in a place with bars on the windows and just enough grease on the table to your initials - then this isn't it. What this is, is a joint (all barbecue restaurants are best referred to as 'joints') in a strip mall next to a smoke shop where hickory doesn't seem to be among things smoking. Also what it is, gasp, is one of a chain of barbecue joints that make it impossible to go very far in any direction in Jacksonville and not be near one of their eateries: Bono's. Most chains (think Sonny's, Sticky Fingers) don't do barbecue very well. Occasionally one will; City Barbecue comes to mind. But then Bono's maybe the only chain barbecue joint the Brown Shoe Gourmet has ever visited that has Styrofoam tea glasses that boast they're 92% biodegradable over four years, and has their own brand of katsup. For a guy who has spent a lifetime in pursuit of the perfect barbecue (read my more than 120 barbecue reviews from across the country on Yelp), Bono's isn't it. Good, maybe a little better than good, but not as good as it could be. Lou Bono started the ball rolling back in 1949 where, today, they have at least 12 restaurants with their name over the door in Jacksonville and at least a half dozen more scattered elsewhere in the state. We tried, shared, and mostly enjoyed, the combo platter. Think it was $17.99 for two meats and a couple sides plus a thick slice of Texas toast. The pork was excellent. Moist, good smoke flavor with some outside bark in the offering. The brisket was shoe leather dry, drab, stripped of the thin layer of fat that keeps the meat moist and captures the smoky flavor. What about the sides you ask? Well, Bono's Brunswick (spelling depends what part of the country you're from) stew is water thin, but actually pretty good. Chunks of potato, corn niblets blackeye peas and meat. Good flavor to it. The slaw was even better: small chunks of cabbage in a semi-sweet mayo dressing. Both served in ample quantity for sharing. Fries? Yes, they have them, but they take the easy way out and buy them frozen. A word or few about the sauces: very good to middlin'. The one labeled 1949 Original paced the foursome. Mustard based but not overwhelming, some tomato and a few spices; really good, particularly on the pork. Their Sweet and Tangy was just that. Good as it was, it couldn't bring the brisket back to life but made great soppy with the Texas toast. The Hickory Red was fair and the Smoking Pit was the fourth place finisher. This particular Bono's was the end store in a strip mall not too far from the highway. Clean and welcoming. And it was clear they do a lot of the cooking (smoking) here. They also give you real silverware and plates, none of that plastic nonsense. Tee-shirts? Yes, but not the colorful ones the servers were wearing, and, for $20 per, not the quality expected. Our server was a font of information about the chains (we ask a lot of questions) and the menu. Turns out, she is a rarity in today's world. Amanda has been serving 'cue there since 2005. Mr. Bono would do well to use her an example when he hires. One of the most personable servers we've had at (now) over 125 barbecue joints across the country. Overall, the Brown Shoe Gourmet rates Bono's four stars. How about some real had cut French fries and brisket that could be so much better - particularly since they've had 73 years to work on it. read more

We ended up at this Bono's after going to another nearby and being ignored by staff. THIS Bono's is possibly the best in town. It's very clean and airy but still has that BBQ vibe. Service is excellent and all the servers are kind and help one another. Our food came quickly and accurately. So much bang for your buck, too! I'll definitely be back to this Bono's - and only this one - again! read more

Bono's Pit Bar-B-Q - Menu - Barbeque Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

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Amazing wings, came out super hot and will definitely be returning. Service was friendly and our 25 wings came out better then expected.

Went to the one on beach blvd. food was great. Had the brisket once and then the ribs. Doesn't disappoint. Service is great as well

Lost a regular customer. Ordered pound pulled pork and pound turkey. Usually boxed separately, but this time combined in same box, so made it obvious not full order. At home pulled out very accurate food scale. Received 12 oz. pork and 14 oz. turkey. At almost a dollar an ounce this is a rip-off. read more

I know I went to Bono's on July 4th and expected it to be busy. I ordered at the take out window because I am almost deaf and can't order on the phone. The girl said that they were busy and it would be 20 minutes. Almost an hour later my order was ready. Don't know why, but several people who ordered after me got their order before I got mine. Got the family meal and they charged $5.00 extra for brisket!!! When I got home the brisket was mostly fat!. Always have been a Bono's fan, but will have to find another place to get my barbecue from now on. read more

Really surprised there is no reviews for this Bono's!?! I can kinda see how it could get over shadowed by the town center, there are so many great options to eat at there! Anywho...this Bono's is located right outside of the town center very close to the JTB ramp. It's nice and newer inside and your greeted by the smell of bbq meat and smoke when you enter. All Bono's taste pretty much the same to me, but everything we tried here was good, I particularly love their smoked turkey, it's juicy and full of flavor. A side note to mention is the onion rings were ridiculously good, HUGE pieces of real onion battered and fried up. They were served with no sauce and before I could ask for some kind of dipping sauce, our server gave us a whole bottle of ranch and suggested mixing ranch and the original bbq sauce together, delish!! read more

Bono's Pit Bar-B-Q - BIG onion rings! - Barbeque Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

We eat at the Bowden location 1-2 nights a week. It has it good and off nights. Tonight I ordered the grilled chicken sandwich like we normally do. It was the worst l, oldest, tangiest chicken I have ever tasted. It was definitely sitting in whatever broth or brine they used when you precook chicken. Its unfortunate that we just ate there two nights prior and it was the freshest food that we have ever had there. They have off nights but the quality has never been this bad. I just wrapped the sandwich in napkins so it could be thrown away. if the cook doesn't try to send out quality food the first time I definitely don't want anything after I return/complain about food. I use this location for convenience but I think this will be my last time at this Bono's. read more

I have to do a compare and contrast when it comes to this particular review. I just had Bono's for the first time yesterday and I was mad at myself for waiting for so long. The other Bono's was packed today so we drove to this one. The employees were nice and the food was at our table way quicker than the other Bono's, also the sweet tea was better too. But, in my opinion the other Bono's wins simply because their St. Louis Ribs were seasoned better, the beef brisket was better, so were their baked beans and the fries, This Bono's is hands down the nicer location, but the other one has more history especially since they've been using the same pit since 1952. Sometimes we sacrifice the meal for the decor of a restaurant but when it comes to certain things we must weigh out the pros and cons. I will be a regular at the other location. Even though this meal wasn't bad, it just wasn't the same. read more

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Not bad. I'm stuffed. Had the shredded cheese dump fries. Enjoy the next day. Went back again to order the same thing. read more

Bono's Pit Bar-B-Q - Barbeque Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

Decent barbecue but the portions are horrendously small!...I'd bag this place and go to Mojos any day!!

The time I came here, I was in a hurry-so I used the walk up "Take out" window. It was very hot that day, so they gave me some water. I also went inside to use the ladies room while I was waiting for my order to be prepared. The bathroom was clean and decorated really cool. The indoor dining was very friendly looking. I will dine in next time. My food was wonderfully delicious as usual. read more

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This is my spot to get local BBQ whenever I have a craving. While there are other BBQ places popping up all around the area, they are either not open in the evenings or a little more pricey. Bono's consistently serves good food at a good value. I have three go-to favorites: 1) The smoked wings. These are very good and at $11 it's not a bad price. The seasoning and the smoked flavor from the wood gets all up in that meat. 2) The BBQ Turkey Salad. I blame my mom for this because every Monday their salads are $1 off and she got me hooked. I expected the turkey to be dry and flavorless but it's quite the opposite. I also feel like I'm eating healthier when I order it. 3) The Large Chicken Platter, which is essentially half a chicken divided into 4 parts with toast and 2 sides. This is for the days when I don't feel like cooking at all. Thursdays this is offered for $10. I haven't dined in and I've always ordered to-go from their pickup window. I do like that they have a big covered area with a bench all the way around the perimeter in case of bad weather and if there's a lot of people waiting, but every time that I've gone there hasn't been. It's convenient though. Service has always been great. That, the food and the price is what keeps me coming back for more. read more

Love Bono's we go all the time. Wish they'd bring the fried mushrooms and onion rings back.

The food was good, placed looked clean as far as I could see, but didn't visit the bathrooms, so a good rating there. However, when I compared the menu selections and prices to the BBQ place down the street on University they placed second. Bono's is much more expensive and the menu is limited. I don't think I'll be back. read more

I don't know what changed here over the last couple years but they need to keep it up. Through the years, I never ever ordered ribs here because they always looked bland and dry. Now all I order is ribs. Delicious rub, juicy, good bark, not mushy falling off the bone but well cooked. Another thing I like is the food always comes out hot. And I mean HOT. Perhaps the best thing about this location (and the ribs are pretty amazing) is the staff. The servers and everyone that works at the counter are always friendly and very accommodating. The only improvement I can recommend is maybe a free half pint of banana pudding with each visit. read more

Today I had Bono's for the first time. I am impressed!! I had the Brisket sandwich and collard greens! I got the sweet and tangy sauce and boy was it great! I'm in love with that brisket! Good smoke flavor, great smoke ring. The garlic toast was an awesome touch. Very very good greens! I can't wait to try some of the other dishes! Thanks Bono's read more

Great food and service. I had pork sandwich with baked beans and french fries. I was there during the busy lunch rush and still had great service. The bbq here was as good as or better than most of the most popular bbq places in Kansas City and Memphis areas. read more

Bono's Pit Bar-B-Q - Great food - Barbeque Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

Pretty good place. No complaints. I've only ordered out and it's been excellent. Service was ok and I can't say much for the inside as I only ever carry out read more

At Bono's, you are greeted in the parking lot or pick-up window by the BBQ pit smell. Mmmmm . Their southern-style BBQ & sauces will knock your socks off. My meal is in front of me within 5 minutes. The employees truly work as a TEAM by jumping to help wherever needed. Whether you're just visiting or a local, Bono's is a must! read more

Bono's is my fave bbq in Jax. Great pork, turkey, and beef brisket. Big sandwiches and mostly friendly service. My favorite location is at Gate Parkway. read more

Bono's Pit Bar-B-Q - This hard working guy is busting it to chop all kinds of yummy bbq meats! Sit at the bar for fast service. - Barbeque Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

We went to a Bonow's for the first time in three or four days ago. It was so absolutely delicious. And then in our training they catered the bullnose and it was absolutely delicious. based on those two things we wanted to go to a bonus again this one was closer to where we were at so we chose to go here. I'm sorry we chose to come here I'm very disappointed. At the other restaurant the service was top-notch wonderful. The service here is ridiculous. Half the time or waitress is disappeared I don't know if she's on a smoke break or what but she is not good. Now let's talk about the food. How in the world can you have the same restaurant and this food be so much different? The food was not only cold but tasteless. I'm extremely upset that we came here and just did not get good service or good food. read more

Bono's Pit Bar-B-Q - Sit - Barbeque Near Me - Jacksonville, Florida

good food but they just raised their prices again. 1$ more for rib platter. this location has good food but tired of everybody raising prices read more

If there isn't a pit, It ain't legit. That commercial always makes me laugh. This location is a favorite of mine when it comes to BBQ. The full rack of baby back ribs are my favorite. I also love their beef brisket. Some of their sides are hit and miss. I usually stick with the fries and the fried corn on the cob. I do also like their banana pudding. The customer service is always a plus here too. Mostly all the the cashiers and waitresses have that southern charm, which I like. I also like that you can sit at the bar, which is located right in front of the "Pit Boss". They have a tv to watch also while sitting at the bar. Also, if you have to go orders, they have have a pick up window you can go without having to go inside. Definitely one of my go to spots to get my BBQ fix. read more

first we got a drink with a fly in it... they don't even check what they are serving..then the brisket was cold like it was never even warmed up in the first place. bad service overall read more

Pretty good BBQ! I came here while visiting the area this summer and I enjoyed it. We came fairly late on a Monday night, so the restaurant was pretty much empty. Our food came out fast, unfortunately the meat was a little overcooked. Not sure if it's always like this or if it's due to us coming right before they were closing. In any case, I ate all my food anyway. After a day at the beach, a girl tends to get hungry! I recommend trying a combo of anything!! One meat just is not nearly enough! Definitely do yourself a favor and grab an order of the fried squash! read more

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Some of the absolute best BBQ I've ever had. The ribs were falling off the bone and the brisket was tender. Our server at lunch was the sweetest woman! Will definitely be back again! read more

We stopped in driving thru and needed fast service. My hubby has to stay in the car with the dog while he waited on us. I walked in n told them we needed quick service and a to go. We were in and out in less than 30minutes!!!! Can't complain about that! Impressed and food was excellent. Cat fish was good per hubby, Mac n cheese creamy, fries yummy. Loved their ranch dressing. Pulled pork sandwich excellent! read more

The food us always great 5 stars. But the staff in the take out window need customer service training!! To say that in a nice way. I always tip well. They must have gave my food to someone else. So I always check my order before I leave. Always something missing. Then to get an attitude and no Apology is unacceptable . read more

We had a very kind waitress however the food was mediocre at best. The black eyed peas were incredibly old and tasted rotten. The French fries tasted like the potatoes were old. The fried corn was disgusting and soggy. The green beans were tasteless, and the brisket was dry and boring. The best thing we purchased were my sons' hamburgers. Those were delicious! Perhaps we just went on an off day. read more