I cannot say enough good things about this place. So let's start from the very beginning. We went inside and we noticed the scripture on the wall. As this was definitely a faith inspired business. There were many awards from the community on the walls as well, and it was a very nice vibe overall. From there we were promptly greeted. They asked if we'd been here before, we said it was our first time. From there they explained what today's specials were. If we wanted to, we could take a menu and find our own seats and decide what we wanted and then could come back up and order. We chose to sit down at a booth and a gentleman in a Phat Daddy's t shirt happen to be sitting in front of us. Today's special wad $1.50 wings. The gentleman that was sitting in the booth recommended the honey sriracha wings. So we took his advice and after speaking with him, we ordered. We got the wings, We got the fat daddy's combo, which came with four meats and three sides. We had ribs, pulled pork, grilled chicken, and brisket. For our sides, he explained that he had both spicy and regular baked beans. We chose spicy because we thought we could handle the heat, big mistake lol, even though they were delicious, they were very spicy as he said. He was kind enough to bring us his regular baked beans to try which were delicious as well. We also got cornbread and if I had to make any type of negative comment, it would be that the cornbread was a little dry and dense, but still had a very good flavor, and then we had the mac and cheese, which was superb. He asked us what we had for drinks.We told him what we got, and he said, well, there's Kool Aid around the corner. I said say less. He gave me a free sample to try and it was delicious. There is an art to making kool aid, and this gentleman definitely had it. I said, how much I enjoyed it. So he actually gave me a free cup on top of what we already had to drink.We also ordered the taco trio, which came with pulled pork brisket and the chicken. Then we also ordered a side of fried okra. So we sat down and we waited for our food to come. First was the fried okra. Now, I'll be honest, I was not a fan of okra growing up but my wife loves it. So I said, let's give it a try. Another home run. The fried okra was crunchy, fresh and right out of the fryer. It had great flavor and it did not disappoint. A few minutes after that, all of our food came out. The portion size for all of this food is insane. You could definitely order one meal and share it with two people. I immediately went for the wings because I am a wing connoisseur, so I wanted to try em. Hands down these had to be the best wings I've ever had. They were perfectly crunchy. The sauce was amazing and the meat inside was juicy. I then dug into the sides, and this is where I found out just how spicy the baked beans were that I mentioned earlier. The mac and cheese was spot on, and again like I said, if I had to mention one negative, it would be just that the cornbread was a little dry, but once you dipped them in the baked beans, you totally forgot about that. Now onto the meat. The ribs were gigantic and tasted like they just came off the grill. A charcoal grill for that matter, which the owner confirmed later on when we spoke to him. The sliced chicken breast was very good and very moist, but my two favorites had to have been the pulled pork and the brisket. When you got a bite of the brisket with the bark, it was amazing.The flavor was over the top, and I could not have asked for a better bite. All in all everything from top to bottom was amazing. But I think what really put it over the top was just how sweet, kind and friendly these people are. Again, I cannot say enough about this establishment. The food and the people who run it. We will definitely be back more and more. I know these folks are gonna be catering a few of our parties this year. If you're out towards the ellotsville/bloomington area, I suggest you try Phat Daddy's barbecue.You will not be disappointed. read more

We ordered here today based on the reviews and were excited, it fell short. Our order was supposed to be ready at 12:41pm, we didn't get it until after 1:30pm. One platter was supposed to have ribs, they weren't included, and rib tips were substituted with no communication. When we asked, we were told they didn't have any available. The tips were tough, full of fat and gristle, the waitress offered no remedy. I asked for flat cut brisket, that request wasn't followed. I got very fatty chunky portions that a lot of my party simply couldn't eat. The brisket had very little smoke flavor and didn't taste fresh. The "tenderloin" doesn't look like what's advertised, it's a thin, frozen, fried patty, and it was cold. The baked beans don't look as advertised either and tasted thin, like they came right out of a can. The penne mac and cheese was the worst, no flavor, not even cheese flavor, which is weird. It tasted like noodles in yellow water. The lemon icebox pie was frozen solid with a refrigerator taste. This item was forgotten from our order. When I brought it to the waitress's attention, she told me she'd given it to me separately, that wasn't true. I had laid out every item from my order on a table and didn't leave because I wanted to check accuracy, since we could hear other customers with the same issue of forgotten items. I genuinely don't know where the positive reviews are coming from. Everything was low quality. We were disappointed and feel taken advantage of, given the advertising versus what you actually get. read more

Just ordered a quite a big order didn't get everything had Uber deliver it no way to make it right foods good at least what I got anyway

I had a most tender brisket jerky ever!! Wait... I ordered slice brisket BBQ. Yeah... the meat is super tough, a kitchen shear, chain saw or blender would help to chop down the thing (not sure if that is brisket). Also good dental plan is prerequisite for visiting this place. Salt and pepper is premium there, so none of it was used in season the log before smoke. Smoking wood might have been scared so the log should be in smoke for about 22hrs, was pulled out at 2. No smoke flavor, yet desert Sahara dry. They deserve A for effort to keep the door open, but F- for execution. Coming from Texas, my expectations was lowered, but this place took it to many many levels down. Need less to say, would never going back there. At least the potato chip is done well by Lay's read more

Phat Daddy's BBQ - The cleanest brisket ever, no fat, no moist...super dry - Caterers Near Me - Bloomington, Indiana

Had a smash burger and fries from there. It was great and seasoned well. The fries were also seasoned well. Filled me up.

Been wanting to try this place and finally did. Great little stop that has the basic BBQ needs. only downside was there was no beer, but that was an easy fix. To the bar we went after. Enjoyed the brisket taste and didn't even need to add more sauce. read more

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Stopped here for a work lunch, service was superb! The owner brought our food out, one lady had a wrong item and although she said what they brought was fine-he still brought out her original order. Gave her a box to take it home, nice touch. Food was great, hot and came out quickly. I ordered Mac n cheese with brisket-SO good! Restaurant was clean, well maintained and organized. Will be back. read more

Had my first Phat Daddy's experience this week, and it won't be the last. This is the newest addition to the Ellettsville restaurant scene, technically still in Bloomington as you enter town. This location has been a Mexican place, burger joint and maybe a bar. I hope this one stays because it's the best of the bunch. I had the 1/2 pound beef brisket sandwich plus a side of fries. It was $1 wing day and I was wanting to see how they were, so ordered five wings with sauce on the side. Everything was great. Brisket was tender and hot, sauce delish. Wings were meaty and I had buffalo sauce on the side. The fries were hand cut and terrific. Dining partner had pork sandwich and said it was great, and she loved the slaw. I wouldn't eat slaw if you held me down and forced it on me, so I'll take her word for it. They were cooking the BBQ outside on open grills, fresh and the smell was terrific. I really want to try the ribs, but lunch didn't seem the best time for that so I'll do that next time. The owner was on site walking around, and introduced himself since he didn't recognize me. Nice touch. Great food, and I'll definitely be back with the family for dinner soon! read more

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Great food. Lots of items on the menu. Great service. Owner is very friendly. We usually stop in when we are in the area. Get sum. read more

We had their chicken wings for the first time tonight. Hands down the best we had around. The brisket was great very flavorful and tender, and the mac n cheese is so good! The owner came around and conversated with us he was very friendly. We definitely felt welcomed and now Wednesday we have a new go to spot for wings! read more

Not bad but would not plan on going back. Food was just okay. Service was good. No complaints on the service.

phat daddy's has a special offer for lunch everyday of the week and on weekends too, i stopped by Thursday for the half rack with french fries and was not disappointed, i gave them my number to join the lunch club and saved myself almost half the price, served wet or dry ( I prefer wet ). mountain of fries I couldn't finish and good atmosphere. please give this local business your support, the bloomington area certainly doesn't want to lose what is possibly the best one around the area! Bruce is the grill master and everything I've ever had there is top tier. read more

Phat Daddy's BBQ - photo of my lunch plate and the daily specials - Caterers Near Me - Bloomington, Indiana

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Don't go in on a snowy night and order ribs. You'll get shoe leather. The people were very nice though. Oh yeah, how do I know if I got a rack of ribs if you cut them up? read more

Just can't believe how poor the food was. The photos of the food aren't even photos of THEIR food. Ordered Mac and cheese.. it was literally spaghetti noodles in cheese water. The wings for our kid were tiny and burnt to a crisp. The pulled pork was good, but maybe 2 oz of meat on the sandwich. Stunningly bad, and we spent over $30. read more

Went to this family owned barbecue spot with my family, and we had an amazing time! The service was quick, friendly, and made us feel right at home. The atmosphere was super welcoming, and the food was delicious. You can tell they really care about their customers and the experience. Highly recommend this place if you're in the area! read more

BBQ Brisket was absolutely heavenly. I highly highly recommend this place. High in flavor, juicy, local. read more

Phat Daddy's BBQ - BBQ Brisket - Caterers Near Me - Bloomington, Indiana

Not bad but not fantastic either. Average BBQ. I had the ribs and thought they could have been cooked more. Also, they could have used more smoke. No smoke ring at all. Sides were good as was the cornbread. read more

Delicious food, friendly workers, and quick service. Everything was as advertised. Great small business to support! read more

Phat Daddy's BBQ - Brisket tacos - Caterers Near Me - Bloomington, Indiana

The brisket is top shelf (try the mango habanero sauce) the service is solid. Phat Daddy himself is a hoot

Food was excellent and the owner is really fun to talk to! I had the brisket Mac and my husband had the brisket Philly; both were very tasty. We definitely left full! read more

Ordered 4 lbs of pulled pork and it was excellent. Just the right seasoning and perfectly smoked. I ordered 3 days in advance and it was ready when I walked in to pick it up. Big Bruce took the time to talk, wished me a Happy New Year and even carried my order to my car. I tipped them well because I have seen them pay it forward. What a great compliment to the neighborhood. It was a little pricier than McDs but this is real handmade prime smoked meat. I will definitely do it again. read more

The pulled pork is OK, but not great. The cole slaw serving is minuscule for the price. The french fries started out frozen, not fresh. There are better bbq restaurants in the area. read more

Phat Daddy's BBQ is hands down the best barbecue joint in town! From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with the irresistible aroma of smoked meats wafting through the air. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a casual meal with friends or a family outing. The menu offers a mouthwatering selection of barbecue classics, from tender brisket to fall-off-the-bone ribs, all cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Every dish is generously portioned, ensuring you'll leave satisfied and planning your next visit. The staff is friendly and attentive, adding to the overall enjoyable dining experience. Whether you're a barbecue aficionado or just looking for a delicious meal, Phat Daddy's BBQ never disappoints. Highly recommend giving them a try! read more

Phat Daddy's BBQ - Jenny burger with mango habanero - Caterers Near Me - Bloomington, Indiana

Drove over an hour to eat here, it was worth every minute! This is a family ran business where the owners work hard to put love in every bite! We had a 1/2 rack of ribs, Mac n cheese, onion rings, and a pulled pork sandwich. We were greeted with a warm welcome the minute we walked in the door, given all the time we needed to look at the menu, seated in a warm friendly atmosphere with great service, tried all the different sauces and truly enjoyed the food! The ribs were mouth watering and exploding with flavor, the pulled Pork bbq sandwich was tender and soft and oh so good, the Mac n cheese disappeared in seconds it was so tasty, the onion rings were perfect; fresh and hot! If you leave here hungry it's your own fault! The owner came out and checked on us and greeted every table! You don't get service or food like this at a chain restaurant! read more

If I could give this place no stars I would. After a game of mini golf we went it to try some bbq. And I was absolutely disgusted by the owner. Not only did he yell at the people that work there in front of customers. But he was upset because one of the workers left and empty bottle of toilet cleaner in the bathroom threw it on the floor for the worker to pick up in front of everyone and said it was disgusting. I have never seen worker get treated so badly in front of my face. It was disgusting. DO NOT ENCOURAGE THE OLD MAN THAT SITS IN A CHAIR IN FRONT OF HIS WORKERS TO TREAT THEM LIKE SHIT. I will never NEVER go to this place again. Do not eat here to encourage him. The food was bad anyways. read more

First time here and kicking myself because I never stopped by sooner. Sweet and Spicy brioche was absolutely delicious and I'm not a big spicy person. The balance of sweet and spicy was on the money. The piggy Mac was hands down better than any food truck I've gotten it from. 10/10 will be back! read more

my food was not fresh and the owner was very rude! Makes me ashamed that I recommend the restaurant.

Great people great food. Love Jesus is the reason for the season on the door. Had the ribs they were very good and a lot of food. Also had the loaded fries also very good. Wife had the brisket tacos she enjoyed them. Would definitely visit this establishment again. read more

Really nice experience! I got the pulled pork, and it was so good I hesitated even putting sauce on it (which btw was also really nice). Really fantastic with some crispy burnt ends and the toasted bun was a plus. Mac and cheese was really cheesy. Really nice clean atmosphere and friendly staff. Love the kool-aid selection, just the right amount of sugar. The only slight knock was the cornbread was a bit dry, but hey everyone likes their cornbread a different way. Will definitely be going back to try more. read more

My husband, brother, and I went here for lunch for the first time today. I had heard it was good, but we were skeptical. My husband was born and raised in Kansas City, and my brother lived there for better than 30 years. We have tried several BBQ places in the Bloomington/Ellettsville area. We have never been back to any of the ones that we tried. Let me start off with the customer service. From the minute we walked in the door, we were greeted and talked to us through the process. She was very patient with me with my confusion. LOL We decided to eat on the back deck because the weather was just beautiful! Our food was served quickly, and man, was it a LOT of food. I had the Phat Daddy platter with beans and a salad. Everything was delicious, juicy, tender, and pleasing to the eye when served. My brother had the ribs and wings with salad and sidewinder fries. He hardly spoke during the meal because he was too busy eating, lol. My husband had the Phat Daddy platter with beans and potato salad. He enjoyed every bit of it. They did goof and put sauce on my husband's ribs and forgot my brother's cornbread. It's not a big deal to us. They offered to remake my husband plate. He said there was no need. I will eat this. They made up with the lack of cornbread by bringing out 2 big pieces. Oh my! That Johnny cake was out of this world! The tea is fresh brewed and not fountain tea. It was so refreshing and tasted so good! The service was excellent. Fast friendly but yet not rushed and a casual friendly vibe. The only thing I would tweak would be for them to have a ramp going out to the back deck. My brother is in a wheelchair and that 6-inch step is tough to get over in a wheelchair. I do have to say, though, that Phat Daddy himself saw my husband getting ready to lift my brother over that step, and he jumped right in and carefully lifted my brother up the step. Not only that, but he took him all the way out to our car and stood by while I got him in the car just in case I needed some help. He went above and beyond to make sure we had a good dining experience. Not only will we be back, but we will tell everyone we know that this is the best place in town for not only BBQ but for their customer service. Hands down! I can not say enough about this establishment and the people who work there. It would be great if other establishments would follow Phat Daddys lead. One last thing, the restroom is big! I mean, the stalls are actually big enough to turn around in without tripping over the toilet! Clean! Very clean restrooms! If a restroom is not clean, I will walk out of a restaurant. Well done, Phat Daddy's BBQ ! Well done!! I would like to add that I told Phat Daddy about that 6-inch step, and he told me he would look into it and come up with a remedy. We will definitely be back. Best dining experience we have had in a long, long time. read more

This is a legit barbecue, not just a good Indiana barbecue. I travel a lot and try to eat at local barbecue joints whenever I do. Imagine my surprise discovering Phat Daddy's in my own backyard. Portions are big, flavors are bold, barbecue is correct... Phat Daddy knows what he is doing! read more

Wow the staff were really nice I got to the meet the owner of the business and checking out about looking forward on going back the food was hot read more

Phat Daddy's 100% deserves a 5 star review. The ribs were absolutely delicious. The meat was so tender which is what you hope when going out for BBQ. You can order the ribs dry or with sauce. I am a sauce girl and I have to say a little picky. But Phat Daddy's recipe for his bbq sauce is the perfect combination of sweet and tangy. Their potato salad tastes like home. It reminds me of what I would get when I visited grandma. We also had the Mac and Cheese and let me just saw it was gone at the snap of a finger. Don't forget their sweet cornbread. I really appreciated their service and hospitality. Sonja was working the front register and has a smile that is so warming. When we asked for her recommendation on items on the menu she was very detailed in explaining what we were to expect. The restaurant is very clean and the gray colors are bright and makes for a comfortable environment. Their decorations were neat, especially the picture tribute of Big Bruce. When I asked about him, Sonja explained that it was always his dream to open a restaurant and Phat Daddy is carrying out his dream in his memory. Big Bruce Sr wife does a lot of the cooking and when I found that out it made so much sense why the sides felt like grandmas cookin. Phat Daddy himself was walking around and taking time to talk to each customer. You can see his love and passion for this restaurant and wants everyone to have a good experience. I truly hope that they will be blessed with success here in Elletsville. We have needed a place like theirs for far too long. Thank you for exceeding our expectations and we will most definitely be back often. read more

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Very cool owner and the Kool-Aid is a nice novelty! Definitely a memorable place and will be returning

Wonderful place to eat!! Great food and great prices. Personal service. Restrooms are spotless. We have a party of 5 and go at least twice a month. read more

The food in the place is top notch, and the staff is all could want in a dining experience. The owner came to ask us how everything was and was very gracious for our visit. If you're in or around Bloomington, give this restaurant a visit. You won't regret it. read more

First visit. Overall worst BBQ I have ever had and most expensive. Arrived the place was pretty full. Met at front door and told to place order and sit down. We wanted the ribs but were told the would not be ready for 45 min. So we opted for the pulled pork sandwich and a Mac and cheese side paid ( 4 people for $80). Then we had to find a place to sit. Limited seating. Once sat down we waited for an hour for a pulled pork sandwich. When it arrived it had a very small amount of pork, it was cold, dry and no flavor. One type of bbq sauce that had no flavor. My son ordered the bacon wrapped jalapeños, they were burnt and had a bad taste. Service was almost nonexistent slow and they wanted a tip before you even sat down. Overall one of my worst experiences, will not go back and do not recommend. Pit master knows nothing about BBQ. read more