Barbecue Pit

- 5788 Mosholu Ave, Bronx, NY 10471

The New York food scene is a tapestry of diverse flavors, and nestled in the Riverdale neighborhood of the Bronx, you’ll find a true neighborhood gem that stands out from the crowd: The Barbecue Pit. This local favorite isn't just your typical barbecue joint; it’s an eclectic eatery that masterfully blends traditional American barbecue with unique Eastern and Mediterranean culinary influences, a concept that has delighted local families and food enthusiasts for decades.

Since opening its doors, The Barbecue Pit has cultivated a reputation for its commitment to high-quality, homemade food. The owner, Rani Vaswani, who learned to cook in the Indian restaurants her family once ran in Manhattan, ensures that virtually everything, from the smoky ribs and chicken to the freshly baked pies, is made from scratch with fresh ingredients sourced daily. This dedication to homemade quality and a unique, diverse menu is what truly sets The Barbecue Pit apart in the competitive New York dining landscape.

What makes this spot particularly unique is its dual focus. While it excels at the smoky, comforting classics—like those absolutely fall-off-the-bone tender Baby Back Ribs and Barbecue Chicken—it dedicates nearly half of its menu to an impressive array of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and healthy options. This twist ensures that every diner, regardless of their dietary preference, can find a satisfying and flavorful meal. It is a place where classic American comfort meets international flair, making it an exceptional destination for those in the Bronx and beyond seeking a unique culinary experience.

For those in New York searching for "best barbecue in the Bronx" or "restaurants with vegetarian options in Riverdale," The Barbecue Pit consistently emerges as a top choice. The warm, casual, and cozy atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for solo dining, a family outing, or a casual group gathering. The consistent quality, friendly service, and inventive menu have earned it a loyal following and a reputation as a must-try local establishment.

Location and Accessibility

The Barbecue Pit is conveniently located in the Bronx, serving the Riverdale community and surrounding areas.

Physical Address: 5788 Mosholu Ave, Bronx, NY 10471, USA

The restaurant's location on Mosholu Avenue provides local residents with an easily accessible spot for dine-in, takeout, or delivery. It maintains a casual and cozy atmosphere, popular for lunch and dinner. Visitors should note that parking in the area is street parking.

Accessibility is a key consideration for the establishment, as it features both a wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible seating, making it welcoming for all members of the community.

The restaurant operates six days a week, typically closing only on Tuesdays. Current hours are generally:

• Monday: 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm
• Tuesday: Closed All Day
• Wednesday: 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm
• Thursday: 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm
• Friday: 12:00 pm - 10:00 pm
• Saturday: 1:00 pm - 10:00 pm
• Sunday: 1:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Services Offered

The Barbecue Pit provides a full suite of dining and food services to accommodate the busy lives of New Yorkers and local Bronx residents.

• Dine-in Service: Enjoy a casual and cozy meal with table service in the restaurant's family-friendly setting.
• Takeout: Conveniently pick up your order to enjoy at home or on the go.
• Delivery: Offering prompt and reliable delivery services, ensuring you can enjoy their delicious menu from the comfort of your home or office.
• Catering: Comprehensive catering services are available for corporate lunches, birthday celebrations, sports events, and other special occasions. Large party packages, such as the "Party Hearty" option that serves 8 to 10 people, are a popular choice for events.
• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, which is advisable for groups or during peak dining times.
• Beverages: A selection of beer and wine is available to complement your meal.
• Payment Options: The establishment accepts Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC mobile payments for easy transactions.
• Children's Amenities: High chairs and a dedicated "Kiddie Korner" menu are available, making it genuinely family-friendly.

Features and Highlights

The Barbecue Pit distinguishes itself with several unique aspects that have made it a cornerstone of the Riverdale dining scene.

• BBQ & Eastern Fusion Cuisine: The core feature is a truly unique menu blending classic American Barbecue staples like Ribs and Pulled Pork with dishes featuring Eastern influences, such as Vegetarian Samosas, Tandoori Chicken, and Salmon Biryani. This creative fusion offers a dining experience unlike any other in the area.
• Extensive Vegetarian & Vegan Options: Nearly half of the menu is dedicated to non-meat selections, including Homemade Vegetarian Burgers (made with spinach, lentils, and rice), Eggplant with Tofu and Roasted Peppers, Vegetarian Biryani, and Vegetarian Nachos. This commitment ensures a great meal for diners with plant-based diets.
• Homemade & Fresh Ingredients: A key philosophy of the establishment is that all food is homemade, prepared from scratch daily, and uses fresh market ingredients. This commitment to quality and freshness is often praised by local patrons.
• Classic Barbecue Favorites: Despite the fusion twist, the classic barbecue dishes remain a highlight. The Baby Back Ribs are famously tender ("fall off the bone") and the Barbecue Chicken is a long-standing favorite.
• Delicious Homemade Desserts: The restaurant is known for its fresh-baked pies and desserts, with options like Apple Pie, Sweet Potato Pie, Pecan Pie, and Double Chocolate Brownies available by the slice or as whole pies for holidays and special occasions.
• Mediterranean Grilled Specialties: A dedicated menu section features fresh, low-carb grilled options like Chicken, Salmon, Shrimp, and Catfish, all served over a Greek salad and garlic pita, catering to healthier eating choices.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The setting is welcoming to all, with a casual and cozy atmosphere that is particularly good for families and groups.

Contact Information

For those ready to experience the unique flavors of The Barbecue Pit, here is the essential contact information.

• Address: 5788 Mosholu Ave, Bronx, NY 10471, USA
• Phone: (718) 601-2400

What Is Worth Choosing

For first-time visitors or loyal patrons looking for the best of The Barbecue Pit's menu, the selection is vast, reflecting a menu built on comfort food and culinary innovation. However, certain items consistently receive high praise and truly showcase what the restaurant is all about.

A primary choice must be the Baby Back Ribs or the Spare Ribs. Customers consistently rave about their tenderness and flavor, describing them as "fall right off the bone." Pairing a rack of ribs with one of their unique, homemade sides—like the Collard Greens, Garlicky Mash, or Macaroni & Cheese—offers the quintessential barbecue experience.

For those interested in the unique Eastern fusion element, the Vegetarian Samosas (available with vegetarian or roast pork filling) or the Eggplant with Tofu and Roasted Peppers are highly recommended. These options highlight the owner's background and the diverse culinary influences that make the menu so inventive. The Turkey Chili, often praised by reviewers for its homemade taste and hearty nature, is another excellent comfort food choice, especially when topped with cheddar cheese.

Health-conscious diners or those seeking lighter fare should explore the Mediterranean Grilled Specialties. The Low Carb Grilled Salmon Citrus Vinaigrette or the Mediterranean Grilled Chicken, both served over a Greek salad, are fresh, flavorful, and satisfying choices.

Finally, no meal is complete without indulging in one of their renowned Freshly Baked Desserts. The homemade pies, such as the Apple Pie, Sweet Potato Pie, or Pecan Pie, are a beloved local staple and the perfect finish to any meal.

Ultimately, The Barbecue Pit provides a rare opportunity in New York to enjoy classic, smoky barbecue alongside a rich array of vegetarian and globally-inspired dishes, all made with care and a commitment to fresh, homemade quality. Whether you are craving tender ribs or a unique vegetarian biryani, this Bronx institution delivers a satisfying and welcoming dining experience.

Barbecue Pit

5788 Mosholu Ave, Bronx, NY 10471, USA