Pineapple Express Barbecue

- 1 Lackawanna Plaza, Montclair, NJ 07042

New Jersey residents looking for a top-tier barbecue experience with a unique, community-focused vibe need to look no further than Pineapple Express Barbecue in Montclair. More than just a traditional smokehouse, this establishment successfully combines the craft of award-winning barbecue with the relaxed, social atmosphere of a modern beer garden. Located in the magnificent, historic Lackawanna Railroad Terminal, the restaurant has become a local hot spot for families, groups, and anyone seeking high-quality comfort food paired with an excellent drink selection and a fun-filled atmosphere. It’s a place where the rich, smoky flavor of heritage meats meets a commitment to inclusivity, especially with a menu that is largely gluten-free.

The culinary visionaries behind Pineapple Express Barbecue are chefs Lauren Hirschberg and Damon Wise, both of whom possess a strong fine-dining background, including experience with notable figures like Tom Colicchio. This pedigree allows them to approach the world of barbecue with a blend of technical excellence and creative freedom, eschewing strict regional styles to simply make "interesting, tasty stuff." Their competitive barbecue team, Ribdiculous Bar-B-Krewe, is no stranger to success, having achieved the Grand Champion title at the prestigious Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Contest in 2023, along with a win in the ribs category—a monumental achievement that speaks directly to the quality of the food New Jersey diners can expect. The entire operation is built around the ethos of bringing people together for a great meal and a great time, making it a true gathering place in the heart of Montclair.

Location and Accessibility

Pineapple Express Barbecue is conveniently situated at 1 Lackawanna Plaza in Montclair, NJ 07042, USA. The location itself is a significant part of the restaurant's charm, as it’s nestled within the historical Lackawanna Railroad Terminal. This unique setting provides a backdrop of soaring ceilings, grand chandeliers, and historic architectural details, lending a distinct sense of place to the casual dining experience.

The restaurant prioritizes accessibility for all members of the New Jersey community. Patrons will find a wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking lot, wheelchair-accessible restroom, and wheelchair-accessible seating, ensuring a welcoming environment. For those arriving by car, both a free parking lot and paid street parking options are available. The Montclair location makes it a prime destination for residents from the surrounding towns and further afield who are looking for an exceptional, easy-to-reach dining experience.

Services Offered

Pineapple Express Barbecue offers a variety of services to accommodate all dining preferences, making it an incredibly versatile spot for the local community:

• Dining options include Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner service.
• Guests can choose between Dine-in, convenient Takeout, or Delivery service.
• Ample Seating is available, including popular Outdoor Seating areas, perfect for warm weather dining and socializing.
• A dedicated Catering service is offered for larger private events and parties.
• The operation follows a counter service model, where guests order at a window and then seat themselves, providing a casual, beer garden-style experience.
• Private Events can be arranged, with pre-paid table bookings available for groups of up to 8 guests.
• Happy hour drinks specials are available on Thursdays and Fridays from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
• The establishment features a full Bar Onsite, offering a comprehensive selection of beverages.

Features / Highlights

The unique combination of great food, a lively atmosphere, and commitment to inclusivity sets Pineapple Express Barbecue apart in the New Jersey dining scene:

• Award-Winning Barbecue: The meats are smoked onsite over local oak and cherry woods. The chefs’ pedigree includes a Grand Champion win at the Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Contest.
• Gluten-Free Focus: The entire kitchen is reportedly gluten-free, with the exception of some buns, which have gluten-free alternatives available. This includes their famous Fried Chicken and Mac and Cheese, making it a safe choice for diners with Celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
• Vibrant Beer Garden & Full Bar: The full bar is a major highlight, known for a Great Beer Selection that emphasizes local New Jersey and Tri-State area craft beers. They also offer expertly made, non-pretentious Cocktails, a full Whiskey menu, and refreshing frozen drinks.
• Lively Entertainment: The restaurant fosters a community-centric atmosphere with Live Music and regular events, including Trivia Night (every Thursday), Sound On Sundays, and Open Mic Night (every other Wednesday).
• Exceptional Sides: Beyond the smoked meats, the innovative sides receive high praise. Popular items include the Waffle Fries (especially 'Naughty Style' with queso and chili crunch), Fried Green Tomatoes with pimento topping, and Rotisserie Street Corn, demonstrating the chefs' "green-market experience" approach.
• Historical & Casual Atmosphere: Located in the historic Lackawanna Station, the ambiance is Casual and Trendy, yet Family-Friendly, with picnic-style tables and outdoor space featuring yard games, making it a hit for groups and families with kids.
• Inclusivity: The establishment proudly creates a welcoming space, popular with a diverse crowd including families, groups, LGBTQ+ friendly, and is noted as a Transgender Safespace.

Contact Information

For all inquiries, including information on menus, hours, and catering, New Jersey diners can reach out using the following contact details:

Address: 1 Lackawanna Plaza, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA

Phone: (973) 337-6358

What is Worth Choosing

When visiting Pineapple Express Barbecue, the true stars of the show are the smoked meats and the unique, chef-driven sides. The must-try items consistently mentioned in local reviews highlight the establishment's dedication to quality and flavor.

For smoked meats, the Brisket, slow-smoked for 12 to 15 hours, is essential. It is served by the half-pound and is lauded for its tenderness and rich smoky flavor. The Ribs are another standout, often praised for being 'fall-off-the-bone' tender and perfectly slathered in Sweet Lo's BBQ Sauce. For those craving chicken, the Smoked Hot Honey Wings, tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce, are a customer favorite, and the Fried Chicken is a revelation, being entirely gluten-free and described as "a home run."

Beyond the main courses, the innovative menu items that draw heavily on the chefs' fine-dining backgrounds and fresh produce philosophy are highly recommended. The Fried Pickles, Fried Green Tomatoes, and Waffle Fries, especially when upgraded to Naughty Fries with queso and chili crunch, offer creative and indulgent twists on classic barbecue sides. Sandwiches like the hearty Brisket Sammy and the traditional Pulled Pork Sammie are perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. The commitment to providing diverse options also means the menu includes the Dave's Big Deluxe IMPOSSIBLE Burger and vegetable-forward options like the Wedgie Salad and Broiled Asparagus, ensuring a delicious choice for virtually every palate.

In summary, Pineapple Express Barbecue is a dynamic and essential stop for New Jersey food lovers. It expertly blends world-class, competition-level barbecue with an inclusive, fun beer garden environment, all set within a historic Montclair landmark. It's a true culinary destination that offers more than just a meal—it’s a lively social experience.

Pineapple Express Barbecue

1 Lackawanna Plaza, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA