Virgil's Real BBQ - NYC

- 152 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036

In a city celebrated for its diverse and world-class culinary scene, finding truly authentic barbecue can feel like a journey. Fortunately, Virgil's Real BBQ brings the soul of Southern barbecue right to the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Located in the bustling Times Square area, this restaurant is a haven for lovers of slow-smoked meats and classic comfort food. Virgil's is more than just a place to eat; it's a destination that captures the essence of a traditional barbecue joint, with a friendly, casual, and lively atmosphere. The restaurant has built a reputation on its commitment to time-honored smoking techniques, using a variety of woods to impart a deep, smoky flavor into every cut of meat. The menu is a comprehensive tour of regional barbecue styles from across the United States, including Texas brisket, Carolina pulled pork, and Memphis-style ribs. This dedication to authenticity is what sets Virgil's apart and makes it a go-to spot for those craving the real deal. A positive review from a returning customer noted, "We stopped by right before a show... and ordered nachos with brisket and sweet potato tots... both were delicious!" The appreciation for the food's flavor and the generous portion sizes, like the "huge" nachos with "good size brisket chunks," speaks volumes about the quality and value. Beyond the food, Virgil's is known for its warm hospitality. A customer's glowing remarks about their "super friendly" server highlight the welcoming and attentive service that contributes to a memorable dining experience. The restaurant's appeal is widespread, drawing in groups, families, and solo diners, as well as locals and tourists alike who are looking for a satisfying and hearty meal in a relaxed setting.

The culinary journey at Virgil's extends far beyond the barbecue plates. The menu is filled with a variety of classic appetizers, sandwiches, and entrees that appeal to every palate. The "Cowboy Onion Rings," "Fried Pickles," and "K.C. Burnt Ends" are popular starters, while the "Mac Attack Bowl" and "The Pit Bowl" offer a unique and flavorful twist on traditional barbecue. For those with a sweet tooth, the dessert menu features comforting Southern staples like "Banana Pudding" and "Key Lime Pie," along with other treats like "Fried Oreos." The drink menu is equally impressive, with a "Great beer selection" and "Great cocktails," making it a fantastic spot to grab a happy hour drink or a casual beverage with your meal. While some customer feedback can be mixed, particularly regarding service consistency or specific dishes, the overarching theme is that Virgil's provides a genuine and often delicious barbecue experience. The sheer volume of options, from a full rack of ribs to a light 'Greens & Grains Bowl', ensures that there is a choice for every mood and appetite. This commitment to variety and quality solidifies Virgil's as a prominent fixture in the New York City dining landscape.

Virgil's Real BBQ is located at 152 W 44th St, a prime address in the heart of the Theater District and just moments away from Times Square. This central location makes it highly accessible for anyone in the city. The restaurant is a short walk from major subway lines, including the Times Square-42nd Street station, which serves a wide array of trains such as the 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W, and S. This makes it an ideal spot for a pre-show dinner or a post-work gathering without the hassle of a long commute. The area is well-served by buses and is easily walkable, allowing for a pleasant stroll through the vibrant neighborhood.

For those traveling by car, Virgil's has several parking options nearby, including paid street parking, paid parking lots, and paid parking garages. While parking in Midtown can be challenging, having multiple options provides a level of convenience. The restaurant is also designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible seating, and a wheelchair-accessible restroom. This ensures that all guests can comfortably enjoy their dining experience. The location's popularity also means it's a known landmark for meeting up with friends or family. The combination of its central location, easy public transit access, and thoughtful accessibility features makes Virgil's a stress-free and convenient destination for a memorable barbecue meal in New York City.

Virgil's Real BBQ offers a comprehensive suite of services that cater to a wide range of needs.

• Dine-in, Takeout, and Delivery: Enjoy your meal in the restaurant’s lively atmosphere, or opt for the convenience of takeout or delivery, including a no-contact option, to enjoy your barbecue feast at home or at the office. Curbside pickup is also available.

• Reservations: The restaurant accepts reservations, with "dinner reservations recommended" due to its popularity, allowing for easy planning and minimizing wait times, especially for groups.

• Catering and Private Dining: Virgil's offers catering services for events and has a private dining room, making it an excellent choice for parties, corporate gatherings, and celebrations.

• Full Bar Service: The onsite bar offers a full selection of alcohol, beer, cocktails, and wine. It’s known for having a "Great beer selection" and "Great cocktails," making it a popular happy hour spot.

• Family-Friendly and Inclusive: The restaurant is noted as being good for kids and provides high chairs and a kids' menu. It is also an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender-safe space, creating a welcoming environment for all patrons. Additionally, dogs are allowed in the outdoor seating area.

What makes Virgil's a standout in the New York dining scene are its unique features and highlights.

• Authentic Slow-Smoked BBQ: The core feature of Virgil's is its dedication to authentic, slow-smoked barbecue. The restaurant uses traditional smoking methods to achieve its signature tender and flavorful meats, which are a rarity in the city.

• Diverse Regional Menu: The menu is a highlight, offering a tour of American barbecue styles from different regions, including Texas, Memphis, and Carolina. This variety, from pulled pork to brisket to ribs, gives diners a chance to explore a wide range of flavors.

• Generous Portion Sizes: Many reviews mention the large and satisfying portion sizes. From the "huge" BBQ nachos to the hearty barbecue plates, diners are assured a filling and worthwhile meal.

• Lively and Welcoming Atmosphere: The restaurant’s casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere makes it a great spot for a variety of occasions. It's a place where you can feel comfortable whether you're in a large group or dining solo.

• Great Drinks and Desserts: Beyond the food, the bar is a significant feature, known for its strong selection of beer and cocktails. The dessert menu is also a highlight, with Southern classics that provide a perfect end to a smoky meal.

For reservations or to learn more about their catering options, you can contact Virgil's Real BBQ at the following information.

Address: 152 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036, USA

Phone: (212) 921-9494

When seeking a barbecue experience in New York, Virgil's Real BBQ is worth choosing for its authenticity and comprehensive offerings. The restaurant is a reliable source for high-quality, slow-smoked meats that capture the genuine flavors of the South. The extensive menu is a major draw, providing something for everyone, from classic platters to unique bowls and sandwiches. Whether you're a purist who wants a straightforward plate of brisket or someone looking to try something different like the "Train Wreck Fries," the options are both plentiful and appealing. The ability to choose a "Pick 2 BBQ Combo" allows for a customized culinary adventure, giving you the best of two worlds. The quality of the food, particularly the smoky and tender brisket and ribs, often receives high praise, and the generous portions ensure you won’t leave hungry.

Moreover, the dining experience at Virgil's is enhanced by its excellent hospitality and inviting atmosphere. The friendly and professional staff contribute significantly to the positive experience, making you feel welcomed and cared for. This is a place that is designed to handle groups, families, and crowds with ease, yet still provides attentive table service. Its prime location in Times Square makes it an accessible and convenient choice for a pre-theater dinner or a satisfying meal after a day of sightseeing. The combination of its authentic, flavorful food, extensive menu, and welcoming environment makes Virgil's Real BBQ a standout choice in the city. It's a testament to the fact that you don't have to leave New York to find genuine, high-quality barbecue. It’s a place to gather, feast, and enjoy the rich, smoky flavors of a timeless American tradition.

Virgil's Real BBQ - NYC

152 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036, USA