Hello dear
Welcome To Shorty’s Smokehouse
Welcome to Shorty’s Smokehouse, where flavorful Southern BBQ meets a warm community atmosphere in the heart of Waterloo, IL. Nestled on Main Street, this inviting spot is known for its mouthwatering pulled pork sandwiches and generous portions. With a diverse menu, it caters to everyone, including vegetarians, making it a perfect choice for group outings or casual dining. The rustic, movie-themed decor adds to the charm, while outdoor seating beckons for a relaxed meal. Whether you're dining in or taking your meal next door to the local brewery, Shorty’s promises a delicious experience worth every bite.
Taste the best
Discover Our Menu
Brisket
$13.00Pork Sandwich
$7.50Brisket Philly
Smoked Sausage
14 Lb Sandwich With 2 Sides
$12.50Sandwich Only
Big Bag Bbq Chips
$6.19Turkey
Brisket
About
Shorty’s Smokehouse
Welcome to Shorty’s Smokehouse, where the art of smoking meat meets a delightful community atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of downtown Waterloo, Illinois, at 121 S Main St, this beloved eatery is a haven for BBQ lovers and casual diners alike. Whether you're a meat aficionado or looking for vegetarian options, Shorty’s caters to all tastes with an inviting menu that truly has something for everyone.
One word resonates in the reviews from satisfied customers: fantastic. Tom B. raves about the pulled pork sandwich served with BBQ beans and slaw, emphasizing how consistently good the food is. The generous portions are perfect after a day exploring the charming community square, making it a must-visit destination for those in the metropolitan St. Louis area.
- Diverse Menu: From rich, smoky meats to numerous vegetarian options, Shorty’s makes sure no guest leaves hungry.
- Convenient Location: Located in a friendly neighborhood, it’s perfect for groups and gatherings, with outdoor seating available for those who wish to enjoy their meal al fresco.
- Ambiance: The movie-themed decor adds a unique touch, with plenty to admire while you dine. Even the ladies' washroom has earned compliments!
- fast and Friendly Service: Amanda J. praises the promptness and affordability, highlighting a staff dedicated to making your experience enjoyable.
Whether you choose to indulge in a hearty meal or grab takeout to enjoy alongside a refreshing brew from a nearby brewery, Shorty’s Smokehouse promises a culinary adventure. As Dennis F. aptly puts it, it's “the best BBQ in Southern Illinois.” So, gather your friends or family, and prepare to savor dishes that celebrate the flavors of smoked perfection. Join the chorus of happy diners and make your way to Shorty’s — your taste buds will thank you!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ The food is always very good. I had a pulled pork sandwich with bbq beans and slaw. The service is also good. ”
“ Fantastic food and service. Best BBQ in Southern Illinois and the metropolitan St. Louis area. Worth the trip to a very nice Community Square. Get your food to go and take next door to brewery if you want a brew. ”
“ OMG! So good!!! I had the pulled pork with all the fixings. So much meat. It was a meal and a half. Staff was super friendly and personable. Movie themed ambiance. Lots to look at. Even the ladies wash room is mentionable. ”
“ Excellent BBQ in a great location in downtown Waterloo. Service is fast and affordable. Highly recommend! ”
“ Portions are good. Bbq is delicious. We have always taken it home to eat so I don't know if the atmosphere is. The outside looks very inviting. I love the building that it's in. ”
“ First time in Waterloo for lunch and WOWZA!!! We chose wisely....I am not name one item that tasted better than the next......!!!!!! The Bake Beans are to die for, Smoked Gouda MAC n Cheese was amazing....I happen to have had the pulled pork this time and it melted in my mouth. I am told by other customers around my table that the turkey and brisket is equally moist!!!! The owner made several rounds to the table to be certain that everyone was pleased with their dinning experience!!!! I may be in the area more often just to visit this restaurant again more of ”
“ Decided to go for a drive on a beautiful November Saturday to try another new to me barbecue spot. Arrived at Shorty's Smokehouse not long after open at noon. Mild pit smoke in the air right as you walk in the door. Mmmmhhh. I ordered the sampler which comes with 4 meats and 3 sides. I chose brisket, pulled pork, ribs and pork belly burnt ends, the daily special. I chose the coleslaw and put beans as my sides. Service was abundantly friendly and quick. Top notch really. Food was all on point except for the pit beans. To me... they were too sweet. But otherwise good flavor. Others would probably love that sweet hit. Brisket had a nice smoke ring and good smoke flavor but the beef flavor was still very present. It was tender and moist. Great with the mustard sauce. Pulled pork was perfectly seasoned, tender, moist, had nice bark, good smoke flavor as well. Good without sauce and also good with the OG sauce. Ribs were as good as my favorite spot here in St. Louis, Bogart's Smokehouse. Perfectly smoked and seasoned. The pork belly burnt ends were just awesome. Sticky, smokey, perfectly seasoned chunks of pork belly with a good mix of lean and fat. It's a haul over to Waterloo for me, but I'll definitely slide back down there. Good service, great food. ”
“ I love this place. It's a hometown smokehouse with fresh food and a great atmosphere. One of my favorite things about Shorty's is the specials. They'll often do a brisket gyro or pulled pork tacos. Their normal menu is awesome too. Personally, I love their brisket. It's tender and juicy. They slice it when you order it. The pork rinds are excellent too. Pricing is good for a smokehouse. I had a massive brisket sandwich, pork rinds and a soda - all for $16. That's not bad at all for barbecue. ”
