8 Restaurant Chains Serving Ribs Worth Getting Messy For

Nothing says comfort food quite like a plate of fall-off-the-bone ribs slathered in smoky, tangy sauce.

Whether you crave sweet and sticky or spicy and bold, restaurant chains across America have perfected the art of serving up finger-licking rib dishes. Get ready to grab extra napkins and discover which spots are worth the delicious mess!

1. Outback Steakhouse

Aussie-inspired flavors meet American barbecue tradition in a way that makes every bite memorable. Baby back ribs arrive glazed with a signature tangy-sweet sauce that balances perfectly with the tender, slow-cooked meat.

Pair them with classic sides like fries or coleslaw. You’ll find yourself licking your fingers before you even realize it, and that’s exactly the point of great ribs!

2. Rudy’s Real Texas BBQ

Authentic pit-smoked goodness defines every rack that comes out of the kitchen at this beloved Texas chain. Expect no-frills presentation on butcher paper because the focus stays squarely on quality meat and traditional smoking techniques.

Dry-rubbed perfection means you can taste the natural flavors without heavy sauce masking the smokiness. Grab extra napkins and prepare to experience barbecue the Lone Star way!

3. Chili’s

Since the 1980s, one menu item has remained a fan favorite and continues to draw crowds year after year. Slow-cooked until tender and basted with a choice of sauces, each rib delivers that signature taste people remember fondly.

You can even sing along to the famous jingle while enjoying your meal! Add a side of crispy fries or corn, and you’ve got a classic American dining experience.

4. Applebee’s

Bite-sized riblets make eating ribs less intimidating and twice as fun when you’re craving barbecue without the full commitment. Coated in a sweet and smoky glaze, these little pieces pack big flavor into every morsel.

Perfect as an appetizer or main course, they disappear quickly once the plate hits the table. Dip them in extra sauce or enjoy them as-is while catching up with friends over casual dining.

5. Smokey Bones

Wood-fired cooking brings out deep, complex flavors that barbecue purists appreciate and casual diners adore equally. Ribs arrive with visible char marks and a smoky aroma that hits you before the first bite even happens.

Choose between St. Louis-style or baby back cuts depending on your preference. Each option gets the same careful attention and slow-cooking process that makes the meat incredibly tender and flavorful throughout.

6. LongHorn Steakhouse

While steaks take center stage here, the ribs deserve equal recognition and often surprise first-time orderers with exceptional quality. Glazed with a bold barbecue sauce and cooked until the meat practically melts off the bone, they compete with any dedicated barbecue joint.

Hearty portions satisfy even the biggest appetites. You might come for the steak but return specifically for these underrated ribs!

7. TGI Fridays

A signature whiskey glaze adds a unique twist that sets these ribs apart from standard barbecue fare at other chains. Sweet, smoky, and slightly boozy notes create layers of flavor that dance across your taste buds with every bite.

Casual atmosphere and generous portions make this spot ideal for group gatherings. Pair your ribs with loaded potato skins or onion rings to complete the indulgent experience perfectly!

8. Texas Roadhouse

Fall-off-the-bone doesn’t even begin to describe how tender these slow-cooked beauties become after hours in the kitchen. Brushed with a house-made sauce that balances sweet and tangy notes, each rack delivers consistent quality that keeps customers coming back regularly.

Peanuts on the table and country music overhead set the scene. Add fresh-baked rolls and you’ve got a meal worth every messy napkin!