LAFAYETTE, CALIFORNIA – Well folks, we had hoped to share a comprehensive review of Lafayette, California’s new Horn BBQ with you, but when we visited on the day it opened, they had already sold out by 6pm!
Instead, we asked our readers to chime in, and gathered thoughts and opinions from other locals who were lucky enough to try Horn BBQ’s items.
Here’s what we’ve heard so far.
The Food
The quality of the barbecue has largely impressed visitors. Reader Tyler, who visited on a Sunday afternoon, praised the brisket, pulled pork, and hot links, describing them as “great,” though he noted that many items, including chicken, ribs, tri-tip, and beef sausage, were already sold out by 2 p.m.
Similarly, Amber W. said the hot links and sides were “amazing” but noted that most proteins were unavailable when she visited on Sunday.
HoneeHaze shared a mixed review of their experience on December 20 in a comment on our YouTube channel, saying, “The beef ribs were the best I’ve ever had, and the tri-tip was tender,” but found the greens, which were made with pork, disappointing. HoneeHaze also mentioned that they spent $100 for two people, calling the food “overpriced for what we ordered.”
Other visitors, like Jon W., highlighted the simplicity of the menu, which features items like brisket, pulled pork, sausages, and sides such as beans and mac and cheese.
Lafayette resident Julie B told us that the ribs were amazing, but that her husband had to wait in line for about 1 hour to get them.
The Ambiance and Experience
While many praised the food, the overall dining experience has drawn some critiques, mostly focused on wait times and selling out. Jeffrey S. shared his first visit to the Lafayette location, noting that the line had grown to 40 people by the time the restaurant opened at noon. He described the ordering process as slow, with only one carving station, one staff member serving sides, and one cashier.
Amber W. noted that the staff explained the restaurant’s supply issues, citing challenges with estimating demand at the new location. She remains optimistic, saying, “With time, they will get it figured out.”
HoneeHaze also described the service as slow but said the workers were “nice, friendly, and attentive.”
Room for Improvement
A common complaint among diners is the restaurant frequently running out of key menu items. Several customers, including Tyler and HoneeHaze, experienced limited menu options due to sold-out items. This has led to frustration among some, particularly those arriving later in the day.
We found the same thing when we tried to visit on day one.
Tyler suggested that Horn Barbecue consider opening later in the day and focusing on dinner service to better manage inventory. HoneeHaze echoed concerns about pricing, suggesting that the value could be improved.
Final Thoughts
Horn Barbecue’s Lafayette location has already made an impression on locals, with many praising the quality of the barbecue while pointing out areas for improvement, including faster service, more accurate supply planning, and better value for the price.
Despite the challenges, diners like local Amber W. remain hopeful, expecting the restaurant to adjust to the demand over time.
For now, locals recommend visiting early to ensure the best chance at getting your pick of menu items.
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