Seemor
Dinosaur Bar-B-QueB+Worth Trying
700 W 125th St, New York, NY 10027
· Barbecue restaurant, American restaurant, Caterer
· 4.4/5 Google (7341 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively Harlem smokehouse with solid barbecue favorites, creative sauces, and big portions; service is friendly but waits and inconsistency show up at peak times.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que delivers competitive neighborhood barbecue with strong food quality when the pits are firing—juicy brisket, ribs, and wings with generous portions at fair prices. However, inconsistent execution during rush periods and occasional food safety concerns prevent a higher grade. Friendly, attentive service and a buzzy riverside location make it a solid choice for casual groups, though it falls short of the area's premier dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
Set along the river end of 125th, this smokehouse feels buzzy and casual with a long bar, big tables, and the scent of oak in the air. Servers get shout-outs by name, and one diner raved, "staff kept checking on us and made smart suggestions." On peak nights it can be packed and noisy, but off-peak it settles into a relaxed groove. The kitchen leans classic barbecue first—brisket, St. Louis ribs, wings—then riffs with sauces like a Korean glaze or jerk. When the pits are on, meats land juicy with balanced smoke; add fried green tomatoes, mac, or the Dirty South Bowl for comfort. Expect a generous plate, especially with combo deals. For families, it is largely kid-friendly. Sliders, mac and cheese, fries, and simple chicken keep picky eaters happy, though one guest flagged wall art as not ideal for little kids. If your crew is sauce-shy, stick to classic flavors and avoid the spicier options.
At a Glance
- Big portions and solid value with combo plates
- Friendly service and group-friendly space
- Inconsistent execution during peak rush and delivery
- Long waits without reservations at prime times
- Riverside location adds to the outing
What Sets It Apart
- riverside_location_walks
- karaoke_event_nights
- broad_sauce_selection
- large_group_capacity
What People Love
- Juicy brisket and sauced ribs when the pits are on
- Wings in sweet-heat sauces
- Fried green tomatoes with a crisp bite
- Combo plates that feed hungry groups
- Event nights with music and a fun crowd
Points of Concern
- Execution slips at peak times: cold or dry meats and slow ticket times appear in a minority of reviews
- Delivery orders less reliable than dine-in, with occasional quality drops
- Some sides vary from great to bland depending on visit
- Pricing is mid-to-high NYC barbecue; stick to combos for better value
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$36-52 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For lighter eaters: Chopped Salad Base ($9.50) with smoked portobello or pulled chicken (+$6)
- For spice lovers: Wango Habanero wings and K-Pow ribs
- For families: Sweetheart Deal for 2 ($42) plus extra sides to share
Perfect For
- Casual group dinners before a river walk
- Birthday gatherings with wings and ribs
- Out-of-town friends craving a lively Harlem barbecue spot
- Weeknight solo bite at the bar
Location Insights
Area: Riverside edge of West Harlem near 125th; casual, lively crowd with families, groups, and students.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; busy at peak dining times and event nights.
Nearby: Near Hudson River Greenway and Riverside Park; convenient for pre/post meal strolls.
Central HarlemCentral Harlem offers a dynamic dining environment featuring soul food, contemporary American cuisine, and international flavors. The area is socially vibrant with a strong sense of community, attracting both locals and tourists interested in authentic cultural experiences and lively nightlife.
Strivers' RowStrivers' Row is a distinct historic enclave within Central Harlem known for its well-preserved row houses and quieter residential atmosphere, offering a contrast to the busier commercial corridors nearby.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday16:00–21:00
Tuesday12:00–21:00
Wednesday12:00–21:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–23:00
Saturday12:00–23:00
Sunday12:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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