Seemor
Rooster's BBQ DeliBWorth Trying
979 Randolph Ave, St Paul, MN 55102
· Barbecue restaurant, Deli, Takeout Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (681 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Neighborhood BBQ and fried chicken takeout with excellent ribs and chicken, big portions, low prices, but inconsistent service and occasional order errors.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Rooster's BBQ Deli delivers solid neighborhood barbecue with exceptional fried chicken and ribs that justify its loyal following and cross-town appeal. However, inconsistent execution on certain items and variable service quality prevent a higher grade, while the minimal seating and utilitarian setting limit its appeal beyond takeout-focused diners. Strong value and reliable core dishes make it worth visiting for casual, generous BBQ.
Restaurant Summary
The scene is casual and compact, a neighborhood counter with a couple of booths where the smoker’s aroma does most of the decorating. Diners rave that the chicken stays crisp and juicy even after a short drive, and one summed it up as “worth the cross-town trip”. Expect quick counter ordering and mostly takeout, with friendly moments that sometimes contrast with reports of rushed or curt service near closing. In the kitchen, the approach is classic American BBQ and fried chicken: smoked baby backs with mild or hot sauce, generous Memphis-style pork sandwiches crowned with slaw, and fries that arrive golden and seasoned. It is not a bells-and-whistles spot—more straight-ahead flavor and big portions for the price—and that suits regulars who come for ribs, chicken, and cheese curds rather than ambience. Families do well here. Kids can go for chicken strips and fries, hot dogs, or mild BBQ sandwiches, and there is plenty to share. Seating is minimal, so plan on takeout; portions run large enough that a basket can cover two small appetites.
At a Glance
- Fried chicken and ribs earn consistent praise for flavor and tenderness
- Generous portions and fair prices, especially sandwich baskets
- Service can be curt near closing; occasional order errors
- Quality can vary on ribs or burgers at times
- Takeout-focused with very limited seating
What Sets It Apart
- destination_fried_chicken
- neighborhood_bbq_tradition
- value_portion_sizes
What People Love
- Juicy, crisp fried chicken
- Smoky, meaty ribs with sauce options
- Memphis-style slaw-topped sandwiches
- Well-seasoned, crunchy fries
- Local, independent vibe
Points of Concern
- Occasional order mistakes or missing items reported; check bags before leaving
- Service tone varies and can feel rushed close to posted hours
- Inconsistent quality on some items like burgers, hot dogs, or ribs on off days
- Review patterns show balanced positives and negatives with high photo engagement, suggesting authenticity overall
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$20-$28 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pair the Memphis sandwich with onion rings for texture contrast
- Get sauce on the side to manage richness
- Families can stretch value with buckets and a couple of sides
Perfect For
- Weeknight takeout when you want crispy fried chicken
- Low-fuss barbecue cravings without sit-down service
- Casual family meals to-go
- Catering for backyard or office events
Location Insights
Area: Residential corridor near West 7th with blue-collar, casual neighborhood vibes and local small businesses.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot and car traffic; typical urban vigilance at night.
Nearby: Near West 7th eateries, breweries, and neighborhood retail; convenient for locals and commuters.
FrogtownFrogtown is a culturally rich neighborhood with a strong sense of community and an emerging dining scene featuring a variety of ethnic cuisines and casual eateries. The area is known for its affordability and local businesses, attracting residents and visitors looking for authentic, unpretentious dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday11:00–20:00
Wednesday11:00–20:00
Thursday11:00–20:00
Friday11:00–20:00
Saturday11:00–20:00
Sunday11:00–20:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
View full analysis on Seemor →