Project BBQ Review
Overview
Project BBQ brings authentic Texas-style barbecue to the heart of the Las Vegas Strip, offering a welcome departure from the typical casino dining options. Located just steps from major resorts, this smokehouse combines traditional pitmaster techniques with modern culinary innovation.
Atmosphere & Ambiance
The restaurant features industrial-chic decor with exposed brick walls, reclaimed wood tables, and a massive glass-walled smoker that serves as the centerpiece. The open kitchen allows guests to watch pitmasters tending to oak wood-fired smokers. The space balances rustic charm with contemporary comfort, featuring both communal tables and intimate booths. The aroma of smoking meats greets you at the door—a promise of the authentic barbecue experience to come.
Culinary Experience
Project BBQ's menu showcases meticulously prepared meats smoked for up to 16 hours. The brisket—available in both lean and moist cuts—features a perfect smoke ring and peppery bark. The pork ribs fall-off-the-bone tender with a balanced sweet-spicy glaze. Unique offerings include smoked turkey breast and house-made sausages with innovative flavor combinations like jalapeño-cheddar and apple-sage.
Side dishes elevate the experience beyond typical barbecue joints. The smoked Gouda mac and cheese features a crispy breadcrumb topping, while the collard greens are cooked with smoked turkey rather than pork for a lighter yet flavorful profile. The cornbread, served in cast-iron skillets, strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory.
Service & Hospitality
Service is generally efficient and knowledgeable, with staff able to guide guests through the cutting process and make pairing recommendations. During peak hours, ordering lines can move slowly due to the careful slicing and plating process. The cafeteria-style service maintains authenticity but may feel less luxurious than some expect from Strip dining.
Value Assessment
Given the quality of ingredients and labor-intensive preparation, Project BBQ offers fair value. Combination plates ($25-35) provide substantial portions, while a la carte meats allow for customization. The family-style platters ($85-120) offer the best value for groups. While not inexpensive, the quality surpasses most chain barbecue establishments in Vegas.
Special Features
The restaurant's standout feature is its commitment to traditional smoking methods—no gas assist, just oak wood and time. Weekend specials often include harder-to-find cuts like beef cheeks and pork belly. The sauce bar features six house-made options, from Carolina mustard to spicy habanero.
Recommendations
First-time visitors: Try the Project Sampler with brisket, ribs, and two sausages. Vegetarians: Surprisingly good options including smoked portobello mushrooms and exceptional sides. Large groups: Reserve the Pitmaster's Table for family-style service. Late-night: Open until 2 AM on weekends, perfect for post-show cravings.
Practical Information
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11 AM-11 PM, Friday-Saturday 11 AM-2 AM
Reservations: Accepted for parties of 6+
Parking: Validated validation available at adjacent garage
Special Diets: Gluten-free and vegetarian options clearly marked