What is Mendel's KC BBQ known for?
Mendel's KC BBQ is one of Shaker Heights's standout american restaurants, with a solid 4.2/5 rating backed by 319 Google reviews. People say this restaurant serves delicious BBQ, including brisket, burnt ends, and pastrami sandwiches. They also highlight the authentic Kansas City BBQ experience, the clean and comfortable atmosphere, and the friendly service. Some reviews mention the portions can be small. Expect to spend $30-$50 per person. The restaurant serves lunch, dinner, making it a versatile choice throughout the day. Outdoor seating is available, adding to the experience during warmer months. Reservations are accepted and recommended, especially on weekends.
What to order at Mendel's KC BBQ
Mendel's KC BBQ specializes in american restaurant cuisine, serving lunch, dinner. For the full menu and current specials, visit the restaurant's website.
Meals served
What is the atmosphere like at Mendel's KC BBQ?
Mendel's KC BBQ provides a comfortable sit-down dining environment, with outdoor seating for enjoying Cleveland's warmer seasons. The space accommodates larger parties well, making it a reliable choice for group dinners, celebrations, and private events. Families with children will find a welcoming environment with accommodations for younger diners. Sports fans will appreciate the game-day atmosphere with screens for watching Cleveland teams in action. The drinks program features beer, wine, cocktails, coffee, dessert. The overall feel is upscale yet approachable, consistent with its $$$ pricing.
Hours and location
Mendel's KC BBQ address and directions
Mendel's KC BBQ is located at 20314 Chagrin Blvd, Shaker Heights, OH 44122, USA. It sits in the Shaker Heights neighborhood of Cleveland. Call (216) 266-0035 for reservations or inquiries.
Get directions on Google MapsMendel's KC BBQ hours of operation
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 – 9:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 – 9:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 – 9:00 PM |
| Thursday | 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 – 9:00 PM |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | 4:30 – 9:00 PM |
Does Mendel's KC BBQ take reservations?
Yes, Mendel's KC BBQ accepts reservations. Booking ahead is recommended, particularly for weekend dinner service and larger parties. The restaurant offers dine-in, takeout, delivery service. Call (216) 266-0035 to confirm availability or place an order.
Is Mendel's KC BBQ good for families and groups?
Mendel's KC BBQ is well-suited for both families with children and larger group gatherings. The space and menu accommodate a range of ages and party sizes comfortably. A dedicated children's menu is available, making ordering easy for families with younger kids. The venue is also a great spot for watching Cleveland sports, with screens and a game-day energy.
How much does Mendel's KC BBQ cost?
Mendel's KC BBQ falls in the $$$ price range, with most meals running $30-$50 per person. This makes it a higher-end dining experience that reflects the quality of ingredients and service. Compared to Cleveland's overall dining scene, which skews affordable relative to coastal cities, Mendel's KC BBQ offers a special-occasion-worthy experience.
What reviewers say about Mendel's KC BBQ
People say this restaurant serves delicious BBQ, including brisket, burnt ends, and pastrami sandwiches. They also highlight the authentic Kansas City BBQ experience, the clean and comfortable atmosphere, and the friendly service. Some reviews mention the portions can be small.
“While travelling to Detroit recently, I finally had the excuse to stop in Cleveland for supper. Naturally I had to stop by Mendel’s Kansas City BBQ. Mendel is known for his amazingly delicious BBQ and smoker. The place definitely had a vibe, and I was digging it. Very rustic, lots of art on the wall etc. After speaking to the manager, we finally settled on what to order. I went with the Brisket Truffle Poutine, the Smoked Fried Wings, Loaded Knish, World Famous Burnt Ends and the Smoked Lamb Riblets. Now being from Montreal, I have grown up with milchig Poutine, which consists of French fries, parve gravy and cheese. However, I have never had a fleishig Poutine. It was really good. There was a nice amount of mushroom truffle gravy sauce, the fries were nice and crispy, and it paired well with amazingly delicious pulled smoked brisket. When you go, you NEED to try this dish. Moving on to the wings, I didn’t expect them to be smoked, but they actually were. We took the buffalo sauce and the wings had a nice fry on them. We were curious about the Loaded Knish, so naturally we had to try it. The dish consisted of a jumbo potato knish topped with their famous mushroom truffle gravy. If that wasn’t enough, they even added some pastrami. It was a mouthful, but a delicious mouthful, very unique and different. Everyone who knows me said if you ever go to Mendel’s you NEED to try both the Smoked Lamb Riblets and the World Famous Burnt Ends. We started with the burnt ends. They were packed with flavor, smokey, bbq, fall apart yummy goodness. There is a reason that they are world famous. Finally it was time for the Smoke Lamb Riblets. When they were brought to our table I was immediately overcome with the smell of smokey goodness. It looked amazing. The riblets had a dry rub on them and I am a big fan. Each bite was better than the last and I was sold. In closing, Cleveland isn’t that far away and its definitely worth the drive for some amazing smoked BBQ.”
“Food was pretty good in taste but sauce could have been included. See photo for all that was included in the $100 combo platter. Very very small portions. We only got 2 ribs for a supposed rack of back ribs, 2 pieces of brisket, and about 5-6 burnt ends along with a small cup of beans and togo box of fries. I don’t think I would revisit because I feel shorted.”
“Mendel’s KC BBQ may be nicely designed, and the staff pleasant, but that’s where the positives end. This was, without a doubt, one of the worst dining experiences I’ve ever had. We ordered four dishes, each more disappointing than the last: Salmon Bites – These arrived cold, dry, and completely tasteless. We couldn’t get past the first bite. Brisket Egg Rolls – Burnt beyond recognition. They were blackened like they came out of a bonfire. If the brisket wasn’t dead before, it definitely was after this. Grilled Chicken Breast with Mashed Potatoes – The chicken was dry, but in a desperate attempt to eat something, it was the only dish I managed to consume. The mashed potatoes, however, were cold and gray. I didn’t even try them. Burnt Ends – Supposedly the restaurant’s signature dish. It was tiny and barely edible. Sadly, that counts as a win compared to everything else. Fries – The only thing that saved us from going completely hungry. To top it all off, the manager didn’t offer any substitutions, replacements, or even an apology. We were charged the full $150 (!!) for what was essentially an inedible meal. Kosher restaurants sometimes have a reputation for subpar service, but Mendel’s BBQ takes that to a whole new level. This was by far the worst kosher restaurant experience we’ve ever had. Next time you read glowing reviews, consider this one too.”
Parking at Mendel's KC BBQ
Mendel's KC BBQ offers a free parking lot, free street parking for diners. Free parking options make it easy on the wallet. Arriving 10-15 minutes early on weekends is recommended to secure a spot.
Accessibility at Mendel's KC BBQ
Mendel's KC BBQ provides a wheelchair-accessible entrance, accessible seating, an accessible restroom, accessible parking. The restaurant is committed to accommodating guests with mobility needs. For specific accessibility questions or to arrange accommodations, call ahead at (216) 266-0035.
Photos of Mendel's KC BBQ
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Frequently Asked Questions
What type of food does Mendel's KC BBQ serve?
Mendel's KC BBQ is a american restaurant located in Shaker Heights, Cleveland. The restaurant serves lunch, dinner.
What are Mendel's KC BBQ's hours?
Mendel's KC BBQ is open seven days a week. Today's hours are Monday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 – 9:00 PM. Hours may vary on holidays, so calling ahead at (216) 266-0035 is recommended for special occasions.
Is Mendel's KC BBQ good for a date night?
Mendel's KC BBQ is an excellent date night choice in Shaker Heights. Reservations are accepted, ensuring a smooth experience. The $$$ price point and american restaurant menu create the right setting for a memorable evening.
Does Mendel's KC BBQ have outdoor seating?
Yes, Mendel's KC BBQ offers outdoor seating. This option is especially popular during Cleveland's warmer months from May through October. Arrive early or call ahead to secure a patio table during peak times.
How much does a meal at Mendel's KC BBQ cost?
Mendel's KC BBQ is priced at the $$$ level. Expect to spend 35 to 60 per person before drinks and tip. This positions it as a special occasion option in the Cleveland dining landscape.
Is Mendel's KC BBQ dog-friendly?
Mendel's KC BBQ does not currently allow dogs. For pet-friendly dining in Cleveland, check our guide to dog-friendly restaurants.
Is there parking at Mendel's KC BBQ?
Mendel's KC BBQ offers a free parking lot, free street parking. Arriving 10-15 minutes early on weekends is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak dining hours.
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Update History
- March 2026: Initial publication with Google Places data, photos, hours, and ratings.