Smoky, savory, and downright comforting — a first-hand review of gRub BBQ on Pine Avenue, from the melt-in-your-mouth brisket to the service that makes you feel like a local.
When you think of Anna Maria Island, your mind probably goes straight to white-sand beaches, fresh seafood, and tiki bars. But if you're craving something smoky, savory, and downright comforting, the north of the island hosts a BBQ spot you absolutely cannot miss: gRub BBQ.
Located right in the heart of the action on Pine Avenue, gRub is the perfect place to duck into to escape the midday sun while exploring the boutique shops or heading down to the City Pier. I've tried pretty much everything on the menu, and I can confidently say this place is fantastic.
Let's start with the service, because it's spot on. I went in one night just to grab a quick beer and an empanada. When I walked back in the very next day, they remembered my name, remembered exactly which beer I'd ordered, and asked if I wanted another empanada (which, of course, I did). In a popular vacation destination it's all too easy to be treated as just another tourist — at gRub, they make you feel like a regular instantly.
What to order? For a light bite, get an empanada — filling, packed with flavor, and perfectly crispy. Go for the beef brisket version, stuffed with cherrywood-smoked brisket, Jack cheese, and crema. It's savory perfection in a pastry shell.
But the showstopper is the Shaved Brisket Platter, served with cornbread and a house-made side. The brisket is melt-in-your-mouth tender, drizzled with a barbecue sauce that strikes the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Pair that rich meat with the crunch of slaw and the sweetness of cornbread and you have the perfect meal.
There's plenty more variety if you're with a group or feeding kids: the Cuban sandwich (signature smoked pork, ham, Swiss, pickles, and mustard) is a lunch-crowd favorite; the honey-glazed ribs are smoked low and slow for four hours until sticky and fall-off-the-bone; and lighter options like a loaded Caesar or the hot honey chicken flatbread still pack that signature smoky flavor.
The setting is delightfully casual — classic sports-bar vibes inside with TVs and a soundtrack of American rock. I love grabbing a bar stool looking out onto the main road. It's not exactly a postcard sunset view, but you don't come here for the scenery; you come for the incredible service, the killer music, and some of the best barbecue you'll ever have. If you're on AMI and you like BBQ, you will not be disappointed.
