Mr. Cecil's California Ribs

This review describes a lunch visit to Mr. Cecil's California Ribs in Santa Monica as part of a 7in7 BBQ evaluation. The group chose it for proximity to work and solid BBQ, and the reviewer confirmed in advance that there were a few vegetarian options (like kabobs) while being warned that the fries are cooked in lard.

The restaurant was under remodel, which hurt the ambiance but not the food. The reviewer ordered a 1/3 rack of spare ribs for $7.95 (no sides included) plus fries. The ribs were served without sauce, which the reviewer sees as a sign of confidence in the meat itself, and they were judged "pretty good" and filling enough for lunch.

Most coworkers ordered the BBQ brisket sandwich combo, considered the best lunch value and described as extremely messy and tasty. One person ordered a burger and regretted not getting ribs after seeing them. The reviewer, having only a 1/3 rack, refused to share.

Post-meal reactions were muted—no one was thrilled or disappointed, possibly due to a food coma. Service issues stood out: iced tea was never refilled and no dessert menu was offered, which left the reviewer feeling mildly dissatisfied about customer attention.

Overall, the verdict is that Mr. Cecil's is an okay sit-down BBQ spot that might improve after the remodel. The recommendation: if you can afford it, splurge on the spare ribs; otherwise, go for the brisket sandwich combo. The fries, cooked in pig lard, are described as old-school, indulgent, and very good, but clearly not vegetarian-friendly.