665242 Fri Nov 06 12:11:48 -0800 2009 4 20 Tristate Region 0 5161518 The state of Long Island BBQ is in perpetual turmoil. Greg Barry, the competition pitmaster that was brought in to Ruby's Famous in East Meadow has been let go. He turned their food from inedible to consistently good BBQ with some dishes being strong standouts. Sadly, I'm sure that they will slide back down to where they were. I realize that times are hard, but that just seems like a boneheaded move. Fatty Beltbuckles is opening a second location in Farmingdale. It's hard to hold out much hope hope. The last time I was at their original location, the food was horrible. Dixies in Kings Point was a disappointment and I don't think I'll be heading back. I don't even know if Sparky's in Farmingdale is still open. They were atrocious. The place that opened in Islip less than a year ago is closing (or is closed). Long Island should have the population density to support a RUB or Hill Country. Swingbelly's is excellent. Is it too much to expect a modicum of quality? Eric Fri Nov 06 12:11:48 -0800 2009 39316 motoeric 1 5161684 Have you tried Harbor Q in Port Washington? Nothing spectacular but consistently good. The owner /pit master is always there and takes an active role in making sure everything is going well. While I don't know that it is worth a long drive, say from Suffolk,as a local place it is very satisfying. Fri Nov 06 12:58:01 -0800 2009 5161518 14555 stuartlafonda 2 5161787 I stopped by once and it was closed. I should make an effort to get over there again. There is a little BBQ place that is set up like a deli on the main road in Port Washington. I can't remember the name. Have you tried them? Rib City Alehouse in Port Jefferson is for sale and Bad Bobs in Oceanside is closed. Eric Fri Nov 06 13:31:14 -0800 2009 5161684 39316 motoeric 3 5161902 have u tried the new place in Baldwin on Grand ave. My parents live in Baldwin and I've wanted to try it, but havn't heard anything about. Fri Nov 06 14:06:14 -0800 2009 5161787 116614 jpf1980 4 5162345 Are you talking about Burke's BBQ Barn? I haven't been there yet, but I have very high hopes. It's owned and run by competition BBQ folk and their menu is interesting with some cool twists. I'll post as soon as I go. Eric Fri Nov 06 16:59:18 -0800 2009 5161902 39316 motoeric