We all go through identity crisis at one time or another, right?

Sometimes you walk into a business expecting a smooth experience. This was not the case at Lenny’s Smokehouse BBQ in Chatsworth. Despite the initial warm welcome from the pit-master, things quickly went downhill.

I arrived without a reservation, a mistake that Grace, the hostess, sternly pointed out. I calmly requested a table for two, and she informed me of a 20-minute wait. My friend and I were eventually seated outside, even though I was hesitant due to the chilly weather and an oncoming cold. To Grace’s credit, she moved us inside as soon as a table became available.

Our waitress, Brandy, started off attentive and friendly. However, she then informed me that Lenny’s doesn’t serve cornbread. A BBQ joint without cornbread? I was disappointed. I ordered a full rack of mixed Raspberry and Whiskey glazed ribs, along with a side of Smoked Red Beans. The fruit reduction sauce hinted that this wouldn’t be a traditional BBQ experience, but it didn’t prepare me for the disappointing ribs. The lack of cornbread was also a letdown, and although Brandy offered dinner rolls as a substitute, they never arrived.

I’m no BBQ expert, but I can recognize overcooked and undercooked meat. Surprisingly, the ribs I received from Lenny’s were both. There was no smoke ring, the undercooked ribs were tough, and the overcooked ones were falling apart. I won’t even bother asking about the dry rub, as it was clearly absent. Perhaps the menu’s mention of “cajun rub” and “special rub” was just a distraction from the fancy raspberry sauce. Or maybe the cooking style was Kansas City-inspired, focusing on sauce rather than meat or rub flavor.

The ambiance, live music, and overall atmosphere of the restaurant are distinctly Southern, reminiscent of Nashville or Memphis. Yet, it seems this Tennessee-styled restaurant in Southern California serves Kansas City-style BBQ ribs. I suppose we all experience an identity crisis now and then.

Lenny’s Smokehouse BBQ looks and feels great, creating a welcoming Tennessee atmosphere. Unfortunately, the ribs I had were more Kansas City or Midwestern, definitely not Tennessee or Southern BBQ.