Welcome to Clay's Popeye's BBQ
At Clay's Popeye's BBQ, nestled in Springfield, IL, we take pride in serving authentic soul food that captures the heart of BBQ culture. Our flavorful offerings—including mouth-watering ribs, tender pork, and the beloved rib tips—are crafted to delight every palate. Whether you’re indulging in our famous "Blazin Heifer Sauce" or savoring a plate of fried okra, each dish is a celebration of genuine pit barbecue. Our warm atmosphere and friendly service make every visit special, inviting friends and family to create lasting memories over delicious meals. We’re more than just food; we’re a community treasure dedicated to deliciousness and hospitality.
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1121 S Grand Ave E, Springfield, IL 62703 Hotline: (217) 522-0386
Welcome to Clay's Popeye's BBQ, an iconic gem situated in the heart of Springfield, Illinois. Known for its mouth-watering soul food, this beloved establishment has become a cornerstone of the local dining scene, serving up some of the best barbecue dishes in town since it opened its doors.
Located at 1121 S Grand Ave E, Clay's Popeye's BBQ is the go-to destination for anyone craving authentic pit barbecue. As you enter, you are greeted with a warm atmosphere, friendly staff, and a dining area decorated with local sports memorabilia and charming artwork that reflects the spirit of the community.
If you’re looking for a feast, Clay’s menu won’t disappoint. Some of the must-try dishes include:
- Chicken Sandwich with Cole Slaw - A delightful combination that packs flavor at only $6.75.
- Rib Tips - Juicy and tender, these are a crowd favorite for just $10.00.
- 1/2 Slab of Ribs - Perfectly grilled and seasoned, served with cole slaw for $16.00.
- Popeye's Special - This enticing dish pairs rib tips with a choice of side for only $10.00.
- Fried Okra - A must-have side that complements any meal, priced at $3.40.
Customer reviews are a testament to the quality and flavor of the food. Patrons like Gary V. rave about the pork BBQ being the best in town, while Ted H. highlights the friendly service accompanying the delicious offerings. It's no surprise that longtime fans, such as Mary H., cherish the genuine pit barbecue experience, relishing in how each dish delivers robust flavors – whether you prefer minimal sauce or generous helpings.
Furthermore, the affordability at Clay's makes it a fantastic option for lunch, where you can indulge in hefty portions without breaking the bank. Joe B. emphasizes how for just a few bucks, diners can enjoy a satisfying meal complete with meat, bread, and a side, affirming the restaurant's reputation as a Springfield staple.
Operating from Wednesday to Saturday, 11 AM to 3 PM, Clay's Popeye's BBQ continues to nourish the local community with its exceptional food and cozy ambiance. Whether you're a lifelong customer or a first-time visitor, every bite promises to deliver an experience rich in flavor and hospitality.
If you find yourself in Springfield, don't miss the chance to satisfy your BBQ cravings at Clay's Popeye's BBQ, where great food and great company come together to create unforgettable moments!
Always good food, pork BBQ is the best in town. Mary and Jeff are great hosts. Thanks
Friendly service and even better bbq. A long-standing local institution that meets every expectation. Best rib tips in town.
Great food, low prices, good service. We love meeting friends here for the delicious pit barbecue. Not just meat with lots of sauce but genuine pit barbecue with flavor whether you like no sauce or lots of it. The chicken is always tender and tasty. The fried okra is a must. My hubby likes the pork.
Open from Wednesday to Saturday from 11a to 3pm Sad to know but good to be aware about this
This place has amazing food. My personal favorite is the bbq pulled pork or the horseshoes. Wish the hours were a little better but it's definitely a great place to go for lunch. I used to have my mom pick up a meal from here so I could eat it 2 hours later as an amazing after school treat. If I could give this restaurant 6 stars I would.
Awesome service and food! People are very friendly. Sauces are truly as described....great! Home of the "Blazin Heifer Sauce". Value is fantastic!
A great place for BBQ, especially considering the price. For just a few bucks, you get a pile of meat, bread, a side, and a drink. Great sauces, quick service, and plenty of seats round out the experience. On your first trip, you can easily see how this place earned, and keeps, its reputation as a Springfield staple.
Clay's is the place to go for lunch bbq in Springfield. We stopped by last Saturday around noon and got the lunch special (bbq shredded pork, rib tips, and beef on top of texas toast and a side of potato salad) along with the catfish and fries (the catfish was a separate lunch). At only $6 and fully loaded with a variety of meats smothered with barbecue sauce, the lunch special was well worth the trip. Along with the good eats, Clay's features a roomy and welcoming dining area. There's counter seating for solo diners, and booths or tables for groups. While you're waiting for the food to arrive, check out the giant mural of some people fishing on a riverfront, and take a look at the shrine of local celebrity photos and autographs. The people who own the place seem to be big supporters of the local high school sports teams too, given all the track and field placards up on the wall. Friendly people and great bbq make this a solid destination for lunch. It's also interesting how this neighborhood, the 11th St. and South Grand Ave. area, is allegedly getting some attention as a small business redevelopment district.