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5102 Hwy 359 Ste 800, Laredo, TX

Ringo's BBQ

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Ringo’s Menu Guide: What to Order for First-Timers

Ringo’s is right here in Laredo. It’s closer than you think and firs right into your daily drive. If you’re already rolling along Loop 20, heading toward TAMIU, the airport, or that side-of-town Walmart stop, you’re basically neighbors with Ringo’s BBQ & Burgers.

If you’re an adventurous foodie finally making that “short drive” for real smoke and big flavor, this menu guide is your cheat sheet. No guessing, no food FOMO. Here’s exactly what to order so your first visit feels absolutely worth it.

Start With the Smoke: Your First Bite

You came for smoke, so start there.

For a first-timer, think of your opening move as a tase test of what Ringo’s does best.

Good starting picks:

  • A brisket taco or mini sandwich lets you try the brisket without committing to a full plate.
  • Sausage or rib sample (if available): One or two ribs or a link gives you a quick read on the pit’s flavor.
  • Shareable starter: If you’re with friends, split a small plate so everyone gets that first hit of smoke together.

Take a second with that first bite. Notice the bark on the brisket, the ring of smoke, the tenderness. That’s what you drove for.

The Main Plate: Best First-Time Orders

Once you’ve confirmed the smoke is legit, it’s time for the main event. Here’s how to build a first-timer plate that really shows off Ringo’s.

If You’re Here for Brisket

You want:

  • Sliced brisket plate
  • Two sides
  • Tortillas or bread on the side

Ask for a mix of lean and moist if they offer it. That way, you get the whole brisket experience: the decadent, juicy bites and the cleaner, meat-forward slices.

Perfect if you’re: All about texture, bark, and that slow-smoke flavor that hangs around after each bite.

If You’re a Rib Person

You want:

  • Rib plate (or a rib combo with another meat)
  • Classic sides that don’t fight the flavor: beans, rice, or potato salad

Good ribs don’t need a lot of talking. You’re checking for:

  • A clean bite that leaves a mark on the bone
  • Tender, but not falling apart like stew
  • Seasoning that tastes like meat first, rub second, sauce last.

Perfect if you’re: The kind of foodie who judges a BBQ spot by ribs alone.

If You’re Curious About the Burgers

Ringo’s doesn’t just grill burgers; they bring that smoke attitude to them, too.

You want:

  • One of the signature burgers (like the big, stacked ones you’ve seen online)
  • Fries or a side that lets the burger be the star

Look for burgers that shout “BBQ joint,” not “fast-food chain”:

  • Thick patty
  • Real cheese melts
  • House toppings with attitude (onions, jalapenos, sauces with a bit of swagger)

Perfect if you’re: Torn between BBQ and a big, messy burger, and don’t want to choose.

If You Want a Little of Everything

You want:

  • A two-meat or three-meat combo plate
  • Brisket as a must, plus ribs or sausage

This is the “I drove here to explore” plate. Pair it with one classic side and one fun side so you get a full read on the menu in one shot.

Perfect if you’re: The sampler type who likes to map out what to order next time.

Don’t Sleep on the Sides

Sides are where many BBQ spots cut corner. Ringo’s doesn’t have to be fancy here, just solid and satisfying.

Great first-visit combo ideas:

  • Beans and rice for that classic South Texas comfort
  • Mac and cheese, if you want something creamy against the smoke
  • Potato salad or fries if you’re more into that backyard BBQ vibe

Think of sides as the playlist behind the main track. They shouldn’t steal the show; they should make every bite of brisket, ribs, or burger feel complete.

How to Make Your First Visit Feel Worth It

A few simple moves make your first Ringo’s run feel like a win:

  • Come a little hungry so you can actually finish that combo plate.
  • Bring someone who likes to share so that you can try more than one thing.
  • Start with the basics (brisket, ribs, or a signature burger) before you get wild on your second or third visit.

You’re not just checking off another Laredo good spot. You’re finding your new “lets’s go get smoke” place that’s right along your regular routes.

Ready for Your First Ringo’s Run?

Ringo’s is part of everyday Laredo life now: a quick turn off your usual drive, not a special-occasion trek. Next time you’re circling Loop 20 or heading out toward the airport or TAMIU, swing by, order like you’ve been here before, and let the smoke do the talking.

We assure you, your first plate won’t be your last.

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