Our Story
Shorty's is a casual smokehouse on South Main Street serving slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, turkey and ribs alongside grilling comfort foods — wings, tacos, burgers, scratch sides and house sauces. Order at the counter, grab a table, and take home a pint, quart or gallon of your favorite side.
Brisket, pork, turkey and ribs off the pit every day we're open.
Burgers Monday, wings Wednesday, tacos Thursday, burnt ends Friday.
Kids' meals and no reservations needed.
Hours & Location
121 S Main St
Waterloo, IL 62298
Reviews
Local Guide · 177 reviews
I'm sure I don't need to tell you because if you're looking at this listing, you already know… This place is amazing. Some of the very best barbecue and brisket I've ever had. Try the Gouda mac & cheese. It's surprisingly wonderful combination of a little bit of pepper and a whole lot of wonderful cheese! Come check this place out!
Local Guide · 86 reviews
FANTASTIC! This stop was definitely worth going out of the way for. Pulled pork, gouda mac, and pit beans are all exceptional. The beans were legit pit beans too. I'll definitely make my way back here next time I hike the Salt Lick trail.
Local Guide · 15 reviews
Food was beyond amazing, service was great and the atmosphere was wonderful. Took my family there for lunch and we were very happy! The two young gentlemen working the counter and food did a phenomenal job! We even got some merchandise because we liked it so much. Keep up the great work! Thank you!
Local Guide · 44 reviews
It's was our first time visiting this Restaurant and the atmosphere was wonderful, the food was amazing. Me and my wife were celebrating our 10 year Anniversary and decided to visit Waterloo, Illinois, stumbled upon Shorty's Smoke House. We will definitely add Shorty's smokehouse too our best places to eat list for future plans.
Local Guide · 135 reviews
First time here and was glad we stopped in. Large portions and very tender brisket and turkey. Baked beans were yummy. Wife like the mac and cheese. Reasonable pricing for quality and qty of food.
Local Guide · 114 reviews
Shorty's Smokehouse had a really good combo deal which gave you a little of everything and two sides. The meat was smoked superbly and the three sauces they had complimented their selections. I smoke my own meats all the time, so I'm aware of the taste, texture, and color. This place does a bang up job. I recommend and will come back when I'm in Waterloo again.
Local Guide · 28 reviews
Drove over from Belleville to eat with friends and it was well worth the drive! They offer a military discount, much appreciated. We had the turkey and brisket, and both were on point. The barbecue beans, potato salad, and gouda Mac and cheese were all great. The place is big and nicely decorated with movie memorabilia. We'll be back, a great experience!
San Francisco, CA
Love this place! We enjoyed the excellent food and atmosphere. And the staff is super friendly. We will definitely be back for more.
Columbia, IL
Love this place! Family owned by locals. Great food. Great atmosphere. Movie themed decor that takes you down memory lane. Service is friendly and amazing too! Can't go wrong with great BBQ!
